You may long to wear muumuus and oversized sweaters during the last few months of pregnancy, but you don't have to compromise fashion and style just to be comfortable. The last trimester can be one of the most challenging to dress comfortably in, but there are some key pieces you can add to your wardrobe that will make you look chic, stylish and super comfortable. Here are your best picks for the casual wardrobe during the third trimester:

The Leggings and Tunic Combo
A pair of stretchy leggings in black or brown paired with a printed tunic are a great fit for the mom-to-be during the last trimester. Look for leggings from the maternity department instead of going a few sizes up on regular styles for the most flattering silhouette. The sky's the limit when it comes to tunic tops and stick with bold printed designs and v-neck or scoop neck cuts to make the most of this look.

The Flowing Summer Dress
A loose, flowing summer dress is perfect for the last trimester of pregnancy because it not only helps you stay cool, but is also flattering to your growing figure. Stick with dresses that have empire waistlines and wide straps so that you can stay plenty comfortable all day long.

The Long Black Skirt
A long black skirt is an important staple for your maternity wardrobe, and is a great choice for special occasions and events that demand a little dressing up. Stick with a skirt made with stretchy material and a modest slit to create the most attractive silhouette.

Bootcut Pants
Bootcut pants and not flare leg or skinny jean types are the best match for you during your last trimester, and are a staple for weekend errand-running and casual days at home. Look for a pair of bootcut pants made with either a stretch or lightweight linen material for the ultimate fit. Just make sure it's from the maternity department so you're not struggling with the waistband.

The Button Down Shirt
Whether you're gardening or shopping for groceries, a well-fitting button down shirt is a great match for casual days during the third trimester. Look for stretch cotton blends that will accommodate for your baby bump, and consider wearing a tank or tunic top underneath for some extra support.

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.

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!

Staying stylish and fashionable throughout a pregnancy often takes a backseat for many moms-to-be, simply because they're dealing with so many changes, higher stress levels, and juggling a busy schedule. However, you don't have to turn into a fashion victim just because you're expecting. Some careful shopping decisions and building up a basics wardrobe can help you get through those nine months staying chic and stylish. Here are some essential fashion tips for staying stylish during every trimester:

1. Stick with soft and natural fabrics. From organic cotton to light wool blends, stick with the soft fabrics that won't irritate your skin, and designs that aren't too form-fitting. These will put you at ease throughout your days of pregnancy, and a few bold colors and fun prints will help you stay fashionable.

2. Buy your actual size from the maternity department. Many women make the mistake of buying clothes from the regular Misses or Women's department, and just going a few sizes bigger. Your growing figure won't benefit from the extra material, and you'll end up hiding beneath a tent in most cases! Head to the maternity department so that you're buying your usual dress size designed with some minor tweaks.

3. Avoid the empire waist until your second trimester. Contrary to popular belief, the empire waistline will accentuate the tummy area so it won't be flattering to your figure until you're ready to flaunt the baby bump. Stick with loose and flowing styles that elongate your figure and accentuate your natural waistline during your first trimester, then shift over to empire lines as the baby bump begins to show.

4. Buy a maternity bra for overnight use. If you're large-chested, you will need some extra support overnight. Purchase a maternity bra that you can comfortably wear overnight so you can look forward to a restful night throughout your term.

5. Build up your bottoms basics. Jeans, tailored black pants and a simple skirt are three basics you need to get through your pregnancy days. Make sure they're from the maternity department so you have the flexibility of an adjustable waist.

Staying stylish throughout your pregnancy may not be at the top of your priority list, but building your wardrobe doesn't have to be an overwhelming process. Stick with these essential fashion 'dos' so you can be chic and fashionable through every trimester!

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.

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!

When the days of pregnancy begin to wear on you, nothing will liven up your mood better than a trip to the beach! The warm sun, cool breeze and beautiful views of the ocean will help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Spending a day at the beach can also lower stress and reduce tension: a must for any mom to be. When you're ready to hit the sun and sand this season, here are some of the stylish must-haves you need to take along on your beach-bound adventure:

Halter and Bikini Set: Moms-to-be can enjoy the surf and sand in a comfortable tankini that provides the coverage and support they need during the days of pregnancy. A halter-style tankini set is a great way to cover up and enjoy your day under the sun.

Lightweight Shorts: When you're looking for a no-fuss look for day, relax in a pair of lightweight twill shorts and pair it with a flowing tunic-style tank top or lightweight blouse for a stylish, but casual look. Avoiding the tight-fitting tees and tops during pregnancy is key to staying comfortable. This ensemble is also a great match for spending the day shopping on the pier, enjoying lunch on the patio and visiting area attractions.

Bandeau Dress: If you plan on lounging by the pier or relaxing on the sand, you don't have to sport a swimsuit or bikini. A bright, tropical-colored bandeau dress is perfect for a trip to the beach, and is a super-comfortable, lightweight pick for your day outdoors. Just throw on a pair of flats or comfy sandals, and you'll be ready to play!

