17 Posts are tagged with: maternity_clothes 1 2 Previous Next

Maternity Style: Workout Clothing Essentials for Mom-to-Be

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Oct 7, 2009 by Sabah K.

Exercising regularly is important for your health and well-being during pregnancy, and you need to wear clothes that are both comfortable and functional. While skin-tight clothing will help you move easily through that step aerobics class or yoga routine, it might not be the best choice for when you are having a baby. Here are some essential pieces of workout clothing that every mom-to-be needs throughout her term:

Moisture-Wicking Tee: A slightly fitted workout shirt is a great way to cover up the baby bump without adding too many heavy materials to your workout. Look for shirts made with a stretch fabric so that they can accommodate for your baby bump.

Well-Fitting Shoes: A pair of soft-soled shoes that fit you well are essential for working out in during pregnancy, and you may be surprised to learn that you need a half size or full size larger during your second or third trimester. Get your feet fitted for a new pair of workout shoes so that you're not compromising the health of your ankles and knees when working out.

Wide-leg Yoga Pants:
Wide-leg yoga pants will help you move freely and also allow your skin to breathe. Look for styles with a slightly flared cut to elongate your figure. These stylish pants are also great for lounging in on those days when bloating and tenderness rule the day!

Maternity Windbreaker Jacket: If you plan on exercising outdoors, or need to walk or drive to the gym during the cooler months of the year, you'll need to cover up with a lightweight windbreaker. Make sure it's designed for the pregnant mom so you're not adding unnecessary pressure to the baby bump.

Stretch Crop Pants: If you're heading to a fitness class in town, a pair of stretch crop pants made for the mom-to-be can be a flattering addition to your maternity workout wardrobe. Look for crop pants made with a stretch material so that they can accommodate for your baby bump and create the most flattering silhouette. Drawstring pants will last you for several months of pregnancy because they're completely adjustable.

From well-fitting shoes to stretch crop pants, you can put together a great wardrobe that not only suits your style, but also helps you move freely throughout your workout session.

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Maternity Style: Best Picks for the Weekend Wardrobe

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Sep 30, 2009 by Sabah K.

By month #4 of your pregnancy, that baby bump is going to be the center of attention as you go about your day. During this trimester, you'll need some comfortable clothes that expands with your growing baby, and this is especially important for your weekend wardrobe that typically includes jeans, khakis, crop pants and loose-fitting tees. Some moms-to-be can't wait for the weekend when they can throw on their super-comfortable jeans and tees, but you'll need to buy some maternity versions of your favorites for pregnancy. Here's what you'll need for the weekend/super-casual wardrobe during your term:

1. Maternity jeans. As you start to get bigger around the middle, you'll need a flattering cut of denim jeans to wear with your casual tees and tops. Maternity jeans with an adjustable waistband are important, but you'll also need to pay attention to the cut of the leg. Stick with jeans in the flare or bootleg style because these will elongate your figure and balance out your shape better than 'skinny jeans' and tapered legs.

2. Stretchy tees. Forget the super-fitted tees that you used to wear on weekends after your gym routine. When you're pregnant, you'll need t-shirts that have Lycra and other stretchy fibers mixed into the cotton. Look for tees made with Lycra and double layers, because these will provide the extra support that you need.

3. Drawstring pants. If you prefer to lounge in pants and baggy tees instead of jeans on the weekends, invest in a quality pair of drawstring pants. These naturally adjust to your waistline, and you can relax with ease with the wide-leg fit and loose cuts. Just avoid buying these types of pants that are a few sizes too large, or you risk looking like you're wearing pajama bottoms.

In addition to the clothing essentials, you'll need a comfy pair of shoes for your weekend errands and activities. Make sure you get fitted for some soft-soled or rubber shoes so that you get plenty of support all day long. Swollen ankles and feet will feel much better in a pair of shoes made with breathable, stretchable material.

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Maternity Style: What to Wear when You're Plus-Size and Pregnant

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Sep 23, 2009 by Sabah K.

