Latest Female Fashion Trends

Clothing Tips For the Pregnant Plus-Size

Advice Seeker: Dear April,

I'm pregnant and gaining weight rapidly! I looked in the mirror today and swear there was a whale there instead of myself. I need to go shopping to buy some new maternity clothes, but need help. Do you have any clothing tips for a huge pregnant lady who just wants to look decent when she steps out of her house?

Sincerely,

Woman or Whale?

April Masini's advice:

Dear Woman or Whale?,

Whether you're a plus-size and pregnant, or a pregnant plus-size, you still want to look good when you're out and about.

Here are some tips for better fitting, better looking maternity silhouettes:

1. Black is slimming. White is the color of Orca. You do the math.

2. Horizontal stripes will call attention to the widest part of you. Vertical stripes will slim you up and down. Go for the vertical stripes.

3. One of the benefits of gaining pregnancy weight is that if you had small breasts before pregnancy, you usually don't have small breasts with pregnancy -- you have newer, bigger breasts. Enjoy them. Make sure you have a good, flattering, well fitting bra. And try tops that show off your new cleavage, with a waist that is "empire" designed for most flattery.

4. Where's your waist? The empire waistline is very regal, very maternal, and very flattering at this time in your life. The waistline hits just below the breasts instead of where your waist usually is when you're not pregnant. This is a most flattering look for this time of life.

5. Forget the numbers. Don't squeeze into clothing that doesn't fit just for the sake of wearing a smaller numbered size. It's more important to wear clothing that fits well than to try and impress yourself with a smaller number size. Forget the numbers. Look in the mirror.

6. Underwear counts. Your underwear for your changing body is just as important to your new silhouette as your outerwear. A good pair of panties and a good bra will make or break an outfit. Maternity underwear is more expensive than regular underwear. Accept it, and budget for some good lingerie as well as maternity clothing. If you're having a baby shower -- register for lingerie for this transition time.

7. Your feet will swell and you won't wear the same size shoe ever again. That said, your pregnancy shoe size is not necessarily your permanent shoe size. So accept the changes. Make sure you have regular pedicures, to keep your toes and feet, although swollen, pretty. Go for beautiful, fashionable flat sandals and ballet slippers if you're not able to wear a little heel, which is more flattering.