Fashion Tips by Trimester

ongratulations... You're pregnant! Now what? Worry not, my dear friends. This is the most wonderful and exciting journey you will ever experience, which means you are going to have to look fabulous! Whether you're a real-life fashionista or a simple and sweet momma-to-be, look no further as you've come to right place for the best fashion advice.

I've put together some basic tips to help you get the perfect maternity wardrobe. As you will soon find out, dressing for your first few months of pregnancy is vastly different than dressing for your last few months. This doesn't mean that you need a separate wardrobe for each trimester, it simply means that the wardrobe choices you make will change as your body changes.

You'll find that there are key pieces in your wardrobe that will look amazing from week one to week forty. Definitely splurge on those items - and be sure to stock up on the basics. You can never have enough of those ultra-soft and stretchy long, fitted tees. They are perfect for layering as well as pairing with a great pair of jeans.

Speaking of jeans, this is a must-have item in every woman's maternity wardrobe. Invest in at least one or two pairs of maternity denim. With all the options out there, trust me, you are sure to find a pair that flatters that belly and body of yours. One extra little tip - I highly recommend buying a pair that rides under-the-belly (sans that horribly unattractive band) as this style is the most versatile and looks most like your pre-pregnancy jeans.

With that said, here are some fundamental tips for how to hold on to your hipness for the next nine months (and I'm not talking about the hips on your body!).

FIRST TRIMESTER

• Don't start shopping for maternity clothes until you need them! It's much better to wait and see how your body will adjust and grow during your pregnancy. Most mommas don't even start showing during these first twelve weeks, especially on your first pregnancy, so make your current wardrobe last as long as you can. Trust me, you and your pocketbook will thank me later! 

• You might not feel so hot these first few months (morning sickness, anyone???), so comfort is key! Wear pieces that offer a slightly looser fit. 

• Brighter tones will not only lift your spirits, but will help your skin escape the pallid hue that you might be experiencing from all the nausea and exhaustion. 

SECOND TRIMESTER 

Now, onto the SECOND TRIMESTER - also known as the “honeymoon period” for good reason. Typically, these months are full of exciting developments, such as feeling baby’s first movements (truly a moment not to be forgotten!), as well as some relief from the nausea and exhaustion. Some women even confess these are the months when your sex drive returns! Ooh la la!!

Here’s how to look haute in your second trimester:

• Momma, get ready, as these weeks are full of physical changes. Where to start??… Boobs are getting bigger, hips are widening, your waistline is expanding, and you are on your way to steady weight gain. Now you can officially start the shopping for maternity wear. Establish the basics: jeans, tees, and at least one incredible dress.

• When shopping, look for pieces with a Lycra or spandex content of at least 4%. This will offer much needed support and comfort. 

• Most importantly, show off your belly and those gorgeous new curves with simple silhouettes and body-hugging shapes. Empire cuts and wrap dresses are essentials in every woman’s maternity wardrobe!

THIRD TRIMESTER

And finally, the final trimester! Typically, your third trimester is the most daunting. The overwhelming excitement of your pending arrival can occasionally send your fashion sense awry. Hopefully, these tips will help get you through these final few weeks in style: 

• Be sure to invest in a great bra NOW before baby arrives. A good nursing bra will help support your increasing bust line and believe me, your boobs continue to grow even after baby arrives! 

• Darker colors always look best! 

• Tracksuits are an expecting momma’s best friend this trimester! Comfortable and cute!

Well, there you have it! I hope these tips will help you look and feel your best during your pregnancy… Momma, you deserve it! 

About The Author

Skye Hoppus is the creator behind Childish Clothing, an ultra hip maternity and children’s clothing line. In July of 2007, Hoppus imparted her knowledge of fashion in Rock Star Momma (Atria Books), a one-of-a-kind fashion guide helping today’s mothers-to-be learn how to maintain their style as they rock-and-roll their way into motherhood.  Most recently, Hoppus launched Childish {HOME}, a collection of organic candles that enhance the well-being of women during and after pregnancy.

Skye has appeared on top media outlets including the Today Show, Morning Show with Mike & Juliet, The Tyra Banks Show, TV Guide Channel, Access Hollywood, E! News, Entertainment Tonight, and Good Day LA.

For more fabulous tips from Skye, visit her website Rock Star Momma.