Being plus-sized and pregnant doesn't mean you need to wear miu-miu dresses and tops, hide in oversized tunics and t-shirts, and shy away from flaunting your figure. Plus-size moms-to-be can be just as stylish and trendy as their thinner counterparts because looking great has nothing to do with your weight!

Pregnancy is a great time to become more comfortable with your body and wear clothes that flatter you. In order to wear the latest styles and trends, you'll need to invest in some quality clothing that accommodate for your growing body. Here's what you need to know:

1. Stick with Lycra and knit tops. You need clothes that will stretch and conform to your changing body shape, not clothes that will constrict you or hug you too tight. Choose knit tops that are made with Lycra so you can enjoy the benefits of stretch fibers throughout your term.

2. Shop the maternity line, even in the plus-size section. It can be tempting to just go up a few sizes when shopping for maternity clothes, but you won't fit into these pieces of clothing properly. Shopping for maternity clothes in the plus-size section ensures that your clothes will fit you properly and accommodate your growing belly.

3. Get fitted for your pants and skirts. If you're unsure about the size you should wear for pants and skirts, get fitted by a tailor so you truly are wearing the right size. Once you know your size, you can purchase pants and skirts from the maternity department, because these are made with elastic waists and will accommodate baby bumps with ease.

4. Wear empire-waist tops and dresses for special occasions. Empire-waist tops and dresses are ideal for the pregnant woman because they emphasize your natural waistline and don't cinch or pinch around your baby bump. Look for these styles when shopping the special occasion section of the plus size department.

5. Wear larger prints and patterns to complement your figure. Wearing bold and large prints will complement your larger figure better than teeny-tiny flower prints and other delicate patterns. Look for these prints in either your top or your bottoms for a figure-flattering look.

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Maternity Style: Tips for Looking Elegant During Pregnancy

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Sep 11, 2009 by Sabah K.

Whether you're heading out for a special celebration or hosting a dinner party at home, there will be a time during pregnancy that requires you to dress elegantly for the occasion. Unfortunately, the days of pregnancy can make you feel less-than glamorous, and it might be hard to find the right dresses, skirts and other fancy pieces of clothing to pull off an elegant look. Need some help for that special event? Here's how to look elegant with very little effort during pregnancy:

1. Stick with the all-black ensemble. Monochrome outfits are every pregnant woman's best pick, especially on days when that bloated feeling just won't go away. A black dress, an all-black pantsuit or a black skirt with a black top can be plenty glamorous (and not funeral-worthy) when you accessorize with some bold and bright jewelry or a scarf. Look for maternity dresses and skirts in black to create an effortlessly elegant look.

2. Wear layers. You don't have to wear a sleeveless cocktail dress or a Hollywood-inspired jumpsuit for that special occasion when you're pregnant. One of the essential keys to looking elegant is wearing something that you feel comfortable in. For many women who are expecting, this means wearing layers. Layering maternity tank tops with a cardigan and fuller skirt is a great way to look pulled-together without compromising your comfort zone.

3. Try a wrap top or a wrap dress. Wrap tops and dresses are great for pregnant women because they accentuate your figure in all the right places, without being too figure-hugging and causing you discomfort. Wrap tops and dresses are also very elegant, so you won't be breaking the dress code for that special occasion. Consider wearing a wrap top with some wide-leg pants or a straight-cut skirt for a chic and stylish look. If you're wearing a wrap dress, complement the outfit with some patent leather Mary Janes and a stylish clutch.

Looking elegant during pregnancy is possible, but you need to focus on finding clothes that make you feel comfortable and flatter your figure. Try layering, wearing a wrap top and stick with neutral, one-color outfits so you can enjoy your evening in style!

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Maternity Style: Shoe Support During Pregnancy

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Sep 2, 2009 by Sabah K.

