Maternity Wardrobe Style

One of the best pieces of advice we got while pregnant was that adding a few, simple maternity pieces to our wardrobe would do wonders for our self-esteem. What does self-esteem have to do with pregnancy, you may wonder? Well, between the hormone changes and your growing body, everything! We all know that when you look good on the outside, you tend to feel good on the inside.

For some women, celebrating their new size and shape is simply license to do some serious damage at the mall. But for the more practical and budget-conscious types, creating a maternity wardrobe can seem daunting and dare we say, frivolous. We say there's a middle ground that's easy to access for all types of pregnant mamas, and that will help you maintain your fashionista cred.

The Basics

Good news leggings lovers! Leggings are a maternity wardrobe staple. They generally have a stretchable, and therefore more comfortable waist, which is what you want as your belly grows. While they may seem ultra casual, when paired with dressier tops or footwear, a more polished look can easily be created. Same goes for maternity jeans which, in terms of casual basics, are a must-have item. Maternity jeans are a fabulous addition to your wardrobe and can help you feel fashion forward and hip. V-neck tees accentuate your bust line and, like leggings, can easily be dressed up with a cardigan or necklace. We're also huge fans of wrap dresses that can be worn casual or dressy and flatter most body types.

Keep in mind that while you might be inclined to cover up your new shape with baggy, loose clothes, wearing bigger isn't necessarily better. Form-fitted clothing actually enhances your curves in a good way, creating a much sleeker silhouette. When purchasing maternity clothes, you'll be buying the same size as when you're not pregnant. So if you usually wear a size medium, you'll continue to buy medium with your new maternity wear.

The Working Woman

When it comes to the working mom-to-be, it's all about mix and match. Thankfully, you really don't need that much to round out your closet. A few tailored maternity skirts or pants made of stretch material can last your entire pregnancy. Paired with some nice blouses and one good jacket, you'll be surprised how many looks you'll be able to create for the five-day workweek. Remember too, that one solid color on the top and bottom will create a longer, leaner look. Pair black leggings with a black maternity blazer, add a colorful necklace and poof, you're comfortable and chic at work. Which brings us to an important fashion tip: don't underestimate the power of a fabulous accessory! Pregnant or not, wearing bangled bracelets, sparkly earrings, or even a hip belt—yes, belt!—can do wonders for your look and also help you feel beautiful.

The Splurge

Inevitably, during the course of your pregnancy, there will be some big event you'll need to attend. Could be a wedding, a baby shower (yours or someone else's), or an important work function. While this doesn't necessarily mean rushing out and spending big bucks on one item, there is something to be said about having that one go-to dress … or accessory … or shoe that is special, unique, and just for your pregnancy. It may be something you only put on a few times, but it could be a lasting, meaningful reminder of your pregnancy long after Baby is born.