Let’s face it ladies, there are those women who just simply glow while they are pregnant; as if they are completely happy eating for two, no longer fitting into their regular clothes, and overall overjoyed at their swollen ankles… Having never been able to experience the joys (and woes) of pregnancy myself, I have been privy to a lot through my girlfriends (friends that are girls) who have. And from what I hear it is not all gum drops and candy canes. So I offer my guide to staying stylish, happy, and comfortable when you’ve got a bun in the oven:
The Be Band:
Be Band $16.99 available @ Target
Available at Target for the low cost of $16.99 the Be Band, so I have heard, is wondrous. The stretchy tube undergarment works triple duty. In the beginning stages of pregnancy the band helps to keep up your normal jeans that you may have to unbutton a little. During pregnancy it helps to keep your maternity jeans from being pushed down by your belly. Post pregnancy the band helps to keep your too-big maternity jeans in place until you are ready to switch back to your regular jeans. This item is great because according to everyone who I know that has used it really works, and it provides the wearer with comfort while allowing her to still wear stylish denim.
Old Navy Jersey
Breathable knit jersey is always the best way to go when searching for comfort. Step up the style by looking for dresses in this fabrication. My recommendation that wont break the bank it this number from Old Navy.
Maternity Jersey Maxi Dresses $29.50 www.oldnavy.com
Available in a variety of colors including slimming black this dress is a great stylish option for moms-to-be and can be stepped up with accessories for added glam.
Layering in this fabrication also works great. Try paring a fitted T-shirt under a flowy tank top for everyday style. Again with their bargain prices and multi style and color range Old Navy is a great resource to bring these looks together.
Maternity Pleated-Jersey Halter Top Reg $16.50 Sale $12.50 www.oldnavy.com
Maternity Layering Tee $12.50 Buy 2 or more, $10.00 each www.oldnavy.com
Pair these tops with comfortable, yet proportioned leggings or denim for simple but stylish looks that will carry you through your day.
Refit your Support
From taking to my friends, I have found that a women’s body goes through a great deal of transformation during pregnancy, as is to be expected. You should resize your bra to your body’s changing needs. Purchase a maternity bra as soon as your breasts begin to outgrow your current bra. Be resigned to the fact that this may not be the only maternity bra that you have to buy as you move through your pregnancy. Providing yourself with optimal support during this time will not only add greatly to your comfort during pregnancy, but also will directly impact your appearance in your clothing. Make sure to switch to a bra designated as a “maternity bra” they are designed for added support during pregnancy. Don’t just up size the current “normal” bra that you have. Maternity bras are engineered for additional comfort and support during pregnancy, a feet your normal support is just not cut out for. They may be a little bit more expensive than a normal bra, but you get what you pay for, and your comfort and appearance are worth the price! For additional information on this HerRoom.com is a great resource:
As is their bra fit guide: http://www.herroom.com/measure-bra-cup-and-band-size, 903,30.html
Maintain Your Maintenance!
With the added responsibility of being an expecting mother it very easy to let lax your regular hair and nail maintenance schedule. Don’t do it! It is crucial that you take time for yourself during pregnancy and nurture yourself in this way. By maintaining your appearance you not only show respect for yourself but for your upcoming duties as a mom as well. In addition, it just plain makes you feel good - which you deserve! Take out your calendar and make appointments for your hair and nails in advance. This way you will have already allotted the time for yourself and it does not become an after thought whenever you have free time. Chances are something will always be around to take it’s place. Talk to your doctor about any chemicals that you may want to stay away from during pregnancy and make sure that you inform your stylist, colorist, and/or manicurist that your are pregnant so that they and you can be watchful.
Continue to be Active!
Bodies in motion stay in motion - according to expert sources, keeping up regular physical activity while pregnant is very important. It not only simulates your body keeping you fit and tone, but exercise can also clear your head and provide you with a sense of mental wellbeing. As you prepare for the for the added joys and stress of being a mom put your best foot forward and make sure your are in the best physical and metal shape to do so!
All my best wishes to all the future great and current great mothers of the world! I hope these suggestions are helpful in keeping you comfortable, stylish, and happy during your pregnancy :o)
~Written by Brian Ciabotti
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