https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Thu, 04 Jun 2026 05:40:33 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background/page/2#post-636303 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 15:41:35 +0000 Vix 636303@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Hi Scarlet --</p> <p>Congratulations to you and Mr S and best wishes for a happy, healthy pregnancy!</p> <p>So glad your work situation is settled; a supportive boss goes a long way in any work/life situation and it sounds as if you're off to a great start.</p> <p>I fear in-laws and your "helpful" weight-oriented mother will try your patience, but luckily you have lots of experience living your life for you vs them! </p> <p>Perhaps you can develop some stock lines and repeat as necessary, trying to stay as detached as possible. I'd go for a tally sheet to keep track of all the times you didn't let anyone push your buttons -- reward yourself when you hit X, then start over. ;)</p> <p>ps Looking great from this end. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background/page/2#post-636299 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 15:33:52 +0000 christy 636299@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just ran across this site and thought it might be helpful with ideas for maternity dressing:</p> <p><a href="http://pregnancyfashion.sheknows.com/category/pregnancy-fashion-basics/" rel="nofollow">http://pregnancyfashion.shekno.....on-basics/</a></p> <p>:) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635784 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 21:47:13 +0000 lamireille 635784@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Mega-congratulations, Scarlet! I'm very happy for you and very envious--I think pregnant women look SPECTACULAR and I miss being that shape!</p> <p>However, I also remember the tedium of only having a few clothes to wear over and over and over. When I was pregnant, Target didn't have a maternity section--oh, how I would have loved that! I couldn't find any non-frumpy maternity clothes that were also affordable on a tight budget. Scarves weren't as common an accessory as they are now, at least not where I was living, but that might be a fun and affordable way to mix things up (plus they fit afterwards, too!).</p> <p>But the main reason I'm posting is to tell you about these jeans:<br /> <a href="http://lilacclothing.com/" rel="nofollow">http://lilacclothing.com/</a><br /> I got a pair of their low-rise skinny jeans at Costco a while ago--they were there only temporarily, unfortunately, as one of those outside vendors Costco has sometimes--and they would totally work for you during as well as after pregnancy, because of the knit band they have at the top. Even though they would have worked as maternity jeans, they stay up perfectly well on my non-pregnant waist--and as you can see from their website, they have both pregnant and non-pregnant models.</p> <p>Congratulations again! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635699 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 19:55:53 +0000 christieanne 635699@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just want to add my well wishes and congratulations as you go through this journey. Pregnancy always brings up so many varied reactions in people so be confident in what you and Mr.Scarlet are doing and thinking and planning overall and try not to be sensitive or swayed by "well meaning" family or even strangers who seem to offer advice. </p> <p>On the fashion front - a few items rotated does seem boring I know but truly, you will make do. I do remember this blogger at <a href="http://www.wardrobeoxygen.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.wardrobeoxygen.com</a> who got through the first four months or so postpartum with one pair of black pants, a black skirt and two dresses and blogged her daily fashion. She may still have that in her archives.<br /> I did similar throughout and no, didn't love my body (but you don't have to, just helpful not to obsess on it) with three skirts and two pairs of pants. The bella band trick is so amazing! </p> <p>Transition wear such as leggings or any stretchy fabric is going to be helpful. Join Team UnTuck and maybe a few tops in larger than normal size to account for various changes.<br /> You don't need to plan for nursing wear yet - and some of that isn't comfy with it's extra panels and snaps, etc. in any case. </p> <p>Best wishes and good vibes - come vent and share here and know you have tons of YLF support </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635693 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 19:49:12 +0000 harmonica 635693@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>just wanted to add that I totally understand your concerns about buying baby stuff and nursing clothes at such an early stage! I waited the longest and that's absolutely fine. you don't live high up in a snowcovered mountain without electricity, water and all the modern stuff, you know. you livein germany and can get what you need whenever you need it. even the stroller could be bought after giving birth and the same with the rest. there is very, very little stuff you actually *need* before you actually feel the need </p> <p>very happy for you! be strong and greet support from your trusted ones </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635681 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 19:36:57 +0000 catgirl 635681@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Scarlet, first of all congratulations! Did we know about this? I'm sorry if I missed an earlier posts.