How to Build a Work and Leisure Pregnancy Wardrobe on a Budget

In the not-so-distant past, being pregnant pretty much meant giving up all sense of personal style. As white Peter Pan collars, pink and blue bows, and polka dot tents dominated the maternity fashion scene, there was little in the way of free choice or style.

Not so today. Thanks to some of Hollywood's hot chic maternity mammas -- glamorous women like Catherine Zeta-Jones, Kate Hudson, and Gwyneth Paltrow -- the world of fashion is now spotlighting maternity wear. As a result, stores are exploding with wardrobe options and enough choices to allow even the most eclectic among us to find the outfits that suit our needs and our personal taste.

But before you run out and buy, buy, buy, experts say take a look inside your own closet. You may be surprised to discover how many outfits will do just fine, at least during the early part of your pregnancy. Begin by picking out all those loose-fitting sweaters, blazers, and even T-shirts, as well as pants or skirts with any degree of stretch or elastic in the waist or fabric. Remember, spandex is your friend, and it can help stretch any non-pregnancy wardrobe well into at least the start of your second trimester.

Next up is to see how far the accessories you already own will take you. Forget belts -- they're not going to fit comfortably much past the first 8 or 10 weeks. But items such as scarves, shawls, hats, bags, socks, and especially jewelry can not only turn the simplest pregnancy basics into snazzy, stylish looks, they can also help you carry on your prepregnancy sense of personal style. One dear friend pulled herself through an especially difficult third trimester by wearing as many of her prepregnancy accessories as possible. She said it kept her in touch with who she was before she got pregnant and helped her visualize that there really was an end in sight to the weight gain, fatigue, and bloating that can come with carrying triplets.

Once you know what you have -- in terms of both clothing and accessories -- it's finally time to do a little shopping. But don't limit yourself to just one maternity shop. Although most carry a wide variety of styles, if you're not the type who would ordinarily buy your entire wardrobe at a single store, then I urge you not to confine yourself to one source for your maternity wear either. If there are no great shops in your area, do check the Internet. From high-end designer wear to everyday duds, you'll be amazed at the online choices.

Also remember that non-maternity stores are a resource as well, if you simply go up a few sizes. As long as the styles are not ultra-form fitting or super tailored (lots of darts and seams aren't going to be so comfortable) you may find that the exact same type of outfits you wore before pregnancy still work for you now -- only a few sizes larger. In addition, don't bypass chain stores or outlets for some great buys, even if you don't routinely shop these kinds of stores for wardrobe-wear. As long as you stick to basics -- tops, skirts, and slacks in solid colors -- you can mix and match the less expensive pieces with a few designer items, then use the accessories you already own to keep the whole look stylishly you and up-to-date.

In all instances, however, the key is to choose items that resemble what you might normally wear when you're not pregnant -- the designs, fabrics, and colors should appeal to your personal sense of style. Above all, your maternity wardrobe shouldn't make you feel like you got dressed in the dark in someone else's closet!