Third Trimester Style Hacks For The FIRST-TIME Mama

Happy #fashionwednesday! With only about 1 week left until baby, we are in full nesting and mild panic mode making sure we have absolutely everything we need for baby Jack. I am growing increasingly uncomfortable (love that) and large and so, so ready to meet my little boy. Today, we are going to be talking about Third Trimester style hacks to help you continue to dress comfortable in the last month or so of pregnancy. Around halfway through the second trimester, you “pop” and you have the CUTEST lil’ baby belly. I loved dressing my second trimester bump. But then…..you get bigger. And bigger. And just when you can’t think you can possibly stretch ANY MORE than you already have: you get bigger again. I’m even growing out of some of my maternity clothes that looked so dang cute 10 weeks ago. So here are my tips for those of you who haven’t done this before (I totally get it) to staying comfortable and cute all the way to delivery! I rounded up all my favorite looks I’ve done in the third trimester to show you. Let’s do this.

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Third Trimester Style Hacks For The FIRST-TIME Mama

One. Babydoll tops are your friend.

I have LOVED these for all stages of my pregnancy. They are tight on top so you don’t feel frumpy, but peplum and loose from under-your-bust down so that there is PLENTY of room for that belly to grow. I’ve been able to wear the majority of my babydoll tops throughout my entire pregnancy. They are comfortable to wear, but also I can sit down without feeling like my belly is too restricted.

Two. A good, stretchy jumpsuit is always a good idea.

I love a good jumpsuit and one made of soft, cotton material that really stretches is IDEAL. You will probably need to hunt down an actually maternity jumpsuit for this because most non-maternity jumpsuits tend to cinch right at the waist (which obviously won’t work). You’ll want one that either doesn’t cinch at all, or cinches right below your bust. That way you are being flattered and you aren’t uncomfortable in it.

Three. Don’t underestimate a good maxi dress (no matter what season it is).

Maxi dresses are the unsung heroes of the clothing world, in my opinion. They work for whatever season you’re in – summer? Try a neon or bright color! Spring? pastels and florals for the win! Fall? Something olive green with a denim jacket. Winter? Bring on the burgundies and navy! Pair with a cute pair of flats and you are set for your entire pregnancy AND you still look stylish.

Four. Try to skip jeans as much as possible.

There came a point – about 6 weeks out from my due date – that I said no more jeans. Even my maternity jeans felt uncomfortable. They fit my legs just fine, and the belly part wasn’t an issue, but they were hard to get on and off (you’re constantly bending over) and it felt like a chore to have to use the bathroom (which you will, approx. 27 times per day). Once you hit your third trimester, start working on alternative outfit options that maybe don’t include restrictive denim.

Five. Opt for things with LOTS OF STRETCH and soft fabric.

Anything you have that is long enough to cover the bump, has soft fabric and LOTS OF STRETCH is going to be a winner in my book. I loved graphic tees for this very reason. I emphasize the soft fabric because if you are like me, you will get really sensitive around your belly, and anything that isn’t basically woven in heaven itself will start to give you a rash and it’s just unfortunate.

Six. Throw away those heels and embrace the life that is flats.

Stop trying to torture yourself. I get it. I went to the InfluenceHer awards to accept my Beauty Influencer of the Year Award at 34 weeks pregnant and wanted nothing more than to walk across that stage in something really beautiful with a tall pair of killer heels. But I also would have fallen flat on my face and nobody wants that. SO – instead, I opted for a cute body con dress with a nice pair of neutral flats. It wasn’t my usual glam, but at least I didn’t trip going up or down the stairs with my new center of gravity.

Seven. Try not to buy anything new into the third trimester if you can help it.

There gets to be a time where it’s super awkward to buy anything new because you won’t have a ton of time to get use out of it. Try to stop buying things around week 30. After that, you really only get about a month and a half of wear before you put it away for a while (or forever). Consider renting if you need to do something super fancy. 

Eight. Invest in a good bra that will last during pregnancy and through nursing.

I didn’t do this my whole pregnancy and I really wish I would have just bit the bullet and bought a nice one sooner. I tried to make my bra last the whole pregnancy, but it really doesn’t. Your boobs DO practically double in size (and that’s just before your milk comes in) and the underwire hurts your ribs, the back cuts into your skin and the cups do not offer any kind of real support. Get measured at a maternity store and pick up a few good ones. 

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I hope these pregnancy hacks help you make the MOST out of the last portion of your pregnancy before you welcome your little treasure into the world. I know they’ve really helped me stay as comfortable as possible (even when baby was kicking my ribs and punching my bladder. 😉 ).

What fashion hacks got your through YOUR pregnancy?! Let me know in the comments below!