Maternity Fashion Do's and Don'ts

Today's moms-to-be are looking forward to maternity shopping. And with good reason! There are more styles, brands, prints and pieces to choose from than ever before. There's no need to sacrifice your pre-pregnancy style. Of course, your changing body may be just the reason to try something a little different. We talked with Kim Seymour, owner of Raleigh's Cravings Maternity and Tina Siad, owner of Durham's Belly Blossom for their do's and don'ts in maternity shopping.

Do go designer!

"Designer duds can make a gal feel great but be careful about how they are constructed to be sure you'll get maximum wear for your money," says Kim. "Many designers overlook important details in adapting their styles for maternity-wear. Maternity designers build waistbands onto their jeans that are designed to support the stomach and back as you get bigger. Many non-maternity designers just stick a band on their regular jeans and it ends up hitting the belly at an uncomfortable spot when you get to five or six months."

Don't be afraid of trendy styles and prints

"During your pregnancy go ahead and buy the latest trends," says Tina. "You do not need to be afraid of funky patterns. Your maternity clothes are not meant to last a lifetime. So forget always trying to buy classic pieces. Have fun with your clothes for the next nine months. Worry about classic and timeless pieces after the baby arrives."

"Many girls shy away from prints because they feel everyone will remember 'that' shirt or pair of pants. Prints actually can liven up those basics you've inherited. A good salesperson will help you think of all the creative ways to incorporate a piece into your wardrobe. Different pairings of tops and bottoms and accessories can change the whole look of a particular print item to allow more wear - without getting caught!" says Kim.

Don't shy away from a little cling.

"Styles that are more body-conscious make a pregnant girl look curvy and sexy, not fat! Far better to emphasize a "boobs and belly" look than a mu-mu effect with baggy styles. Ruching, ties and even below the belly belting can help define your pregnant figure," says Kim.

"Women are choosing to show off their blossoming bellies, rather than trying to hide hem. Dresses are accentuating the belly, and skimming over the hips. You will hardly find tops that are tunic length, almost all tops are right below the belly," says Tina. "Having a smooth silhouette is key to remaining fashionable."

Do define the belly.

"Don't forget about vertical seams," says Kim. "Princess seams in the front and back help things lay nicely around your belly and from behind. Many maternity designers are also using hidden zipper and side ruching to allow longer wear in tailored styles. If you're not comfortable with the empire waist or are larger busted, look for styles with these features."

"Shapeless tops that look frumpy and tent-like will only make you feel bigger," says Tina. "Wear tops that are more form fitting and hug the belly. Don't shy away from a little cling. Tops with spandex are not only practical (they'll expand as you grow), they're also super flattering. If you want some cling with some camouflage too, try a top or dress with smocking or gathering at the belly."

Do experiment with different styles.

"Ask your salesperson to suggest some styles or patterns that might suit your figure. You just may be surprised at how good you feel in something "totally different" than your pre-pregnancy style! Have fun with your pregnancy. Don't only make practical purchases or you'll feel frumpy for nine months!" advises Kim.

Do invest in good maternity foundation garments.

"Trying to stretch or roll non-maternity foundations into working for a pregnant figure is a recipe for discomfort," says Kim. A few good pairs of maternity undies can make your days go smoother as well as make your new clothes look good. As well, maternity support garments such as SPANX can make you more confident in snugger styles and slinkier fabrics."

Do buy maternity clothes as soon as you start to feel uncomfortable in your pre-pregnancy clothes.

"Quality pieces should take you from about fourteen weeks into your pregnancy and last throughout your pregnancy," says Tina. "Also, a lot of clothing will take you beyond pregnancy in those first few months when your pre-pregnancy clothes are not quite fitting the same yet!"