</p> <p>I have no words for your mom and sister. People who are unsupportive in that way are toxic to your well-being at this critical time. Honestly, I was more than a little terrified of pregnancy myself, but I have always felt that NOTHING is more beautiful than a pregnant woman's body, and I can tell you I probably looked my best and healthiest during my pregnancy - I was eating and exercising for two. You and your doctor are the only ones who should be thinking about healthy weight gain and other body issues. </p> <p>As far as dressing, a lot of what I wear regularly could work for pregnancy! See my outfit today for an example. Surrendering the waist makes it possible to wear regular clothes as maternity clothes. I only bought a couple of items for work purposes (basic black dress, pants in tan and black) and wore them over and over. I thrifted a bunch of stretchy skirts and wore tunics or oversized shirts and felt fine. Honestly, most people aren't going to notice - they are going to be too busy gushing, asking nosy questions, and trying to touch you all the time (which is what irritated me the most).</p> <p>Seriously, enjoy the nine months ahead of you and ignore the idiots, even the ones related to you. It will be good practice for when the child is born when you'll hear a whole new set of stupid comments about what you should and shouldn't do.</p> <p>Can't wait to follow along with you and your little one-to-be! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635671 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 19:31:52 +0000 Scarlet 635671@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Astrid--funny how "pregnant" is such a loaded word, in English too. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635656 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 19:23:37 +0000 Scarlet 635656@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks, BJ :)</p> <p>Makrame, it sounds like you were so resourceful! I bet an insulated trench a size up is something I could try to thrift. Thanks for the positive outlook.</p> <p>Elisabeth, to be fair they are both quite tall girls and long-waisted if anything, so maybe it was true. Thank you for your honest and wise words. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635655 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 19:23:29 +0000 Astrid 635655@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm glad I could help a bit! I think it's funny how certain terms develop. I guess "Umstandsmode" isn't something I would think of either if this wasn't my mother tongue. From the saying "Sie ist in anderen Umständen" I guess, from a time when it wasn't seemly to mention being pregnant at all. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635644 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 19:07:55 +0000 Aziraphale 635644@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations, Scarlet! Both of my babies were born in November. It's a nice time to have a baby.</p> <p>As far as the maternity clothes go, don't overthink it. It's a very short time in your life. Your body is changing all the time and it's hard to keep up, fashion-wise, I know. I'm petite like you, and my bust swelled considerably during pregnancy, which changed my proportions totally and was, yes, challenging. Also, within two months I could not button any of my pants, even though I'd only gained a few pounds (thank you, short waist) so I can totally commiserate with you! I do have (taller/longwaisted) friends who did wear normal clothing for the first five months or so, so your friends might not by lying. </p> <p>To be honest, I hated my pregnancy shape, although the whole idea of growing a baby in my body was kind of fun (at least the first time around). I just tried to focus on how great it would be to have a baby (it was) and on how everything would go back to normal afterward -- which it did, eventually. There's no law that says you have to love every aspect of pregnancy, although some women do. If you can have fun with fashion while pregnant, then great, and if not, no worries, it won't last long! ;-)</p> <p>Good luck! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635615 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 18:38:45 +0000 Makrame 635615@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations on the big news, Scarlet! I am with those who find pregnant women beautiful, and I am sure you will look great all through your pregnancy.</p> <p>Glad to hear your boss was welcoming of the news! It is nice to have other people with kids at work, since they are often "on the same wavelength" as other working parents. </p> <p>I had very little access to any clothes shopping when I was pregnant, and made do with just a few items (some knit dresses, a very comfy insulated trench my mother had, which was a couple of sizes bigger than my normal size but worked well for my pregnant belly). I think I have repurposed some of my mom's clothes for my maternity wear and I think your idea of using Mr. Scarlet's shirts sounds like fun. I really enjoyed my pregnancy and the first year of baby-dom. