This post was sponsored by Macy’s. All thoughts and opinions stated are my own. All images are my own.
Maternity clothing doesn’t have to be boring or just for pregnancy. If you shop smart, you can build your pregnancy wardrobe to compliment your existing wardrobe. I have a few maternity blouses and dresses that I’ve incorporated into my current post-partum wardrobe.
When I first got pregnant with Logan, I felt so guilty about buying maternity clothes. I felt like it was a waste of money to buy clothes that I would only be wearing for a few months. After shopping around and trying to fit my growing belly into regular clothes, I started to get discouraged. I realized that there was no fighting it – I was pregnant, and I needed to start shopping like it. I made my trip to Macy’s for my first maternity clothing haul. As I walked into the expectant mother’s section, I was pleasantly surprised. I had to do a double take to make sure I was in the right section… One of my favorite designers, Jessica Simpson, has an entire line just for mamas to be! Some of the styles that I love to wear before my bump days were now available to me again! Getting to wear my favorite styles made me feel like myself again.
My Favorite Non-Maternity Maternity Top
I love this top I found at Macy’s by Jessica Simpson. It’s perfect and neutral – plus, it’s my favorite peplum style. The stripes give an instant slimming factor that made me feel like I lost 10lbs. It also comes with a cute wrap belt that can be worn on the front or the back! Shop it HERE.
So how did I shop for these pretty pieces without feeling like I would only wear them during my pregnancy? I used a few secret shopping tips (that can be applied to any clothing haul).
Things to look for when selecting styles that last after pregnancy
Color
Select a color that will always be complimentary. One of my golden rules for shopping is to stick to neutrals. A closet built on basics will give you wear for years to come. How many times a week do you want to wear that purple polka dot blouse? Probably only once right. What about that basic white tee or high wasted blue jeans? You have so many more options when it comes to wearing basic neutrals. One of my favorite things to do is to find a gorgeous neutral, and then pump it up with accessories. A great basic maternity blouse can last you months post-partum.
Style
There are so many maternity styles that are beautiful on any body type. The typical maternity top is loose and fitted at the waist – also known as a peplum top. This is seriously my favorite style and I have about 15 shirts in my closet like this (seriously). The reason being, they are so ridiculously flattering – no matter your body type. They work with your natural curves (even the slight curve you have while sporting a bump) and always give you a gorgeous feminine look. I love to pair them with a cute belt to really define my waist – it’s also an instant thinner (which feels great when you have a baby bump).
Pattern
Florals are one of the most versatile patterns – and one of my favorites. They can transition seamlessly from season to season. Plus, they are always pretty and feminine.
Stripes are one of my other favorite patterns for maternity wear. They can instantly give you a slimming look (dependent on the direction).
Basics are your best friend. Clothing without any patterns or bright colors should be used to build your maternity closet. So, stock up on all the black leggings and white tees. They are all I lived in for the first year after Logan was born (seriously).
Take a Peek at my Favorite Maternity Dress that Doesn’t Look Like a Maternity Dress
This dress was also an amazing Macy’s find. The cut-out shoulder gives it a little sexy vibe, but the florals make it totally feminine. The neutral greyish purple makes it perfect for every skin tone and hairstyle. I also love that it’s such a cool toned dress that I can wear it in any season. Paired with flats or heels, it can be dressed up or dressed down. Shop it HERE.
The Best Brands to Shop for Maternity Styles
Macy’s carries a WIDE selection of maternity brands. So many of our favorite designers are already making clothing for mamas to be. Some of my favorites are:
- Jessica Simpson
- 7 for all Mankind
- Rachel Zoe
- SPANX (YES. Just. YES.)
- Willow & Clay
They also carry a wide range of styles that are just for expecting mamas, like:
- Motherhood Maternity
- A Pea in the Pod
- Daniel Rainn
Some Ideas to Keep in Mind While Shopping for Maternity Wear:
Comfort is key
Pregnancy can be an uncomfortable time, no matter what time of the year it is. One of the most important things when styling during pregnancy is the comfort. Always opt for a looser fit (especially if you are shopping early on in your pregnancy). Stock up on comfy cotton tops and stretchy pants that cover your belly.
Some things you need
Like I mentioned, and you just know, pregnancy is such an uncomfortable time. Some days you just feel so big and refuse to get dressed in anything but yoga pants and your hubby’s tee. That being said, if you see that dress or that top that makes your heart feel happy, you need to get it.
It doesn’t always have to be about the bump
Tops that draw attention to the new baby are so cute! There are some hilarious sayings that draw attention to the new little baby. Some pieces need to be just about the mama though. So, if you want to try can conceal the bump, go for it! If you want to show a little leg, go for it! Mama’s need to feel beautiful, so don’t feel pressured to always wear styles that center around your growing bump.
This Top is the Definition of ‘See it, Want it, Need it’
I have a serious love of cut out shoulders. Gingham is one of my favorite prints for summer. It’s one of my favorite Summer Fashion Trends for 2018. [Check out my post on the Top 10 Spring and Summer 2018 Fashion Trends to Follow HERE.] This top can be paired with white denim pants, jean shorts, even a good pair of leggings. Shop it HERE. Ps. Slurpees are saving grace when you can’t drink coffee…
Jeans that Last FOREVER
I used to have a love-hate relationship with jeans. When I was pregnant I steered clear of them entirely. I didn’t like that huge band that when around my whole belly – it just made me feel even more sweaty and uncomfortable. Luckily I found these super cute cropped jeans by A Pea in the Pod. They have a comfortable elastic waistband that holds the stretchy jeans in place. I can even wear these now while I’m not pregnant! Shop them HERE.
All maternity wear is by the Jessica Simpson Line available at Macy’s.
#macysmaternity #destinationmaternity
Let me know in the comments which look was your favorite.
