I’ll be 18 weeks on Saturday! Almost half way there – I can’t believe it! I’ve managed to go this long without having to buy any Maternity clothes and I must say…I’m pretty proud of myself. I wanted to prolong having to buy maternity specific clothing because they’re cut and made for bumps and won’t be wearable (for the most part) once baby V is here!

Instead I’ve focused on pieces I would normally buy keeping in mind certain silhouettes and details that will be comfortable for the belly. I’ve gone up 1 dress size. I was a size 6 before I got pregnant and now I wear an 8 or Medium/Large. Of course, maternity wear is inevitable at some point but for now I like being able to purchase things I can wear years later!

BUT my number one tip when styling yourself while pregnant is to stay true to your personal style. These are all items I would have worn pre-bump and will wear post-bump. Don’t think you have to wear dresses if dresses aren’t you’re thing!

Read on for how to dress the bump without having to buy maternity clothes:

Elastic waist/Draw string bottoms are your best friend. I am not much of a pant girl but I do love a good high-waisted one. I’ve found the ones that are the most comfortable are those that can stretch out or be tied to fit. My bump isn’t that big so this has been working for me thus far!

Crop Tops just because you’re a mama-to-be doesn’t mean you can’t show skin and have fun with your wardrobe. I love crop tops! They work really well for my petite frame and the fact that they stop right before the bump/waist allows you to purchase you’re regular size (if your boobs haven’t become humongous).

Empire Waist/Baby Doll Dresses this style is everywhere at the moment and I’m loving how feminine and girly it is! I always feel so pretty and SO comfortable when wearing a baby doll dress. They are simple grab, throw on and look put together items! You don’t have to think much about your outfit. Go for styles that have an empire waist rather than a cinched waist.

Graphic Tees I could live in graphic tees for the rest of my life. They are a great staple item to wear with midi skirts or pants and they are SO versatile! An oversize graphic tee is just as comfy as it is stylish. Stock up!

Flowy Maxi/Midi Dresses this goes hand in hand with the baby doll dresses but a flowy maxi dress puts me in the best mood! I tend to cover up my legs because I just don’t like them so this is a great way to do so without feeling confined. Go for boho styles or slip dresses! It’s literally like wearing a gorgeous tent over your body 🙂