Meet Jessica Alejandro, the voice behind Jessica Fashion Notes and the winner of The Bump and Liz Lange for Target Maternity Fashion Blogger Challenge. She shared five great outfits with Bumpies and isn’t stopping there. On the heels of her recent win we asked her to offer up her best tips for looking stylish all nine months long. Jessica knows firsthand about that conflict that begins once your body starts to change: How do you dress your bump both comfortably and stylishly? She encourages moms-to-be to not let “I don’t know what to wear!” dictate this beautiful time in your life. Read on for more of her advice on how to flaunt your new figure.
1. Stock up on staples
No one wants to spend exorbitant amounts of money on temporary clothing. You need to buy basic maternity pieces like a pair of jeans with expanding panels or an elastic waistband to accommodate the changes in your body shape. Other go-to staple items include leggings and a classic striped dress. The key is to buy basic and classic pieces since these never go out of style.
2. Give layering a try
To give your maternity pieces a fresh and creative look add some layers. I love kimonos, which are in style and perfect for the summer over a tank and jeans or a stretchy dress.
3. Always accessorize
This is the icing on the cake! Accessories are what accentuate your personal style and help make an outfit uniquely yours. A hat, scarf or necklace can also instantly make your outfit look more put-together.
4. Add color
Don’t be afraid to have fun with color. Pregnancy should be a joyful time, and you can express that joy through different colors in your wardrobe. It’s also a great way to personalize those staples you’ll be wearing a lot.
5. Show off your bump
Pair formfitting maternity dresses with a blazer or cardigan—this stylish combination lets you showcase your bump without feeling overexposed.
6. Recycle
Take inventory of what’s already in your closet and what will still fit you during pregnancy. It takes some creativity and resourcefulness, but you may just discover that long-forgotten comfortable dress you own that you can turn into maternity wear and style 10 different ways.