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635596 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 18:18:29 +0000 bj1111 635596@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>That is AWESOME news. I love it when women dress to highlight the bump. I find it really alluring and empowering. So I'm all for showcasing your changing bod. Congrats to mrs and mr scarlet </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635595 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 18:17:44 +0000 Scarlet 635595@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Donna, I am so small compared to your average German lady I have been afraid of the second hand stores. There is one close to me that has stylish things in the window. It's worth a shot.</p> <p>ChristyG, thank you! That is exactly how I feel </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635584 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 18:11:26 +0000 Scarlet 635584@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Astrid, thanks a lot for those links. I haven’t searched in German because I find the vocabulary confusing. I overheard someone saying “Umstandsmode” in the store the other day. Never would have guessed that one That is good to know there are actually some boutiques here. Should have assumed that about P’berg, I guess I also didn’t know about Kaufhof. I gave up after looking at other department stores. I can picture the way you describe your cousin’s girlfriend--that is really helpful. I am definitely going to need a big winter coat because I will be enormous by then and I do not want to go cold. No, I do not have a shopping buddy :oD Not even my poor husband, although I usually don’t make him shop.</p> <p>Modgl, thanks for the advice not to buy too much at once and to focus on mix and match capsules. Incredibly after all my time here these are things I really need to be told because I usually shop totally planless.</p> <p>Jules, that is a great point about ligaments. I even feel like I am walking funny. Interesting that you gained a lot of weight quickly and then stayed the same. I guess you are right that there is a wide range of normal. My doctor at least is satisfied with everything. She seems happy if I can think of a complaint so she can finally record “illnesses”. Also that cream looks great! Thanks for the rec. I have been using $$ Weleda because I was worried about chemicals in other brands, but that one looks good.</p> <p>Butterflylady, 20 years ago, wow! Thanks for the reassurance and advice.</p> <p>Traci, that is SO GOOD TO KNOW. I am due in November too, so I am glad I have someone to follow. </p> <p>Mrseccentric (you are such a snappy writer, btw) thank you so much for the good wishes and wise words. Thank heavens I bought myself a sewing machine recently. I will confess I have been eyeing Mr. Scarlet’s things and thinking how I could tweak them. He has this bright orange shirt I really like...</p> <p>Claire, that is just how I felt the first 3 months. Even though I knew I was pregnant it just looked like gaining weight, and not cute, like a bump. Even though I know it is stupid to think like that. I think having a solid bump to show off may actually be easier. I really do need to find a jersey wrap dress. </p> <p>Harmonica, wow you have three! That’s good to know. You must be a pro at this. Thanks for the budgeting advice--sounds very smart. I have never been a good accessorizer, although I have read the advice that they can be really key to maternity style. I guess this is one of the fun aspects where I can push myself to try new things.</p> <p>I am so grateful to all of you for chiming in. I feel SO much better than I did this morning. It really turned my head around, and I have found my can-do attitude again. I was getting so bogged down and frustrated. I even had a nicer conversation with my mother today (initiated by her). I think she is going through her own thing becoming a grandma. Who knows. I am so grateful that I can share my news here and to receive this kindness and encouragement. It is such an oasis, and besides that you all understand my concern about fashion despite all that is happening </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635564 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 18:01:44 +0000 christy 635564@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Super excited for you and Mr. S! </p> <p>I had two major life changes during my pregnancy and can totally relate to the excitement of waiting for baby while dealing with the types of challenges that the universe can throw your way. You'll make it through! Everybody is different, but I found the second trimester was the one where I felt the absolute best and hope the very same for you. It was easier to dress once it was obvious I was pregnant and not just gaining weight and physically I felt better. </p> <p>As far as dressing goes, I found that where you are right now was the most challenging because maternity clothes were just TOO big, but regular clothes didn't fit quite right either. I bought a couple of transition pieces - non-maternity pants and tops in bigger sizes. I didn't really "invest" in many clothes until the maternity clothes started to fit better. </p> <p>I bet you'll find that once your belly really starts to "pop" a bit more (maybe another month or so?), it will become much easier. Wishing you the very best and looking forward to watching your journey!!! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635563 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 18:00:47 +0000 DonnaF 635563@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations! I was so lucky; the best friend of my boss's wife loaned me a ton of work appropriate clothes, and I was able to sew the rest. I only gained 30 pounds, but my basic black maternity skirt did not fit me at the end. It had elastic and no panel; maybe that was the problem. Do your local consignment and thrift stores carry maternity wear?