Ladies, say goodbye to those muumuus and embrace your bellies — it’s time to look fabulous during your pregnancy! Times have certainly changed for the mother-to-be when it comes to fashion. Years ago, women cringed when having to shop for maternity clothing. But did you know that there are many shops out there nowadays that cater to a burgeoning belly and that are not exclusively maternity stores? These days, you can walk into most retail stores and find something that can ”enhance” your bump rather than hide it in a tent-like garment, and make you look fashionable and trendy at the same time.

Most women can carry off this look without feeling self-conscious. If you try to cover your belly too much, you end up looking much bigger than you actually are. Therefore, wearing clothing that complements your shape rather than hides it will make you feel much better about how your body is changing.

Here are some key items that expecting mothers should have in their wardrobes:

• a pair of jeans than can grow with your belly;
• a longer-than-average black T-shirt;
• a jersey knit skirt that is comfortable and that doesn’t hurt your belly;
• a long dress with an empire waist.

And try some accessories to finish off the outfit.

Don’t invest too much in coats and jackets; you can buy plus size jackets, which usually go on sale during the year. All you need is something to cover your bump temporarily. It’s unnecessary to spend large amounts of cash on maternity clothing because you will only wear them for a limited time. Just buy a few items. And if you buy clothing that you can wear after your pregnancy, it will be easier on your pocket!

Wearing knit tops that have empire waists is a good option, and they are available everywhere now. Try to stay away from button-down shirts, which tend to pucker or open up in the middle area. Investing in a good bra can also do wonders for uplifting your shape. Make sure to go to a store that specializes in lingerie and undergarments, where they can measure your bust properly and fit you with the right bra. However, this is only necessary towards your seventh month of pregnancy, as undoubtedly your shape will continue to change and grow.

Some stores to consider while shopping for maternity clothing are Thyme Maternity, Yummy Mummy, Motherhood, and those that carry items by such designers as Liz Lange (available at Belly in Toronto, for one) — they all have fabulously fashionable pieces that are beautiful, glamorous, stylish, and well-made. But don’t turn your back on your favorite retail stores: H&M has a wide selection of knit tops and dresses with empire waists, not to mention pieces for the current 80’s trend of wearing leggings and longer tops (which work great for ladies with a bump!).

So embrace that beautiful pregnancy glow, explore your fashion options, and feel great about yourself.