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Second Trimester Outfits for a Growing Baby Bump

By the second trimester, there’s no hiding your surrogacy baby bump. When it comes to what to wear, most of the items in your closet won’t fit anymore. If you haven’t yet, it’s time to invest in a few maternity staples that will grow with you over the next few months.

Baby’s Development in the Second Trimester

During the second trimester of pregnancy, the baby experiences significant growth and development, which often leads to the noticeable appearance of the baby bump. Around this time, the uterus expands to accommodate the rapidly growing fetus, which now measures about 13 to 16 inches in length by the end of the trimester. The baby’s organs, bones, and muscles develop further, and the skeletal structure starts to strengthen.

Additionally, the placenta becomes fully functional, providing the baby with essential nutrients and oxygen. This combination of fetal growth and the body’s natural adaptations causes the belly to “pop,” making the pregnancy more visible. Hormonal changes also contribute to the loosening of abdominal ligaments, giving the baby more room to grow and further accentuating the bump.

Maternity Clothing to Shop or Rent Starting After 12 Weeks of Pregnancy

During the first trimester, you may have gotten away with finding pregnancy-friendly clothing that you already have in your closet. As your body begins to change and your baby bump starts to show around the 12-week mark, it’s the perfect time to explore comfortable and stylish maternity clothing, whether you prefer to shop for new pieces or rent maternity clothes from a service like Nuuly.

Belly Band

If you don’t have one yet, it’s time to consider a belly band. Not only do they offer support and compression that can ease your low back pain, but they hide your unbuttoned or unzipped pants. 

You’ll still need to prioritize length in your tops, but your belly band will make some of your pre-surrogacy pants fit longer.

Layering Items

You will still be able to wear many of your layering items such as jackets, cardigans, boxy blazers, and long open sweaters. No, they may not close if they have a button or zipper, but they remain essential elements for stylizing your look. If the arms are too tight or they are too tight across the back, retire them until post-surrogacy.

Maternity Bodysuits

There are a variety of maternity bodysuits to choose from, that you can mix and match into your wardrobe in a variety of ways.

Tank Top Style Maternity Bodysuit

As your beautiful belly grows, your tops will ride up. A swimsuit-style bodysuit eliminates this, and provides a bit of compression. Not to worry, as there are snaps on the crotch so you can use the restroom! Choose from tank tops, short-sleeved, long-sleeved, and even mock neck.

Shorts Maternity Unitard

A shorts maternity unitard is a versatile and comfortable option for expectant moms, offering both style and practicality throughout pregnancy. Designed with stretchy, breathable fabrics, it adapts to your growing belly, providing gentle support without feeling restrictive. Its one-piece design makes it easy to wear and layer with other maternity essentials, like cardigans or oversized shirts. Ideal for casual outings, workouts, or lounging at home, a maternity unitard allows for ease of movement while maintaining a chic and modern look. Plus, its snug fit can help reduce friction and discomfort, making it a go-to choice for many moms-to-be.

Legging Maternity Unitard

Legging unitards come in a variety of styles, so consider your needs. They are ideal for prenatal yoga, layering under a dress, lounging around the house, and more.

Maternity Leggings

Speaking of leggings, invest in at least a pair or two. They provide compression and support and can be layered under maternity and non-maternity tops and tunics. 

Unlike traditional leggings, they are designed to sit above your belly button, some as high as your rib cage. Some even have pockets to stash your phone! 

If not leggings, a wide-leg cotton or linen maternity pant with a stretchy waistband and a drawstring for comfort.

Maternity Jeans and Pants

Maternity jeans and pants have a stretchy cotton waistband in a similar color. Depending on where you work, dark wash denim may be office appropriate. Otherwise, look for maternity pants that are cotton, nylon, or rayon for shape and structure, with spandex for stretch.

Long Tops

Most maternity tops are designed to be long. Choose options that wrap, are fitted, have ruching on the sides, have an elastic empire waist, or a flowing design. 

When making new purchases, prioritize options that leave room for your belly to grow. You’ll easily find stylish options for work, casual days, and special events. Yes, this includes tunics!

Skirts and Dresses

You’ll easily find maternity dresses for every occasion! Even if you don’t wear skirts and dresses often, they are very comfortable when pregnant. From long and flowy to a sexy and supportive body con dress, and the maternity go-to empire waist dress.

Your existing wrap dresses and skirts may still fit. If you have maxi skirts in your closet, see if they still work, or wear them as a high-waisted skirt.

Select Options That Look and Feel Like You!

When selecting maternity staples for your surrogacy pregnancy, don’t forget your personal style. If you love curve-hugging, hug your curves. If you prefer a buttoned-up look, stick with that. If you like a flowy feminine look, go with the flow.  

There’s no right or wrong, just what makes you feel like the goddess you are!

In Conclusion

Finding the right outfits during your second trimester can make all the difference in feeling confident and comfortable as your baby bump grows. With so many stylish and practical maternity options available, you can create a wardrobe that adapts to your changing body while reflecting your personal style. From flowy dresses to stretchy leggings and versatile tops, these outfits are designed to support you through this exciting phase of pregnancy. Embrace the journey with clothing that celebrates your growing bump and helps you feel your best every step of the way.

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