Wearing well-fitting, supportive shoes during your pregnancy months is essential for your health and well-being, but many women don't realize they are wearing the wrong types of shoes until they start experiencing excessive back, shoulder and neck pain. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons encourages pregnant women to wear square-toed shoes and not round toes or pointed toes because these offer the most room and provide the extra comfort you need when your feet start to swell. Here are some do's and don'ts for shoes during pregnancy:

Do wear shoes with a low heel. Kitten heels or very low platforms will provide some extra ankle support you need during your pregnancy. Ballet flats and those oh-so-comfortable UGG clogs aren't so great at supporting your ankles, so it's best to steer clear of these styles, especially during your second and third trimester.

Don't wear thick socks. Adding thick socks to your shoe repertoire will only make your shoes extra tight and uncomfortable, especially if you start to carry extra water weight. Wear thin socks with a supportive shoe so that your feet have plenty of breathing space.

Do wear real leather or canvas shoes. These are the most flexible and soft materials for all types of shoes, and will help your feet breathe better. If you choose to wear athletic shoes, make sure they're made with a soft and flexible fabric so that you're not putting extra pressure on your feet.

Don't wear the same size shoes you wore before you were pregnant. Many women go up at least half or a full shoe size during pregnancy, so don't feel like you have to force your feet into your old shoe lineup. Your feet will return to 'normal' after you deliver the baby, but for now, you will need to invest in a few pairs of high-quality, maternity shoes.

Do find out what your shoe size is from a professional. Head to your local shoe boutique anytime during your second trimester to find out what your new shoe size is. The professionals will also be able to help you find the right style and fit, so you won't have to play the guessing game.

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Maternity Style: Avoid These Maternity Fashion Mistakes

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Aug 5, 2009 by Sabah K.

Finding the right types of clothing during pregnancy can be one of your biggest challenges, especially during the second and third trimester. Many moms-to-be simply give up and stick with oversized tent-style tops and dresses just to get through their days. However, there are some ways you can stay stylish and feel great all the way up to the birth, without resorting to some major fashion don'ts. Make sure you're avoiding some of these common maternity fashion mistakes as you piece together your closet for the weeks and months ahead:

1. Buying your entire wardrobe in the first month. You won't know exactly how your body will change and morph over the months ahead, even if you've had children before. Buying too many clothes early in the pregnancy can be a big mistake, so you're much better off buying clothes as you need them. You can still plan ahead, but stick with a 3-week, not 3-month lead time.

2. Wearing clothes several sizes too large. There are too many maternity clothing options out there to settle for wearing oversized t-shirts and baggy sweaters through pregnancy! Scope out the designers and brands that make clothes specifically for pregnant women, and try a few different styles of clothing to find the right match. Keep in mind that when you wear clothes that fit your body shape and size, you'll also feel better about yourself.

3. Buying clothes that don't sync with your style. If you don't usually wear peasant tops or sleeveless dresses, now is not the time to start! Stick with your usual style parameters so you feel comfortable in your ensemble. It's now easier than ever to find maternity clothes that match your sense of style, so don't settle for anything else.

4. Wearing shapeless dresses. The maxi dress may be in style this season, but this shapeless dress won't complement your figure. Look for dresses with a small tie-back or empire-waist cut so that you can show off that baby bump in style, and still feel comfortable.

5. Altering your regular clothes to fit. No matter how much you love those bootcut jeans or high-waisted skirt, you're going to have to part with it for a few months. Avoid the temptation of having your clothes altered to fit because you'll ruin them permanently! Just buy a few basic pieces that complement your sense of style, and wait until your body is back in shape so you can wear your favorites.

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Maternity Style: Tips for Finding the Right Maternity Bra

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Jul 29, 2009 by Sabah K.

It only takes about four months after you learn you're pregnant for the breasts to start developing, so you need to be prepared for the changes by finding the right type of maternity bra. Maternity bras are designed to provide the extra support you need when you're pregnant, and you'll need at least a few throughout your pregnancy term in order to stay comfortable.

