Dr. Krista Archer, Podiatrist
While maternity clothes with empire waists and lacy bibs had their place during the '80s (hello Gunne Sax!), times have changed. City of Style author and Beso Contributing Editor MELISSA MAGSAYSAY is proof in concept that dressing a growing bump doesn't need to entail tented frocks or stretchy ruched jersey tunics.
Here, her list of brands that keep style in check while providing a little wiggle room for a changing body.
Bonus: they're also timeless wardrobe staples, which mean they're perfect for the fourth trimester, too.
- 1
Madewell
There are no designated maternity styles here, but the simple, vintage inspired Songbird dress works really well around a bump. I buy a size or two bigger than I normally am, with plans to tailor the dresses down a bit after delivery. The shapes are simple enough so that I should be able to avoid a pricey alteration.
- 2
Hatch
Designer Ariane Goldman's line of super chic and versatile pieces transcends the 9-month mark. I wear pieces like the Jumper, Dinner Party or Slouch dress cinched in with a snug leather jacket or a sleek skinny belt, which sits on top of the bump.
- 3
Top Shop
Vintage inspired day dresses? Check. Leather-like leggings? Check! Even though I probably won't be attending a music festival, I at least want to look like I could. The UK based website's maternity section doesn't deviate far from their usual offerings of trend driven items you'll find on the rest of the site.
- 4
3.1 Phillip Lim
This man knows how to make a pair of great pants, and not just for supermodels. He also works some magic for those of us who need a little extra room as well. There are plenty of elastic waistband and drawstring silk pants in an array of colors that are total staples. Lim's loose fitting dresses pair well with a tailored blazer and flat sandals or heels for when I'm feeling brave.
- 5
James Perse
The designer and purveyor of California cool has not launched a maternity line specifically, but his supple cotton t-shirts, pants and dresses do the trick when it comes to comfort while also working that slightly disheveled-yet-put together vibe.
- 6
ASOS
I look here for more great fast fashion maternity, which aligns with my refusal to settle with leggings and a long top. Asos.com has everything from slightly roomier Boyfriend Tee's to colorful boho-inspired maxi length dresses. Much of it is perfect for a day to night wardrobe.
- 7
Garland Collection
If you're partial to something with slightly more ornate details, monogrammed pieces from the Garland Collection are perfect for capturing that vintage, heirloom vibe.
- 8
Mannin monogrammed jewelry
For many moms, monogrammed jewelry and accessories are just a must-have: I can't really explain what it's about, but I feel it too. Mannin Jewelry's personalized pieces are timeless and understated and work well layered with other gold, non-monogrammed jewels.
- 9
H&M
Yes, their Mama department has a good amount of well-priced maternity jeans, but the offering of non-prego clothes is so vast, there are always some trend-driven items that fit around a ballooning belly. The big bummer is that they don't have full e-commerce.
- 10
Sarah Chloe
Monogrammed jewelry can get pretty pricey: Sarah Chloe makes stylish personalized pieces like signet rings, bejeweled pendants and bangles starting at under $100.
