Tips for Looking Chic During Your Pregnancy

This past weekend I had the pleasure of helping a client put together her maternity wardrobe. It's her first so this was definitely a special occasion to be had! We did all our shopping in one place. I highly recommend Destination Maternity and A Pea In The Pod (57th Street & Madison Avenue). Destination Maternity is great for basic tops, tanks and causal pants at reasonable prices. A Pea In The Pod is great for well-made designer jeans and dresses that you will wear multiple times throughout your pregnancy.

Here are style tips to keep in mind while shopping and putting together your own maternity wardrobe:

Ruching is your best friend.  You may notice ruching along the side of most of the tops, this allows the fabric to grow with you during your pregnancy as well as afterward when you regain your shape.

Avoid hiding behind anything big & baggy.  You know the saying; bigger isn't always better. Embrace your pregnancy! Show off your new silhouette with clothes that flatter you and your bump (aka step away from your husband's over-sized shirts).

Start with basic pieces then accessorize. Invest in classic black, white and colorful pieces that can be mixed & matched to create numerous outfits. Then play up the outfit by adding fun pieces of jewelry or a scarf. BONUS: Accessories can be used after the pregnancy as well.

Think vertically.  Long cardigans worn over leggings and a top draws the eye downward, plus elongates the body. For added length throw on a pair of heels. I know, I know...but hey if you're feeling frumpy a little heel can go a long way!!

Other resources:
Isabella Oliver Maternity (shown above) A great maternity line and website to pull style inspiration from.
Bump It Up - The Website Author Amy Tara Koch also gives great advice on keeping your style while pregnant, she even breaks down by trimesters.