Maternity Clothing Buying Guide
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When you're pregnant, there will be times when you can use a morale boost. Though you may be gaining weight, seeing strange changes in your skin and hair (anybody remember Katie Holmes' weird baby bangs?), and generally dealing with a lot of body drama, you clothes are one thing you can control. They can make you feel:- Saucier and slimmer for a party on a fat day
- Pulled together at the office when you're battling morning sickness
- Downright sexy, though you may have already promised yourself you'd never have sex again.
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Why Buy?
You may be tempted to skimp on clothes you can only wear for nine months, but reconsider. This is a relatively short but very special time in your life, and you should embrace it. Other reasons to make an effort:
- Nine months is a long time to feel ugly.
- Your husband may be anxious about fatherhood; don't frighten him with your appearance as well.
- You're worth it.
- Let's say that again: you're worth it. You should honour your body with clothes that comfort, flatter, and fit it.
Your Game Plan
| The Clothes |
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- First off, don't start shopping too soon. Maternity clothes are made for women in their second and third trimesters, and if you buy them to fit you early on, you'll have to shop all over again later.
- Buy sensibly. You don't need a whole new wardrobe; just get a few key pieces that mix and match to make different outfits, and will work with accessories you already have.
- A few staples: An empire waist
 or wrap LBD for parties, another one in a casual fabric for day, a pair of great jeans with tummy panels , plenty of T shirts and tanks that will grow with you (layer them under the wrap dress for work).
- Have fun with it! Lots of cute, cheeky maternity clothes feature references to your belly, like this T shirt you customize with your due date month. This is a special time, and don't forget it!
- Other items to stock up on: maternity slips ,hosiery ,underwear , and most importantly, bras (your back is already taking a lot of stress accommodating your growing belly, so make sure your bust is well supported to avoid strain).
- Dress body conscious. Though you may be feeling fat and tempted to live in your guy's flannel shirt, bump skimming tops and dresses will actually slim you down. Besides, you'll give yourself a boost by reminding yourself how gorgeous you are. And you'll radiate confidence!
- But if you're really feeling as big as a house, draw attention upward with bold jewelry and interesting necklines. Or just distract everyone with your cleavage.
- When in doubt, here are a few can't miss shapes: empire waist and wrap tops and dresses; A-line skirts and dresses; and slim lines. Now go get 'em, sexy mama!
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The Art of Camouflage
Here's a little instant gratification if your belly isn't the only thing that's growing.
- Cardigans artfully skim over arms and love handles, while showcasing your beautiful belly and chest.
- Empire waists cover hips and a bottom, and depending on the sleeve and neckline, draw attention to chest, shoulders, and arms.
- Loose pants or a full skirt paired with a tight top make your legs and bottom look leaner and put the focus on a toned upper body.
- Divide and conquer your chest with sweetheart necklines and darts to make it look more shapely, less massive.
- An extra long, tight jumper will skim your curves, cover your bum, and elongate your torso. Pair it with tailored trousers to look incredibly sleek for work.
- Proper undergarments (like the bodysuit pictured) can work wonders for your body and more importantly, your self esteem. You'll look nipped in all over, and lumps and bumps will be smoother under clothes.
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