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5 Tips for Your Maternity Wardrobe

11 Feb

I’m almost half-way through my fifth pregnancy, which means that maternity attire has been much on my mind.

Although I’ve been through this several times before, the challenge of building a comfortable and cute pregnancy wardrobe is still a bit tricky. I have a number of pieces I’ve picked up over the years, but I have to re-evaluate every time because styles change, my weight/shape changes, and some things have just gotten plain old worn out. 

Even though it can be a little tough to build a maternity closet, it’s been a challenge that I’ve really enjoyed each pregnancy, and am finding that I’m excited to modify this time around as well. I get asked fairly regularly for maternity clothing ideas, so I thought I’d write a blog post with some of my favorite tips that have been helpful through the years. 

1. Buy Second-Hand

Maternity clothes usually have a much higher baseline price tag than non-maternity clothing. So usually the first places I’ll look are my favorite second-hand stores. Because maternity clothes don’t get worn for very long, they are usually in really good condition. It can be hit-or-miss because the options aren’t as varied, but I’ve found some incredible bargains that have lasted through most/all of my pregnancies (like the $100 shirt I found on clearance for $1). 

One of the first places I usually look is Clothes Mentor. They have these around the U.S., and have a high standard for what clothes they choose to re-sell (in both condition and brands). I also look on Poshmark, which is an online store where you purchase from individual sellers. This takes a little bit of patience and some care about who you’re buying from (you also can’t make returns), but it usually gives you lots of options. ThredUp is another online store, and there’s always Good Will. 

One last thought: I’ve found second-hand shopping is also an easier way to find styles that you like that aren’t “in.” This is particularly helpful when thinking about modesty. For example, I’ve found some bermuda-length shorts on Poshmark (which I generally feel more comfortable in) for a super good price when I couldn’t find them in any stores. 

2. Use layers

This is especially helpful during colder months, but can sometimes be modified for warmer weather. I have a number of shirts that start fitting a bit snugly as I expand, and I don’t always like they look (especially in the back where my pants fit more tightly). I’ve found that putting a cardigan or vest over the top helps hide some of those things and gives me a more put-together look. In the summer I have some sleeveless sweaters that I’ll wear in the same way, and these really come in handy postpartum to wear over nursing tank tops or camisoles.

It can also be a little tricky to figure out necklines, especially as your upper body changes (if you know what I mean ;)). Wearing a scarf can help with both a low or tight neckline, or having some maternity camisoles (or regular ones that you’re ok with stretching) that are a bit higher. Ross often carries great maternity camisoles that are very reasonably priced.

3. Modify Non-Maternity Clothes

Not everything will work as you grow, especially pants and fitted tops. But every pregnancy I’ve had fun figuring out what non-maternity clothes I have that can be modified, or looking for inexpensive pieces that I can buy and wear even after the baby comes. 

This time around I’m really enjoying elastic waist skirts worn above my bump. Finding a maxi or midi skirt that is pleated or has tulle-like fabric is usually going to be a bit more flowy, therefore accommodating the tummy quite well. You can also tie button-up shirts right above the bump (which looks really cute with the skirts), adding some simple style to an otherwise basic outfit. I also am a huge fan of blazers for when you need/want to dress a bit nicer. You can even throw it on over jeans and a plain top, dressing up an otherwise very casual outfit. Some non-maternity tops and dresses that are empire waist also work really well as maternity clothes. My favorite non-maternity pick this time around has been oversized sweaters since they are both long and comfortable. 

If you’re lacking inspiration, it can be helpful to take a look somewhere like Pinterest. I’ve gotten several fun ideas from there that have helped me think outside the box (Here’s a link to my inspiration board).

4. Invest in Good Basics

I try not to spend a whole bunch on maternity clothes, but one thing I will usually pay a bit more for is maternity pants. It’s way better to have 2 or 3 more expensive pairs that fit really well than a whole bunch of cheap ones that don’t. This often means I have to buy them new. It’s way easier to find tops that fit well than bottoms, so if you’re going to splurge I would suggest splurging there. 

