ou’re pregnant! Now what? Your head is probably spinning with thoughts of morning sickness, nursery décor, stretch marks, maternity clothes, doctor appointments, maternity leave, c-sections, labor... the list goes on and on! These 40 weeks are a journey - a journey that is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (unless of course this is baby #2, 3, 4, or more!) to create a miracle. So...

First, take a deep breath and have faith in knowing that women do this every day. And take another deep breath and enjoy this moment. Empower yourself. Celebrate and allow it all to sink in. And enjoy it all now before the morning sickness starts!

The next 9 months will prove to be the adventure of a lifetime - so of course you are going to need a fabulous wardrobe. Let’s take a month-by-month look at what’s ahead for you and that sweet little baby of yours.

MONTH 1
The first trimester, especially the first month, you will find that you can most likely get by with your existing wardrobe. Most women don’t even realize they are pregnant until the end of this first month, so life is fairly normal during these first 4 weeks.

MONTH 2
To put it all into perspective, your embryo is only about a half inch long at this point; so don’t expect any significant changes in your body. You might be experiencing morning sickness this month, so rest if you can and stay hydrated. Your boobs might be tender, too, so I suggest ditching the underwire bra for a more comfortable seamless cotton bra.

MONTH 3
Weight gain is slight, if at all this month; however, you will start to notice minor changes in your body as your uterus and abdomen start expanding. Normal weight gain at this point is approximately 3-5 pounds. No need to rush to the maternity store just yet but it might be a good idea to start searching online for future fashion essentials!

MONTH 4
OK, Momma, now you are getting close to needing a maternity wardrobe! Your first purchase should be a fabulous pair of maternity jeans. I recommend the under-belly style, as those maternity panels just look so unattractive. Plus, a great pair of jeans should last you now through post-partum, and who wants to be sporting “the band” after Junior arrives? No thanks! Also invest in a few stretchy tees that you can wear alone or layer - these are essential pieces for every pregnancy wardrobe. Your little peanut is about 4 inches long now and tipping the scale at 2 ounces!

MONTH 5
Congratulations - you’re halfway there! You’ve hit the midpoint of your pregnancy this month. The average weight gain is about 10 pounds - but don’t worry if you are slightly over or under that average. Your belly is expanding and growing beautifully. Be sure to have at least 3 pairs of pants that you love and feel comfortable wearing. Nothing is more miserable than tight pants during your pregnancy. Switch it up and be sure to have a great pair of comfy trackpants, sexy slacks, and a cool pair of jeans. Invest in versatile tops that can easily transition from day to night.

MONTH 6
Your little one is approximately 8 inches long and weighs almost 1 pound! Your round belly is DEFINITELY noticeable by now and weight gain is close to 15 pounds. Your expanding belly and body means you are going to need an expanding wardrobe so treat yourself to an afternoon of shopping for these must-have pieces:

• Every pregnant gal needs a gorgeous dress. With spring approaching, look for bright, bold colors. Shades of aqua blue, ruby red, and emerald green look stunning on most skin tones.

• V-neck cuts and off-the-shoulder styles are going to be HOT this spring.

• You’ll also need a great pair of leggings. Pair black, grey, or chocolate brown leggings with a printed tunic and gold sandals and you’re ready to go!

MONTH 7
Your baby measures about 10 inches long and weighs close to 2 1/2 pounds. Expect to gain about a pound a week from here through the end of your pregnancy. This means you need clothes with lots of S-T-R-E-T-C-H!! That belly is going to keep on growing, so be sure to stock up on soft, stretchy tees and pants and skirts with at least 5% Lycra or Spandex. This month, you should start looking for the perfect baby shower dress - the Big Event deserves a special dress as this day is going down in history! You’ll be photographed like a leading lady on the red carpet, so you’re going to need a timeless dress that leaves you feeling as beautiful as you look.

MONTH 8
Average total weight gain this month teeters around 25 pounds. Your boobs need extra support as they prepare for childbirth and nursing. Remember what I told you about nursing bras? If not, read that column again for everything you need to know about finding the perfect nursing bra. Your belly continues to expand as your baby weighs close to 5 pounds. Lose the stilettos and opt for well-fitting shoes with added ankle support. Your center of gravity has shifted, so you are going to need shoes that properly fit and support all that extra weight. Thankfully, Fall’s biggest trend – knee-high boots paired with jeans or leggings – is stronger than ever. This is a great look that transitions from the office right into date night.

MONTH 9
The moment has come... you’ve made it! Plan ahead early in the month and have your hospital bag packed and ready to go in case your delivery date arrives earlier than expected. Be sure to pack your favorite maternity tracksuit (great for walking the halls in labor and delivery), a loose-fitting, button-down nightgown for easy access, and socks with added traction. Don’t forget to pack a few nursing bras and nursing pads - I promise you will need them! Also, pack an overnight bag with these essentials: lip gloss, mascara, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, concealer, powder, and your favorite lotion. Labor is hard work and nothing feels better than having your own products when you’re ready to freshen up.

Well, there you have it. I wish you the most wonderful 9 months - enjoy every single minute of your pregnancy. And always remember… you are beautiful!!