May

MORE Style Tips for Haute Mamas

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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The Look

Alexis E. Barton/Ask Alexis/Birmingham fashion/Birmingham style/maternity style/Red Table Talks/Same Chic Different Day/style tips for pregnant women

May

Ask Alexis: Style Tips for Haute Mamas

A fashionable soon-to-be mommy asked for fashion tips for expectant ladies. 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!

1. Embrace your beautiful bump. I can’t think of one good reason to disguise it. Don’t be shy about wearing pieces that show off your curves. Fabrics shouldn’t be stretched tight, nor should they be baggy. “We are not in the 70s and 80s; moo-moo dresses and shirts are out,” says new mom Dr. Khristy Large (mom to Addison). “Show your curves and belly!”
Exercise some restraint. Fab mommy Amorice L. advises, “Don’t go overboard on the maternity clothes. The ultimate goal is to only be in the them for a few months!” So shop for practical items and add some chic flourishes. As Joycelyn A. advises, “Maternity clothes can be expensive and you don’t wear them for very long so why break the bank?”
Look at photos of other expectant or new moms (Beyonce, Reese Witherspoon, Kourtney Kardashian, Nia Long, Jessica Simpson, Rachel Zoe, Victoria Beckham) whose style you admire, and focus on looking for similar pieces.
Jessica Simpson dreams about giving birth in a leopard caftan; now’s a great time to wear one (or several), whether you’re expecting or not. They’re easy to put on and comfortable, whether you’re relaxing on vacation or chillaxing at home.
In a similar vein, maxi dresses and skirts are a fashionable alternative (some skirts offer a comfy foldover top to accommodate your pea in the pod). Throw on a denim jacket, blazer (in solid or stripes), a soft cardigan or an easy open-front wrap for extra coverage. “They are loose-fitting anyway so once the baby comes you can still wear the same dresses,” says Joycelyn.
Try Gap’s Starter Maternity Wardrobe, with pieces you can build on.
LAYER. Tanks and leggings are a great outfit foundation. “[They are] comfortable and you can dress them up or down,” notes Khristy. Throw on a long-line cardi, interesting necklace, and flat sandals and you’re done.
Don’t forget your denim! Law recommends that you “splurge on trendy maternity jeans. They are a worthwhile investment.” Check out J Brand or 7 for All Mankind ; yes, they are expensive, but who can argue with a great pair of jeans that fit well and make you feel good? (If you plan to have more than one kid, they may be an investment in your closet; if not, pass them along to another fashionable friend!)
And yes, you can still wear skinny jeans. “Skinny jeans while pregnant are a must…at least your legs will look small!,” Amorice says. Pair skinnies or boyfriend jeans with a tunic, button down, or loose-fitting top. I’m on the fence about the cutesy overalls look; if you can pull off wearing them without looking fresh off the farm, go for it.
A tip from MY mom: try to upsize “regular” clothing as long as you can. Shop for larger sizes that aren’t necessarily “maternity” items; you can always have them altered.