Does the thought of maternity clothing conjure up images of moo-moos and baby-doll styles gone bad? If so, it's time to take a second look at sleek silhouettes for the mom-to-be!  Maternity wear has changed dramatically over the last few years – in fact, you may find it easier to be on trend during your pregnancy than before you had a bun in the oven!  These styles are so cute, you'll want to wear them regardless of whether or not you're expecting (and you can – I promise no one would ever guess).

The key to building a versatile maternity wardrobe is similar to building your regular wardrobe: start with the basics and sprinkle in trendier pieces and accessories to vary your look.  Your accessories will fit throughout the course of your pregnancy, and while your shoes may get a little tight, any excuse to purchase footwear is always a welcomed one!

As you begin to show toward the end of your first trimester, I highly recommend purchasing at least one BellaBand (available at Isis Maternity + other specialty stores nationwide, $26-$28).  This simple yet brilliant invention will keep you "covered" throughout your pregnancy and beyond via the look of a layered tank.

When even a BellaBand can't make your beloved pre-pregnancy jeans fit comfortably, it's time to invest in a pair made just for moms-to-be. Many premium denim designers now offer chic maternity styles, so you may not need to separate from your favorite brand for 9 months!  Skip the concealed stretch waistbands as they won't last you very long, and opt for styles with a panel made to smooth and support your stomach.

If you like to wear jeans almost every day, pick up three pairs that will cover all your bases: a dirty blue wash for casual daytime occasions (below, left: 7 for all mankind, $185, A Pea in the Pod), a light blue hue for more polished but informal events (below, center: Citizens of Humanity, $180, Nordstrom) and a dark wash to dress up on down with ease (below, right: Paige Premium, $185, Nordstrom).

Show off your bump by choosing fun and flirty maternity tops that skim your curves!  Maternal America will keep you cozy and chic in their puff-sleeve sweater (below, left: Maternal America, $98, Nordstrom). Liz Lange for Target plays up colors and patterns with her chiffon floral tunic (below, center: Liz Lange, $19.99, Target). Momzee offers a flutter sleeve top made of silk that's both sexy and sweet (below, right: Momzee, $50.40, Momzee.com).  Flattering maternity tops are an easy item to find at every price point, so be sure to shop boutique sales and big-box stores alike.

If your lifestyle requires more business appropriate attire, there are plenty of chic options available.  From menswear-inspired stripes (below, left: $78, A Pea in the Pod) to tie-back tunics (below, center: $84, Due Maternity) to pintucked tops (below, right: Gap Maternity, $34.99), designers have finally realized that pregnancy doesn't always equate to life away from the office.

Versatile dresses are perhaps the best pieces to invest in when you're pregnant.  Not only do they easily accommodate layering (for those spur-of-the-moment hot flashes), but they are perfect for work, 'mocktail' parties, and all the special occasions that arise.  I have been a fan of the Pouch dress (below, left: $150, PouchMom.com) for some time.  It can be worn 6+ distinct ways that fit and flatter with or without a pregnant belly!  Maternal America's tie-front dress (below, center: Maternal America, $120, Blossom Maternity) is sleek and sophisticated for virtually any occasion.  The Gap adds a modern print to the mix with their drop-waist dress (bottom, right: $44.99, Gap.com).  Wear it with heels and a fitted jacket to work, or boots and a slouchy cardigan on the weekend.

Enjoy shopping for chic maternity must-haves and remember to embrace your growing curves!

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On another note, this will be my last post in the Stylist Studio!  I have loved every moment spent crafting my weekly articles and hope you'll continue to read as I transition to my new monthly feature column – 'Ask Ally!'  Each month I'll dish style advice that ties back to what Running With Heels is all about – the shoes!  If you have fashion questions or would like to know what to wear with your latest footwear find, write to me at allison@polishedadvising.com!

*Stay Stylish*

Ally