Does this scenario sound familiar? --You are pregnant and trying to figure out what to wear. Your local mall has maternity clothes but they are downright frumpy. Friends tell you to just buy one size larger for a while, but you don't want to buy clothes you can only wear for a few weeks and you don't want to buy clothes one size larger because it's so depressing! Besides, you want to look pregnant, not fat! Well if this situation rings a bell, here are a few maternity fashion picks to flatter your changing shape and stretch with you in style.



JKU's Elbow Sleeve top is perfect for all seasons. This maternity top comes in coral and chocolate colors with an ivory colored trim around the pretty neckline as well as ivory lace accents on the sleeve trim. As the name implies, the sleeves hit just above the elbow which dresses it up a bit and makes it super versatile for Spring, Summer and Fall. This maternity top hugs your curves with a soft and stretchy rayon/spandex blend fabric that will expand where needed and also spring back into shape after wash and wear. Check out some of JKU Maternity's other top and dress styles for some more great looks for maternity.

Japanese Weekend is another great brand to look at for versatile styles that you can dress up or down. A personal favorite is their Cross Over Top that can be worn for both maternity and afterwards for nursing or transition wear. This maternity top is so clever in its design that it really does flatter for both maternity and beyond. It offers a pretty V neckline that can even be layered with a tank if desired and the ¾ sleeves makes it perfect for all seasons. The cross over design offers secret nursing access without anyone ever imagining that it is a nursing top. The super stretchy fabric hugs your pregnancy curves and literarily stretches with you as your tummy expands while not stretching out of shape. This top comes in over 8 colors and a few prints as Japanese Weekend continues to bring it out each season due to customer demand. Many women purchase several colors of this style as it is so versatile.

When you are pregnant, there is no substitute for a great pair of jeans that you can throw on any day of the week and that fit comfortably throughout your pregnancy. There are many maternity jean brands out there and, to make matters more confusing, maternity jeans come at virtually at every price point. If you are willing to pay a little more while getting your money's worth, check out Maternal America's denim collection. A great idea is the Maternal America's Pintuck Jeans. This is a full length straight leg jean with a slimming front crease that actually make your legs look skinny and a 4 pocket design. These jeans hug your figure and stretch to mold to your changing shape. The best part of these jeans is the comfortable wide elastic waistband that fits around your lower belly and actually stays on you like a glove. There is nothing worse than a pair of maternity jeans that either constricts your belly or feels like they are about to slide off every time you move and as your belly expands! If you are looking for a shorter jean for summer, check out Maternal America's Capri jean with a very similar fit as well as their Frayed Crop Jeans for an edgier distressed look.

If you are looking for something you can wear both before and after pregnancy, take a look at Majamas Sleepy Dress and Cozy Dress. Both of these tank style dresses that hit above the knee are made for nursing and will also fit early and middle trimesters for most women. These dresses are so comfortable and stretchy that you can wear them for sleepwear and loungewear or even dressed up and out on the town for any occasion. They are a simple pull over the head without any snaps, buttons or ties. This season Majamas has made these classic favorites in a pretty twilight and cocoa solid as well as standard black.

The main tip to maternity shopping is to simply cover your bases with a few good basics that you can mix and match and that feel wonderful on. Maternity clothing that doubles for transition wear and has good stretch and comfort is always a good investment for longer term wear and versatile fit. Also, remember to buy clothing that you really like because you will feel much better wearing styles that flatter your changing shape rather than clothing that simply covers your baby bump. Pregnancy is a special time in your life, so live it up and enjoy your style!