Pregnancy is one of those authentic journeys unique to every woman, whether it’s your first time or another round at it. With it comes a lot of body changes and emotional roller coasters. None the less, nothing brings more satisfaction than bringing new life into existence so let’s jump into plus size maternity clothes that will make you pop.
Clothing is certainly a hot topic while in this phase – more so for the plus woman. As it is, finding everyday clothing that fits stylishly is already tough, so how much more with a baby bump? Plus size maternity wear should revolve around items that are first comfy, and second, practical. You need something that allows you to move around easily especially when your bump progresses into fuller sizes, without of course making you appear seemingly round. At the same time, feeling good in your clothing will also give you the needed confidence to go around vibrant and stoked about your body image. So that necessitates some fashionable pieces that can flatter your curves even while expectant. Most importantly, an outfit that is quick to assemble and has you out of the mirror in no time.
As a nursing mom or mom-to-be, self-love is an essential ingredient to get you through this natural phenomenon. Nine months may sound like eternity but once you get closer to the finish line, you’ll realize just how brief this period was. That implies the need to appreciate the numerous changes and while at it, search for clothes that will match your pregnancy glow. This is exactly what this article encompasses. So buckle up for a ton of styling tips and great ideas that will leave you feeling your greatest self yet!
Your Closet is Already Stylish
The expenses that come with maintaining a healthy pregnancy and preparing for the newborn are quite high. The last thing you want to do is break the bank on outfits that possibly will stay relevant only for the 9 months. Here’s some good news though! You probably already have a greater majority of all you need to assemble a cute outfit.
Before you can jump on in an entirely new maternity wardrobe, take a second to go through items stuffed away or even those fav clothes you like to wear from time to time; and get creative with them. It’s amazing just how much styling you can do with a mix up of this and the other. Even tees that seem to be sizing smaller can prove quite handy! – I’ll show you how in a little while.
This is not to say that you shouldn’t get anything in maternity range, don’t get me wrong, after all, the essence of maternity clothing is to give superior comfort and sizing that other brands may not afford. There will be some unavoidable expenses here and there, but it will be less frustrating to spend on something absolutely necessary. Just to prove to you that you have the staples required, take a look at these common items.
- Bodycon dress – just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you have to live by sweats and oversize t-shirts. Truth is, a lot of overly loose items are not in the least way flattering and this is why so many women are anti-maternity. A silhouette dress on the other hand glams you up for a date night, or a night out with the girls (when you still can afford the energy) so you might as well make the most out of it. Don’t get shy of showing off your curves or that adorable bump; it just might be your ticket to reviving any lost confidence.
- Distressed jeans – you probably own a pair or two, even more, if you’re the kind that lives in denim. Maternity jeans do exist, the only problem that tends to arise from time to time is finding the right fit. Sometimes the legs fit perfectly but the crotch area not as well (because it’s designed to be a loose fit) or vice versa, and because your body keeps adjusting to a new shape, the likelihood of outgrowing the new pair is very high. So why not fall back on a cool pair that you would look just as good in, and have a preference for. It should be able to serve you well into your first trimester before your belly grows too conspicuous.
- Beautiful cardigans – how easy is it to find one of these in a variety of colors and just for a few bucks! I find cardigans realistic because they are so light and make a fantastic option, especially during spring and summer. It’s expected that you will sweat a lot while pregnant so you don’t really need very heavy clothing unless it’s the cold season. Throw on a cute cardigan over a blouse and there you go!
- Crop tops – You’ve probably come across this dressing tip where you tie a knot just below your bust and pair it with a high waist bottom. This may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it sure does upgrade your style from boring plain old to fresh and chic. A plus girl doesn’t need any more baggage at the front so the crop naturally falls at the precise length.
- Basic tee paired with leggings – this is more of an everyday go-to-look. Leggings give you enough room for stretch and some good soft fabric that is friendly to the skin. For a laid back style, this is ideal and certainly trendy. In addition, compressed stockings are known to deal with swollen legs.
Smart tips
- Avoid wearing leggings as pants as they could get translucent especially if you have thicker thighs. So, always wear them with a dress, a skirt, or a long tee.
- Stretchy fabric should be your friend even with bodycon dresses, that way you can get more service out of them.
- Pull out your skinny belts when rocking free size dresses. It helps accentuate the tiniest part of your body.
Gorgeous Maternity Must-haves
Now onto the staples that will revolutionize your entire closet, have a look at these;
1. Belly Band
Honestly, I don’t know if anyone can get through pregnancy without this life-saving product. I mean it makes dressing so much easier. Other than just adding longevity to your pre-pregnancy clothes, it equally smoothes out annoying love handles giving you a much-toned figure. If you forsake any other maternity item, at the least get yourself one of these.
