I am now 35 weeks pregnant. I have managed to dress my pregnant self through many different stages of pregnancy. I have hidden the bump during the first trimester then embraced the bump on the beach, at black tie galas and during everyday life.
I thought as a stylist it would be important to share my strategies for dressing through all stages of pregnancy and point out my favorite maternity finds.
HATCH Collection
If you are looking to buy maternity clothes that don’t feel like maternity clothes, Hatch is my number one suggestion. I lived in their tops, dresses, bathing suits and knits throughout my pregnancy. The clothes are chic and timeless and flattering – for every stage of your pregnancy.
Note: Unless you are in New York or LA, you have to order Hatch online. The packaging is nice and they are great about returns but everything does have to be thoroughly steamed when it arrives. They also offer a styling program where you can receive items “on approval” if you call and talk to a store manager in either location.
Lululemon (Pants, Tops, and Bras)
The Align Pant (legging) was my go-to for the gym and beyond. This classic Lulu legging worked equally well with my running shoes and Valentino booties. The 25” inseam conveniently worked as a full length pant for me. (It is also available in 28” for taller women looking for the same fix.) It looked nice and was extremely comfortable. It expanded with my body and there was never any need to size up. In fact, I bought one pair larger mid pregnancy and it was a mistake.
The loose fitting workout tops from Lululemon were also a wardrobe staple during my pregnancy. I did need to size up on these. The styles that worked best are The Sculpt Tank II (pictured below), The Run Off-Route Tank and the Essential Tank.
The same goes for their sports bras. The Stash N’ Run Bra and Time to Sweat Bra were my favorite. There was not too much fabric once I sized up yet there was still enough support.
Denim
Paige Denim (pictured left) worked the best for me. I liked the styles with elastic panels on the side. They were comfortable and made me feel like I still had on a regular pant.
Frame Denim (pictured right) was my second favorite denim option. They looked nice but the massive elastic waistband definitely made them feel like hardcore maternity pants.
I wore the same size in maternity jeans as I did in regular jeans pre-pregnancy. I bought a third pair of jeans one size up at week 26. The larger pair were more comfortable at that point but the originals definitely still fit.
A Pea in the Pod
The old school maternity store is still relevant. I found it to be the most useful store in terms of a one stop shop. A Pea in the Pod has a great denim selection. I bought my jeans directly from them. I also loved their name brand tanks and lounge pants. They were the perfect weight and so comfortable to slip into after a long day. Their assortment of Splendid sweats also found their way into my closet.
Beyond the Bump
The maternity line from Beyond Yoga, Beyond the Bump, is another one of my favorite maternity finds. I found their tops and cardigans to be the most comfortable. The fabric is so soft and cozy. I wore them to the gym, running errands and lounging.
Note: Their lightweight summer leggings are great. The heavier fabric available for Fall/Winter looks nice but does not stay up as well. You can buy Beyond the Bump directly online or from A Pea in the Pod.
Non Maternity Clothes
I did not find any actual maternity clothes on the market that compare to my favorite designer pieces for events. But I did find that if I sized up on many non-maternity tops and dresses, I was able to get away with wearing them, especially during the first two trimesters and in warm weather. It was so nice to wear normal clothes when I was going to a wedding or formal event. I do not regret splurging on a couple of larger dresses while pregnant. I felt great and am happy when I look back at the photos. I actually like the dresses so much that I plan to alter them post pregnancy!
Stella McCartney had styles that worked great on me while pregnant. I also found items from Roksanda, Temperley and Brunello Cucinelli (pictured below, from left to right).
Accessories
There is nothing like a great accessory to tie together your maternity look. I found that a good rule of thumb for dressing while pregnant was to put on a really simple shape in a solid color and pair it with a statement shoe or bag. I did not mind investing in accessories. I felt like they took attention away from my person while pregnant but were not limited to maternity dressing.
Dolce & Gabbana offered my favorite accessories all around. They have a lot going on in the best way! I found their embellished block heels to be the most comfortable.
Unmentionables
I had to size up on all lingerie almost immediately. I stuck with my go-to lines – Natori and Chantelle – and went up in both cup size and band size. I did not purchase any nursing styles and would not recommend it until the time comes as you will most likely be a different size.
I found commando underwear to be the most comfortable while pregnant. But my regular panties definitely worked if kept below the bump.
Spanx has a maternity line (Spanx Mama) and I found their tights to work well.
Third Trimester Fashion
As I near the end of the third trimester, I am finding that some of my jeans or leggings are limiting. My usual uniform of a dress, tights and boots are the most comfortable, I feel put together, and my bump looks pretty cute too.