Dress made by my very talented sister, Laurel

Since everyone has a different fit and maternity sizes can be a bit wonky it’s always good if you can try them on (which I know some stores aren’t allowing right now). Most places will allow returns whether you get them in-store or online if trying them on isn’t an option. 

Here are a few brands that I have either tried or I have heard good things about from others.

  • Gap Maternity
  • Isabel Maternity by Ingrid and Isabel
  • Loft Maternity
  • Old Navy Maternity
  • Pink Blush
  • H&M

Also, if you’re like me, having a few staple tops (long or short sleeved depending on the season) that you can dress up or down or accessorize can be very helpful. That way you can mix-and-match outfits more easily. 

5. Add Accessories

I’m naturally an accessories girl, but I’ve found that I particularly enjoy them during pregnancy. They are an easy way to add some fun to an outfit, especially when you’re tired or achy or struggling with the size changes in your body. 

Consider wearing a hat or cute headband. Add a pair of statement earrings or a unique necklace. Thin belts can be really fun, too, since they also add some shape to larger shirts and fit nicely above the bump. Just adding one of these to an outfit can go a long way in helping us feel like we’re a touch more ready for the day. 


There you have it! I hope something here was helpful for you. 

I have one last word of encouragement. Remember, God cares about the small details of our lives, even picking out our maternity wardrobe. I have watched Him provide for me in wonderful and unexpected ways as I’ve sought to honor Him and be wise in the way I spend my money. Take this area of your expectant life to Him, and trust that He will give creativity and provision when it is needed.

In my book Expectant I have a section dedicated to talking about my mindset behind how I dress and care for my body, and I want to leave you with a thought from there. 

“I am not advocating that you go out and spend hundreds of dollars on an expensive maternity wardrobe, and I’m not trying to pressure you into a certain style of dress. What I am gently encouraging, though, is that during this season of pregnancy you carefully consider how you can dress in such a way that brings glory to God, displaying to this world that every aspect of who you are, both inside and out, is consecrated to the King of the universe.” 

Your friend,

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My middle-little sister, Holly, has spent the past My middle-little sister, Holly, has spent the past 6+ months in our house fam. There’s a 7 year age difference between us, so when I got married she was just entering her teen years. She lived across the world from me for a good part of the next decade, so when she decided to move up our way for a while I was thrilled. Spending hours of up-close, in-person time together has been a precious gift. Having siblings that become some of your dearest friends is, I’m discovering, one of the greatest joys of adulthood.

Now she’s off to the next chapter. I know God’s going to continue to use her to bless others in significant ways, just as she’s blessed us—this servant-hearted, joy-filled sister of mine. I’m so grateful for you, @holly_sprenger.
As I watch the happenings in this world I have an As I watch the happenings in this world I have an ever-increasing ache—a yearning—to be known first and foremost by my allegiance to Jesus Christ.

As I read headlines, hot takes, opinions, debates between fellow believers—praying and seeking to learn and discern—I’m more certain than ever that being a Christian frees us from being defined by or confined to earthly labels in our stances on any given issue. We’re free to champion what God champions, to despise what God despises regardless of how it might be viewed by those around us or what political lines it might cross. We’re free to love those who differ from us, and yes, even free to love those who do us wrong. 

I have strong opinions and thoughts about certain issues—no doubt about it. I disagree with certain thoughts or opinions fellow believers hold. But what I want those brothers and sisters to know about me *first* is that I love them, not how I might disagree with them. Yes, there’s a place to discuss, to sharpen one another, to exhort and encourage, to warn and even to rebuke at times when we see fellow believers straying from Christ. But the world is supposed to know us by our love for each other, not our debates and conflicts. This should temper the “what,” “how,” and “when” of every conversation. 

