Adventures in Shopping Maternity

So since our resident fashion maven is now adjusting to life with her new little boy, I will attempt a fashion post of sorts. Just a few new things I've found, and learned about, in the crazy world of maternity shopping after (almost) completing two pregnancies.

This is my new favorite maternity tee. The side ruching is so flattering on the growing belly. I've worn this tee throughout my entire pregnancy. I can't say enough about it. Go try one on! You may end up buying a few in different colors. I have also seen this ruched style available in shirts and dresses at The Gap and Babystyle.

Speaking of Babystyle, I really love this store. (Maybe it's because my sister is a manager and I can cash in on her discount sometimes). I know it's not possible to go to an actual Babystyle store anywhere in the country, but check them out on-line. Their outlet is great (for maternity as well as baby/kids clothes). I've gotten super comfy designer tees and layering tanks for as little as $6.99. I also bought a Storksak diaper bag for $24.99, marked down from $150! Just be careful because I've noticed a lot of their outlet is "final sale".

Have you tried Mama Spanx ? I wish I had them during my last pregnancy. I was a little unsure buying them, wondering if they would be comfortable to wear with my Gs, and yes... there is a lot of tugging and tucking involved, but I love these things! They have helped me feel a little less "bumpy" and smoothed out my curves on a number of occasions without me feeling squeezed or sucked in. I will be wearing the Power Mama's to the wedding I have to go to in two weeks when I'm 37 weeks along.

I love finding interesting clothing websites that I didn't know of before and that may have something new and unusual I don't see in all the stores. I found Childish Clothing from Design Mom a while back. I particularly love some of their dresses, and they seem to have some really great sales. Please pass along any sites like this that you might know of. Isn't it nice find some pieces that aren't the "same old" things all the staple stores are selling?

Have you heard of the secret fit belly? I never thought I would be comfortable in a pair of pants with a waistband practically up to my chest, but never say never. Motherhood, Mimi, and A Pea in the Pod all sell this "revolutionary" new style available for both pants and skirts. While shopping at Mimi's I was a little intrigued and the sales woman told me that they are so popular they have a hard time keeping them in stock. The waistband is seamless and SO comfortable, and adds a bit of support around your growing belly. The pants are designed to wear throughout your entire pregnancy. I invested in these and they are by far the BEST maternity pants I have ever worn. Go try on a pair... you may just love them, too.

Lastly, borrow and lend! During my last pregnant Zinone sent me a HUGE box full of her maternity clothes. I did the same for my sister last year, and in turn this pregnancy my sister lent me a bunch of great stuff. That wedding I have to go to? I'm borrowing a dress from a girl in my ward. I think borrowing and lending clothes is the BEST way to get through your pregnancy. Who wants to overspend on clothes you're only going to wear for nine months?!

A few things I've never found are great church clothes, and a nursing bra that I love. I'd especially be grateful for nursing bra tips since I'm about to embark on that in about 5 short weeks. So what are your best maternity shopping tips? What are your favorite finds? I know there are a lot of pregnant, soon-to-be pregnant, or used-to-be pregnant mamas out there so spill your shopping secrets and pass along your best advice!