One Chic Mama: Stylish Picks to Accommodate a Growing (or Shrinking) Shape

We moms know that when you’re in the throes of the childbearing years, your size can vary quite a bit. You’ll go from your “normal” size through many sizes in the 9 months it takes to have a baby, then post-partum your size will go back down, although it may take a while. And then again, it may not be back to where you were before. If you have more than one child, you start the cycle all over again. And if you have small children around, chances are you’ll find yourself eating things you wouldn’t normally eat (chicken nuggets, birthday cake, cookies, you name it). So who knows what size you’ll be on any given day during this phase of life? It pays to have a well-organized closet so you know just what to reach for in the morning, as well as to have a few garments that will accommodate your growing/shrinking shape without looking frumpy. Here are a few of my suggestions…

Tunic Tops - these are a little longer than t-shirts and work well paired with jeans, pants or skirts to create a slimming look. Steer clear of those with a seam or gathers just under the bust unless you’re pregnant and want to announce it. Tunics are big this season and you can find them in a myriad of prints, solids and colors. Embroidered tunics are pretty for the summer.

Pants That Give - Here’s where an elastic waist can make all the difference. I wore many pairs of regular (read: non-maternity) elastic waist pants all through my pregnancy as well as postpartum and felt very comfortable. Those with a bit of lycra will hold their shape while being very forgiving

Wear Layers - Wearing an open cardigan, jacket or long overshirt with a t-shirt underneath can be a great look for changing shapes. And if you’re nursing, it gives you a little more coverage while providing some ventilation.

Accessorize - One thing to remember is that accessories go a long way to help you feel pulled together. A pretty necklace, great earrings or a couple of nice bracelets can really set off an outfit and will give you a more polished look. And accessories can be nice, inexpensive little indulgences to lift your spirits without breaking the bank.

Coordinate - Some of my personal favorites during times of fluctuating weight are a coordinating t-shirt with a matching (or at least coordinating) long overshirt and a pair of elastic waist pants. Also, I enjoy wearing peasant tops and tunics in pretty floral prints. I’d love to hear what some of your favorites are.