Congrats on your baby to be! Pregnancy is one of the most nauseating, exciting, joyful times of life. There will be many occasions to dress for from the Thanksgiving dinner where you're not quite telling family yet, to your baby shower when you will want to shine from head to swollen toes. Dressing for pregnancy can be difficult, but take it from the girl who got dressed every day she was on bed rest, it can be done. You can look darling and stylish, and it doesn't have to cost you a fortune.
1st Trimester-
You can't wait to tell everyone you're expecting, and you wish you could explain why you can't stomach the salmon being served for dinner and your reasoning for needing a nap all. the. time. You can't wait to buy a new wardrobe to envelop your growing baby, but this trimester is the time for shopping resistance. Dig into the archives of your closet for pants and skirts with a high waist and pull out your tops that have a loose fitting structure. These will float over your growing bump and eliminate the question, "Is she pregnant or getting chubby?" until you are ready to showcase your bump.
2nd Trimester-
Ahh the golden era of pregnancy. Morning sickness subsides for most, you are finding out the gender of your baby, and your growing belly is round enough to encompass maternity clothes. Look for tops and dresses that have a tent like shape or an empire waistline. Choose pants and skirts that have an elastic band to allow for later expansion. Invest in a Bella Band to continue to get maximum use of your pre pregnancy clothes. This will also be a great tool postpartum.
3rd Trimester-
It's almost time to meet your new little bundle of joy. Most likely none of your old clothes are fitting and you've probably bought a few maternity pieces. One of the first items you should buy is a pair of maternity jeans that make you feel great! You will get your wear out of these and they are much more comfortable than trying to cram into your old ones. Invest in maternity clothes from stores who specialize in dressing mamas to be. While your belly and chest are growing, your shoulders are not. Buying larger sizes works some of the time but maternity styles are tailor made for your body at this time. After you have invested in jeans, tops, and a couple dresses and skirts, use the remainder of your shopping budget to buy items that can be worn after baby's arrival. Hats, outerwear, jewelry, belts, and shoes can breathe new life to old maternity styles, while simultaneously giving you something to look forward to after baby is in your arms.
