Shop in Swimwear
When your body’s constantly changing, the swimwear section probably isn’t the first place you head when shopping (and if it is, more power to ya, mama!). But trust us on this one—swimwear is a goldmine for pregnant bellies. You’ll find tunics (loose and to the knees) and caftans (like tunics, but to the ankles) in bright colors that are designed to be loose and flowy. Pair them with leggings now and as beach cover-ups later.
Cover up With Long Camis
Camis in a stretchy fabric with ruching on the side will grow with you. Plus, they’re formfitting, so your bump will be the main attraction. We like the Everyday Cami from Ingrid & Isabel. Buy one in black and white and pair it with jeans, leggings or even a maternity pencil skirt.
ON THE BUMP: How to Save Money on Maternity Clothes
Wear Wrap Dresses
We love wrap dresses (whether you’re pregnant or not!) like this one from A Pea In the Pod. They look good on every body type (seriously) and wrap around you so they just keep giving and giving. Also, a deep V-neck gives the illusion of a longer torso so you’ll look taller (score!).
ON THE BUMP: Changes you should be making to your beauty routine
Try Jeggings (Seriously)
Okay, we know the word jeggings is absurd, but these stretchy pants are actually uber-comfy and look just enough like jeans.
ON THE BUMP: Pregnancy Sex Myths You Shouldn't Believe
Sport Maxi Skirts
Maxi skirts are an “it” item, and even though they are seen all over the runways on skinny-minny models, they’re perfect for your new pregnant body. Go for ones with an elastic waistband and a flap that flips over (most of them do!). But get this—try pulling the skirt up over your boobs and you’ll have a super-cute trapeze dress. It will be loose and flowy (read: not tight around your stomach). Plus, with your new and improved cup size, you won’t have a problem keeping the dress up.
Break Out Belts
If you weren’t a belt person before you got pregnant, consider now the time to convert. Belting a loose T-shirt dress (or even your husband’s button-down) at the bra line will give you a streamlined look instantly.
ON THE BUMP: Creative Ways to Take Weekly Belly Photos
Stock up on Empire Waists
Once you get into the third trimester, let’s get real—your waist is gone. Shirts and dresses with an Empire waist will give the illusion of a waistline and look great on all body types. Plus, you can find cute options without ever setting foot in a maternity store.
ON THE BUMP: 10 Must-Dos Before Labor
Rock Rubber Bands
Rubber bands and hair ties will be your pregnancy lifesaver even more than pickles and ice cream. Just loop the band around the button of your jeans, pull one end through the buttonhole, loop that end back around the button, and voila—jeans that fit your belly! If you’re a little less DIY, we’re big fans of the BellaBand from Ingrid & Isabel. It lets you rock your regular denim with the fly all the way down. Bonus: No one will notice.
ON THE BUMP: Is Your Baby the Size of a Raspberry or Cantaloupe? Find Out!
