Making your current wardrobe work for you
Wait why are I writing about how to wear normal clothes while pregnant?
We are pregnant! Currently I am 20 weeks along with our rainbow baby and only days away from knowing the sex of the baby we affectionately call Squeak. Bubble and Squeak, get it? It’s an old recipe my mom use to make with cabbage and potatoes and sausage, if my memory serves me correctly. I swear pregnancy has my brain like swiss cheese this time around.
Anyway, the reason you’re here is not for a recipe but for FASHION! Specifically pieces you can wear with a growing belly that won’t cost twice as much because they are labeled “maternity.” I am rather small framed when not pregnant and tend to grow mostly in my belly area but that does not mean that these tips wouldn’t work for a full figured mama or a mama who tends to blossom in other areas. Thankfully we are living in a time when fashion is full of relaxed fit, stretchy waistbands, and oversize clothing. Let’s take advantage of that!
Here are some ways to wear normal clothes while pregnant. These styles that will work all pregnancy long to show off the bump and can still be worn postpartum for a relaxed comfy feeling.
*This post contains affiliated links – while I might earn a commission, it will not change the cost to you.*
Number 1 – The Summer Sun Dress
A flowy style with a high waistband – or no defined waist at all – is a mama-to-be’s best friend, especially during a summer pregnancy. If you are pregnant in winter or are cold natured, look for maxi dresses in a relaxed fit and add a denim jacket.
This particular beauty is from Target and I am wearing my pre-pregnancy size (XS). The high-low hem line hides the fact that a belly will make the front of the dress a little shorter.
BONUS – it has functioning buttons that will make breastfeeding easy!
Number 2 – The Bodycon Dress
Showing off the bump is half the fun of having one! A stretchy bodycon is one of my favorite ways to wear normal clothes while pregnant fand it can be styled in so many ways – up or down.
This black ribbed bodycon is from Amazon. I did size up (M) because I have a robust bottom half and I do not like for my dresses to pull too tight around it. It is a little large on the top but that will accommodate these milk-makers for months! My favorite way to wear this dress is by layering it with a tied up graphic T, or a crop top. Add some wedges and a jacket and you’re the cutest preggo on the go.
BONUS – With a shirt on top, it can be used for the “one up, on down” method of discrete breastfeeding!
Number 3 – Relaxed Fit Jeans
While skinny jeans might protest too much, a low or midrise pair of relaxed fit jeans should slide right up those expanding hips. You can use a belly band or the hair tie trick to cheat a few inches in the waistline. Pair them with any soft T for a laid back look!
I searched and searched for the perfect pair of distressed, midrise, boyfriend fit jeans for MONTHS while pregnant with Miles. Because of the afore mentioned robust bottom half, nothing had a true relaxed fit on me! I finally found this particular pair at Old Navy and I decided to size up (4) and I’m glad I did because, with the help of my belly band, they are still fitting at 20 weeks!
These will probably be a staple postpartum and beyond! The benefits of finding normal clothes to wear while pregnant!
Number 4 – Fold-over Waistband
Fold-over waistband are a MUST for comfort, especially in the gym. Anything that is compression is out and anything with an elastic waist that fit pre-pregnancy is going to leave its judgmental teeth marks on your belly. Not to mention they would need to be tucked under the belly which, for me, gives too much pressure.
These shorts came from Amazon and while they are just cotton (talk about soggy after you sweat) they are uber comfortable for walking, lounging, and sleep. I do workout in them even though they aren’t ideal. I am wearing my pre-pregnancy size (M) and they fit me during and in between both pregnancies.
BONUS – You can wear the band up or down depending on your preference and belly size!
There are so many ways to make what is in your closet work for you over the 10 (yes, really 10) months of pregnancy. Do not feel like you have to buy a whole other wardrobe just because you’re grow a whole other human.
XO Beka
You can find more suggestions on my Amazon Storefront!
Be sure to pin for later and share with friends!
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.