Dressing the Bump

I have so enjoyed "dressing the bump" so I thought it would be fun to share some of my outfits and finds. 

I mostly purchased things that I could wear during the whole pregnancy - the only flaw in that plan is living in Texas. It's cold here one day and hot the next and my pregnancy spans two very distinct seasons (winter and spring). So, I'm currently seeking a few spring tops to supplement my wardrobe. Luckily, teaching for a living, I didn't have to buy super professional clothes. Colored "jeans" are your friend as a middle school teacher. :)

Tunics that tie under the bust are by far my favorite type of pregnancy top. I purchased this one from Motherhood Maternity, along with the jeans. It's hard to see here by they are a burgundy color and by far the most comfortable maternity jeans ever. Jessica Simpson knows what she's doing!

Same Jessica Simpson jeans paired with a Liz Lang sweater from Target. I've definitely found the key is to make your bottoms work with multiple tops - this stretches your wardrobe and tops are so much cheaper than bottoms. That's the key with any wardrobe, maternity or not, though.

Non-Maternity cardigans and jackets still work and I've loved having a vestige of my old wardrobe to wear during this time. These ruched tank tops from Old Navy are my favorite!! They flatter the bump, they're super comfy, and versatile. Old Navy online has a much wider selection and you can definitely work the deals and discounts.

My mom-in-law gave me this sweater for Christmas and I love it. It's super soft and very trendy. It's from Kohls. The black jeans are full-panel skinnies from Old Navy. Again super deals at Old Navy, you just have to watch for the sales.

Super comfy and warm sweater from Old Navy paired with a black lace detail tank top from Motherhood Maternity, on clearance. The first round of maternity clothes I purchased from Motherhood and Old Navy with my Mom have been my most favorite the whole pregnancy. Motherhood can be pricey but their clothes are definitely the most comfortable.

Same black skinnies from Old Navy and tank from Motherhood, paired with a tunic from Motherhood that I purchased for $5 off eBay. Seriously my new favorite way to buy maternity clothes.

Jessica Simpson leggings from Motherhood. You haven't felt comfort in your clothes until you put on a pair of maternity leggings...they are a MUST HAVE. The sweater is Liz Lang from Target. Far more flattering when I'm not slouching...

A favorite dress - my mom found at JcPenny. It flatters at all stages of pregnancy and I love that it's not so long. Pairs well with those comfy leggings for chilly days in Texas.

I FINALLY found a pair of jeans that fit properly. About 12 weeks into my pregnancy, I raced out and bought a super cute pair of skinnies from Old Navy before I'd learned about the different types of belly panels. I've since learned low panel is not my thing. I bought these full panel capri jeans from Old Navy for less than $20 and they're perfect. They'll work all the way into the warmer spring months and can be paired with tall boots for winter days. The top is one of my very favorites, originally from Motherhood, purchased on eBay for $10.

Fun top from Old Navy!

Another eBay purchase. Originally from Motherhood Maternity, $5.

Ruched Old Navy tank top - love! Oh lordy, these capri cargos...my mom found them for a steal at JcPenny and they are just about the most comfortable things ever.

Pre-pregnancy jean jacket from Kohls, Ruched Old Navy tank top (told you I'm obsessed with them) and a maternity maxi skirt from Old Navy. I don't necessarily think you need to buy knit maxi skirts like these from the maternity section but it was inexpensive and exactly what I wanted. VERY versatile - another must have pregnancy item.

Faux-wrap dress, paired with a scarf - both from Kohl's and a Christmas gift from my in-laws. I always feel super comfortable and very professional in this outfit! Love the length too.

One of my very favorite purchases from Motherhood Maternity. I think it was about $20 off the clearance rack. It flatters through all stages of pregnancy and works from fall to spring when paired with a seasonal scarf! Scarf from jane.com.

Love this dress from Old Navy. I pair it with tall brown boots and it's perfect for work or a casual day out.

eBay purchase number 4! Originally from Motherhood Maternity, $13 (including shipping). This dress is crazy comfortable and very flattering. The sweet girl that sold this to me even included a personal note wishing me a great pregnancy.

Last but not least, work out gear! Top is pre-pregnancy from Old Navy...the draw string at the bottom seems to help accommodate the bump. The bottoms are Full panel active wear pants from Old Navy...again a steal online. They are so comfy!

I've definitely missed a few favorite items but hopefully this will help those of you looking for ideas on how to stretch your maternity wardrobe and make the most of your budget.

Maternity staples for me include: Full panel jeans, ruched tanks, a black maxi skirt, tunics, maternity leggings and as many dresses as you can find. 

Non-maternity must haves include: Fun scarves, long necklaces, belts (to create your new waist), comfortable shoes, and open cardigans/jean jackets. 

Obviously, I normally accessorize and wear shoes but this post was about the clothes not the accessories! 

Any suggestions for post-partum outfits, nursing tops and bras are welcome! I'm starting to explore that territory with less than 100 days left to go. :)