And of course, you'll need to pack a wide-brimmed hat and slather on the sunscreen throughout the day; make sure your skin is well-protected from damaging UV rays. If you get too tired or start to feel dizzy, make sure you relax under the shade and drink lots of water. Too much sun can make you feel ill, especially when you're pregnant, so be prepared to take care of your health as you settle under the sun for your day of rest and relaxation!

I know, I know . . . it seems like the words "maternity" and "style" don't belong in the same sentence. Not long ago, that may have been true: as little as eight years ago, most of my maternity options involved tent-like dresses and shirts with (ugh) bows! Fortunately, today's selection of maternity wear is as unique and stylish as the women who wear it. And best of all, most of it is made in comfortable, stretchy fabrics that flatter the pregnant body and are nearly cozy enough to sleep in (I did it, I admit it). The key to maternity wardrobe bliss is finding maternity clothes that are affordable in the real world. Pregnant celebrities always look great - after all, if you can afford to pay hundreds of dollars for a piece of clothing, you can find just about anything. Here are some great ideas for affordable maternity fashion you can get today.

The perfect maternity pants are the foundation for any maternity wardrobe. It's a good idea to buy 2 or 3 pairs of maternity bottoms in basic colors, then mix or match them with tops as your outfit requires. The most popular type are black yoga-style maternity pants or capris. A pair of brown or tan linen maternity pants also makes a great addition to your pregnancy wardrobe. And finally, a great black maternity top is a must! You can dress it up for church or social functions, or dress it down with flip-flops and a comfortable tee. You can even wear it during that in-between post-baby phase before you can squeeze back into your jeans!

When it comes to maternity tops, the sky is the limit! Kimono-style maternity tops come in every shade and pattern imaginable. Button-down maternity work tops are no longer tent-like and blasé. Instead, they tend to be embellished with center twists, beading or other interesting accents. Regardless of what type of top suits your style, you can likely find it in today's maternity fashions.

It's good to know that pregnant women can throw away their oversized t-shirts and sweatpants, and find something that fits their pre-pregnancy styles. After all, pregnancy doesn't sap you of your pre-pregnancy personality. It gives you an opportunity to discover a whole new you.

When it comes to morning sickness during pregnancy, there are three types of women: those who never feel it at all, those who get moderately sick but are able to function and those whose early pregnancy is a hellish cycle of trying to eat and throwing up. If you're pregnant, you already know which category you fall into. And, unfortunately, there's no way of knowing which category you'll fall into during an individual pregnancy until you're already there. That said, there are several great ways you can help yourself avoid morning sickness, or get through it if you're already there.

Even if you don't think you can eat, there are two things that are vitally important: taking your prenatal vitamin and staying hydrated. Dehydration is one of the leading reasons that pregnant women with severe morning sickness are hospitalized (I was hospitalized for that myself during my last pregnancy). Often, keeping fluids down is easier than the idea of eating. If your morning sickness is making it hard to keep food down, ask your doctor about nutritional drinks. They can have as many calories as a meal and are nutritionally balanced to help you stay healthy. Regardless of what you're able to eat, it's a good idea to keep a journal of when during the day you felt sick, what you've eaten and how much. That way you can always tell your doctor if he/she asks, and you can easily recognize any patterns that can help you out. Many women find that during some hours of the day, they hardly feel sick at all!

Keep these simple tips in mind to help manage your morning sickness, and remember - keep an open line of communication with your doctor. If your morning sickness is disrupting your life and is out of control, your doctor can help. By being proactive and staying in contact with your doctor, you can make sure that both you and your baby stay healthy.

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?

Studies have shown that the average woman carries a handbag weighing five to nine pounds. And when you're pregnant, that pretty purse weight usually increases rather than decreases. You add a baby naming book, a list of baby items to shop for and that sample bottle of prenatal vitamins that your doctor gave you. The problem with that hefty handbag: it can exacerbate your already aching back and shoulders! The solution is to lighten that load with one of these tips:

Relax in the most comfortable chair in your home, put a TV tray in front of you and remove everything from your purse. Those pennies that you tossed into the bottom of your purse, the throat lozenges, the free pens from the bank manager, the credit card holder crammed with cards (half of which probably you no longer use!), the value shopper cards from various supermarkets and drug stores -- set it all out. Ask yourself what REALLY needs to stay. The pennies can go into your piggy bank for a rainy day. Those pens belong in your desk. And those value shopper cards? Request to use your phone number rather than a plastic card and shred those cards along with the expired credit cards.

Next up, let your fingers do the shopping online for a much smaller purse. A small, attractive purse will keep you focused on the goal: keeping your handbag as light as possible. For example, consider the highly rated Jessica McClintock Large Satin Clutch, in the cutest, most cheerful colors like pearl pink. It's easy to access, and lovely to look at! It's convertible, with a chain, and even has room for your credit cards.

