Just about every woman is familiar with the sad-sack clothing that awaits when her waistline begins to swell with pregnancy. We’ve all seen the muumuu-like tent-dresses and acid-washed jeans with the stretchy waistband; it’s enough to give a fashion-forward mother-to-be nightmares. But getting pregnant doesn’t mean you have to give up on looking stylish for the next nine months. In fact, the market for maternity clothes is pretty much in step with what’s going on in the everyday fashion industry, so that you can find clothing to fit every need, whether you’re looking for eveningwear, business attire, or even organic fabrics. Of course, you will have to account for the baby bump, but there’s no reason a little extra bulge should stop you from being stylish.

Interestingly, trends in maternity clothes these days tend toward the tight. This is not to say that you’ll have to squeeze into structured pants, tops, and blazers that squeeze you uncomfortably. Quite the opposite, in fact. The arrival of stretchy, soft, jersey-knit fabrics onto the clothing scene has made it possible for expectant mothers to feel comfortable and confident in every piece of clothing they own, from blouses to leggings to cardigans. You no longer need to hide your bump away beneath voluminous, pleated dresses. You can now display your baby-on-the-way with pride (and be a lot more comfortable doing it).

So what can you wear if you want to look stylish throughout your pregnancy? Since you’ll only be wearing these items for a few months, you’ll probably want just a few key staples and a couple of nicer accent pieces. Women in warmer climes can easily fill out their wardrobe with some cute sundresses. Wide straps will hide your nursing bra while an empire waist will show off your new figure to the best advantage. Since most women tend to take on extra weight in the lower half during pregnancy, opt for a hemline that hits no higher than the top of your knees to camouflage any areas you may be a little sensitive about showing off. You can also get yourself some leggings, loose gaucho pants, and cardigans in jersey knit, just for cover-ups. To balance things out, wear loose pants with tighter tops and vice versa – don’t go all baggy or all tight.

Women who live in colder areas have options, as well. Although you are probably already outfitted with a wide array of stretchy sweaters (which should serve you well for at least the early months of pregnancy), you might want to pick up a few long-sleeved undershirts (your body temperature may seem to increase as your pregnancy progresses, so sweaters might be too much, even if it’s cold). You can also find a wide variety of fashionable blouses for the office or evenings out that will keep you comfortable and looking great. As for your bottom half, most maternity stores carry a variety of stretch jeans (with different washes and cuts), slacks, and leggings. And don’t feel like you can’t wear heels if you want to. Many women continue to wear heels, boots, and a variety of fashionable shoes throughout their pregnancy (you don’t have to clomp around in Uggs or Crocs for the next several months).

Finally, consider accenting your outfits with a few key pieces of jewelry to complete your look. And make the effort to fix your hair, put on a five-minute face, and keep up with your manicures. Even if you’re tired, you’re going to feel better when you’re looking your best; and there’s absolutely no reason you can’t look fantastic while you’re pregnant!

Sarah Danielson writes for tshirtprinting.net where you can design your own custom clothing at affordable prices.