Filed under: Celebrity Style
Only three months in, and 2011 is clearly shaping up to be the year of the baby. With Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon anxiously awaiting the arrival of twins, and 'The Game''s Tia Mowry expecting her first child with husband Cory Hardrict, we're all on perpetual baby bump watch.
If anyone knows how to maintain their sexy while pregnant, it's celebrities. Knowing how to work the right outfit, stay in shape and what not to sacrifice are the secrets to feeling and looking your best while pregnant. If you're joining the circle of moms-to-be, here's how to keep your sexy over the next few months.
1. DRESS THE PART
Just because you're carrying a child doesn't mean you have to completely forgo your style sense. Yes, maternity wear is made especially for this time in your life, but let's be honest - some pregnancy outfits make expecting moms look frumpy. If there's a brand that you wear regularly because it flatters your figure and matches your style, stick with it - just opt for a bigger size.
2. KEEP IT TOGETHER
It's an understatement to say that having a baby does a number on your body, but the change that is happening within doesn't have to show up all over your exterior. While this is probably easier said than done, keep stretch marks and saggy boobs at bay by swapping in these body-enhancing products, specifically made for the not-so-nice repercussions of carrying a child.
Mama Mio Tummy Rub Stretch Mark Oil ($35, mamamio.com) has high levels of Omega 3, 6 and 9 to keep your belly resilient as your baby grows.
Carol's Daughter Sexy Belly ($22, carolsdaughter.com) butter has Tamanu oil and rose hip extract that helps maintain your skin's elasticity and evens out skin tone without leaving a greasy residue.
Lastly, sleeping in a bra at night during your pregnancy - yes, all 9 months of it - can really do wonders for sagging. It might not be the most comfortable thing, but as you grow, your chest will really appreciate the extra support. Just pick a bra with comfortable fabric and thick straps so you don't wake up with irritation and shoulder dents.
3. WORK IT OUT
Sorry to break it to you, but being pregnant isn't a nine-month excuse to not work out. While you have to tweak your gym time and workout regimen to a safe and smart level, sticking with a workout routine can actually help you bounce back faster once you give birth. Your weight gain should remain within the 25- to 35-pound range. Talk to your doctor before hitting the gym to come up with a workout plan that works best for you. Pre-natal yoga is a great and relaxing start!
4. PLAY UP YOUR PLUSH HAIR
For the next few months you'll likely have your best hair ever, so take advantage of it. For many, one beauty benefit to being pregnant is the growth of lush locks. While it's not advised to chemically treat your hair while pregnant, make time for regular salon visits to keep your strands styled. Maybe even get a little adventurous and try something completely different.
If you color your hair, switch over to vegetable dyes and swap out regular products for chemical-free ones, often made for natural hair. To keep your mane in tip-top shape, treat yourself to a deep-conditioning treatment weekly. Try Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment ($48, missjessies.com)
Inevitable weight gain while pregnant is no excuse to let yourself go. This is a time to feel your most feminine, so don't cut back on the rituals that only enhance that. If you weren't a regular makeup wearer before, then now's the time to start, and if you always wore makeup, keep it up. That, combined with the feminine boosts going on within, will make you feel really sexy.
6. SHOW 'EM WHAT YOU'RE WORKING WITH
You may have been dreaming for that D-cup since puberty, and luckily, thanks to pregnancy, you didn't have to go under the knife to get it, so put them to use while you have them - but not too much! There's a thin line between sexy and scandalous. Keep them nice and taut with Mama Mio Boob Tube Bust & Neck Firmer ($45, mamamio.com).
7. GET A LEG UP
So you may not be able to see your legs, but remember that everyone else can. The added weight that you're carrying may not only slow you down, but also drain the life and energy out of your limbs. Bring them back to life with a leg cream that's made especially for pregnant legs. Try Mustela Instant Comfort Legs ($20, sephora.com). Menthol extract refreshes and relieves achy legs and hyaluronic acid and avocado peptides firm your overworked skin.
Need some real-life inspiration? Here's how these celebrity moms maintained their sexy while eating for two (or three!).