Pregnant, but barely, fashion

I’m three months pregnant and, like most women having their first child, my emotions range from scared to excited to terrified. So, when I find myself waking up at 3 a.m. and unable to fall back asleep until 15 mins before my alarm is due to ring (of course), I sometimes idle away the time looking up maternity fashion.

It’s not good news, people.

I assumed maternity fashion had evolved a whole hell of a lot more than I’m finding it has. Oversized sweaters and tunics are wonderful, but also a little boring, no? Until I find the maternity fashion line(s) of my dreams, here’s a list of my latest Modcloth “safe for women who are just 3-4 mos pregnant and beginning to show slightly” clothing orders. Mind you, Modcloth is NOT a maternity clothing site, just an amazing place to find overall flattering dresses and sweaters.

Observatory Story Dress -- $99.99

This one’s in the running for favorite holiday party dress.

Cinema Foyer Dress -- $139.99

With black opaque stocking and heels, a great New Year’s Eve option…assuming I don’t pass out before 11..

Geode to Joy Dress -- $47.99

Strong color, festive, and even less expensive than the previous option.

Does the Trick Cardigan -- $57.99

…Because at the end of the day, I’ll still need a cozy cardigan.

Portfolio Prep Cardigan -- $69.99

Yet another cardigan, but this one features snaps that let you customize how you drape the folds, and an interesting denim-sweater combo that I’m kind of digging.

Eye in the Sky Heel -- $149.99

As long as I can still wear heels without falling over, I’m wearing these. The thick, chunky wooden heel is both comfortable and rustic and the color — perfection.

If anyone can suggest maternity clothes that don’t suck, spread the love!

Velvet Revolution

I’m still trying to decide if there’s a way to wear velvet as a grown woman and not look like I’m auditioning for a Shakespeare play. The look dominated choice F/W 2010-11 runways, include Marc Jacobs, Zac Posen and Halston. But how can we reinterpret it in the real world? And can it be worn on all of the other days of the year that aren’t Christmas?

Posen certainly thinks so. Check out his retro look. The delicious cherry color really makes these pop:

I searched high and low for cheapie velvet options. Admittedly, the ones I found reeked of 4th grade recital. If you can prove me wrong, please do! But here are some adorable grown-up options that hover around the $200 mark.

Aidan Mattox Batwing Sleeve Velvet Dress -- $195

I love this one..particularly the color and shoulder detail and the fact that, now that I’m three months pregnant, I can actually picture myself being able to wear this and have it be flattering.

Evil Twin Velvet Drape Vest -- $53.90

The asymmetrical hem on this vest makes it stand out and proves designers are becoming more creative with velvet, while the mere fact that it’s a go-with-nearly-anything vest makes it wearable than, say, your typical crushed velvet tube dress.

Diane von Furstenberg Grano Velvet Wrap Dress -- $241.50

Of course, if you insist on a festive velvet dress and can afford to splurge on one that you absolutely WILL wear after the holidays, here’s my dream take.

Juicy Couture Layered Velvet Drama Torsade Necklace -- $148

..And lastly, how freaking adorable is this Juicy Couture Layered Velvet Necklace? The perfect shade of royal blue, if you ask me…Happy holiday shopping!