How about a drawstring purse? Tuck away all those essentials with a lightweight drawstring that holds what you need. You won't get in a flap about a flap purse, sometimes referred to as a tote bag. Often made of lightweight canvas, this style of purse is made for convenience such as the Kavu Tortola Tote Bag, which has a separator to keep you organized.

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.

One of the things you might want to start thinking about as you enter your third trimester is a birth plan. Although things can change depending on the circumstances of the birth itself—one of my friends actually gave birth to her third child in a borrowed SUV on the way to the hospital—or how you're feeling in that moment, having a map to start out with can only be a good thing and help you stay on course and not feel lost. There are many checklists available online that will provide preprinted birth plans, but it can be as simple as opening a document and writing down a few lines about your preferences. Here are some things to think about as you create your birth plan:

Who do you want in the birth room with you? Your partner or a labor partner is pretty much a given—things have changed since the days when I was born, and they forgot to notify my dad until three hours later. However, friends and family may be eager to participate. If you've given written instructions to the hospital staff beforehand about who to let in and who to politely turn away, it will make things less awkward in the moment.

Pain relief is the second major component of a birth plan. Your options range from hypnosis and acupressure to an epidural or other major anesthesia, and you can request that you not be offered pain relief unless you ask for it. The same goes for Pitocin, which speeds up your labor. Hospitals nowadays seem to try to make this appear a natural part of the birthing process, but they can't force it on you.

There are issues to be dealt with after the birth itself as well, most importantly, how the baby will be fed and where he or she will be kept. Even in the best hospitals, the nursery can be something of an assembly line, as I found out when they gave my daughter, who was supposed to be breastfed, exclusively sugar-water to pacify her. If these issues are crucial to you, consider hiring a doula to act as your advocate.

Trust this two time mom when I say that once your kids are here, especially the second one or afterwards, you're not going to have a lot of time to work on scrapbooks, baby books or baby albums. I decided to do a handwritten journal for my two, figuring it would be easier. Neither of them has been written in since 2003, although I keep them on my nightstand, every night thinking, "I'll update them tomorrow."

Why not start a pregnancy scrapbook? If you're totally swamped once he or she is here, at least your baby will have mementos from this special time in your life. It doesn't have to be one of those huge projects that make you feel guilty. You can find a simple predesigned scrapbook at a craft store that only requires you to put down pictures and stickers, or you can do it the old-fashioned way and use a plain photo album, making your own tags in your word processor. Substance, in this case, is preferable to style.

Items to include in the pregnancy scrapbook include sonogram photos, cards from your baby shower, e-mails announcing you're pregnant to faraway family and friends, printouts of baby names and photos of your baby bump from month to month. Be creative! Anything that has meaning to you goes, although the actual EPT pregnancy test probably won't fit in the pages of your book.

Try to keep things roughly chronological, which you can do by putting an item in the day you decide to use it. That keeps the whole thing from getting out of hand. Buy the book and do the first page the day you get home from the sonogram appointment, adding each item as you acquire them.

Finally, finish up with a page full of predictions for your baby from your friends and family. These are delightful to read later as your child grows up. Everyone predicted my first daughter would someday be an ace left-handed pitcher for the Yankees, and I still think she might achieve that goal, except for the left-handed part!

Setting up a nursery is one of the more fun tasks facing first time parents, but if you've never hung out with babies before, the variety of baby-themed products on the market can be overwhelming. Here's a short guide to what you really need and what you can do without, even if your nursery is just a corner of your one-bedroom apartment.

1. A Crib
Though we all have heard stories of older relatives who were surprise babies and slept in a drawer (or maybe it's just my weird family), a crib is an absolute essential. Whether you're buying a crib new, borrowing from a friend or purchasing from a consignment store -- safety features are essential.

When purchasing bedding for the crib, make sure to order extra-deep sheets. The safety factor makes the extra cost worthwhile. Non-deep sheets can slide off the bed and become a strangulation hazard.

2. A Changing Table
This can be a fancy model from a catalog, or it can be as simple as a changing pad placed on the floor with a basket next to it for changing essentials, like diapers, wipes and ointment. Wipe warmers are NOT essential, but a trash bin to put soiled diapers in is essential. In my experience Diaper Genies and the like are more trouble than they're worth and just end up smelling horrible. You're better off with a regular trash can with a tight fitting lid, but most times you're going to want to take the bag with the dirty diaper out immediately.

3. A Comfortable Chair
Gliders are excellent for this purpose, but any soft chair where you can snuggle with the baby will do. Whether you're nursing or bottle-feeding, you'll get up several times in the middle of the night in the beginning, and you need a place where it won't hurt if you fall asleep!

4. A Baby Monitor
When my second daughter was born, she had the lungs of an opera singer, and my house was compact and vertical so you could hear a voice from any room in it. Even still, the baby monitor came in handy for when I was outside getting groceries out of the car or down in the basement doing laundry. This is something you can borrow from a friend as long as it's in working order.