SIZE & FIT
9 months of a growing belly doesn’t pop back instantly after poping out the babe (if only, right? that’d be the best push present EVER). Doesn’t mean you need to frump it until that glorious day your stomach decides to shrink. For one, buy a spanx tank top. Heck, pack it in your hospital bag to wear on the way home. I wore mine under everything for the first 2 months. Still do if something is extra snug in the mid section.
Focus on tops that are roomy but still flattering: tunics, baby-doll tops (tight with empire waist and flowy on the bottom), and slouchy boyfriend tshirts (not literally a guys top…you know what I mean). The point being, tops can be “big” but still fit. Does that make sense? This top (pictured) has definitely gotten its fair share of use. I love how it fits my shoulders but is roomy everywhere else. Pair it with fun accessories, a wedge or flats, and tighter leggings, jeggings, or even your recently retired maternity skinny jeans (lets be honest, you’re the only one that will know they’re maternity. there’s no shame in it.)
Fall/Winter Variation: Tunics are a year round item, thank heavens. Look for sweater ponchos and oversized cardigans. Remember to pair them with tighter pants!
PLAY WITH PATTERNS
Patterns are a simple way to play hide & seek with a post prego belly… they have this amazing ability to camoflauge the bulge if done correctly. When I saw this dress, my first reaction was, “That’s seriously loud. OOo, loud enough to distract? It’s perfect!” And it’s been my favorite dress this summer. Stripes in bold colors, color blocking, even polka dots and plaids will all help keep your tum-tum from being center stage.
Fall/Winter Variation: Try a sweater dress with knee high boots, scrunchy knee socks, and a cowl or infinity scarf. For prints & patterns, again, look for sweaters that distract (and no, blinking rudolph sweaters don’t count).
DEPTH AND TEXTURE
This next tip is cousins with size and fit. They’re similar but different enough to pay notice to each. Look for tops and/or dresses that have multiple layers or that combines mixed materials. Given the thin material, this top (pictured) could potentially rave havoc on the mid section. But the large ruffle down the middle makes it completely wearable and flattering for any body type. The already layered look, lends itself to more layers (hence the blazer. The slouchy pockets repeat the depth of the ruffle… Yes?) See… I knew you could do it! Pair it with a tighter flared jean and you’re set!
Fall/Winter Variation: Blazers will be your friend. Swap out the light weight blouses for lace. It’s going to be spot on this season and will provide the depth and texture you’re looking for.
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OUTFIT DETAILS
Polish: Orly in Passion Fruit
Faux Tummy Tuck: SPANX ‘Thinstincts’ Camisole
Look 1: top – HM (spring/summer 2012), Jeggings – AF, Wedge – Coach, Watch – Michael Kors ‘Large Gold Runway’ Watch
, Bracelets – JCrew, Necklace – gifted
Look 2: dress – HM (spring/summer 2012, studded pumps – Simply Vera Wang (Kohls), cardi – BP. Classic Crewneck Cardigan (Juniors)
, Bracelet – F21 (old), Necklace – Lucky Brand
Look 3: blouse – windsor store, slouchy blazer – F21 (old), jeans – hudson, necklace – F21