</p> <p>Also, it will take quite awhile (if at all) after the baby is born for your body to return to its pre-pregnancy size. You will be wearing those maternity clothes for months after kiddo is born unless you are a crazy movie star who starves herself to death and works out with her trainer for five hours per day and ignores her poor baby. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635496 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 16:44:20 +0000 harmonica 635496@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations Scarlet! This is really happy and big news You've got several good input here, so I'll try to be short. I've got three kids and the pregnancies were all different. </p> <p>- normal clothes until 5th-6th month! unbelievable - I had problems getting into my trousers within the first month!</p> <p>- parents, in-laws, friends with other opinions - close your ears as well as you can. stick to the ones that you find support in and/or explain your position</p> <p>- maternity clothes or the like: buy less, wear more. Your body will change every months, sometimes from week to week - even a long time after birth (for me, it took at least 1-1,5 year after birth before I became "stable"). I had less clothes than you though three pregnancies, but also got handmedowns from friends. Wash clothes in the evening and use next day was my mantra. And you don't want to wear them after you've done with pregnancy and nursing because they are so immersed with all the baby stuff etc and you want to move on with new clothes. If you have the money, get quality stuff. If you are on budget, get a few cheap items and wear them until they tear ;-), and save for a new start after nursing. Dresses and wrap-dresses are some your best friends as they grow with you. Accessoris can draw the eye away from your body / belly. One good thing is that you are "allowed" to show off your baby belly when pregnant ;-)</p> <p>I wish you all the best! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635494 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 16:39:41 +0000 Anonymous 635494@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations! Good advice here, and maternity links.</p> <p>It's awkward to dress your body before it's obviously pregnant! I had such a hard time with my head when it just looked like I was gaining weight but was not expecting! It's almost easier once you transition into maternity clothes.</p> <p>Until then, may I suggest knit dresses? Follow the guidelines for the apple body shape. Printed wrap dresses may be your best friend and you can wear them after the baby comes as well. I often have to dress ladies who are 5 months or so pregnant (or 3 month post pregnancy) for a job interview and we have almost no maternity clothes in our free boutique. I've found that those jersey knit dresses with ruching at the bust, an empire waist, knots and draping work SO well. A cropped open jacket or cardi on top is magic. </p> <p>You are going to be beautiful all through this pregnancy Scarlet, with glowing skin and shiny, thick hair! Try looking on line at pictures of Hollywood celebrities that are rocking their baby bump to convince your brain that your changing body is a gorgeous, wonderful thing. *big hugs* </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635418 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 14:56:34 +0000 RoseandJoan 635418@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>One final note, I found this cream to be amazing through my pregnancies<br /> <a href="http://www.uk.palmers.com/product/detail.php?ID=43&#038;SID=2" rel="nofollow">http://www.uk.palmers.com/prod.....#038;SID=2</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635408 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 14:46:11 +0000 goldenpig 635408@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Oh I forgot to mention, I used something called a Bella band in the early weeks, before I was big enough for maternity. It's a stretchy band that helps keep your pants in place--you unbutton and put the band over it. You may want to try something similar.</p> <p>I agree with the others--you don't have to buy a whole maternity wardrobe all at once. You have time.</p> <p>And it takes 9 months to put it on and at least 9 months or more to take off the weight. And post baby body is never the same (I turned into an apple), so just look at it as an opportunity to do a wardrobe refresher! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635372 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 14:12:55 +0000 Angie 635372@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You've received super guidance, here. Just chiming in to say congrats! And that we are here for you every pregnant step of the way </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635361 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 13:56:14 +0000 Diana 635361@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm no help but I just wanted to say congrats! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635353 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 13:45:05 +0000 mrseccentric 635353@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>congrats Scarlet and Mr. Scarlet!! 