Comfort may be key in maternity fashion, but you don’t have to toss aside your own personal style while making room for your pouch. Modern maternity has come a long way, and there’s something for everyone, thanks to the recent parent parade of Hollywood trendsetters. Empire-waist tops and voluminous dresses have never been hotter, and nonpregnant women are wearing these silhouettes on a steady basis! With a few key investment items and pieces from your own wardrobe, these maternity months can be some of your most stylish!
Bobbie Thomas, TODAY Style editor and author of the Buzz column for In Touch Weekly, highlights four fashionable ways to be pregnant-chic:
Young, fabulous and broke
As Halle Berry proves, you can easily achieve a boho-chic vibe without hiding under a muumuu. If yours is a simple and laid-back look, pieces like cargo capris are essential! These low-maintenance pants pair perfectly with soft, ballet-inspired wrap tops. The best part about these casual cardigans is that they will adjust with you during and after your pregnancy.
Keep in mind, a “maternity” label is not necessary — sometimes your own clothes will work no matter how big your belly grows! And don’t be afraid to layer longer tanks under tops you already have. Or dare to bare a bit of belly! Halle Berry has often exclaimed that she loves to show off her “bump” — but she’s not the only hot mama in town! Get creative with your casual look while embracing your beautiful body during this time.
Young Broke & Fabulous wrap top, $137, Intermixonline.com; tomato stretch tank, $5.90, hm.com; Motherhood Maternity capri cargos, $26.98, MimiMaternity.com; D tori sandals $115, Geox.com
EdgyJust because you’re expecting doesn’t mean you’re expected to instantly turn into a fan of all things frilly! If you’re not the “pink pregger” type, never fear — you can still keep your classic cool style. Just look at Angelina Jolie for inspiration! A tomboy at heart, she’s showing off her baby body in basic silhouettes that are fitted and without frills. Tees and a little leather jacket can be staples as your stomach starts to grow, just be sure to stick to soft and neutral hues for a look that is true to your classic style.
And if you invest in only one maternity item, make it a pair of designer denims. Even though blues are basic, my advice is to opt for a crisp white pair for maximum versatility.
Leather jacket, $99.90, Hm.com; The Tunes Company "made love not war" tee, $95, Apeainthepod.com; Paige optic white Laurel Canyon maternity jean, $179, Bellydancematernity.com
PolishedFor those who like to look effortlessly pulled-together from work to weekend, don’t let being pregnant stop you! It’s easy to be refined-chic, a la Nicole Kidman, with tailored pieces, crisp colors and clean lines. Think sleek and streamlined, and slip into a blouse that’s designed for a growing belly. My subtle style tip for appearing polished during your pregnancy? Switch to a "skinny"-leg pant and use vests, blazers or cardigans to elongate your midsection.
And remember, accessories are “one size fits all!” An interesting necklace can draw attention up from your belly to your face, and long strands can also help keep the eyeline moving. Last but not least, if you miss your weekend shopping sprees, invest in an oversize handbag — a fun new accent for now that will come in very handy later on when toting the little one!
Simply Vera Wang shirred belted top, $54, Kohls.com; Noppies NYC skirt, $88, Bellydancematernity.com; Simply Vera Vera Wang exposed slingback heels, $48.99, Kohls.com; Headband, $8-$12, Capellinewyork.com; Ivory ruffle blouse, $14.99, DestinationMaternity.com; Citizens of Humanity Ava jean, $185, Babystyle.com
GlamGirlish style mavens who love trendsetters like Jennifer Lopez can have a lot of fun with fashion during these nine months! Playing peek-a-boo with sheers and lace overlays is a great way to feel sexy without feeling overexposed. You can master this maternity style by thinking feminine and slipping into sassy dresses and fabulous footwear. Did you ever see J.Lo without a pair of killer heels, regardless of the size of her belly? While she was fearless in her maternity fashion, rocking platform spikes, you don’t have to go to the extreme to be glam. Splurge on new shoes with a shocking splash of color, or wicked wedges for a boost of confidence, if not height!
Velvet's long-sleeve lace dress, $69.99, Apeainthepod.com; Christina Louboutin patent d'Orsay wedge heels, $645, BergdoffGoodman.com or Neimanmarcus.com