Fashion and pregnancy can be a bit of an oxymoron. The struggle is real between comfort and style, particularly the last few months. And for working moms-to-be, maintaining chic business apparel can be a bit of a challenge. But maternity style can also be fun and a great opportunity to get creative with your wardrobe. Check out my list of the best places to shop (for work and play), tips for styling the bump and how to maximize use of pieces currently in your closet!

Where to Shop

Nordstrom

One of my favorite places to shop! Trendy and chic, you’ll find everything you need here!

ASOS

I already loved ASOS before I was pregnant so I was so happy to discover that they had an extensive maternity line. You’ll find everything from bras, casual wear, and even evening gowns. I had a couple of weddings to attend and this is was my go-to. Their free delivery and return policy is awesome.

A Pea in a Pod

I got most of my denim from here. They have great designer pieces and a knowledgable staff!  They even have a prosthetic belly to fit under garments so you can get an idea how clothes will fit as your belly expands.

Kohl’s

I did not shop here during my pregnancy but Lauren Conrad just launched a maternity line and it is beyond cute!

H&M

My favorite maternity jeans were from the H&M. They also have some cute tops that can be worn casual or for work.

Le Tote

Another one I wish i would’ve tried (maybe next time?). This subscription service is awesome because starting at $40, you receive a a fresh set of outfits each month and simply send them back when you’re done. Wear, return, repeat!

Ann Taylor Loft

A great place for work clothes. I really liked their tops and dresses in the last few months of maternity. I found that they generally run a bit larger so I sized down.

Old Navy

They have a wide variety of maternity looks but I loved them for their workout tops the most.

Tips and Tricks!

Fabrics that stretch to accommodate growing belly

Early months

You may find that for the first 5-6 months, you can still get away with wearing a lot of your regular clothes. For me, maternity clothes were still too big in the early months. For that in between time where your regular clothes start to get too tight and maternity clothes are still swimming on your body, you definitely need to get creative.  To extend the wear of your regular jeans, I recommend Bellaband. The seamless knit band hides unbuttoned pants or holds up those maternity jeans that are still a bit big. Bra extenders were also a life-saver. This was the toughest area for me because I couldn’t find the comfort and support I needed and it seemed that I was growing a size each month! So I  purchased these extenders to help my bras last a bit longer.

Dressing the bump for work

Flowy dresses and stretchy pants were definitely my go-to for my days off but when it came to my 9-5, I had to look professional and be comfortable. Adding a blazer or a cardigan (unbuttoned, of course!) always makes a look more put together. Stretchy or flowy blouses and dresses (even from non maternity sections) were my go-to.

Dressing the bump for working out

Somehow I was able to wear my regular size Lululemon High Times pants until the very end. And honestly they aren’t stretched out. But Ingrid & Isabel make great active wear that is not boring! Tops were tougher so I would either size up on cotton tanks or wear maternity workout tops.

Non-Maternity Clothes

Don’t be afraid to size up on your favorite items outside of the maternity section. Loose fabrics and materials with a little give are great options too!

Nursing Tops

If you plan to nurse your little one, purchase maternity clothes that can double as nursing pieces too so you can extend the use of these pieces into postpardum.

Do you have any great tips for pregnant mamas? I’d love to hear about any maternity style tips. Let me know!