third trimester bump style: one dress three ways
(Affiliate Links --> ) Dress: Target • Kimono: Zulily (old) - but I love this one from Forever 21 • T-Shirt: Target
Let's talk dressing the bump. Throughout the first trimester I rely on flowing tops and belly bands to hide my growing belly. When the second trimester hits, I enjoy seeing how long I can make regular clothes stretch, while mixing them with comfortable maternity clothes. By the time I enter the third trimester, though, my bump is testing even the stretchiest of maternity clothes, so I'm looking for ways to change up the few outfits that still fit and are somewhat flattering.
I'm only 5'4 with a short torso, so there is nowhere for the belly to go but straight out! This can be a challenging silhouette to dress, and anything that is not form-fitting becomes tent-like, and makes me look 10 times bigger than I already am! That means I stick with ruched dresses and tops, and skinny jeans or leggings.
Since there are only 9 weeks left in this pregnancy, I'm apprehensive about spending more money on maternity clothes, but the majority of what I already own is meant for a Minnesota winter, since we moved to Florida right at the end of my second pregnancy. The solution for me is to add a few pieces here and there, like shorts and tank tops, but being as creative as possible with the clothes I already own by finding different ways to style them.
I stocked up on a few of these Target dresses when they were on sale, and it was the best purchase of my life! Here are 3 ways I have been styling this super comfortable tank dress.
1. The Knotted Tee
This is such a fun way to get some use out of my non-maternity shirt. I have a few v-necks in a size large that I bought when I was postpartum with my second baby, and they worked perfectly for this look! I just used a ponytail holder to tie it up above the bump, but I'm sure there's a more elegant way to do it.
2. Boho Chic
This lightweight kimono is the perfect coverup for humid Florida weather. I like that it's an alternative to a more formal cardigan. Even though I am a teacher, doesn't mean I always want to dress like one! I paired this with a wrap bracelet, but I could see it with a few long layered necklaces or a bracelet stack.
3. Date Night
I actually just love this dress all on its own for a warm evening out on the town. A long necklace and a pair of wedges dresses this up and makes the look feel more feminine during a time when you're feeling so large and uncomfortable. Now we just need to get a date night on the books and recruit a babysitter so we can enjoy these last few weeks before our world is turned upside down.
Getting dressed up, accessorizing, and making sure my hair and makeup are done play a huge role in feeling confident and put together during the third trimester. I'm doing my best to enjoy these last few weeks instead of feeling self-conscious about how big my bump is looking in everything I wear. I'm happy, active, and carrying a healthy growing boy - and that is truly a gift!
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