{ PREGNANCY DIARY :: Fashion Files }

Since being pregnant it has definitely been a challenge to "feel cute" [and look fashionable], but not spending a boat-load of money on a whole new wardrobe! While I've done my best to make a lot of the items I already own work on my ever-expanding waistline, it was fun to fill in the gaps with a few maternity (and even non-maternity) purchases.

I am definitely no expert when it comes to fashion, but because I have had so much fun dressing up this bump these last 8 months, I thought I would share a few of my tips, tricks, and fabulous finds for other expectant Moms looking for a little help in the wardrobe department.

1 - OLD NAVY - Maternity Scoop-Neck Slub-Knit Tees - I just feel like stripes are so fun when you're pregnant.  Call me crazy, but I love it when people show off their bumps and embrace the belly rather than try to hide them in these huge, ridiculous, parachute tops.  This top is also great because it has that side-ruching that I love.  No yanking or tugging.  It simply stays put and grows with your belly.

2 - MODCLOTH - Recharge Your Batteries Dress - Again, stripes!  But this time in a dress.  A stretchy dress!  I went out on a limb when I bought this one sight unseen  from a website, but came out a winner! I love this dress and the fact that I can wear it during and after pregnancy because it's not maternity!  I found a few similar dresses at Old Navy that were striped and stretchy that you might wanna check out too.

3 - ANTHROPOLOGIE - Slouched Sailor Blouse - Tunics are great!  They're long, blousey, but surprisingly enough still give you shape.  And don't be afraid of buttons!  When you're too big to wear them buttoned, just open it up and wear it as a cardi over your favorite tank.  And don't forget to belt it.  Everything looks cuter with a belt!

4 - A PEA IN THE POD - 3/4 Sleeve Scoop Neck Side Ruched Maternity T Shirt - I'm so in love with these t-shirts.  They're long, fitted, have side-ruching, a 3/4 sleeve to hide your soggy arms, come in lots of colors, great for layers with cardigans, and so comfy that sometimes I just wear straight to bed. Yup, it's that good.

5 - GAP MATERNITY - 1969 Demi Panel Always Skinny Jeans - I don't know how I would have survived these last few months without these jeans!  I actually bought these, and the bootcut pair which my husband loves, but truth-be-told, these are my favorite! In the store they say to buy your pre-pregnancy size, but I'm glad I went with my gut b/c I've definitely put on some extra weight since I bought them 3 months ago and I love that I'm still wearing them clear into my last month of pregnancy.

6 - A PEA IN THE POD - Secret Fit Belly™ Knee Length Slim Fit Maternity Skirt - I love the skirts that have this secret fit belly.  They are honestly so comfy, and they look like "real clothes." And I love how the panel hugs your belly instead of trying to sling your skirts under your belly and hope they're stay up.  Plus, the pattern on this specific skirt is darling!

7 - TARGET - Be Maternity Seamless Legging - Black - I've said this before and I'll say it again.  How did women survive pregnancy before the leggings movement?  I mean seriously!  If you ask me, these are a MUST for every pregnant wardrobe.  I wear them shopping, around the house, out to dinner, everywhere...except church.  This pair from Target were my first purchase when I found out I was expecting and have carried me throughout these last 8 months.  Another great pair I found at Gap Maternity.

8 - ANTHROPOLOGIE - Michelia Peasant Blouse - I recently bought this blouse to wear to a Christmas Party with my besties and have worn it 3 more times since then because I got so many compliments on it...including many from my husband!  It's not maternity, but works great for pregnancy because it's a tunic.  I just bought mine a few sizes too big and figure when I loose all my weight I can wear it more blousey with a skinny belt around the waist.