When I first found out I was preggers, I was so excited to have an excuse to go out and buy new digs, maternity digs that is. However, I’ve been determined to keep wearing my ‘normal clothes’ as long as possible, but now at 19 weeks, it is becoming next to impossible. Then I started shopping (mostly online) and found that I really didn’t like the majority of what was out there, at least not the things that were affordable, anyway. Of course, everything that I was drawn to during the shopping process had a hefty price tag to go along with it and unfortunately, I just can’t bring myself to spend big bucks on things that I will only get to wear for a few months. You see, I love fashion and I don’t want to have to compromise just due to the fact that my belly is growing.
So, I decided to go after some good basics and simply add jewelry and accessories because they should always fit, belly and all, right? I did make one splurge and that was on a pair of designer maternity jeans. I love designer jeans anyway, and I figure these will be a staple for me during the rest of my pregnancy (and probably even a little while after). In addition, I’ve also been shopping for things that can be worn during pregnancy as well as after, like billowy tops, tunics and maxi dresses, because I’m willing to spend a bit more if I know the item has more longevity. Here’s a quick look at my ‘basics’ list:
designer jeans: great for everyday use, dress them up or dress them down
ruched tees: leaves a blank canvas to have fun with jewelry and accessories
bella band: great for holding together unbuttoned pre-pregnancy pants
black trousers: pair with any top and a few accessories for a great business look
(not so little) black dress: if you’ve got a calendar full of engagement parties and weddings, like me, this will come in very handy
maxi dresses: maternity or not, these are great to also wear pre and post pregnancy and in the cooler months, simply throw on a cute cardigan or shrug and ballet flats rather than sandals
leggings: great for lounging around the house or dress up with a cute tunic and heels)
extra long ribbed tanks: great with anything and for layering
This is obviously where I have started on my ‘bump basics’ and I’m sure I will be adding to the list as time goes on. Do you have any recommendations of ‘must-have’ maternity wear? I’d love to hear them!
I had so much trouble with maternity clothes. It maybe could be that I gained 50 lbs and 70 lbs with my kids so I could never find any that right right and really accommodated that kind of growth (yikes). I never resorted to a mu-mu but it would have been a lot easier!
Designer maternity jeans are worth their weight in gold. I had a Chip & Pepper pair for my last pregnancy and I wore them every other day all the way until the very end. In fact, I think I was actually wearing them the day I went into labor!
As a self-proclaimed fashion expert, I would like to point out that designer jeans are the most important advancement of our time.