Here is a list of my essential items so far.
1. The first thing that I used was a bellaband. It's not the most comfortable item to wear, but it's useful for when you are in that bloated phase around 8-12 weeks. Depending on the type of pants I wore, I would either use a bellaband or the hair tie trick to give myself a little wiggle room during the first trimester.
2. I purchased one pair of maternity jeans and so far, have loved them. The first pair that I bought were demi-panel (so your belly is bare) and holy wow those were hideous on me. I've seen photos of other women wearing them and looking beautiful, so I think that it might be a matter of body shape. I am plus-sized and as soon as I put those jeans on I had the most intense, hideous case of muffin top that they world has ever seen.
I returned them for full panel jeans and I haven't looked back. Full panel jeans are just so comfy and secure and they help smooth out any bumps and lumps. I have this pair:
3. Another essential piece-- black jeans. I have worn them to work and on weekends. They are full panel (of course) and my favorite maternity pants that I own. I have this pair from Old Navy. In the reviews people complain about the panel being too small, but I'm 26 weeks with twins and I think that it fits fine. :
4. I would also invest in several maternity tank tops. Before I got pregnant I didn't really see the need for them-- what's wrong with wearing long regular tank tops? Well, I will tell you that the ruching on the sides does something magical to your bump. When you are in the awkward early second trimester phase when you are DESPERATELY hoping every day that a bump will appear so you can stop looking bloated, these tank tops help define the bump a bit more. Also, for $8 a pop, you really can't go wrong.
5. Another staple? Maxi dresses. I have two and love them. You can add scarves, jewelry, belts or cardigans to change up the look and you can wear them with flats or boots.
6. You will need an assortment of tops, depending on your style. I purchased a couple of t-shirts and a few long sleeve scoop neck tees. They aren't the most exciting tops but they get the job done. I also bought a striped maternity sweater and a wrap cardigan. I couldn't find the exact one I bought, but it looked similar to this.:
7. All of the pregnancy books, apps, websites, etc. tell you to buy new bras. I got yelled at by my Mother around week 22 when I told her that I was still wearing my old bras. She promptly took me out to buy new bras (thanks Mom). I was dreading it because I have a big chest and generally have a hard time finding something that lifts and separates without making me feel like a grandma. I tried on these Bali wire free bras on a complete whim and LOVE them. They are surprisingly supportive, are comfortable and look great under any shirts. I LOVE THEM! They aren't the sexiest bra in the world but there is something about the shape that is very flattering and a little bit sexy.
There are some items that I'm still wearing non-maternity versions of, like underwear, sweat pants, yoga pants and pajamas. I've also been wearing my non-maternity coat and just leave it open. I still wear non-maternity cardigans and depending on the fit and style, some of my old shirts still look normal.
So there you have it, my list of maternity essentials. I am sure that women who are pregnant during the Spring/Summer will have a much different list than me, but I hope that it helps! I say enjoy the elastic waistbands while you can!
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