** Guest Post **
While we’ve all heard the popular saying about eating for two, no one ever mentions the need to dress for two while you’re pregnant. And as many times as you might vow not to let a growing belly keep you from wearing your favorite styles, there’s no denying that it’s often a struggle finding maternity wear that makes you look and feel good. Throw in unpredictable pregnancy hormones, a few (okay—maybe more than a few) extra pounds, and summer’s heat, and you’ve got the additional obstacle of choosing clothing that’ll also keep you cool. As the mercury rises, here are a few chic and easy tips for dressing your baby bump in the summer months ahead.
The Maxi Dress + Chambray Button-Up
Feminine, versatile, and always on-trend, it’s no wonder the maxi dress is a summer staple for all ladies—pregnant or not. Flattering on every body type, The Bump notes that the floor-length style is the perfect way to keep stylish and cool during the sweltering summer months. Plus, any pre-maternity maxis that you have hanging in your closet could work—even into your second trimester—as long as they aren’t nipped in at the waist (go with empire styles instead).
And to add to the list of reasons why the maxi dress is a must-have for any mom-to-be, the staple is ideal for work, too. If you're on the hunt for the perfect nine-to-five look, Lyst recommends a casual number in a solid-hued jersey knit for modern office style. Pair your maxi with a blazer for extra polish, or a lightweight cardigan or chambray button-up for a more casual finish.
Tank Top + Denim Overalls
On top of being back in a big way for the summer season, denim overalls are incredibly versatile. And as Fashion Gum writes, they'll suit any body shape or size, making them an instant staple of your warm-weather maternity wardrobe. To keep things cool (and on-trend), choose a cropped style that features a vintage wash and relaxed fit. The faded wash creates a soft, lived-in look while the extra give that a relaxed silhouette provides is perfect for growing with you during your pregnancy. From there, pair with a basic tank top or cotton tee and finish with strappy sandals or woven huarache flats. If you want to take your denim overalls to the next level, wear with a pretty silk blouse and—if you’re up to it—comfortable (we cannot stress this enough) wedges or a chunky heel.
Jersey Dress + Sneakers
The fitted jersey dress not only keeps you cool thanks to its breathable knit material, it also highlights your growing belly. After all, as Babble points out, if there’s one time you can get away with a dress hugging every single curve, it’s during pregnancy. Ideal for casual outdoor get-togethers or a lazy afternoon spent relaxing, the jersey dress pairs particularly well with sneakers—crisp white kicks and slip-on styles are incredibly popular for summer—that are more comfortable than flats or sandals when it comes to swollen feet. The one caveat to this ensemble? If you’re repurposing a non-maternity jersey dress you already have in your wardrobe, make sure the hemline doesn’t become too short with your expanding midsection. And if it is too far into the mini hemline territory, simply pair with leggings for a quick fix.
