For many women one of the greatest challenges in pregnancy, is pulling together a look that fits your needs and still has you feeling great. Depending on what your needs are (either the corporate world or stay at home mom), finding the right clothes to suit your needs can drive you to distraction.

Dressing great while you’re pregnant doesn’t have to be a challenge! With just a little planning and some extra shopping time, you can quickly and easily pull together a stylish look, without spending a small fortune.

Start with keeping an open mind, and following some of our suggestions:

1. Dark solids are a must have!. Choosing darker colors means more wear from each piece, plus it creates the illusion of a smaller figure (we know you need this feeling with the expanding bump). Simple basic pieces in black, navy, brown, camel or grey can be easily changed and accented with scarves, jewelry, hats and shoes in bright colors or prints.

2. Avoid becoming a fashion tent. While you may feel like you are “x-large”, you should choose clothing that is more fitted. Clothing that is too loose or baggy, will actually make you look larger. More fitted clothing actually flatters the pregnant shape, so shop for clothing that is slim cut with some shape.

3. Nothing says “this season” like a few well-chosen pieces of trendy fashion jewelry. If pregnancy is keeping you from wearing this season’s trendiest outfits, remember, for each new style there’s a coordinating accessory, so going for half the look will help keep you looking up -to-date. Adding a long scarf tied loosely in the front, and no one will even notice what you’re wearing underneath.

4. Never underestimate the power of great jeans! Find a pair that make you feel fabulous. When styled with a great top and shoes, you will look fabulous with little effort. Jeans are great for styling up or for a casual day out and about. You should try and have at least two pairs to play with throughout your pregnancy, you will be surprised how many looks you can create with just a few pieces of new clothing and some of your accessories from your closet.

5. Take advantage of your pre-pregnancy closet! You may be surprised by how many tunics and dresses you already own that still work for you during pregnancy. Keep in mind that cute dress you wore a few months ago may fit shorter due to the baby bump; however, leggings are back in style and may look great under that dress!

6. Great shoes! Your feet may be killing you, but there are some really cute flats out there! Make sure you keep an updated shoe collection. Keep in mind wearing heels may not be a daily thing for you these days, but every now and then wearing a shoe with at least a one and half inch heel will not only give your look a more stylish edge, it’s actually better for your back than flats.

Author: Jessica Reyes