Archive for the ‘Maternity bottoms’ Category

Mamalicious Monday: Green is the new Black

Monday, October 12th, 2009

As the consumers of the world start to move in a more green direction, one thing I notice becoming more available is organic clothing. However, I think a lot of people are wondering what is the need for organic cotton and organic clothing? Sure it makes sense to try and eat organic foods since they are going directly into our body but it is hard to see that same correlation when it comes to t-shirts and pants.

Something I learned early on in my green journey is that things like lotions, soaps, etc. that we put on our skin are then absorbed through our pores directly into our bloodstream. So even though we aren’t ingesting them, the chemicals still get right into our bodies and harm us. I have to wonder if a cotton shirt that was grown with pesticides would have that same effect. Can the chemical used to grow that cotton be absorbed by my body? Here is a little food for thought on how conventional cotton is grown courtesy of the Organic Trade Association:

• Cotton uses approximately 25% of the world’s insecticides and more than 10% of the pesticides.
• Fifty-five million pounds of pesticides were sprayed on the 12.8 million acres of conventional cotton grown in the U.S. in 2003 ranking cotton third behind corn and soybeans in total amount of pesticides sprayed.
• The Environmental Protection Agency considers seven of the top 15 pesticides used on cotton in 2000 in the United States as “possible,” “likely,” “probable,” or “known” human carcinogens.

The fact that some of these pesticides are known to be possible carcinogens yet they are still being spayed on our crops and land just scares me. What kind of damage are we causing to our bodies and planet? On the flip side, organic cotton is grown without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides, synthetic fertilizers and genetically engineered seed. While organic clothes do tend to be more expensive, I feel that the more we continue to buy, the more will become available and in turn the prices should start to go down. In 2007-2008 there was a 152% growth in organic cotton production worldwide – so it would seem we are heading in the right direction!

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Now I honestly didn’t think anyone made organic maternity clothes until I checked out Due Maternity. Much to my surprise, they do offer some! You can start with an Organic Bella Band – I love mine and I honestly think that every pregnant woman needs a Bella Band. For a cute outfit, I would go with Japanese Weekend’s During & After Luck Top and Flare Maternity Pants. In fact, if you go to Due Maternity and do a search for “organic” you will find lots of cool stuff – even organic nursing bras!

Marianna Nichols is the Owner & Editor of Green Mama’s Pad.

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Maternity Fashion Files: Celebrity Status for LESS!

Thursday, October 1st, 2009

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Celebrities are always the go-to source for all that is chic and stylish. While pregnant, they never fail to disappoint. Heidi Klum, who is expecting her 4th child {and finally, a GIRL!} this October is one of my favorites to watch while expecting.  What is her favorite maternity piece of clothing? Balenciaga’s black jeans! While not exactly “maternity wear” she wears them under her belly. Not exactly a look everyone can pull off.

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Want to get the celebrity fashion status for less? Try these jeans from Maternal America! The perfect skinny jean to get you through your pregnancy in style!

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Super comfy underbelly fit waistband that can be worn from the beginning to the end of your pregnancy and beyond. Pair with heels, boots, flats and your favorite tee or sweater for a fantastic look. We love the new dark black wash. Perfect for any season.

To get the “Heid” look pair these jeans with a ultra comfy cami from Fit 2b

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and this versitile lightweight maternity jacket from Momzee Coco

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Work Wear Made Easy

Thursday, August 6th, 2009

olian crepe pant

Hi!

One of the toughest parts of developing your maternity wardrobe has to be finding work wear that is office and belly-friendly.  My friend Audrey is a high-powered attorney and keeping up with the dress code for court and her firm hasn’t been easy. So we hunted high and low for dresses that would go well with jackets and some suiting separates that she could switch up with lots of items.

A favorite of hers (and mine) are these black crepe trousers. They do really seem to go with just about everything and look great when paired with the matching jacket or just a pretty blouse and cardigan for in the office.  Cheer up the black with a pretty teal, turquoise or sky blue blouse and simple non-jingly accessories.

Happy shopping!

Erin

No More Granny Panties

Friday, July 17th, 2009

pantiesHi!

Ladies, let’s get personal for a moment. Are the contents of your lingerie drawer a little different than they were pre-pregnancy?  Have your panties gone from pretty and lacey to boring and big? I say “no more granny panties!” You can still wear the sexiest lingerie you want while awaiting the delivery of that bun in your oven. 

My new fave has to be these Nearly Nude Perfect Pants. Not only do they give you great coverage (I’m not a huge fan of thongs professionally or personally so to avoid the dreaded VPL go for full coverage boy shorts) but the smooth fabric will skim over your skin in a most flattering way. Just remember that you’re supposed to wear nude lingerie (not white) under white clothing. Wearing white is like putting a spotlight on your backside. Wearing nude means nobody can tell where your drawers stop and your leg begins. 

Enjoy!