'very exciting time' seems like a bit of an understatement, no? :)</p> <p>"Also everyone (might be a German trait?) emphasizes the possibility of things going wrong so much that it makes one afraid to plan even slightly into the future..." really. But no one focuses on what a mess it is when things go normally and you're in contractions with no nursery, diapers, etc.! Oy! Just do your best to get ready and listen to the people who help you and make you happy and calm, maybe not so much the others.</p> <p>i've never had kids, but have been in the awkward situation of blurting out 'you're pregnant' to ladies who turn green as they hadn't told a soul yet. oops! it's the hormones - like Rose and Joan said, they lengthen your ligaments, change yoru proportions of fat, muscle, bloat and where these sit on your body, etc. You can weigh exactly the same and look totally different because of the changes in your shape. I find the waist generally goes first - all that blood and nourishment going to the uterus, growing a placenta, padding, etc. Also some ladies get those adorable high, round cheeks!</p> <p>You've got great advice on clothing in this thread. I can only add that many ladies i know raid their hubby's closets for big shirts, shorts, cardies, sweaters, etc. Don't worry about looking super stylish - just being pregnant will make most people think you look wonderful. At the same time, it's nice to feel you look good and to have clothes that cheer you up!</p> <p>FWIW, there's a ton of maternity style blogs:</p> <p><a href="http://tinyurl.com/7tgv4da" rel="nofollow">http://tinyurl.com/7tgv4da</a></p> <p>this article on stylish clothes on the cheap looks decent:<br /> <a href="http://www.moneycrashers.com/stylish-cheap-maternity-pregnancy-clothes/" rel="nofollow">http://www.moneycrashers.com/s.....y-clothes/</a></p> <p>they have instructions on how to make your own belly band (very easy!) so you can wear your non-maternity jeans, etc. Could be helpful, esp. if you make them in colors to blend with your pants/skirts.</p> <p>i know it's hard, but try to ignore your unhelpful relatives and the weird voices in your head. It's a shame they can't enjoy the fun, but what can you do.</p> <p>Hang in there!! Have fun, steph </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635349 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 13:32:07 +0000 Traci 635349@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Someone recently linked to B Jones Style and as I was reading through the archives noticed that she is newly pregnant also (due in November) She's already mentioned the difficulties with dressing the changing body. Maybe you can find some inspiration, or atleast commiseration, there.</p> <p><a href="http://www.bjonesstyle.com/blog/" rel="nofollow">http://www.bjonesstyle.com/blog/</a> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635346 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 13:24:52 +0000 ButterflyLady 635346@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations, Scarlet! </p> <p>I can remember (even though my first was born 20 years ago tomorrow!) the challenges of dressing a 'little bit pregnant' body. I found it really hard to cope with not having a bump, but not having a waist either, the adjustment is really tricky, it's like learning to dress all over again!</p> <p>I did find that I could wear 'normal' clothes a size or two bigger for a little while, I didn't need the (what was to me) hugeness of true maternity clothes straight away. Definitely think in capsules because maternity clothes don't get worn out, they get grown out of!</p> <p>Like the others have said, everyone's body is different, and does different things, there is a big range of 'normal'. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635299 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 11:50:49 +0000 RoseandJoan 635299@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have just congratulated you on your other post Scarlet, yes pregnancy is very exciting but also a difficult time as you adjust to the reality of life with a baby. The best advice I received when things felt overwhelming was to concentrate on a day at a time (before you know it the days have turned to weeks and months).</p> <p>ETA with regards to your clothing, please remember your ligaments have relaxed resulting in changes all over your body. </p> <p>With Teah I gained two stone within the first twelve weeks and although my size changed considerably during the last two trimesters the scales hardly altered. With Emmy I barely gained a pound (but was still carrying pregnancy weight from Teah). Every pregnancy is different and there is a huge scale of what is normal so try not to worry. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635289 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 11:23:40 +0000 modgrl 635289@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Scarlet, Congratulations on the big news! I remember your frustration well. My clothes also didn't fit past the second month. I had to buy all new clothes again and again and again. I tried to get some nice in season tops and pants to make a capsule. Don't buy too much at a time because your size will change but buy just enough to hold you over for the season. Something like Angie's capsule wardrobe should work - 5 tops, 3 bottoms and two toppers, so that you can mix and match outfits into many combinations. Keep in mind that as your body changes, you will probably need to buy another capsule for the fall. I found that I had to buy new clothes several times. I also