STYLE: Dressing the Bump

So one of the things that worried me most about being pregnant was the thought of maybe having to give up my sense of style for a good 6 months or so. MYTH. Dressing a preggo body isn't as hard as you may think. Even though it can be challenging sometimes, especially when are shopping for something really specific and end up crying in the dressing room, it's actually fun most of the time. I've learned quite a few things along the way and since I have so many friends that are expecting, I thought I would share my tips for dressing the bump.

1) LAYER: This was especially relevant to me in the winter, but I think it applies to any season. Having a handful of key pieces that you can layer, mix and match is a life saver. A few good pairs of maternity pants/jeans, lots of black leggings (I've been able to wear H&Ms black leggings in a Medium through my whole pregnancy)  and some stretchy long camis are all things that have made pulling together outfits so much easier!

2) ACCESSORIZE: You can stay on trend and look cute with out having to invest in pricey trendy pieces from the maternity store. Keep your outfits simple and classic then jazz them up with fun scarves, statement jewelry or shoes. You are going to have to wear the same thing a lot (unless you have an endless clothing budget). Mixing up accessories is a great way to make it look like a completely different outfit.

3) THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX: Just because you are pregnant does not mean you have to shop at a maternity store. I only have 6 weeks left to go and the only things I've bought that are maternity are a pair of jeans, a few pairs of pants, a skirt and one sweater. Seriously places like H&M and Forever 21 are great for finding inexpensive pieces that you can buy a size up. Shirts and sweater come in much longer styles these days and they can cover pretty big bumps. I just bought a size M sweater at the Gap yesterday! H&M is great for basic pieces like stretchy dresses that grow with you. And remember that things like  cardigans, blazers and jackets, that don't have to be buttoned, can be layered over basic pieces even if they are the normal size you wear.

4) ROCK THE BUMP: I have found that fitted clothes actually look better. Loose baggy clothes that are typically associated with pregnancy actually make you look way bigger than you are. Your bump is adorable so show it off. People are more likely to identify you as being preggo this way too rather than assuming you've hit the donuts a little too hard.

Here are some examples of how I've applied all these tips. Please exscuse the fact that they are kinda awful self-portraits!:

AROUND TOWN: Madewell Store Opening

My friend Kristin and I hit up the store opening of Madewell at the Beachwood Mall last night. Beautiful store and clothes except I think I will wait for a sale to make my first purchase. Their v-neck tees were pretty much identical to the one I had on from Target but $30 more. Prices were pretty steep across the board. But if you're in the market for a splurge I would definitely check it out!

STYLE: Go Neon or Go Home, Apparently

So I started packing tonight for Put-in-Bay Weekend 2012 and it would appear that I've officially ended my neon resistance. I guess if there was any place to do that this would be it. Can't wait to head down Friday afternoon for a couple days of sunshine and good friends!

OBSESSED: My Summer Style Must Haves!

So these are the things I am wearing A LOT of right now...


STRIPES! It's unhealthy really. I'm embarassed to say a few things were in the laundry too. Stripes being a style craze this summer makes me a happy little clam. Black and white stripes paired with something bright/neon or bright stipes paired with navy or black are the looks I am really drawn to. Don't belive me? The proof is in the Pinterest board ladies!

FLAT SANDALS! It's over 100 degrees in Cleveland right now and the last thing I want to do is strut around in heels all day. Flat sandals are my favorite becuase they are so versatile - they can be dressed up or dressed down. They look effortless but we know you tried becuase you're not wearing flip flops. Oh and I am also proud to say that not one single pair of these sandals cost me more than $20. Oh hey Target, hey Marshalls!

POCKET TEES!
Another shameless shout out to Target becuase thier boyfriend pocket tees are a summer essential! Calm down Kristin, I am giving you your credit right now. My friend Kristin turned me on to these bad boys. They come in tons of really fun colors and the price is right. $8 is not a big committment to try this summer's neon trend! And sometimes they are on sale for $6 - I know, well I'll be a monkey's uncle right?