Ten Essential Maternity Fashions

Breastfeeding, birth plans, bassinets. It's enough to make your head spin. That's why I've put together a list of maternity essentials to get you through your pregnancy in style. You should spend your time picking names, not doing battle in the dressing room under horrific fluorescent lights.

1. Wrap dress: Less formal than its cousin the Little Black Dress (LBD), this dress (think Diane Von Furstenberg's signature look) can go to work or play. Why a dress? During pregnancy waistbands can be tough to fit and uncomfortable. Easy, breezy dresses really are your best friend for these nine months.

2. LBD: And on that note, you'll need a fabulous little black dress. This item is a mom-to-be's best friend. It can make you feel sexy when worn with heels for a special dinner date! When paired with flats this dress is suitable for church or brunch.

3. Ballet Flats: Flat shoes are not only practical now that your center of balance has shifted they are also quite fashionable. Treat yourself to a nice a pair with some heel padding and be sure to buy the right size--your foot may have grown.

4. Cardigan: Sweaters that can wrap over your bump are best. Cardigans are ideal because they add a bit of warmth, but aren't as warm as bulky a pullover or turtleneck. Pair with that LBD your dressy jeans or work trousers and skirts in place of a blazer. Note: don't be afraid to splash out with a bold color.

5. Dressy Denim: Opt for a flattering bootleg or full leg cut with a bit of swing. Dark denim is most versatile. Ideally you'll get a full belly panel that can be worn under the belly at first and then rolls over your bump when you are in the last trimester.

6. Bras that fit: Don't try and squeeze your growing breasts into your old bras. They'll dig into your back and make your clothes look horrible. Instead, size up and store your old bras. Since you may need one or two different sizes as your pregnancy progresses, try shopping at Gap Body (Hanes also makes nice everyday bras) or look for department store sales.

7. Workout Outfit: For most women, being pregnant isn't a reprieve from exercise. Gyms have a lot of mirrors-- sloppy sweats aren't going to cut it. Give yourself a boost by wearing a sleek outfit in a head-to-toe color like navy or charcoal. Bottoms and tops should be made of a supportive fabric with Lycra that will grow with you.

8. Maternity tights: Don't kid yourself into believing you can just wear tights that fit under your bump-this is extremely uncomfortable. Maternity tights will feel amazing over your belly and are a worthwhile investment.

9. Belly Band: Eek out another month or two with your old wardrobe with these ingenious wraps that keep pants and skirts up. After the baby arrives, this band will help you transition back into your pre-pregnancy wardrobe.

10. Signature necklace: Play up that mommy glow with a fabulous necklace. It shows off your cleavage and your beautiful skin and it transforms outfits from so-so to sensational. Experiment with color and shape feeling confident you can pull off a daring style during your pregnancy.

For more tips on staying hip and stylish, be sure to read my blog, www.momtrends.blogspot.com. I take the guesswork out of shopping for baby gear and fashions for mom and family. Plus, I share parenting tips taken from the very best experts. Remember my motto: "More style, less stuff!"