Getting dressed while pregnant kind of threw me at first. I didn’t look pregnant for a few months, but stuff wasn’t fitting right and some of my go to pieces just weren’t working. But now that I’ve hit month 7 of pregnancy, I think i’ve figured out how to clothe myself somewhat stylishly, affordably and effortlessly (real talk: pregnancy clothing needs to be comfortable and easy to wear). These general rules have helped me build a preggo wardrobe that works for me and helps me continue to feel like myself despite my newly acquired girth.

Dark Colors
I’m biased; I almost always wore mostly black pre womb occupation. Maybe it’s just my dark and evil soul. But, dark colors are inarguably more flattering, especially when you feeling kind of lumpy (sup, cankles).

Slim Cuts
I am a fan of close fitting silhouettes in pregnancy. They show off the bump and make the rest of you look slim in comparison (especially if you wear a dark color). I haven’t much liked drapey things I’ve tried; they make me feel like a walking circus tent/like I am trying to smuggle illicit things under my clothes.

Don’t Fear a Heel
If you rocked them before and feel confident you won’t topple over, I say keep wearing your heels. They may make you feel sexier which can be really self-esteem boosting while preggo. Just go for something with a built in platform, or a wedge, if you want to stay (relatively) comfortable.

Maxi Dresses
I’ve been able to continue wearing normal sized maxi dresses for quite a long time during my pregnancy. These are a great way to go if you want to buy things you’ll still be able to wear after you’ve popped out your kid.

Accessories Galore
Sometimes (most of the time really) all I want to wear is something stretchy, soft and black. This gettup can look surprisingly fashionable with some help from accessories. A bunch of bangles piled on is a great way to go: lots of impact and it doesn’t matter if your fingers are bloated (goodbye, rings). A bold, collar style necklace or haphazard pile of a few chains also works well. If you like hats, which I definitely do, a Panama style hat is great for summer or you can go against the season like me and rock a black felt number with a wide brim.

Embrace a Minimalist Wardrobe
I’ve found it really freeing to rely on a few staples I love during pregnancy-I’m no longer overwhelmed by an overflowing wardrobe. It’s a major time and money saver and really, most people won’t notice that you’ve worn that dress like five times. The minimalist wardrobe approach has been so helpful that post pregnancy, I’m going to commit to more of a capsule wardrobe and will try harder to buy fewer, but nicer, pieces I absolutely love and will get a lot of wear out of.

Where to Shop
Here is where I’ve had success finding non-dumpy maternity garb (I’ve mostly stuck to online shopping):

ASOS: On trend and affordable. Can be somewhat hit or miss in terms of fit and quality but returns are easy. Good for special occasion wear.
Target: Affordable staples (t shirts, tanks, leggings), and workout wear.
Pea in the Pod/Motherhood Maternity: Good to go in person and grab a pair or two of designer maternity denim. I think high quality maternity jeans are worth the splurge. I bought some Joe’s skinny jeans that I love. People also rave about J Brand. Paige and 7 are other widely available brands.

Do you have any hot tips on what to wear during pregnancy, and where to find it? Leave it in the comments, I’d love to hear!