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When a plus-size woman gets pregnant, she faces stigmas from every side. On top of having to navigate care that focuses on her health and not her size, she has to live with her marginalized body getting larger in a society that generally looks down upon plus-size women. Among the sociopolitical struggles fat women face, a simple but exceedingly frustrating one is finding clothes that make them feel good. And this is especially true for plus-size pregnant women.
"I think all pregnant women want to look and feel their best regardless of size," Tanesha Awasthi, the plus-size fashion blogger behind Girl With Curves, tells CafeMom. She recently gave birth to her second child and documented her style (and personal) journey through Instagram and her blog.
The body-positive movement certainly catapulted plus-size fashion more into the mainstream. While the industry still has a long way to go in offering a diverse size range, they have even further to go in maternity — one Awasthi sees as a multifaceted problem.
"I think maternity and pregnancy is a whole other realm of body positivity we haven’t quite started to tap into yet. Pregnancy brings on a new set of mental issues for those of us who struggle with body acceptance or have a history of eating disorders. For me, it's been tough to stay body positive as I've seen my weight shift to different places and gain overall. But I'm also very open about it with my audience, which I think is super important. Being open and honest about these things is what gives other women the sense that they aren't alone, which in turn opens up the body-positive conversation altogether. One person's openness about their struggle can end up being someone else's saving grace."
But that isn't to say that it is entirely impossible to look stylish while plus-size and pregnant — hell, Awasthi is living proof. For her, the secret to a stylish pregnancy was investing in one key item:
"The only maternity clothing I've invested in through both of my pregnancies were jeans. Everything else simply has enough stretch to fit!"
Which, by the way, is incredibly important to keep in mind while hunting for plus-size maternity clothes — they can pop up in some pretty unexpected places. For any plus-size pregnant women struggling to find fun and functional clothing, we've rounded up some places women across the plus-size spectrum can enjoy.
Along with some of Awasthi's tips and some unexpected places to find clothing that works, we guarantee that plus-size pregnant women will find something to feel stylish in.
TIP 1: "Wear what you love, not just what 'looks good.'"
Plus-size pregnant women are often concerned about "looking" pregnant. A lot of times, fitted maternity clothing helps baby bumps look more pronounced, but if a more flowy top is eye-catching, don't be afraid to rock it.
More from CafeMom: Here's What It Really Looks Like to Be Plus-Size & Pregnant
Kohl's
Though the pickings are admittedly slim online, department chain Kohl's is definitely worth a rummage trip. Official maternity wear sizes can go up to a 3X maternity, and style options offer moms-to-be basic options at affordable prices.
Yours Clothing
UK-based Yours Clothing offers moms-to-be not only a cute range of clothing options, but a decently variable size range too. Available in sizes 14-30, its signature style seems to be hyper feminine and flowy, which could be perfect for that killer baby shower outfit. And don't worry — USA shipping is totally available.
Asos Maternity
For those on the smaller side of the plus-size spectrum, Asos' maternity line is totally worth a look. They go up to size 20 UK, which translates into a size 16 US, and they tend to air on the more expensive side. But that doesn't mean not to treat yo'self, mama!
Motherhood Maternity
Motherhood Maternity is a total staple for pregnant women, and goes up to a size 3X. It has a decent selection of tops and bottoms — definitely enough to get one through her entire pregnancy, as the clothes are designed to grow with the belly. It's also worth noting that its straight size XL has a ton of stretch and can comfortably fit a regular size 18 in most of its available options
PinkBlush
Undoubtedly, PinkBlush is the chicest plus-size maternity clothing out there. Though it does tend to run a little higher end on prices, the plethora of designs and styles is almost overwhelming.
TIP 2: It's all about the details.
"Remember, when you look good, you feel good!" Awashti says. "So make an effort to wear something that makes you feel beautiful, even if it's a great pair of earrings with your favorite sweatpants!"
More from CafeMom: I Had So Much Body Confidence — Until I Got Pregnant
Old Navy
If keeping it casual and cute is a top priority, Old Navy can deliver. Sizing only goes to an XXL in maternity, but the stretch is generous, so any of its fitted shirts or body-con dresses will totally flatter the bump.
Walmart
Don't count this chain out! Walmart has a surprising amount of selections for plus-size pregnant women and are very stylish at a reasonable price.
H&M
Plus-size women who hover around a size 18-20 will totally love H&M's Mama collection — especially if they're into chic pants!
JCPenney
From casual and comfy to cute and chic, JCPenney has an array of online plus-size maternity wear that sizes up to a 3X.
Stella Maternity
Stella Maternity isn't overflowing with choices, but there are definitely a few solid options for mamas-to-be with an edgier style. Sizing up to a 3X, this is a nice spot for underwear options and a few feisty lingerie options as well. Plus-size moms who fit into an XL will definitely have more to choose from.
TIP 3: Have the Essentials
"Have a go-to uniform for the times you just don't have anything to wear," says Awasthi. "Mine is jeans, a tee, a blazer, and heels."
More from CafeMom: No, My Already Fat Body Has Not Been 'Even More Ruined' by Pregnancy
Nestling Co.
From fitted shirts to formal wear, Nestling Co. literally has it all for any plus-size and pregnant woman who size up to a 3XL.
Target
Though any mom will tell you eagerly her go-to place for all things is Target, plus-size pregnant ladies can rejoice a little bit extra. Sizes really only go up to an XXL (with a scant few options beyond that) but typically stretch to fit an array of body shapes.
Thyme Maternity
Thyme Maternity has some adorable options that accomodate plus-size women up to a 4XL. We are loving the array of styles and cute cuts available.
Ross
For pregnant plus-size moms that don't mind doing a little digging, Ross' maternity department can have some sleeper finds that can fit up to a 3XL.
