Mass St. Chic: Summer trends flatter moms-to-be

I still remember spotting the cutest pregnant woman I have ever encountered. Years ago, shopping downtown, I chit-chatted with this mother-to-be about her outfit. She was wearing a broad-brimmed hat, long brown tunic, knee-length skirt and cowboy boots, and her funky, turquoise accessories were the perfect complement to her glowing complexion. The woman’s incredible maternity style simply caught me off guard.

If you are an expecting mother, the good news is this summer’s fashion trends can be worn by all women — pregnant or not.

Key pieces:

Look for comfortable clothing in soft, cool fabrics. This summer’s maxi dresses and long skirts are perfect for moms-to-be. Also check out chambray skirts, cargo capri pants, tunics, wrap-dresses, wide-leg jeans and long tank tops. These are all trendy, versatile items and perfectly acceptable maternity-wear.

Accessories:

Take a few moments to accessorize your outfits. This will kick your pregnancy style up a notch. Shopping for accessories is fun — plus, they are sure to be of use even after your pregnancy, when other items from your maternity wardrobe no longer fit. Chunky bangles, sun hats and woven basket purses all make fabulous summer accessories. Pick out colorful scarves, too — these can be worn as head-wraps, tied around your neck or attached to the handle of your purse for an easy punch of color. I also like the idea of hanging onto particular items — a favorite necklace or scarf; perhaps you will remember wearing it during your pregnancy or eventually pass it along to your child.

More tips:

l Check out stores such as Motherhood Maternity, Olian Maternity and A Pea in a Pod. Also, don’t overlook brands not specifically targeted at pregnant women — for example, Michael Stars makes clothing in cuts that work well for moms-to-be, and 7 For All Mankind has denim options for during and after pregnancy.

l Shoe options are often tricky, too. Espadrille flats and canvas boat shoes are two good options for casual, daily wear. Companies like Aerosole and Cole Haan also produce dressier shoes that are specifically designed to be supportive and comfortable.

l For more outfit ideas and in-style maternity outfits, look to celebrities. Jessica Alba and Kate Hudson are two stylish, pregnant celebrities. Mimic their outfits — they were likely assembled by a professional stylist with vast knowledge regarding clothing fits and fashion trends.

l If you are looking for eco-friendly fashion lines, check out Pristine Planet and Maternitique.