Sneaky (and Cheap!) Ways to Stretch Your Wardrobe Through Pregnancy

Even though maxi skirts are seen all over the runways on skinny-minny models, they’re perfect for your new pregnant body. Go for ones with an elastic waistband and a flap that flips over (most of them do!). But get this — try pulling the skirt up over your boobs and you’ll have a super-cute trapeze dress. It will be loose and flowy (read: not tight around your stomach). Plus, with your new and improved cup size, you won’t have a problem keeping the dress up.

We _love _wrap dresses (whether you’re pregnant or not!). They look good on every body type (seriously) and wrap perfectly around your bump, even as you get bigger. So they just keep giving and giving. Also, a deep V-neck gives the illusion of a longer torso so you’ll look taller (score!).

When your body’s constantly changing, the swimwear section probably isn’t the first place you head when shopping (and if it is, more power to ya, mama!). But trust us on this one — swimwear is a goldmine for pregnant bellies. You’ll find tunics (loose and to the knees) and caftans (like tunics, but to the ankles) in bright colors that are designed to be loose and flowy. Pair them with leggings now and as beach cover-ups later.

Okay, we know the word _jeggings _is absurd, but these stretchy pants are actually uber-comfy and look just enough like jeans.

Camis in a stretchy fabric with ruching on the side will grow _with _you. Plus, they’re formfitting, so your bump will be the main attraction. We like the Seamless Cami from Ingrid & Isabel. Buy one in black and white and pair it with jeans, leggings or even a maternity pencil skirt.

Once you get into the third trimester, let’s get real — your waist is gone. Shirts and dresses with an Empire waist will give the illusion of a waistline and look great on all body types. Plus, you can find cute options without ever setting foot in a maternity store.

Rubber bands and hair ties will be your pregnancy lifesaver even more than pickles and ice cream. Just loop the band around the button of your jeans, pull one end through the buttonhole, loop that end back around the button, and voila — jeans that fit your belly! If you’re a little less DIY, we’re big fans of the BellaBand from Ingrid & Isabel. It lets you rock your regular denim with the fly all the way down. Bonus: No one will notice.

If you weren’t a belt person before you got pregnant, consider now the time to convert. Belting a loose T-shirt dress (or even your husband’s button-down) at the bra line will give you a streamlined look instantly.

Plus, more from The Bump:

10 Must-Have Maternity Fashions

How to Change Your Beauty Routine for Pregnancy

Maternity Looks Under $50