Fashion Tips For Moms To Be

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Fashion Tips For Moms To Be
Ten fashion tips for moms-to-be

1. Dress like yourself. Preppy, hippy chick, belly bearer... dress in what will make you look and feel like yourself.
2. Shop wisely, buying easy to care for items which are made to last.
3. When shopping for maternity wear, buy your true size. If you're normally a small, buy maternity small. If you're normally a large, buy maternity large, not plus sizes.
4. Shop for shoes late in the day, when feet are at their largest.
5. Shop online.
6. Buy mix and match clothing to "expand" your wardrobe options.
7. Clothes that fit properly are more flattering than clothes that are too tight are very large, so it may be necessary to buy throughout your pregnancy.
8. Start buying the basics and add accent pieces as your pregnancy progresses.
9. Ask about coupon mailing lists at your favorite maternity retailer.

Figure "foundation pieces" are the foundation for both comfort and style.
Yes, even your underwear will probably need updating. Try to stick to cotton underpants during your pregnancy, to allow for air circulation. It's healthier for you and baby alike. Your waistline disappears, so your old panties will eventually cause discomfort. Switching to maternity panties or low rise non-maternity panties will help alleviate waistband issues. Worries about panty lines? They even make maternity thongs!

Maternity hose are a must if you wear pantyhose. You shouldn't squeeze yourself into pantyhose that aren't made to work with a pregnant body. They will be binding and cause you irritation. All maternity stores stock hosiery, so be sure to pick up a few pairs.

Your breasts have changed, so it's time for your bra to change, too. Maybe a new size, maybe just a new style. Your changing body needs support, now more than ever. Go to a good lingerie store and ask for assistance in determining your correct bra size. Some women switch to nursing bras during pregnancy, in an effort to cut down on three rounds of bra purchasing. If you plan to breastfeed, try on a few nursing bras when you're updating your foundations. If you find some that are particularly comfortable, switch now. You'll save money by getting more wear out of them.

What maternity pieces do you really need in your closet?
Your first shopping trips should be basic minded...the same basics you count on in your regular wardrobe. This basics list is a good starting point for work and home clothing. Start out with:

	One pair each:	Jeans Black slacks Khakis
	One:	Track Suite or Yoga Pants Cardigan (black is a good choice) Skirt (black or khaki)
	One or two:	Button down tailored shirt (white is invaluable)
	Three:	Cotton T shirts (sleeve length according to season or climate)

Obviously, these basics change if you have special needs. If you work in a formal business attire setting, start out with one conservative three piece suit (jacket, slacks, skirt) and supplement it with your basic black pants, cardigan, button downs, and unique accessories. If you live in a warm climate, you'll want to need two to three pairs of shorts and a bathing suit. If you live in a cold climate, you'll need sweaters. You get the idea.

If you buy clothing which is mix and match, your outfit choices are greater, stretching your maternity wear dollars. Some stores even offer "starter kits" which are smart both money and time wise. Buy good quality clothing, which will stand up to repeated washings. Most women wear the same key pieces over and over again, adding flourish with accessories like scarves.

Once the basics are covered, you'll probably continue to shop throughout your pregnancy.

What can you buy as your pregnancy progresses?

A simple black dress
Patterned blouses
Denim or patterned skirts
Additional T shirts (sleeve length according to season)

Pregnancy is not the time for stilettos! Your center of balance is off. Your feet may be swollen. You're carrying more weight. Go for a lower, stacked heel. Or better yet, flats. A pair of walking shoes/tennis shoes, a pair of ballet flats, a pair of loafers, and sandals for warm weather are what you need for when your pregnant feet go walking.

Getting back to the idea of dressing like yourself.
In general this is what will make you most comfortable. Stick to flattering necklines, colors which compliment your skin tone, waistlines which you are comfortable wearing.

When you're dressing for work, being the same old you is important. You want to appear as dependable (or artsy or academic, etc.) as you always have.

But, when you're dressing for a night out on the town (or a fun day at home), you may want to take advantage of your new body and try something new. Like a different neck line or something more form fitting - accentuate your new shape if you feel like showing off.

Buying maternity clothing can be expensive; it is often more expensive than everyday clothes. But, despite the expense it's not a waste of money. (Ask about discount programs and coupons, sometimes all it takes to get a coupon is a smile). If you shop during sales you may find the clothing priced comparative to your normal spending. And even if you don't, it's actually money well spent as long as you choose your pieces carefully and buy conservatively. Not only will you look your best and be at maximum comfort, you'll have clothes which will last for multiple pregnancies.

When you're through, you can recycle them by giving them away to friends (maybe you will even receive some great loaners yourself) or donate them to charity (tax deduction). Many women's shelters and assistance organizations list maternity clothing as a major need. Seeing to your own clothing needs is an opportunity to help others, so don't feel guilty about buying yourself good clothing.

You wouldn't skimp on your baby, so don't skimp on yourself.

In the words of one of my colleagues to her pregnant office manager, "Take your glow and go, girl!"