A Review of Old Navy's Line for Moms-To-Be

It's one part of pregnancy that nearly every woman dreads. As your waistline expands, the last thing you want to do is further insult your changing body with ridiculous, tent-like outfits. Unfortunately, the unbuttoned jeans and over-sized shirts only work for so long. You reluctantly browse the department store maternity sections and find, to your horror, that the rumors are true - bows, hideous floral patterns and polka-dots reign supreme.

I was in the middle of this dilemma, at work, wearing an embarrassing maternity tee, when my co-workers gifted me with a box of Old Navy Maternity basics. They were a life-saver and, from then on, I believe I was as cute and trendy as a hugely pregnant woman can be. And, although the styles have changed, they remain comfortable, flattering and, most surprisingly, affordable.

The Old Navy maternity styles can only be purchased at www.oldnavy.com - however, merchandise can be returned to the store. Here is a breakdown of the main maternity-clothing musts found and a review of each. Note: Remember, for the most accurate fit, base your maternity selections on your pre-pregnancy size. Sizes range from XS to XXL on most items.

Tops

Fortunately, Old Navy offers a wide variety of tops for the pregnant woman, from cozy basics to season-specific trends. For lounging, layering and sleeping, my favorite picks were the Maternity Rib-Knit Tanks ($8.50) and Maternity Scoop-Neck Camis with a built-in shelf bra ($12.00). I wore these items almost daily for both of my pregnancies. For work, Old Navy offers maternity wrap and button-down dress shirts for $24.50 - $29.50. And for dressing up, looking good and going out, check out their 2008 Spring collection, which features strapless tops, braided strap tanks and more.

Bottoms and Skirts

These pieces are often the most-needed and hardest-to-fit parts of a maternity wardrobe, but they are absolutely essential. Find a few reliable bottoms basics, and you can mix them with various tops throughout your pregnancy without breaking the bank. I found four of Old Navy's offerings to be indispensable: the Old Navy Maternity Low-Rise Boot-Cut Jeans ($32.50), the Old Navy Maternity Low-Rise Knit Trousers ($29.50), the Old Navy Maternity Flared Knit Skirt ($16.50), and a pair of Old Navy Maternity Fold-Over Yoga Shorts ($16.50). I bought a pair of jeans, a skirt, the trousers in black and a pair of the fold-over yoga shorts. I used them constantly, and I still have them - just in case.

Sleepwear

If you're not one to sleep in over-sized T-shirts and loose bottoms, Old Navy Maternity also offers adorable pajama pieces and sets. Old Navy Maternity pajama pants usually feature season-specific prints and materials, and range in price from $14.50 to $19.50. Matching Camis and/or tanks are usually available. Old Navy Maternity night shirts are also season-specific and generally cost $22.50. Note: Don't miss their insanely adorable mother-baby sleeping ensembles ($39.50), perfect for the hospital or entertaining visitors at home.

Intimates and Swimwear

Some of the most difficult maternity-wear decisions lie here. Under the belly, or over it? Cover it, or flaunt it? Whatever your preference, you can find underwear and swimwear to accommodate. A 3-pack of comfortable Old Navy maternity underwear costs $12.50 in brief, bikini or low-rise thong style. Their maternity "tankinis" cost $19.50, with matching maternity bottoms costing $14.50.

Overall, I believe Old Navy's maternity clothing is the best value for pregnant women in terms of comfort, affordability and style. After shopping everywhere else, from the department stores to the high-end specialty shops, I preferred the comfort and cost of the Old Navy line. While clothing like Mimi Maternity is cute, and department store outfits are affordable, Old Navy met in the middle and gave me the best of everything I wanted for the whole nine months.