with shapewear. Hormone changes early in your pregnancy can cause bloating, so you may notice your waist expanding a little even before you get a true “bump.” Try putting on some slimming undergarments, like Spanx or control-top stockings, to tuck in your belly and help you fit into your pre-pregnancy clothes a little longer. If you’re concerned about what the pressure of shapewear might do to your growing baby, don’t worry. The protective layer of amniotic fluid in your womb will keep them nicely cushioned. You might find tight garments more uncomfortable as your body grows, however. Tops that are loose, ruffled, or flouncy can flatter your figure and disguise your growing belly. Try a flowy tunic or a blouse with ruching along the sides. Tops or dresses with empire waists are also a good way to go, since they skim your figure without accentuating its curves. In cooler weather, big, slouchy sweaters are a comfy and fashionable way to conceal your baby bump. Layers can distract the eye from your midsection and add volume to your outfit without drawing attention to your belly. Try putting on a loose blazer or a drapey cardigan sweater over a blouse or tunic. If you feel brave enough to try layers with contrasting prints or patterns, this can also minimize the appearance of your belly. For example, you might wear a black-and-white polka dot blouse with a colorful floral blazer. Wearing a slouchy top with baggy pants can give you a bulky appearance. Create a more slim and streamlined look and balance out your top half by wearing something more form-fitting on your legs. For example, you might try wearing a baggy tunic sweater with a pair of comfy leggings. In cooler weather, you could match a flowing blouse or shirt-dress with some tights or stretchy slim-fit jeans. Choose a long, oversized scarf and drape it on so it hangs down in front of your torso. This can add the appearance of length and slimness to your figure. Scarves and other accessories, such as bold pieces of jewelry, can also draw the eye and take the viewer’s attention off your belly.  Scarves in dark colors, like black or navy blue, create an extra slimming effect. Bright or colorful accessories are eye-catching and can create a new point of focus for your outfit. Try a brightly-colored scarf, a big pair of hoop earrings, or a sparkly necklace. Prints are a great way to draw attention away from your changing shape. Have fun with colorful floral tops, or stick to more conservative spots, checks, or stripes if you prefer. While conventional wisdom has it that vertical stripes are more slimming, studies have shown that wearing horizontal stripes is actually better for minimizing the appearance of width. Horizontal stripes are very popular in maternity wear, however, so be careful not to clue people in with too many stripey outfits!
Smooth out early pregnancy bloat Try slouchy or flowing tops to hide a growing bump. Wear layers to disguise your changing shape. Balance your loose top with a fitted bottom. Draw attention from your belly with scarves and accessories. Wear printed fabrics to distract the eye.