What’s your maternity sweater style?

November 15, 2008

Whether your maternity sweater style is fitted, casual or embelleshed, check out these winter looks that are sure to keep you warm all winter long.

If you love the figure-flattering look of a sweater that gently hugs your bump, then you will love the Cadeau Ribbed Silk V-Neck Sweater ($115) from BabyStyle.com. A wrapped cardigan, such as the Shawl Collar Wrap Cardigan (pictured), is another option if you would like a look that shows off your new curves. Look for details like ties, wraps or side-shirring if this is the right style for you.

If you love a casual sweater to pair with maternity jeans, check out the V-Neck Boyfriend Sweater from BabyStyle. This deep V-neck sweater is perfect for layering over tanks of camis. Look for sweaters that are long enough to keep you covered as your belly grows.

If you love sweaters with a little sparkle, you will love the Fine Gauge Beaded Cardigan ( on sale for $73) from BabyStyle.com. This dressy sweater can be worn from work straight to an evening out with your hubby.

Am I missing your favorite sweater style? What has been your go-to maternity sweater?

Thanksgiving day style

November 12, 2008

Thanksgiving is full of fun, food and family — all who are eager to rub your beautiful baby bump. What should you wear that is stylish, comfortable and will look fabulous in photos?

Save your black dress for another occasion (it is too dark and dressy) and wear colors that will brighten you face and add to the festive atmosphere. If you are wearing prints, go minimal by pairing a printed top with solid pants or jeans.

Look for outfits that gently hug your bump, instead of concealing it. Clothes with details like shirring, wraps or ties are great for expecting mamas.

Don’t forget to accessorize with feminine earrings and long necklace chains to give your look that extra sparkle.

Pictured is the Cable Knit Dress from Gap maternity.

Splurge vs. save: Cowl neck sweater

November 11, 2008

Paired with everything from denim to pants, cowl neck sweaters are a trendy look this winter. Here are two sweater options, depending on if you are splurging or saving.

For a well-deserved splurge, you will love the comfortable fabric and flattering cut of the Cadeau Maternity Cowl Neck Short Sleeve Sweater (pictured, $115) from Nordstrom.com. This sweater flatters your face with a relaxed neckline and is available in purple and charcoal gray.

For a sweater that skimps on price but not on style, check out the Liz Lange for Target Essential Cowl-Neck Sweater from Target.com. For $19.99, you will love the this soft cotton sweater with the face-framing neckline.

Splurge vs. Steal: Tie-front cardigan

Splurge vs. Steal: Kimono Dress

How to buy a maternity bra

November 10, 2008

Your breasts will become an average 10-18 ounces heavier on each side making a supportive maternity bra a must. Once your breasts become sore and your normal bra is tight (usually by the 3rd or 4th month of pregnancy) it is time to buy a maternity bra.

If you plan on breastfeeding your baby, you will want a supportive nursing bra with pull-down panels for easy access for nursing. If you don’t plan on breastfeeding, it is still important to get a maternity bra that will provide support to the breast tissue.

Tips on buying a maternity/nursing bra:

- Your bra should contain at least 3 hooks and can be worn comfortable on the tightest hook when you buy it. This allows plenty of room for growth as your progress through your pregnancy.

-Make sure it fits under your breasts and does not ride up putting pressure on your breast tissue, which can lead to an infection.

-Look for bras that have a full-coverage, stretchy cup and contain breathable fabric.

Pictured is the Lifestyle Microfiber Nursing Bra from Bravado, available at BabyStyle.com for $39.

Pregnancy style: Dressing for comfort

November 8, 2008

As you deal with your changing body shape, back aches and swelling feet, the last thing you want to do is wear clothes that add to your ailments. Find out how you can dress comfortable, yet stylish, throughout your pregnancy.

Look for pregnancy-friendly fabrics, such as ultra-soft jersey material or light-weight cotton, that hangs nicely on your new curves. Forgo stiff fabrics that will make your already dry skin more irritated and drape yourself in soft, comfortable clothes.

If you love wearing jeans, opt for maternity jeans that contain some stretch in the denim and feature a panel that allows plenty of room for your growing belly. If jeans are out of the picture, wear cotton or linen pants that are just as flattering and comfortable, but are totally unrestricting.

Wear dresses that are long enough that you don’t have to worry about squirming and pulling them down when you sit. Wearing leggings underneath will give your legs some warmth and are a perfect pair with dresses and long tunic tops. Long skirts paired with a soft bump-hugging tee is another option to keep you looking great and feeling great.