A well-fitting maternity bra will help you feel more confident, support your posture, and will create the perfect silhouette under clothing. Here are some important tips for finding the right maternity bra:

1. Buy more than one. There are dozens of different maternity bra styles, so you don't have to settle for just a single cut and design. Pick up a few different styles and designs that fit you well so that you have enough to wash one or two as needed, without having to resort to your regular bra.

2. Get a professional fit. Most lingerie retailers offer free bra fittings, so it's in your best interests to have a professional fitting before you go out and buy a maternity bra on your own. After you learn what your measurements are, you can then hop online or start looking at different styles independently at the store.

3. Make sure the band doesn't ride up. One of the most common problems associated with a maternity bra is that the band isn't sitting level with your back. When you're wearing a well-fitting bra, the band will lie flat and parallel to your shoulders. Make sure you turn around and look at how the band is positioned on your back before making your purchase.

4. Skip the underwire. Underwire bras can be too rigid and cause discomfort on your tender breasts, so stick with bras that are made with plastic support or thicker cuts of fabric for that extra support you need.

5. Do the spill test. If you're wearing the wrong cup size, your breast will 'spill out' over the bra and stand out under your clothes. Make sure the cups completely cover your breast, and create a seamless look under clothes. This can be tricky when you're going through the breast-growing phases, but don't be afraid to trade out for a larger size as you grow.

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Maternity Style: Best Ways to Hide Pregnancy Weight Gain

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Jul 22, 2009 by Sabah K.

Shopping for maternity clothes can be frustrating, especially when you've been gaining weight and just don't feel like yourself anymore. However, there are some ways you can dress to flatter your figure and not settle for baggy, oversized clothing.

Form-fitting tops designed just for pregnant women will accentuate your baby bump and cinch at the waist just right, so you can maintain a stylish look. Whether you're in your first trimester or your third, here are the clothes that will help you hide pregnancy weight gain and flatter your natural curves:

1. Wear wrap tops with maternity jeans. Maternity jeans are designed with adjustable waistbands that will accommodate your growing belly, and you can look pulled-together and stylish with a gathered maternity wrap-top. These tops are slightly fitted under the chest area, and a V-neck or square neck design will draw attention upward.

2. Relax in an empire dress for a night out. Empire dresses are perfect for women who are pregnant because they are a freeform style that won't stick to you as you move. Some of today's most attractive styles include big flowery prints, lace trim and sheer overlays that are very pretty for summer.

3. Look for side-shirring dresses and tops. Side shirring and ruching help to hide bumps and lumps, making your silhouette appear sleeker and smoother. Look for tops and dresses that tie on one side of the waist for a fun and playful look.

4. Stick with tops that emphasize - not hide - the baby bump. Many women who are pregnant make the mistake of hiding in oversized, baggy tops, but this will only make them look larger. Choose tunic tops, blouses and shirts designed for pregnant women, because these will accentuate your baby bump and balance out your figure.

5. Avoid high-neck or boat-neck tops. When you want to balance out your figure, accentuate your curves with a slightly-fitted V-neck or scoop neck top. These cuts will draw attention upward and help you feel more feminine. Accessorize with an oversized necklace or large earrings to complete your look.

Gaining weight during pregnancy is natural, and you don't need to hide in oversized, unflattering clothing throughout your term. Just use some of these style tricks so you can accentuate your natural figure and show off that baby bump in high style!

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Maternity Style: Building Up Your Basics Wardrobe

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Jul 15, 2009 by Sabah K.

One of the biggest challenges during a pregnancy is finding well-fitting, comfortable and stylish clothes throughout each trimester. As your body changes shape and size in a few months, it can be hard to keep up with the latest trends and look your best. Building a maternity wardrobe of basics is one of the best ways to stay ahead of the trends and look stylish throughout your term. All you need to do is find some versatile pieces that can be modified to suit your shape as you grow.

Pregnant women fare well with A-line skirts and loose, tunic tops throughout the days of pregnancy. Stick with loose and flowing materials and styles that don't cinch at the waist or those that are made with body-hugging stretch materials. Wrap or tank dresses, and loose blouses and tops with an adjustable waist band or belt are ideal for the mom-to-be.

