Think your next nine months are going to be spent trying to find anything half decent to wear? Think again. You can thank Liz Lange for bringing quality fashion to the maternity masses. An editor at Vogue ten years ago, Lange had her "aha" moment when every friend she had seemed to be pregnant and complaining about the lack of good choices.
"I asked myself, 'Why can't maternity clothing be fitted and fashionable?'" says Lange, whose answer has resulted in her popular Target line, which marries great textiles and cuts with a budget-savvy price point.
Lange pulled together a wardrobe of maternity essentials for us—five staples and two great alternatives—choosing each piece for its versatility and wearability.
The Basics:
A Great Pair of Jeans
"Denim has become such an important staple in every woman's wardrobe," says Lange, and with brands like Paige, Seven for All Mankind, Joe's Jeans and J Brand now providing maternity styles, you can find the perfect fit for you. Lang adds, "If you're going to buy one pair, go for a dark wash—those can be worn to the office, and dressed up or down." Not a jeans person? Consider wide–leg trousers for a polished, but easy look.
A Little Black Dress
Or not so little as the case may be. "The style is up to you," says Lange, adding that every woman knows what will flatter her unique build, whether that's a sleeveless style that shows off toned arms or a deep v-neck for pretty décolletage. Look for an item that you can throw a cardigan over for the office andwear with kitten heels for a party.
Smart Black Pants
"Most women live in one pair of black pants, even when they're not pregnant," Lange says. This is going to be your go-to pant for everything from work meetings to date night. Remember: the cut doesn't need to be dressy, just well proportioned. You're looking for material that stretches but doesn't itch, so pick a cotton blend, a high-tech material (think Prada), or even a tropical weight wool.
A Sweet Cardigan
Before visions of impending Stepford–dom get you hyperventilating, no, we are not talking about the cardigan as defined by the pearl-wearing ladies of the 1950s—we're talking about the single most versatile item in your wardrobe. Throw this on with your pants, jeans miniskirt or dress for that perfect layer. Look for good details: a 3/4 sleeve to show off your wrists, a longer style to camouflage a larger rear, smart buttons or a unique neckline.
An Everyday Blouse
Choose the style that suits you best—whether that's a crisp menswear-inspired button-down, a floaty peasant number, or a sleeveless bib that shows off your arms. Lange suggests one that can be worn on it's own, or belted just above the belly for a little extra definition.
The Extras:
A Print Dress
In terms of versatility and comfort, Lange says, "Your best friend when your pregnant is a dress." For this second dress, have fun with the print and the cut. Look for something with an interesting neckline, an empire waist, or some other fun detailing that makes you excited about putting it on.
The "Asset" Item
Maybe you have cleavage where there was none before. Maybe your limbs are long and lean to counteract a big belly. The truth is, some very attractive curves might become part of your bodily landscape, and it's up to you to show them off. Think about getting a cute mini skirt (Lange's personal favorite), a top with a plunging neckline, or a shell that shows off your biceps. Change can be good!
Next Page: Best Maternity Basics Slideshow
