Is that Leopard Print? Rawr.

Hey Guys!!! 

So I am working on composing a part 4 for my "What to Expect" series, but, because it's going to be all about dressing a huge prego belly, I figure I should get a little bit more experience with that before I share my infinite wisdom with you all (yes, that whole "infinite wisdom" thing was sarcastic).

While I'm off growing a huge belly and getting frustrated beyond belief trying to clothe myself, I wanted to document some of the maternity outfits that have (and have not) worked for me. Unless otherwise noted, I am not wearing maternity clothing. I have made it a goal to get through this pregnancy without buying an entire closetful of maternity clothing.

I'm doing this in the hopes that I can help myself and others find ways to still look halfway decent while feeling like a beached whale without spending hundreds of dollars on stretchy shirts and granny jeans.

If there's a piece that I've worn on the blog pre-pregnancy, I will have a link to that post to show how versatile different items in your closet can be.

So without further ado... Here's outfit numero uno (worn at 26 weeks, six days).

shirt TJ Maxx cardigan ?? skirt&belt F21 (also worn pre-pregnancy here) shoes four star bag Gordman's

It's pretty obvious that this is not an "I'm going to go run errands all day" outfit; instead, it's something nice to wear to work or church.

Pros: The fact that my skirt is pulled up above my bump hides the fact that my shirt is too small to cover my belly. If you have "flowy" skirts with elastic waistbands, use them to your advantage! Pull those puppies up to your boobs, slap on a belt, and call it good - it accentuates your bump and hides the fact that your normal clothes are too small. WIN.

Cons: After being on my feet for a couple of hours, I was done with those shoes. I wouldn't mind wearing them if I was just going to sit all day, but I would definitely take a pass on the four inch heels if you're going to be standing for more than an hour or two (can I get a DUH from all you ladies out there? thanks).

The Verdict: I'd wear this again... and again... and again. This outfit was extremely comfortable - I didn't feel restricted in my own movement at all and baby had plenty of room to move around. I felt a little less like a beached whale and a little more like a hot mama-to-be.

**linking up here.