Now that the cat is out of the bag and my bump is big enough to require some extra stretch, I thought it would be fun to talk maternity wardrobe staples clothes today!
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If you are like me, you still want to look cute and stylish when you are expecting, but hate the thought of spending a bundle on clothes that you really only need for a few months. I’ve been going through my maternity clothes recently, reminding myself of what I already have and thinking through what I might be missing in order to make the most of my maternity wardrobe this summer and fall.
If I were to do it all over, I’d go about my maternity wardrobe so differently. In the past, I tended to just grab things that caught my eye, with no rhyme or reason to how the pieces would work together to make multiple outfits. So, now I feel like I’m left with a hodge podge of stuff that I’m trying to sort through and make work.
Hopefully you won’t make the same mistake I did!
1. Maternity Jeans
Jeans are a staple item in every wardrobe, so it’s only natural that every expectant mother needs a nice, comfy pair of maternity jeans as well. I tend to prefer the ones with full panels – I find they stay up the best and are the most comfortable for the entire duration of my pregnancies – but that’s just my opinion.
Old Navy maternity full-panel jeans
2. Leggings
I’ve just recently been introduced to leggings and I don’t actually own a pair of maternity ones yet, but I plan to purchase a pair this go-round. I see cute expectant mothers all over the place wearing them under really long tops and/or cardigans. They seem like they’d be super comfy and really cute with some cute flats. Just remember though, leggings are not pants, so cover up the hiney {unlike the girl in the photo below}! 🙂
3. Comfy black skirt
Skirts are so comfortable in the summertime when it’s really hot. I think maxi skirts are fun or even a knee-length knit skirt, whichever you’d prefer.
Old Navy Maternity Fold-over Skirt
4. Classic tees
Depending on seasons, you need to invest in a few cute classic long and/or short-sleeve tees. I’d recommend keeping the colors relatively basic, but you could add in some cute stripes or subtle patterns for extra interest. Just keep in mind that you’ll need these to be versatile!
Old Navy Maternity Striped Boat-Neck Top
Gap Pure Body Short-Sleeve C-Neck T
5. Long tank tops
I’m a big tank top wearer anyway, but I think long tank tops are especially key when you are expecting. I’m a big proponent of keeping that belly covered as it expands. These are great for layering and also just adding some extra length {or pop of color} under another shirt.
Liz Lange for Target Maternity Sleeveless Tank Top*
6. Cardigans
I’m slowly building my repertoire of cardigans. They are so great for layering and adding extra color or interest to a basic top. These are also great for the transitional seasons and even the winter season when bulky maternity sweaters just aren’t as flattering.
7. Long tops or tunics
These are great if you’re planning to wear leggings, but these can be worn with jeans or a cute skirt as well. Again, keeping that belly covered is a big one for me, so making sure I have enough to length is important. I don’t want things to hang out when I lean over. You could even go for a short dress if you are having trouble with length. A short dress with leggings would look great.
8. A basic dress {or 2}
One of my biggest regrets is not getting more basic maternity dresses. The ones I have are all bright and patterned, so they aren’t nearly as versatile. A good black dress is a great option and some cute, comfy knit dresses would also work well for warm weather too. And did I mention how comfy they are when you feel like you are about to pop?
Merona Maternity Sleeveless Ruffled Maxi Dress
9. Comfy undergarments
I think these are the most depressing but most important purchases to make. A good maternity bra is key, so don’t skimp. I’d recommend a place like Destination Maternity for good quality undergarments.
10. Accessories!!
Accessories will take your nice outfit and step it up a notch, in an instant. I think it’s impossible to not feel cute when you have one some cute earrings, a bright necklace, or a trendy scarf, no matter where you are in your pregnancy. They can take those classic tees and cardigans and instantaneously add some cuteness. The best thing about them is that they can be worn afterwards too, so they are a great investment.
The above items are what I would consider staples, but there are some other items that are nice to have depending your circumstances.
For Work:
button downs
For Home/Weekend:
yoga or sweatpants {these are great for post-partum too!}
Seasonal Items:
jacket and/or coat
Other options:
leave shirts open {with a tank underneath}
add skinny belts over shirts
layer using cardigans you already have
if the weather doesn’t get too cold, you can always wear jackets or coats open
try using something like the Bella Band* in the early months
My Favorite Stores:
Target*
Old Navy
Gap
Destination Maternity
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Any other maternity wardrobe staples that I missed?
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