Some of us are called to stand more publicly against certain evils and injustices than others. We should expect the best of those who aren’t doing or saying exactly what we’re doing or saying (*especially* if we’re defining them by their lack of words on social media. There are faithful Christians who will never say a word about current issues online, but are obeying in word and deed in their in-person spheres). That said, this should *never* be used as an excuse to neglect the actions and words that every Christ-follower must be marked by according to Scripture. And when we find ourselves hesitating to obey any of God’s commands due to another allegiance something needs to change.

Lord, may your people be defined not by causes, but by Christ; not by worldly labels, but by you alone.
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#lookingtoJesus #thegospelchangeseverything #Christcenteredwomanhood
I’ve been thinking about my little fuchsia plant I’ve been thinking about my little fuchsia plant the past few days. I snipped and propagated it from a stunning outdoor hanging plant we had a couple years ago after it scorched in the intense CO sun. After weeks of daily watching I finally saw the roots appear, and replanted it. Fuchsia is special to me, because it’s one of the plants that beautified our windowsills in Mongolia throughout our years there. I love having one in our home.

Recently, though, did a little trimming of this plant. I noticed there were a couple of overly flourishing sprigs; they were so long they were keeping the little plant from filling out. So, as much as I hated to do it, I clipped them off. To my delight, brand new leaves began appearing within days all over the plant.

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And guess what? Those clipped offshoots are sitting in a jar in the kitchen, waiting to sprout new roots. They aren’t gone forever, just being prepped to produce life rather than zap it. Sometimes branches do need to be clipped and tossed. Other times they just need to be propagated—waiting for new roots to grow so they can grow and flourish at the right time in the right way.

“Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:2
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#lookingtoJesus #plants #Christcenteredwomanhood #fuchsia #ponderings #lessonseverywhere
//Well, it’s all an adventure That comes with a //Well, it’s all an adventure
That comes with a breathtaking view
Walking a tightrope
With you//

The incredible @frostedphotographer took some headshots for us, and she said, “Do you want to snap a few together?” Yes, please. 😍😍😍

Forever thankful for the gift of a life adventure with this man.
//Summer and winter and springtime and harvest, Su //Summer and winter and
springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon, and stars in their
courses above,
Join with all nature in 
manifold witness
to Thy great faithfulness,
mercy, and love//
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#greatisthyfaithfulness #lookingtoJesus #springtime
“Being like Jesus” will never contradict the r “Being like Jesus” will never contradict the rest of Scripture.

Several times as of late I’ve read or heard examples of people using stories of Jesus from the gospels to back up an argument about accepting sin of some kind. They say that if His followers are going to be like Him they need to follow His example—His example by their interpretation, that is.

But the narratives told of Jesus in the Gospels will *never* contradict the specific commands Christ-followers are given in the rest of the New Testament. Jesus never justified a sin we’re commanded to repent of. A sinful attitude never laced His words, no matter how matter-of-fact His rebukes were. Jesus is the Word made flesh. He will never go against His character or commands for His people.

We can be hard-line on sin while being gentle and kind. We can show compassion without compromising truth. We can be loving while holding fast to biblical convictions. We can, and we must.

Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Changing Him in any way for our own gain—whether that’s for fleshly gratification or out of fear of others—is making a Jesus in our image. This is a Jesus who cannot save. 

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“Only God Himself fully appreciates the influenc “Only God Himself fully appreciates the influence of a Christian mother in the molding of character in her children.” 
-Billy Graham

I know without a doubt this is true of my mom. This side of heaven I’ll have no idea what depths her godly influence and faithfulness has had upon me as a wife, mom, and woman in any sphere. I will never forget her telling us, “I’m so thankful I get to spend my days with you.” To have the assurance we were loved and enjoyed on top of all she did for our physical needs was a priceless gift. And, as I prepared to enter into adulthood she not only mentored me, but invited me into friendship with her. There aren’t words to sum up that kind of honor.

Happy Mother’s Day, Mom. Thank you for being willing to love and follow Jesus in whatever He’s asked of you. There is nothing greater you could’ve given to us. I love you.
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