Eco-friendly Maternity Products Paola KS

Sure, it was exciting (in an Alien-eqsue sort of way) to be growing another human being inside of me, but I found the most fascinating part of being pregnant to be my ever-morphing figure. As a woman who was always light on curves, I never quite tired of greeting that increasingly bodacious woman in the mirror each morning. Finally, I had boobs! I had a butt! And a basketball-sized stomach. But just because I appreciated my new shape, didn’t mean that I wanted to walk around looking like a house covered in an extremely large sheet. I had fashion standards that would not be compromised by impending mammahood.

I found most maternity clothes to be stodgy and unflattering—designed for conservative types who thought it was actually possible to hide the growing bowling ball under your shirt. (It’s not). But I also discovered that there are a handful of maternity designers out there who encourage a pregnant woman to tastefully show off her bump. And when they couldn’t be found, I choose non-maternity brands cut to accommodate an ever-expanding middle.

These are some of the preggy looks I’m digging right now:

Belabumbum understands a woman’s form whether she’s with child or not. For years I’ve tucked myself into the company’s luxurious underthings and am thrilled to find that they’ve got a solid maternity line as well. The Blossom Chemise ($71.50) is a flattering, hip way to get dressed without showing too much (or too little). Bamboo fabric—enhanced with a splash of spandex—helps to control moisture (i.e. sweat) and a crisscrossed bodice and back provides essential support.

The queen of maternity strikes again with an organic cotton take on the shift dress ($24.99). Liz Lange’s version of this classic cut provides enough room to stay comfortable all day while remaining pulled together for that second trimester lunch meeting or dinner date. And this one can be dressed up or down with a flashy accessory or a casual pair of shoes.

Outfit yourself with a couple of wrap dresses and you’ll make it through pregnancy without ever visiting the maternity section. Mission Playground’s Willow Dress ($64) will take you from your first glance at the pregnancy test (OMG!) to the day you give birth. Made entirely from organic cotton, this dress will expand with you.

Another non-maternity maternity item that will accompany you throughout pre...