Maternity fashion 101: Take your style to the next level

(BPT) – Dressing while pregnant should be all about keeping your own personal style. In fact, your baby bump gives you even more of a reason to show off the fashion trends you love. Now that the cooler months are rolling in, it’s time to start transitioning your warm weather wear for more comfy, cozy ensembles.

‘Pregnancy is a fun, exciting part of your life, but of course it is filled with a lot of changes,’ says Robin Otto, maternity fashion expert for zulily.com ‘Maintaining your style no matter what season you’re in is important to feeling like you, but don’t be afraid to play around with your style too. Every day, zulily debuts thousands of new and unique styles at the very best prices, giving moms-to-be something new to discover each morning.’

Below, Otto offers her tips for staying comfortable while keeping your personal style from bump to baby:

Can you still rock the current trends? ‘Of course you can rock current trends, in fact, I encourage it! You have an amazing excuse to buy yourself a new wardrobe, so don’t be afraid to explore a little bit,’ Otto says. Belted dresses are great for the fall, and if you wore them before pregnancy, don’t be afraid to wear them now. ‘Wearing your belt higher up is the perfect way to accentuate your bump, which is the best accessory of all.’

Heels? If you’re comfy, go for it. Being stylish is all about wearing what you feel most comfortable in. ‘I am a huge fan of heels, but if they’re causing you pain, ditch them and opt for fancy ballet flats or low heel booties,’ says Otto. ‘If you still feel like a million bucks strutting an extra four inches above everyone else, go for it. It’s up to you.’

Keep skinny jeans in the picture. New silhouettes of jeans are emerging, like boyfriend jeans and flares, but skinny jeans will always be a closet staple. Skinny jeans can be one of the most flattering styles on pregnant women. ‘They show off your legs without adding unnecessary bulk,’ says Otto. Many designers are rolling out skinny jeans with elastic waistbands. ‘Pair them with a comfortable top and some cute accessories and you’re set for the day.’

Play up your look with accessories. Give extra polish to an outfit by finishing it off with a collection of accessories. ‘Whether it’s a brilliant statement handbag or a striking necklace, wear something extra that makes you feel good about yourself and more put together, which is sometimes hard to accomplish when you’re in third trimester,’ says Otto.

Make color work for you. If your closet was filled with mostly black ensembles before pregnancy, then feel free to keep following suit. If that’s not the case, then use color to your advantage. ‘Try to wear more saturated colors or fun prints on days you’re not feeling great and let your outfit instantly improve your mood.’ Color blocking can also be your friend if used correctly. ‘As long as the color change doesn’t cut across the middle, then go for it! It’s a fun way to style your bump.’

Pregnancy is one of the best reasons to experiment with your style while keeping true to yourself. Follow these tips to stay in tune with your inner fashionista while your baby is on the way. Check back on zulily.com for all the latest maternity styles offered throughout the season at incredible prices.