You will also need a pair of comfortable, well-fitting jeans and dress pants. Avoid wearing oversized jeans that don't flatter your figure, and stick with a pair with a slightly flare leg or similar style so that you can still look fashionable. Maternity jeans are usually designed with an adjustable, extendable waistband, so you can wear these through each season. The same goes for maternity dress pants. Pick a pair with a bootcut, straight wide-leg or flare style to keep in line with the season's trends.

Another important must-have during pregnancy is a set of supportive undergarments and camisoles. You can achieve that sleek silhouette even with a baby bump when you learn how to layer your clothes properly. A snug but comfortable, fitted camisole will help you achieve smoother lines under all your clothes, and provide you with some extra support. This will give you more confidence overall, and help you look your best with any outfit!

Finding the right set of maternity clothes with your tastes and body shape in mind can be difficult, but not impossible. If you don't want to compromise on style and the latest trends throughout the term of your pregnancy, focus on building your basics wardrobe so you can stay stylish and comfortable during the months ahead.

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Maternity Style: Summer Must-Haves for Staying Cool and Stylish

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Jul 1, 2009 by Sabah K.

Staying stylish during the dog days of summer when you're expecting can be challenging, especially if you're in your third trimester and are experiencing the aches and pains of pregnancy. It's very important for the mom-to-be to stay cool and relaxed under the summer sun, so choosing the right type of clothing is a top priority. Since you want to be stylish too, here are some of the best clothes to add to your summer collection:

1. The maxi dress. Super soft and lightweight materials make the maxi-dress a definite yes for the season. You can relax in these long, loose, flowing dresses designed with tropical prints or a Grecian-inspired cut for a romantic look. Add a pair of gladiator flats or kitten-heel sandals for a complete ensemble.

2. Maternity capris. 'Tis the season to show off those gams, so don't hide in drawstring pants or jeans this summer! Wear some capris for casual days at the office and weekends, so you can work up a tan on those legs. Maternity capris made with stretch material are comfortable and stylish.

3. Relaxed button-down shirts. Loose and flowing clothing is the best match for a mom-to-be, especially on days when you're feeling bloated and tired. A loose-fitting button-down shirt will help you stay relaxed and comfortable all day long. Choose a light-colored shirt to help you beat the heat this season, without compromising on style.

4. Loose skirts. This season's frock-style skirt trend is at the top of the must-have list, which makes it a necessary addition to your maternity wardrobe. These ultra-feminine and playful skirts are a great way to show off your baby bump in style!

5. Peasant tops. Catch the Bohemian wave this season and enjoy a splash of color with a peasant top. Maternity peasant tops and blouses are designed with extra fabric and tend to flare out at the waist and sleeves. This is a great cut for moms-to-be, and can be especially flattering if you've gained some weight.

Staying cool and comfortable in the heat can be a challenge in itself, and you can multiply the effects of the heat by ten when you're pregnant. Pick up any of these stylish summer must-haves so you can enjoy the best of the season!

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Maternity Style: How to Be a Beach Babe During Any Trimester

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Jun 24, 2009 by Sabah K.

Summer's right around the corner, which means you and the gals are probably planning to hit the beach in the near future. Finding the right maternity swimsuit and beach gear isn't as hard as it seems, so you can look forward to dozens of designer-inspired styles to put together an eye-catching outfit. From printed sarongs to oversized straw tote bags, here's how you can be a beach babe during any trimester!

First, pick out a bright and bold tankini. Tankinis are perfect for moms-to-be, and you don't need to settle for a one-color swim ensemble either. Pick up a cute two-piece halter tankini in a leopard print or printed flower designs, or go for a ring halter and bikini for a classy touch. Two-piece suits provide plenty of comfort for your day of lounging on the beach and wading in the water.

Ready to hit the boardwalk? Don't do it without picking up a sarong for some extra coverage. Sarongs and wrap skirts are a great complement to your tankini, and they do double duty as a casual skirt when you're shopping, relaxing at the café or just want to stay dry when the rain comes. Since you can adjust the waist, you will always be super comfortable.