Erin

Line We Love: Japanese Weekend

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2009

jw voile dressHi!

One of the fashion lines that we love around here at Due is Japanese Weekend. They really get that women want maternity clothing that feels fashionable – and comfortable – for the next nine months. With the watchword “versatility” Japanese Weekend creates great basics and special pieces to enhance your maternity wardrobe. 

My picks include this summer must-have Cotton Voile Dress Go Skirt. The lightweight white fabric couldn’t be more heat-friendly plus you get two for the price of one as this easy tube dress can also be worn as a effortless skirt with a tank or tee. 

As I’ve mentioned, I also love their 2-in-1 Woodland Top and Skirt. The cute black and white print goes with just about anything including simple leggings and flats or a cool tee and wedges. 

If you’re looking for nursing gear that’s also fashion-friendly check out Japanese Weekend’s During and After line (d&a). From tops to dresses you’ll find looks that allow you to breast-feed without sacrificing style or comfort. I’m a fan of the During and After Dress in the fab color combo of charcoal, black and red. 

Happy Shopping! 

Erin

Erin’s Outlet Pick of the Week: J & Co. White Denim Skirt

Friday, June 19th, 2009

j white denim miniHi!

Perhaps it’s the steam-heat coming in from the outside these days but I’m in awe of the wonderful invention of air conditioning! I’m also loving the cool look of white denim and fell hard for the super cute white denim mini from J. & Company. It’s my pick for this week from the Due Outlet (a great resource for bargains on maternity clothes and must-haves). 

I’d pair it with a basic tee – especially a nautical stripe – for a crisp look. Add to that some navy espadrilles and you’re whisked away to St. Tropez even if you’re really just headed to the AC-chilled movies. 

Wishing you a lovely weekend, 

Erin

The Great Denim Debate

Tuesday, June 9th, 2009

james jeansHi!

I recently got into a lengthy conversation with a couple of my pregnant friends. The topic of debate? Belly panel or no belly panel on maternity denim. Angie is convinced that anything that touches her belly makes it itch even more so the idea of a panel was a horror. Audrey said that she loved the extra hug of support that the panel gives her. Then they turned to me and wanted to know my opinion being an “expert” in maternity clothes. 

To be completely honest, I told them, it’s 100% a matter of personal taste. I’ve dressed models and everyday moms-to-be in all versions and found that each woman has her own preference. With a panel you might feel more as if you are wearing maternity denim and enjoy that support that Audrey likes so much. Going without the panel may make you feel a little exposed but more like you’re wearing your usual low-rise jean – something Angie loves. 

It’s totally up to you! As for me, I’m a big fan of these from James Jeans. They obey all of my hard and fast rules when it comes to maternity denim:

1. Dark washes that is flattering and versatile for casual and dressier needs

2. Bootcut denim that is hip-friendly helping to balance out a bigger top half

3. Cute pockets that draw the eye to your booty

And through June 14 you can enjoy Due’s denim sale so don’t miss out on the chance to stock up today!

Happy shopping, 

Erin

Her Boyfriend’s Back

Thursday, June 4th, 2009

PPD jeansHi! 

The her I’m referring to is Katie Holmes and the “boyfriend” in question are the legion of jeans the young mom inspired when she donned denim that fit like she borrowed them from her man. Everywhere you look this season you’ll see some version of the cool new trend and maternity clothes are no different.

Check out these from perennial favorite jeans designer Paige Premium Denim. The underbelly waistband means you can wear them lots of different ways while pregnant (without the telltale belly-covering waistband peeking) and even transition them into your post-baby wardrobe. 

Just remember that a looser fit on the bottom should be paired with a slimmer top that hugs your figure so try one of Due crew neck cotton tees for Michael Stars ribbed tank in a face-flattering hue. 

Happy shopping!

Erin

Versatility is the Name of the Game

Thursday, May 28th, 2009

Japanese Weekend topHi!

I’m a big fan of Japanese Weekend and the incredibly adaptable maternity clothes they create. Designer Barbie White seems to completely understand that a woman loves to have options when it comes to her wardrobe — perhaps as a result of her background as a dancer and needing to make quick changes? Offering up tops that can also be worn as skirts is something that JW truly excels at. 

This black and white cutie is one of those versatile pieces that I believe is a must-have for summer. Paired with low sandals and Due Essential black leggings, it’s comfy, cool and stylish or worn as a skirt and topped with a pretty tee, it’s breezy, easy and goes just about anywhere. 

Happy shopping, 

Erin

Cropped Twill Cuffed Maternity Pants

Wednesday, May 6th, 2009

untitled6This Spring and Summer these Cropped Twill Cuffed Maternity Pants are exactly what you need to add to your maternity wardrobe!  They have the underbelly fit and a stretchy elastic-back waistband that makes these pants super comfortable to wear.

These pants are perfect for an occasion.  Add these to your maternity clothes ‘must have’ list!