7 Maternity Style Secrets
1.Shop your closet. Raid your existing wardrobe for pieces that can fit your new shape. “Any open cardigans, long stretchy tunics and tees will continue to work for you,” says Lori Soloman, owner of Veronique Maternity.
2. Don’t Skip the lipstick. Your favorite belt has been retired and you can barely squeeze on your favorite heels What’s a girl to do? Just reach for your signature lippy. Just because you’re expecting doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your favorite lip hue.
3. Find the perfect pair of Jeans. Pair your chic blues with a flowing top for an easy silhouette. When choosing maternity denim, says Soloman, “Comfort is key, make sure you have enough hip space.” Although the elastic panel at the waist will grow with you, it’s best to wait until your second trimester before investing in a pair. Says Soloman: “Denim is one item that is difficult to buy early and keep through your whole term because it has less stretch then most other fabrics.”
(As silly as it sounds I have considered buying a nice pair of maternity jeans now, and storing them for later.Lol I mean, some people store up baby clothes-why not maternity clothes? )
4. Balance your belly with statement jewelry. “Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize,” says Soloman. “Jewelry always draws attention away from the bump and onto the neck and face.
5. Keep your Edge. Hip mamas don’t need to ditch their style while expecting. Have fun with bold patterns and unexpected pieces that cross-over from your normal wardrobe.
6.Don’t give up on belts
Give shape to roomy pieces with a simple cinch. Jessica Alba transformed a voluminous dress by adding a vintage belt above her tummy. “A belt below the belly also works well with fun tunics and long tees,” says Soloman. Just don’t go too tight!
7. Try a Maxi Dress The hippie-chic trend is the perfect complement to a growing bump. You can get creative with headbands and stacks of bangles, while staying perfectly comfortable in a flowing dress or caftan. Just keep in mind that floor-sweeping maxidresses work best on willowy body types. Says Soloman, “The length and volume of the maxi, coupled with the belly, tend to overwhelm the petite woman.”
Bonus:
8. Don’t forget to dress for your husband (aka Sexy) Yea, you’re showing a few stretch marks, but you’re also giving life to a beautiful baby in your womb. That is empowering-don’t forget it. Emphasize your legs, shoulders, your positive traits. You can be lovely, even in flats. 
(Note: this is written assuming you are in the privacy of your home)
Sources: Instyle.com
July 2nd, 2009 at 7:59 am
Great post, Christa! I’m expecting right now and was feeling a little bummed by the offerings in the maternity chains here. Feeling inspired now!
July 2nd, 2009 at 2:15 pm
Fun post! When you’re on, say, your 3rd pregnancy, you can definitely forget to be hip! I’ll keep these secrets tucked away… But I gotta say, the women you’ve pictured here do NOT look pregnant!
p.s. Short, petite girls can’t wear maxi dresses? I’m bummed.
July 3rd, 2009 at 9:18 am
Thank you, thank you!! I’m expecting right now too & don’t want to give up cuteness/sexiness! My mom was kind enough to buy one expensive pair of great jeans…for everything else I’m hunting at Goodwill (found some fabulous skirts, tank-tops & one other great finding pair of jeans), friends’ closets, and Wal-mart juniors. Thankfully enough, most styles right now are extra long tanks, shirts & flowing dresses/skirts.
I find the best way to add some spice is to accessorize just like if I wasn’t prego. I definitely do the belts/scarves above the belly now & long earrings. Getting dressed can still be fun pregnant, I just find I have to put some more thought into it at this point!!