Maternity Style Tips and Tricks

Let me start with the fact that wearing anything but sweats in your third trimester is not ideal but you do have to wear grown up clothes from time to time. So, I have a few tips to share for the occasions when your “quick trip to Target” attire just won’t do.

Stay True To Your Style

While finding stylish, affordable maternity clothes is no easy task, there are options available to you that don’t need to make you feel like a toddler, a frilly Peter Pan, or a walking version of your grandmother’s floral drapes. Most are only available online so check their return policies and get familiar with your local USPS, FedEx, and UPS locations!

I’ve found, with a few exceptions, that sticking with solid colors and simple patterns can help keep your maternity outfits chic. I usually avoid ornate details like big ruffles, bows, or too much texture up top which helps maintain clean lines and a modern feel. Brands like PinkBlush offer a variety of styles in a range of sizes. I’ve fallen in love with their dresses and sweaters. I actually wore one of their dresses for my baby shower and one for my cousin’s wedding (pictured here). I chose them because their dresses are stylish, flattering, and super comfortable. Remember, you don’t want to wear something that is bothersome just because it looks good at this point... but more on that later.

Flatter Your New Figure​

Styles that used to be your go-to just may not cut it anymore so it’s helpful to try new things in order to figure out what works for you. I was never one for super fitted pieces before but I learned that if you go too baggy when it comes to maternity styles, they can actually make you look bigger. Wrap tops, v-necks, belly-skimming tunics, and midi length dresses have been must-haves for me. 

​Things to avoid? Oversized tent-like outfits (unless you’re hanging in and just want to be comfortable), thin fabrics that don’t support your new curves, and anything that is too short... unless you’re Carrie Underwood or Kendall Jenner. I find short pieces to be awkward and uncomfortable the farther along you are but you do you, girlfriend!

Opt for Staples

I can’t tell you how much a quality tee or a great pair of maternity jeans can truly be. It’s tempting to splurge on super trendy pieces but stocking up on basics that will also come in handy post-baby is the key to having multiple new outfits to wear without breaking the bank. 

In the warmer months I purchased a few solid midi tank dresses that I could wear at work and out on the weekends. Now that the weather is a bit chillier, I’m opting for tunic sweaters and some solid long sleeves that are loose enough for the months just after bubby girl arrives. I won’t get into nursing here but if you’re going that route, I suggest you grab a few tops and some stylish loungewear that you can rock pre- and post-pregnancy.

PS. If you have a stylish friend, who is a similar size, offering you maternity clothes you should check them out. Why spend money if you can share pieces you love?

Comfort is Key

Let’s be real, pregnancy can already make you feel pretty uncomfortable so opting for outfits that are made from fabrics you like that fit you right can make a huge difference. Whether you’re at the office or a special event, you want to choose styles that you can feel relaxed and confident in. The better you feel, the better you’ll look.

I always try to find pieces that are soft, have a bit of stretch, and help downplay the things that I’m not the biggest fan of (cough... upper arms). And when it comes to athleisure ensembles (AKA the inevitable third trimester uniform), keep it cool with a stylish zip up and maybe treat yourself to a pair of sleek black kicks. 

Never Underestimate a Good LBD

When you do have a special occasion like a wedding or holiday party there is nothing better than a great black dress. The one featured in this post (from PinkBlush) looks formal but feels like I’m wearing pajamas... it’s amazing. If you can find a flattering dress you like, don’t be afraid to wear it on multiple occasions! Reinvent the dress with different jewelry, shoes, hairstyles, and more. After all, if Kate Middleton does it, so can we!

Give Yourself a Break

If I start getting down about my additional curves, or I start mourning the shoes I know may never fit again, I have to remind myself that I’m growing a human! I’m going to get to be someone’s mom and there’s nothing more exciting or special than that to me. Yes, my body is going to be changed by this experience (not that it was anything near perfect before) but she will be so worth it.

I also realize that we are so much more than our appearances. Being a good mom, wife, friend, family member, and working hard to support my family and accomplish my professional goals is more important than what I wear. And I want my daughter to know that the inside matters so much more than the outside. But I’m not going to lie, feeling confident in what you’re wearing can help motivate you and make you feel good, too.

So, just because your body is changing, or it might take a while to bounce back post-bub, taking time to find clothes that make you feel good, and to take care of you when you can, will help you be the best version of yourself.

Happy shopping, mamas! Leave any questions below or over on Instagram.

This post is sponsored by PinkBlush. All opinions are my own.

Pronovias 2019: ART OF BRIDAL

My friends at Pronovias just sent me images from their Atelier Pronovias 2019 collection and I am blown away. It really makes me wish I could have been there in person — and that I could get married all over again! From the gorgeous detailing and fabrics to the creative lines and accents, I’m so in awe of what they’ve done with this collection.

From Pronovias:
“Inspired by new beginnings, this collection surprises us with luxurious designs that have been artisanally crafted in the Barcelona atelier, where each gown is hand-made and can take anywhere from 100 to 300 hours to create.”

To all of the brides out there, click through the gallery below for a peek at these amazing gowns! There really is something for everyone because Pronovias created such a beautifully diverse collection.

Images Courtesy of Pronovias

TSO Gift Guide: Fab Finds Under $50 for Her

It seems like Christmas comes earlier each year so I thought I would get a jump start on my gift guides only to find out people have already started! Better late than never, right? I'm going to to be working on a few different gift guides this year but wanted to start out with my fab finds for her. And the best part is they are all under $50! Feeling generous? Grab a few things on the list. Might get you some points! 

All kidding aside, every item on this list was curated by me and is something that I truly love and already own myself or desperately want to try. I think you'll find a great variety of items and something for every woman on your list. Follow me on Instagram for more holiday fun! Happy shopping and stay tuned for the next gift guide! 

Xo

Jules

A Few Fall Favorites

I love the Loft. They are my go-to spot for jeans, sweaters, and most of my basics. I also love when I find fun jewelry and accessories. These gold tassel earrings had all my favorite fall colors combined into one. They're light, comfortable, and super stylish. I also fell in love with this chenille rose sweater. It's sold out online in this color but you can still find some in stores. They still have a really pretty golden color left online. I'm really into textures and rosy tones this season so this was a perfect combination. What are some of your favorite fall must-haves this season? 

I also wanted to share one of my fragrances with you. I can't get enough of Sí by Armani. I've loved it for the past couple of years and it has absolutely become my signature scent. No matter where I go, I get compliments on it and I love how light, feminine, and beautiful it smells. It's warm without being too sweet and fresh without being overly floral. Plus, it smells nice on so many people. Check it out!