Pregnancy days can wear on you, especially during your second and third trimester. Carrying extra weight will take its toll on your knees and legs, which is why a pair of cushioned thong sandalsfit the bill for days of trekking across the beach and boardwalk. Look for sandals that have at least an inch of cushioning so that your feet have plenty of support; save the wedges and heels for your post-baby days, so you stay comfortable and protect yourself from strain and soreness.

No trip to the beach is complete without a straw tote for stashing your beauty mags, sunglasses, beach towel and snacks for the day. Pick up a lightweight straw tote with bamboo handles for a fashionable and sassy look for the beach. A matching straw hat will finish your ensemble and keep you looking sharp and stylish on the beach, and all summer long!

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Maternity Style: Catch the Bohemian Wave

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Jun 10, 2009 by Sabah K.

One of summer's hottest trends is the boho chic look, a mix of gypsy-inspired pieces with splashes of rich colors from the Far East. The bohemian look is here to stay for another season, and moms-to-be are great candidates for sporting this fresh, fun and sassy look during any trimester. You can enjoy the relaxed, carefree look with loose, flowing peasant tops, ruffled blouses and eclectic prints from the Far East. Here are some tips for catching the Bohemian wave this season so you can freshen up your pregnancy wardrobe:

1. Sport a loose-fitting floral dress. As temperatures rise and you want to sport a laid back and casual look, go for a flowy, floral or tropical-print dress that provides plenty of coverage but is high on comfort. Floral-printed dresses in deep purple, orange, brown and earthy tones are the perfect color palette for your bohemian look. Wear this with some comfy flats and you'll be plenty comfortable during those hot days ahead.

2. Play with dolman sleeves. Dolman sleeves are perfect for the mom-to-be, because this style is very loose around the waist and covers up the arms and shoulders with its drapy style. If you're feeling bloated and uncomfortable, this is the top for you. Pick yours out in a paisley print or earthy tone for a casual, versatile look.

3. Relax in distressed denim. Jeans don't have to be your enemy when you're pregnant, and a pair of bootcut, wide-leg distressed denim jeans or crop pants are a great fit for your bohemian chic ensemble. You can easily pair these up with any flutter blouse or tank top; just look for a style with an expandable waistline if you want to wear it throughout the season.

For accessories, pick up some chunky bracelets, bold necklaces and ethnic-print hair scarves to instantly transform your wardrobe. You can also try a textured hairband or chandelier earrings to freshen up your look. Big and bold accessories can add a fun and playful twist to any ensemble, and work especially well as a contrast to neutral-colored pieces.

So go ahead; show off your playful side and stay comfortable and cool with a few bohemian chic essentials this season!

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Maternity Tips: Pampering Pregnant Feet

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Apr 3, 2009 by Rebecca White-Glanders

When it comes to daily living during pregnancy, feet are usually one of the first things to cause discomfort. It only makes sense, after all; pregnancy can cause your feet to swell, and the extra weight of pregnancy takes an increasing toll on them as your bundle of joy grows. So, what can you do to ease the burden your pregnant feet must bear? After two pregnancies, here are a few great tips and tricks for treating your feet right while pregnant.

The best way to start is wearing great shoes. By great shoes, I don't mean stylish, high-heeled or even necessarily expensive. I mean shoes your feet will love - shoes that are cozy or offer great support, especially if you're on your feet a lot. For cold weather, pamper your feet with real, slip-on boots. Sometimes, work attire demands either dress shoes or sneakers. For maternity-smart dress shoes, check out dress shoes specifically designed with comfort and support in mind. If you need sneakers for work or working out, look for comfort and support first and foremost. And, whenever, buying shoes during pregnancy, always try them on your newly pregnant feet. Shoes that are your usual size may feel uncomfortably tight during (and even after) pregnancy.

