PREGNANCY, BODY POSITIVITY, AND MY FAVORITE MATERNITY STEALS
One of the more emotionally draining things about pregnancy thus far has been the struggle of what to wear everyday outside of sweats and sandals. With so much pressure from social media and the frequent Hollywood “snatch-back mom” posts, it can be difficult to find clothes that not only fit but are cute and comfy.
Watching my already thick-um thighs get even thicker in the first few months of pregnancy was challenging...because let’s be honest...baby got back, and I’m not talking about the fetus! Typically I wear a smooth 14/16 on the lower body, with my upper body a few sizes smaller. Add curves to the mix and finding the things I like was challenging.
One of the questions I’ve gotten the most is “but don’t you sew? You can make all of your own clothes!” The issue with that is first-trimester pregnancy is that it zapped my energy COMPLETELY. For a good two months I was down for the count. Now that second trimester is here, I’ve had a little more time, which I’ve been able to use to make a few outfits here and there.
In either case, you may be a plus-size preggers beauty like me who may not have the affinity for making your own clothes, and if so, this post is for you. I’m sharing all my favorite places so far that I’ve found great accommodations for us ladies with a little more to love—and those that have great accommodations for pregnancy in general!
ASOS. This brand by far has had the largest selection with cute maternity clothing that includes larger sizes that I have seen so far. This dress featured here is from ASOS, and is great for both work and going out.
TARGET. Don’t believe everything you see in the store...when I first visited their maternity section I was like “what is this??!!” but I’ve recently discovered it doesn’t appear that they put their best merch on the floor, because their online options are MUCH better! Search online through their maternity section...they have a wide variety of items that are great transition pieces for new moms-to-be. And their bras are great!
AMAZON. This site is the real MVP, not just because of the bargains, but also because of the fast shipping abilities if you have Prime. Amazon is my go-to if I need an emergency item I can’t find anywhere else quick. One weekend I needed some maternity pantyhose to fit the extra-thick thighs of mine, and boom...they were there and comfortable the same day. I also located one of the most comfortable smoothers/shapers I’ve ever worn, which I’ll share next time around. If you can’t find it anywhere else and you need it quick, check Amazon.
NORDSTROM RACK. The reason this store made the list is for their expansive collection of high-end, high-quality shoes that go all the way up to size 12 for women. Being that I already wear a size 10.5-11, I needed shoes that were either wide and good quality or larger and good quality. If you have larger than the average-size foot like me, you can definitely find some good shoes here. My slides in these pics are courtesy of Nordstrom!
ZARA. Last but not least, Zara makes the cut for their full dresses and outerwear. You’ll see in some of my later posts, but they have some very chic, on-trend dresses that can work both before, during and after pregnancy. They also have some very forgiving outerwear, like the jacket cream I’m wearing in the photo. Part of my staple work-wardrobe, it goes with almost everything! Keep your eyes open for steals like this one, and although they don’t have a maternity line, I just take my usual size up one or two, and have found some great buys.
That’s all of my favs folks! As the list and belly grows, I’ll be sharing more! I hope this list options gives you a little more hope that pregnancy isn’t the end of fashion for you if you rule the plus-size and perfect lane.
Have a fantastic first of February, and Happy Black History Month!
