absolutely love this time of the year. The flowers are blooming, the temperatures are rising, and the overall feeling of summer in the city is starting to take over. Although it’s been a few years since this momma was pregnant, I will never forget the challenges I faced being 7 months pregnant and heading into the summer wondering how the heck I was going to survive the heat with 30 plus pounds of “baby fat”!

Truth be told, it’s really not as bad as it seems. Yes, it’s hot, and yes, I know the thought of showing your knees and shoulders right about now seems like a terribly bad idea. But I know you can do it - and you can do it in style.

I’ve put together a few tips and tricks you can follow to help guide you through the sweaty summer months - and actually make the sun shine a little bit more in the months ahead.

I know how absent-minded you can be right about now... I like to call it “pregnancy-brain." Do yourself a favor: print out this handy checklist and head to your favorite boutiques for all these wonderful summertime style must haves!

• Flip-Flops – Swollen feet anyone? Flip-flops and sandals are the perfect cure for big, swollen feet. I like the classic beach flip-flop but I especially love those styles adorned with some shiny bling bling! Leather sandals embellished with rhinestones or studs are just perfect for the beach and that afternoon meeting you must attend. My new favorite... the hottest shoe in town... the Grecian-style leather sandals with studded ties at the ankle. A little dose of attitude never hurt anyone!

• The Maxi Dress – The hottest thing in maternity fashion at the moment. You’ve seen Gwen and Angelina wearing these lovely, long dresses for the past few months and now it’s your turn to dazzle. Opt for dark solids for a leaner look, or pretty prints in bright, bold colors for a perfect summertime party dress. Add simple sandals and some slim bangles for an effortlessly glamorous look.

• Beach Tote – Grab yourself a small beach tote made from printed canvas or woven natural fibers. You’ll get plenty of use from this tote now and post-baby, so choose a classic shape and style that can last for years.

• Bangles – The epitome of bohemian beauty! Mix and match gold and silver bangles to complete any simple or chic look.

• Sunglasses – I can’t tell you what style will look best on your face, but I can tell you what the hottest styles for summer will be. The Aviator is back and the Wayfarer is, too. Check out the New Wayfarer in two-tone colors and new wrap styling. This style works well on most face shapes and is oh, so chic! Be sure to always check that the glasses you purchase have 100% UV protection. I also like those that are scratch and shatter resistant for longer wear.

• Sundress – You just can’t go wrong with a sundress! It’s always fresh and always in style. Better yet, wear a strapless sundress if you can - it’s sexy and sophisticated all in one.

• Sunscreen – Pregnancy skincare is essential! Your skin is ultra-sensitive right now and you need to take extra care this summer to protect your gorgeous face. I’m sure you know all about the dreaded “pregnancy mask” or melasma. Yuck, I know - so not sexy, but up to 70 percent of pregnant women experience it to some degree. When shopping for sunscreen, it’s important to look for those with Avobenzone or zinc oxide because these ingredients block out UV light, the wavelength that causes facial blotchiness.

Well, there you have it. Rock-and-roll your way into summer with some serious style. Momma, you deserve it!