Transition Into Cooler Weather With These Essential Maternity Pieces

Fall is upon us, which means cooler temperatures and changing scenery (depending on where you live, of course!). Being pregnant throughout season changes can be expensive due to the fact that most people don't have extra large tops, jackets, and expanding waistband pants in varying levels of warmth just lying around the house. But we've found a few simple solutions to help you make the most of your existing wardrobe that will allow you to comfortably transition into fall weather and early winter. 

Leggings - This is no secret, of course, but it's worth repeating: leggings/stretch pants/yoga pants are your friend in pregnancy. You should be able to get away with non-maternity leggings, depending on the style of the waistband. If it's a high rise waist, scrunch it down below your belly. If the waist band cuts in tight, it may be too uncomfortable to wear in pregnancy.  

Cardigans - These will be your fall favorites in pregnancy! Short or long, open or button-down -- cardigans allow you to layer over short sleeved shirts and can provide belly coverage over non-maternity shirts. 

Long tops - Tunics, aka "long shirts," are almost always in, which is great news for your pregnancy wardrobe. As long as the top has some give/stretch to it, it should be able to work well through the middle to late part of pregnancy.

Stretch tops - Non-maternity tops with stretch and ruching are great for pregnancy! At some point, they will start to slide up onto your belly and you will want to either incorporate a long undershirt or maternity undershirt. 

Summer dresses - You don't have to pack away your summer dresses when fall hits! Layer a long-sleeved shirt underneath or wear a cardigan on top and pair with leggings or maternity pants.  

Jacket extender - If you have a fall or winter jacket that just won't fit over the belly when zipped up, consider purchasing a jacket extender. These clever little contraptions fit with your existing jacket to give you the fit you need to stay warm throughout the colder seasons. 

Maternity winter vest - If you're able to borrow or purchase a maternity sized winter vest/puffy vest, it can be a great option to keep you warm by wearing underneath a non-maternity jacket that won't zip up. 

Poncho/cape/shawl - If you have one of these already in your closet, it's going to be great for your fall pregnancy needs. Ponchos know no size restrictions, so you can continue to wear it throughout your pregnancy. 

Layering - Cooler weather is always best weathered (ha!) by layering clothes. This is also true in pregnancy - layer and mix maternity wear with non-maternity wear to get the most out of your existing wardrobe and save you money. 

What works best for you in pregnancy during the cooler months?