Q&A about individual items, ensembles, and wardrobe

Ask Angie: Work appropriate maternity tops

As I get ready to enter my 3rd trimester, I'm feeling I need some inspiration for smarter tops that will cover the huge belly. Until now I've been able to wear non-maternity tops, but that is changing. A lot of what I see out there seems to be lower quality knits and they just feel casual on their own. It's still too hot to layer and I really hate to buy tops that are purely for layering. Any ideas? Even just a few examples will take me a long way, I'm sure.

P.S. I've got both IO woven options and wear them almost every week. These are what I feel most fab in.

The latest reply was from Sarah . You can follow further contributions to the conversation through the RSS 2.0 feed.


8 Replies

Posted 2 months ago

Do you think you've grown out of regular sized banded tops? How about regular sized empire cut tops? You need to go shopping with Ana and Sarah at Anthropologie and UO. Let’s bring out a bit more of your earthy side.

Posted 2 months ago

My regular banded bottom tops are barely stretching over the belly at this point-- there's tension in the fabric so I think it's about time to put them aside. Empire cut tops that are closer to tunic length would work but I'm sure regular length ones would not quite cut it.

Posted 2 months ago

Great! Try a few knitted empire tunics from Anthropologie.

I feel that knits against your bod are best at the moment. They cling to your curves and prevent the dreaded “woven curtain effect” against your bump. Does that make sense?

Have you tried a Pea in the Pod?

Posted 2 months ago

I'm up for an Anthro trip. :)

Posted 2 months ago

Patience - I would love to see what you are able to find at Anthro. I will soon be in your position, and need all the ideas that I can get.

Posted 2 months ago

Urban Outfitters has some nice knit tunics in stock right now. I would definitely be up for a "Patience Maternity Shopping Trip!" :D

Posted 2 months ago

I will stick with the knits. I had a feeling that was the way to go. I just want them to be smart and last till the end. In October I'll probably feel more comfortable layering. I did just order a couple of Susana Monaco tops. I know they'll be stretchy enough; I'm just crossing my fingers they will be long enough.

Ana and Sarah, I'm game too. Maybe in the next couple of weeks? This week is really busy and Matt is out of town.

Posted 2 months ago

Just say the word. :)

Posted 2 months ago