It’s here already, y’all. That point in pregnancy when regular jeans and tops are just a little bit uncomfortable, and you know the awkward ballooning phase is just around the corner. Thus, I’ve begun to prepare my maternity wardrobe in anticipation for the belly to come, especially since Fashion Week San Antonio is coming up November 1-7 and I KNOW I’ll be too big for my normal attire by then. With Cora, I was stubborn and literally bought two pairs of maternity pants – one black dress pant and one boot leg jeans. Both had just ok fit and the over-the-belly band that ended up being hot and uncomfortable to me. I also bought maybe three true maternity tops, but they were basically just flowy blouses and I felt stupid paying maternity price for something so mundane. By the time 40 weeks rolled around I was organizing my social calendar (or lack thereof) based solely on what I could wear sweatpants to and not be stared at. It was just sad.
Thus, this go around I’m determined to make more of an effort when it comes to style while growing a human being in my stomach. But where to begin? I crowdsourced on the Haute in Texas Facebook page to find out where all of you have shopped for your preggo selves or friends, and got a ton of great options! All of these shops have fashionable, affordable items that won’t leave you feeling like a circus tent. Quite a few have pieces that I will most definitely be wearing post-delivery too!
1. ASOS
Everyone who knows what ASOS is just RAVES about it, including my cousin April whose style advice I 100% trust. I’m partially embarrassed to admit I’d never actually given it a shot until just a few days ago when I discovered their maternity line. Something about the UK shipping made me nervous I think. I ordered four dresses that I’m saving for Fashion Week, plus a pink purse I found on sale and they were on my doorstep in two days! Whaaaaaaaat?! And yes, I understand purses don’t count as maternity wear, but darn it it was on sale and it was PINK. Must have in my book.
Anyways, ASOS has jeans, swimsuits, dresses, tops, anything you could ever wish for and it’s fabulous. Seriously stylish stuff and after trying on my dresses yesterday I can tell you there are comfortable! With lots of space for the belly to grow. Straight A’s in my book. This isn’t one of the dresses I got but I mean come on. This is better style than most people have when they AREN’T expecting.
My friend Andrea tapped me in to this line, and I’m in LOVE. You know the pumpkin spice latte girl with tights, boots, and a super comfy sweater that everyone’s making fun of but secretly hoping to be right now? Picture her pregnant and that’s Ingrid & Isabel. Precious, precious stuff and I can’t wait to try them out!
Currently coveting this tunic that’s the perfect combination of space to grow and draping to avoid the circus tent look. Especially with my booty if something is too baggy I end up looking wide in the front AND wide in the back. Not good. But this would be perfect to throw on over a pair of leggings, some chunky wedges, and boom. Good to go for the next nine months. Dear Lord, no, just the next five for me, please.
My friend Emily recommended Pink Blush to me, and their gorgeous model alone makes me want to buy their clothes. Why can’t we all look this good while pregnant? I swear, some women just look like they are their exact same selves and they just popped a little basketball under their shirts. Anyways, I love this coat for the texture, color and fit, and I’m sure I could wear it even after baby arrives. BONUS.
4. H&M
Y’all know H&M is one of my go to’s even when I’m not expecting, so it should come as no surprise that I’m obsessed with their maternity line. Lots of great basics, fun surprises, and prices that won’t make you feel guilty for buying clothes you may only wear for a limited amount of time. This sweater is perfect for holiday parties, fall walks, and paired with a black blazer it would even be work appropriate.
5. Gap
I skimped in the jeans area last go around, even tying a hairband around the loop and button of a few pairs to make them last until the last possible month. This time around I’ve decided good, stylish maternity jeans are worth the investment, and of course Gap is the go to when it comes to denim. I ordered six pairs in different washes, fits, and styles, but all with a below-the-belly band that I’m hoping will be more comfortable than my previous over-the-belly purchases. Especially in Texas wrapping spandex around an already hot belly is just not fun. For anybody, much less a hormonal mother.
This boutique was a favorite of my cousin April’s as well, and it has a great combination of basics and dresses to die for. This Capri wrap dress comes in a TON of colors, and I’m currently crushing on the orange, pink, and gray options. Of course, the best part about a wrap dress is the flattering fit, both before AND after baby, and I really love the draped sleeves to give you some extra room in every area. You gain weight in weird places during pregnancy, believe me.
7. TopShop
I’ve been trying to decide if I can pull off the kimono look for awhile, but this maternity option from TopShop sealed the deal for me. I’m not sure how you can make a kimono maternity, but I’ll obviously still be able to wear this post-baby. It’s flowy, it’s going to cover any areas you’re self-conscious about, and it’s on trend for fall. TopShop has tons of great knitwear that would be fabulous for the expecting mama as well.
Got any other great places to shop while preggo? Let me know! I’ve also created a Pinterest board for my ideas that you can find here. Here’s to styling the bump, it’s gonna be fun!
XO,
A