got really huge at the every end. I hated buying new clothes at that time - the last thing I wanted to do was shop and I knew I'd only be wearing the clothes for a few weeks, but I really had no choice as I still had to get dressed every day. I also had a bunch of handmedowns from friends, they helped alot as I was able to have some lounge and on the go options. Usually if you ever get maternity handmedowns, they are in pretty good shape because people don't wear them for too long. Good luck and I hope that everything goes well for you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635271 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 10:30:39 +0000 Astrid 635271@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Congratulations Scarlet! I'm so excited for you. </p> <p>I did a quick search and found these B&amp;M stores that look promising, although you may not be able to wear these things just yet. </p> <p><a href="http://www.sexy-mama.de/sexy-mama/Home.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.sexy-mama.de/sexy-mama/Home.html</a><br /> <a href="http://www.punkt-puenktchen.de/" rel="nofollow">http://www.punkt-puenktchen.de/</a><br /> <a href="http://www.9monateberlin.de/" rel="nofollow">http://www.9monateberlin.de/</a><br /> <a href="http://www.hulahup.de/" rel="nofollow">http://www.hulahup.de/</a></p> <p>Also one second hand store that seems to have maternity clothes, although I'm not sure how fab they are.</p> <p><a href="http://www.trollby.com/index.php?id=home" rel="nofollow">http://www.trollby.com/index.php?id=home</a></p> <p>You're right that there isn't much available in normal departement stores, I know of H&amp;M and C&amp;A that have that small section you mentioned. Kaufhof also has a maternity section, have you tried that? </p> <p>My cousin's girlfriend had her baby in March and she wore mostly (maternity) jeggings under tunics and dresses. She continued to layer her normal cardigans and jackets over her outfits, she just left them open. And bought a big wintercoat to go over it all. But I guess everyone is different!</p> <p>I hope your shopping today goes well! Do you have someone to go with you? </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635255 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 08:37:14 +0000 Scarlet 635255@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Goldenpig, thank you! Yes it is my first. I saw online that Japanese Weekend has some really pretty things. That is reassuring that you got a lot of wear out of the things you bought. I think that is one of my hang-ups. I think I can’t get my head around the need for nursing-compatible tops. I know it’s not that far in the future, but it’s kind of blowing my mind right now. Maybe that is part of my problem. I can't mentally adjust fast enough. Also everyone (might be a German trait?) emphasizes the possibility of things going wrong so much that it makes one afraid to plan even slightly into the future. But what's the point of being afraid all the time? There is so little we can control beyond doing our best to be healthy. Unfortunately there is no one I can borrow from and in Germany I cannot figure out where the heck mamas buy their clothes. H&amp;M and C&amp;A both have a small selection, but I am really too small at this point for straight up maternity wear. There are some French and British online shops, but I just fail to pick anything out!</p> <p>AJ, thanks so much for your advice and support. I found your words really helpful. Also thanks for pointing to the Academichic posts. I hadn’t been able to find the right ones even though I heard them referred to. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/struggling-with-a-fabness-challenge--background#post-635254 Sat, 02 Jun 2012 08:12:19 +0000 AJ 635254@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>SQUEEEEEEEEE!!! Congrats Scarlet and Mr. Scarlet!! I'm so excited for the parenting adventure that you two are beginning.</p> <p>OK, now to your concerns. This is the time in your marriage when you and Mr. Scarlet will need to be each others' biggest supporter. As soon as you tell people your baby news, suddenly everyone's an expert and you will be hit with advice and opinions about your body, pregnancy, and child rearing. Please remember that nobody has this parenting thing perfected and every mama's body is different. You and Mr. Scarlet will figure it all out just fine between the two of you, day by day.</p> <p>When I was pregnant with my first child, my waist went right away. I knew I was pregnant even before I could pee on that tester stick because none of my bottoms would fit. So I was buying maternity pants within the first month of my pregnancy. Ah, maternity fashion was so frumpy back then (late 90's). So please know that you are not abnormal in this department. </p> <p>I'm so sorry that this has been a frustrating time with the relatives. I'm glad to hear that your boss had a positive response for you.</p> <p>Do you know academichic.com? Two of the three gals blogged during their pregnancies:<br /> <a href="http://www.academichic.com/tag/e-all/" rel="nofollow">http://www.academichic.com/tag/e-all/</a><br /> <a href="http://www.academichic.com/tag/s-all/" rel="nofollow">http://www.academichic.com/tag/s-all/</a></p> <p>It's been so long since I had to buy maternity clothes, so I hope others will chime in soon. Please feel free to keep posting questions...we would love to be there for you and help you out anyway we can.</p> <p>Big HUGS to you, Scarlet! </p>