Pictured is the Tie-Front Dress from Gap.com.

Pregnancy style tip: Make your eyes pop

November 8, 2008

Are you feeling anything but glamorous now that your belly has grown to the point where you can’t see your feet? Why not throw on your favorite maternity wrap dress, slip on your favorite pair of sassy flats and look red-carpet ready by making your eyes the focus of your face by applying fake eyelashes.

Applying fake lashes can be a snap if you know how to do it. Follow these tips from celebrity makeup artist Pati Dubroff, (who has worked on Jennifer Aniston and Kate Bosworth) as told to InStyle magazine:

1. Use short, indivicual lashes rather than full strips — they look much more realistic.
2. Instead of attaching them at the outer corners, open up your eyes even more by placing the lash clusters in the center of the top lids.
3. Apply two coats of masacara, then glue on the faux lashes one at a time. “Don’t curl them afterward, or there’s a chance they’ll break off.”

She recommends Ardell Duralash individual lashes ($4) from Ulta.

4 fun pregnancy accessories under $30

November 8, 2008

You don’t have to spend a fortune to make yourself feel good and look good. Check out my pick of 4 fun pregnancy accessories and skin care products that are all priced under $30.

The Popper Stoppers by Miss Oops ($12.50) help conceal you bellybutton from showing through form-fitting garments. It feaures a thin material with adhesive that helps to flatten your bellybutton.

This Pregnancy Travel Set ($20) keeps you feeling moisturized and soothe when you are off jet-setting. It features 4 treatments in travel-sized tubes to help ease stretch marks, skin tightness/dryness of the breasts, tired legs and overall dry skin.

Are you looking for a comfortable, basic bra to give your pregnancy breasts more support? The Must-Have Basic Full Coverage Maternity Bra ($22) will be your go-to bra to give you the support you need throughout your pregnancy.

As every pregnant mom-to-be knows, navigating a comfortable sleeping position around your belly is difficult. The Pregnancy Wedge By Boppy ($14.99) gives you the support you need so you have a peaceful night’s sleep.

What is your favorite pregnancy accessory?

Splurge or save: Maternity scarf cardigan

November 5, 2008

A cozy scarf cardigan will keep you toasty warm as the temperature drops and is the perfect addition to your winter maternity wardrobe. Here are two stylish options, depending on if you are splurging or saving.

For a stylish splurge, you can’t go wrong with the long sleeve open front maternity cardigan ($98) from MimiMaternity.com. Available in heather grey, this cardigan features an open front design that is perfect for wrapping around your growing bump. I love the fact that this jersey knit cardigan is machine washable.

If you want to look just as stylish on a budget, you will love the maternity scarf cardigan from OldNavy.com. For $29.50, you will love the lightweight and stylish cut of this cozy cardigan. Available in gray heather, red and pink, this can be your go-to cardigan this winter.

Splurge vs. Steal: Tie-front cardigan

November 2, 2008

Are you looking for the perfect hip cardigan to keep you warm this winter? Check out my pick of two tie-front maternity cardigans, depending on if you are splurging or looking for a bargain.

For a wonderful splurge (come on, you’re worth it!) you will love the feminine details and lush fabric of the Vince Long Sleeve Tie-Front Maternity Cardigan (pictured, $365) from A Pea in the Pod. This jacket features a beautiful textured print, shirt collar that can be worn buttoned up or worn down and a tie-front to ensure perfect fit throughout your pregnancy. This cardigan can be worn with everything from jeans to dressy pants or skirts.

For a cardigan that has plenty of style, but saves you a lot of dough, check out the Maternity Tie-Front Cardigan from OldNavy.com. For $29.50, you will love the soft fabric, wide closure, rib-knit cuffs and the bump-hugging tie.

Maternity tradeshow showcases hot fashions and products

November 1, 2008

SheKnows managing editor Alison Bills just returned from the Mom2B Tradeshow in Los Angeles and has the scoop on the newest and hottest maternity fashions and products.

Check out the Top Maternity Fashions at Mom2B Tradeshow to watch a slideshow and video of the hottest new fashions from maternity designers Lauren Kiyomi, The Mod Pod Limited, Whoa Mamma! and Project Runway winner Christian Siriano’s Fierce Mamas for Moody Mamas line.

You will also find products that will come in handy after baby, including hip diaper bags, postpartum belly wraps and stylish slings for baby.

Watch the slideshow here: Top Maternity Fashions at Mom2B Tradeshow

You can also check out the Mom2B Tradeshow and Fashion Show video on the homepage of Pregnancy Fashion.

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