There are several other ways to keep your feet comfortable during pregnancy. When you don't need to be on your feet, try to keep them elevated as much as possible. This reduces swelling and gives your feet a much needed rest. Also, continue mild to moderate exercise throughout your pregnancy (I was in the gym on my due date. I wasn't worried about being fat - it just relaxed me!). Exercise during pregnancy will make your recovery and weight loss easier after giving birth. Also, if you can afford a regular pedicure during pregnancy, get one - especially during your last trimester. If you follow these easy steps to healthier feet during pregnancy, you can save yourself unnecessary pain and discomfort. And who doesn't want that?

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Maternity Tips: Getting Ready for Baby, Now!

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Mar 6, 2009 by Kelly H.

Practice makes perfect, or so they say. Unfortunately, no amount of practice can prepare you for parenthood. But if you're pregnant, getting ready for baby is probably the first and foremost thing on your mind. If you want to make your pregnancy easier, there are some things you can do to get the house and yourself ready and keep you ahead of the crowd.

Start by getting the necessities ready for baby's arrival. Thankfully, newborns don't need much. But you'll want to have a diaper bag, diapers, a few baby outfits and somewhere for the baby to sleep (a crib, a co-sleeper, or a bassinette) on hand before the little one arrives. Bibs, burp cloths, sheets and towels are also necessities. Use baby detergent and have everything washed and ready to go, and you'll save yourself time once baby arrives.

Not only can you get the basics ready before baby arrives, but you can make room for baby in your house and in your life. Determine where baby will sleep, and if you need to rearrange rooms or furniture, start thinking about doing it now. Get the car seat installed in the car. Schedule maternity leave and talk to your boss about options for returning to work. Research paternity leave. Make a will. Taking care of these things before your baby arrives means less to do after your little one is here.

Once you've covered the basics and gotten things under control for the arrival of your little one, don't stop there. Read books about pregnancy and childcare, spend time with friends and family members and their little ones and get all the rest that you can. Each one of these things will help you feel more in control and ready, as well as making your entire pregnancy experience easier and less stressful.

If you want to make your pregnancy easier during the last few months, getting ready for baby's arrival and taking care of the details at hand is a great place to start.

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Making Pregnancy Easier: Travel Tips

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Sep 19, 2008 by Nancy L.


Being pregnant doesn't mean you have to stay home for nine months with your feet up on the couch. If you're an executive experiencing her first pregnancy, you won't want to call off the annual sales meeting in Mazatlan due to morning sickness, and if you're a stay-at-home mom with number three on the way, numbers one and two aren't going to want to see Disney World over Columbus Day weekend any less. With a few precautions, though, travel during pregnancy can be both safe and comfortable.

The easiest time to travel during pregnancy, like the easiest time to do most things during pregnancy, is the second trimester, when you are feeling great, but travel can occur during the other trimesters as well. (I took a long car trip during the first trimester of my second pregnancy while suffering from horrendous morning sickness and unexplained bleeding. It was doctor-approved and the micro-brewed ginger ale I picked up in South Carolina helped with the nausea, while the sight-seeing helped distract me from the worry.) Of course, air travel for women in their third trimester is not recommended unless it's absolutely necessary, but other than that, you can pretty much do as you please.

When travelling by car, bus, plane or train, limit the amount of travel time to six hours at a time and be sure to take walks or stretch periodically to keep your circulation stimulated. Travelling by sea is not recommended due to the potential for seasickness and the fact that anti-nausea medications may not be approved for use during pregnancy.

International travel is acceptable as well if your OB/GYN okays it, but be sure to make sure you're immunized properly before going and carry a copy of your health records with you in case of emergency. The potential for diarrhea in a foreign country is the worst concern for pregnant women; drinking bottled water, canned juices or soft drinks, avoiding raw fruits and vegetables, and making sure all dairy products are pasteurized will go a long way towards alleviating that concern.

Finally, dress comfortably in loose clothing made of natural fibers, wear comfortable shoes, and carry snack foods with you in order to keep your energy up and your nausea down.

comfortable shoes,

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