Check out the first round of tips (and info on a $5000 giveaway from Carter’s) HERE! Note: I am not and have never been pregnant, so I wrote this “as if” I were shopping for maternity items for myself. If I got something wrong and/or if you have firsthand experience you’d like to share, please post it in the comments!
- Don’t neglect your undergarments! Get sized for and purchase new, well-fitting bras and underpants.
- Work your assets, tastefully. If you love your legs or toned arms, don’t start covering them up.
- Some of you will insist on being pregnant in heels (and I probably would too). Understand though, that as your bump expands, you may be a bit more wobbly and your shoe size may change, and who wants sacrifice personal safety for style? Joycelyn A. (mom to Jaden and Jayla) shares “As much as I hated it, I had to avoid my super high heels; being pregnant [made me] more vulnerable to falls and you want to protect your little one.”
Other cute options for stylish moms-to-be include kitten heels, Capri sandals, and wedges. Not into ballet flats? Try a smoking slipper or loafer. If you’re experiencing swelling or pain, opt for comfort. - Accessories are a DO: work those colorful scarves, sunglasses, hats and jewelry (try larger pieces!). “The more bling the better. Cocktail rings, big earrings, [and] bracelets!” says Dr. Khristy Large. Don’t forget about belts; you can belt tent-like pieces to give yourself a much more shapely silhouette.
- You’ve more than likely got a natural glow; maintain it with some pampering! Pregnancy massages and soothing facials, manis and pedis will help keep you feeling lovely. Check with your doctor to make sure your beauty treatments won’t harm the baby. Pampering yourself at home? Be sure you’re using a belly cream or oil to ease stretching skin (coconut and Weleda oils and cocoa butter are suggestions). What’s safe? Check out these tips from Parents.com.
- Your hair is going through changes too; it may be thicker and more lustrous than normal. Keep a good routine of maintenance, but again: check with your doctor before booking any chemical procedures.
- Pack a lovely silk, satin or lace bedjacket in your overnight bag. It’ll look more pulled together than a wrinkly or slightly faded hospital gown. Check Etsy or consignment stores for vintage options.
- I’m loving just about everything ASOS Maternity is offering, especially the One Shoulder Maxi Dress, the Swing Dress with Dipped Hem, and the Jersey Pencil skirt!
- Are you receiving a push present or baby bauble? I’m going to err on the side of tradition and suggest starting a charm bracelet or an Add-a-Pearl necklace. And something in a little blue box always works…
- Just for fun: check out this advice from Glamour, circa 1944 (via 22 Words)!
In the mood for some Mommy and Me reflection? Check out a preview of Jada Pinkett Smith’s candid Red Table Talks, featuring her mom and daughter Willow:
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