Frump-Free Friday: Balancing Your Bump

When our stylists are working with a client in our store, you will typically hear us talk about "balance."  Many women (pregnant and non) ignore the laws of balance when they put their ensembles together, which almost always results in a frumpy or disheveled look.  Achieving some balance in your daily dress is simple:  when you select a piece that is heavy or bulky on top (e.g., a giant, comfy sweater, a tunic, or a layered jacket and shirt), select something slim on bottom (e.g., fashion tights, a legging, slim skirt, or a skinny or slim-fit trouser), and vice versa.  The trick is achieving balance, while playing to your body type or best assets.

This week, we've put together a look that's flattering on many different body types and that is easily adaptable to others.  Here's the look undressed:

When our stylists are working with a client in our store, you will typically hear us talk about "balance."  Many women (pregnant and non) ignore the laws of balance when they put their ensembles together, which almost always results in a frumpy or disheveled look.  Achieving some balance in your daily dress is simple:  when you select a piece that is heavy or bulky on top (e.g., a giant, comfy sweater, a tunic, or a layered jacket and shirt), select something slim on bottom (e.g., fashion tights, a legging, slim skirt, or a skinny or slim-fit trouser), and vice versa.  The trick is achieving balance, while playing to your body type or best assets.

This week, we've put together a look that's flattering on many different body types and that is easily adaptable to others.  Here's the look undressed:

1. Ripe Maternity tunic ($95) (see photo below for true color).  We love that this tunic battles frump by creating an empire (rather than a boxy) silhouette; it hugs the chest and balloons at the belly, but finishes with a banded bottom.  The pleats at the waist add a gentle feminine accent to your bump.  Genius!

2. Striped modal tee ($40).  A print or pattern under the tunic is an easy way to add some flare without overdoing it.  We love Cotton Glam's modal striped tee with side ruching because it's a versatile piece that you could add to this, or any other, look throughout your pregnancy and beyond.

3. Coin drop necklace ($30).  Because the tunic features a cowl neck, a long piece to drape the neck is best.  We chose Towne & Reese's "Julianna" necklace that features textured matte silver coins.

4. Our top-selling Seraphine seamless legging ($24; also available in dark gray).  These leggings never disappoint!  A quality legging with a great handle and fabulous stretch.  Feel free to live in them throughout your pregnancy!

"Balance" in action with the Ripe tunic and Seraphine legging:

T.G.I.F.!  -xoxo