Obviously this is not a fashion blog, but I have posted a few things here and there on fashion. Before I got pregnant, I felt I was in a bit of a clothing slump. I felt my wardrobe was frumpy and tired so I had talked to Erin at Loop Looks and she came to do a closet consultation! I felt this meeting gave me the kick I needed to get out of my slump. Just in time too, for my body to start changing and for me to embrace the bump as it continued/continues to grow and grow. Here are some tips the helped me still feel good and confident.
1) Accessorize: This is something I read all over the internet. I invested in some statement necklaces (I was able to get some cheaper items from Etsy and Groopdealz), got some skinny belts to accentuate my new waistline, and I got a few bracelets too. I've never really been one for accessories before, but this tip has definitely helped me feel a bit more "snazzy" in my maternity clothes. Very much a "fake it 'til you make it" kind of a thing. Dressing up every morning for work really does make me feel better in my maternity clothes.
2) Embrace Maternity Clothes: Some of my friends and co-workers held off purchasing any maternity clothes as long as possible. I made the switch probably earlier than I needed to but the pants are just so dang comfortable! Work pants was the hardest thing as they normally sit higher on the waist which was brutal during the nauseous phase and uncomfortable once the belly expanded past the "burrito for lunch" stage. (My full thoughts on brands of maternity clothes can be found
here.) I found that I felt better once I was more comfortable. I felt most comfortable in flowy non-maternity tops and maternity pants. Although, now that I'm getting larger, the need for maternity tops is becoming greater. I guess that is what happens when you're in the third trimester! :)
3) Shoes: I think this kind of goes along with #1, but if your feet feel cute in some cute shoes, you'll probably feel better too. I invested in some nice comfy shoes that should last me through the end of the pregnancy. They aren't too bulky and look nice with skinny jeans (one of the downfalls of gym shoes). I also got some comfy flats and flip flops too for when I'm in the mood for something different. I don't normally buy shoes so for me, this was something special. If you normally buy lots of shoes anyways, ignore this note because you already know what I mean! :)
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| Only 1 of these dresses is maternity. Can you guess which one? |
4) Dresses are your best friend: This is really the best advice I received. (I think
Bobbi originally posted this on my Facebook page when we first announced that we were expecting.) I feel I was able to find some cute spring and summery dresses that will last me throughout my pregnancy. Some maternity, some not. (And some borrowed from a friend.) Here are some things that helped me when scouring the racks in the non-maternity section.
What to look for in non-maternity dresses:a) Waistline --Would it hit above or on top of the belly?
b) Straps -- Can I wear a bra with this dress?
c) Stomach region -- How forgiving is it? stretchy? not-so-stretch? Is there a knot or some rouching for extra room?
d) Length -- Is it office-appropriate? When the bump expands and the hemline increases, will it still be comfortable?
If it meets all this criteria and you can also wear it after the baby, it is a win-win and you should buy said item immediately (that is, if you have a coupon or it is on sale).
I hope those of you pregnant mamas out there find these tips helpful!
For those experienced mamas out there, are there any tips that I forgot to mention that helped you out?