A cute jacket is certainly a game-changer. Layering can be a feasible option only if you stick to lightweight items so keep that in mind when hunting for a jacket. When it gets too hot you can always take it off and place it over your shoulders for a style statement. Denims also go extremely well with a maternity tank top and a good pair of jeans. Leave it unbuttoned and you won’t have to feel as constricted.
3. Kimonos
Nothing is as graceful as a kimono, it’s like a play up for cardigans. This item comes in a flexible fit that normally extends to your hips or lower. That means that your rear is efficiently covered. You can wear it with a cute pair of tights and some nice accessories.
4. A Wrap Dress
absolutely essential! I love this piece because it’s flowy and versatile. You can dress it up for a bump photoshoot, a baby shower, or even a fancy wedding. Alternatively, you could have it on for a casual brunch and still look classy. Not to mention all the lovely prints and colors they come in, just so much to choose from! To crown it all, the straps are adjustable to a custom fit. This is one of those investments that double up even after delivery, when you are transitioning back to your pre-pregnancy clothes.
Dresses and skirts are less compressing compared to jeans and for this reason, you need to have a variety. A metallic pleated skirt is indispensable when it comes to creating a practical bottom collection. Have one with a sturdy waistband, but not too tight, and rock it with a comfy pair of boots. Same as the wrap dress, you can play it down with a tee or amplify the whole look with more thought-through pieces. Either way, it makes a great combo.
This style is far from boring plus and emphasizes on being comfy and easily mobile. One thing I would highlight about these dresses is the stripes. Horizontal stripes don’t work well for curvy mamas because they broaden your width. You would rather get one with vertical stripes or a different pattern altogether. The right length equally matters, for the sweet spot, ensure it hits just above your knees or slightly higher.
The larger your bump grows the more pronounced your belly button gets. Typically, you’d want something flowy or with gathers, in the latter stages, for a more balanced look. Peplums or empire waists offer this amazing shaping technique that is cinched in around the bust area but opens up over the tummy. They create a high-waist illusion which is generally favorable for plus bodies. The same silhouette can be translated to dresses for a better fit.
A great way to accessorize this look is by knotting it up or simply letting it hang open over a cute vest. A shirt is so trendy whatever length it is, not to mention, it can go with just about anything, thus your style doesn’t need to go neglected.
9. Accessories
As an expecting mom, you have too many things competing for your attention; you barely get any quality “me time”. Things like accessories can easily slip your mind but yet again they are such a key contributor to tying a whole look together. Simple is classy, therefore even a chain necklace or rings will go a long way. Don’t neglect hats and headbands as they can switch up your outfit in seconds. Plus it doesn’t take much time to throw one on.
10. Comfy Flat Shoes
You’ll probably have to abandon your heels at some point but then great alternatives like slip-on sandals won’t have you feeling left out. When you need to disguise swollen feet, consider some mules or realistic sneakers, say those with a zipper. That way you can easily get them on because bending while pregnant can be quite hard. Laces, buckle, or ankle-straps are not advisable.
Styling tips
- All you need is a capsule wardrobe to get you through. Select some of your must-have clothes and remix them for fresh looks.
- Go for clothes with some rushing, they are fairly expandable meaning they can stick around for some time as you grow.
- Find a top with a larger torso for better coverage.
- Maternity shorts will help you with inner thigh friction. So you should probably get one of these to go with dresses and skirts.
- Avoid dangling loops or very long chains especially if you have another young toddler who can easily yank them.
How and Where to Shop for Maternity wear
When cloth-hunting, online stores have the advantage of being less stressful because you get the opportunity to try on items from the comfort of your home. On the other hand, it could go totally wrong, or become much tougher figuring what will fit.
To save you from the agony, make sure you get your measurements right down to the last. Although sizing differs from brand to brand, at the least you will have some sort of guide on what may turn out okay. Some pretty good brands judging from customer reviews would be
- Destination Maternity
- Good American
- Motherhood Maternity
- Pink Blush
- Old Navy
- H&M Mama and
- Yours Clothing
Depending on the item, you may need to go up a size or two if you wish to get more service out of it
Conclusion
Pregnancy clothing ought to make you feel beautiful in your figure and bump. Despite this being a seemingly impossible task, you shouldn’t really panic because you have a fallback option with your existing wardrobe. Before you can hurry on getting back to your pre-pregnancy shape, enjoy your current state, all the ups, and downs, and even so, cheer yourself on because no one else is oh so deserving!
