Maternity Style Tips

Your Toughest Maternity Style Dilemmas — Solved

February 14, 2013 by Lisa Horten

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It's always nice to have access to a professional stylist, but add the challenge of a growing baby bump, and the luxury of a little sartorial help is a total game changer. While we can't send someone into your closet, we have enlisted the assistance of an expert who's more than qualified to answer all of your pregnancy fashion FAQs.

Olivia Capone Myers is the design director for A Pea in the Pod, and she's expecting her first child this Spring. We challenged Olivia with some of your toughest maternity style questions, and she rose to the occasion. Keep reading for advice from Olivia on how to approach nine months of styling your bump with ease.

Olivia Capone Myers photo by Evan Leslie for Destination Maternity Corporation

POPSUGAR: You have access to everything when it comes to maternity clothing! What's been your approach to style throughout your pregnancy?
Olivia Capone Myers: In the beginning of my pregnancy, I invested in basic maternity wardrobe essentials such as layering tanks, leggings, and Secret Fit Belly jeans. My favorite brands are AG Jeans and Joe's — they're supersoft and have a lot of stretch, which keeps me comfortable throughout the work day. I wear them at least three times a week. Now I've found that more fitted styles and pulling in color and accessories really accentuate my new shape. It's about being resourceful, forgetting the size number in the back of you jeans, and wearing clothes that are flattering, comfortable, and reflect your own personal style.
Photo by Bob Myers

PS: What's your favorite thing about designing for pregnant women?
OCM: I really take pride in not only forecasting the latest trends in maternity fashion, but also making moms-to-be feel beautiful. I know how important it is for expecting women to feel comfortable and attractive, and to still maintain their own personal style. I love the challenge of working to find the perfect balance of design and beauty.

PS: Are there specific maternity pieces that you recommend splurging on? How about saving on?
OCM: Splurge on jeans and the perfect wrap dress. Jeans are a staple for most women, so you'll want to splurge on a few pairs that are comfortable and flattering. My must-have item is a wrap dress. It creates an extremely flattering silhouette for expecting women, and it's a versatile piece that will take you from desk to dinner. As far as items to save on, I would invest in moderately priced leggings and layering tanks and tees. Since you'll be mixing these into your maternity wardrobe and wearing them throughout each trimester, you will want to stock up on a variety of colors.
A Pea in the Pod 3/4 Sleeve Faux Wrap Maternity Dress ($100, originally $130)

PS: Are there any regular wardrobe pieces that you think could transition well during pregnancy?
OCM: Cardigans are a perfect layering piece that can help you transition into the early stage of pregnancy. Knit leggings are also an item that can get you started as you build your new wardrobe. As your waistline expands (and in my case, hips and thighs, too!), you will want to move into maternity styles to give you that much-needed comfort and support, and, of course, to keep you feeling your best.

PS: What kinds of shoes do you recommend wearing during pregnancy? I've given up on heels that are more than two inches, but flats don't seem to offer much support.
OCM: Flats did not work for me even before I was pregnant. I recommend a wedge or flat boot or bootie. You have the necessary support, and you can dress them up or down.
Nine West Gottarun Wedge Boot ($60, originally $119)

PS: I just found out that I'm expecting, but want to buy some maternity clothes now so that I can wear them for as long as possible. How do I figure out what size I'm going to be as my pregnancy progresses?
OCM: Our stores have faux bellies that we keep in our dressing rooms, so that clients can envision how the clothes they are investing in will look at various stages of their pregnancy. Another trick is to purchase styles that have a bit of stretch, like a side-ruched tee, so they will grow with you. As for bottoms, if you go with styles that feature Secret Fit Belly, which provides seamless coverage over the bump, you can wear them throughout your entire pregnancy and even after your baby is born.
AG Jeans Secret Fit Belly Jeans ($215)

PS: I'm heading to the Caribbean for a babymoon next month — what style swimsuit do you think is most flattering? How about cover-ups?
OCM: The tankini is a universally flattering style for many moms. I think choosing a version that is fitted on top with some side ruching is a great choice. A classic print can also work to make your look pop and creates a slimming effect. As for cover-ups, a knit dress is an easy, versatile choice, but I also love the idea of stepping out in a printed or embellished caftan to really make a statement. Don't forget to accessorize on the beach as well; a fabulous floppy hat or rattan tote can complete the look.

PS: I have a black-tie wedding coming up in a couple of months and am clueless about what to wear. Any suggestions?
OCM: Traditional black-tie necessitates a long evening gown. For expecting moms, that is actually great news because long gowns create a long and slimming silhouette. I recommend choosing a dress that is made with spandex or material with a give, so that it cascades over your belly down to the floor, which is really flattering. Make sure the hem is a few inches from the floor. I would choose a gown that is understated, and play up the look with some fun accessories that also help to balance out your new figure. I love the idea of a simple black or navy jersey gown with chic chandelier earrings and cuff bracelets.
JS Boutique Embellished Dress ($150, originally $200)

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Your Toughest Maternity Style Dilemmas — Solved

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