Ever since I became pregnant and my belly started to expand, I’ve spent a lot of time on the internet researching. I am trying to figure out how to dress during different stages of pregnancy. I want to find options that won’t cost me a lot of money. I go into the office 3-4 weeks a week, so I can’t just be in my sweatpants all day.

Many maternity-specific pieces that are appropriate for work are either too ugly or too expensive. I quickly pivoted to looking for non-maternity pieces that last me beyond the pregnancy.

After weeks of searching and trying, here are some of my lessons learn:

For early pregnancy, stretchy pants or straw string pants work best. Often, you can keep wearing some of your existing pants, although the options will become narrower.

• Second trimester is the most awkward period of all for me so far.
• Dresses are the way to go.
• Try this maternity pantyhose ($18) from Target to go with all your dresses.
• Try this maternity belly band ($23.45) to keep wearing your regular pants.

Everyone’s body is different. What worked for me doesn’t mean it will work for you. But I hope my suggestions here will help narrow down your search and hopefully save you some time and energy.

Here are some of the pieces I’ve found and loved – after trying out and returning so many.

For sizing reference, I am 5’4″ (165 cm) and was bout 118 -120 lbs before pregnancy.

For work

This drawstring pant looks more expensive than it costs and it’s prefect for work.

Note: if you are like me who have shorter legs, the inseam feels on the longer side. However, if you wear shoes that are not completely flat, you will be fine. I often pair it with my sneakers for a casual look, and it works great.

Staring 13 – 14 weeks, my bump was starting to protrude, and my regular pants just couldn’t do the job anymore. The extra give in the maternity band is very comfortable. This pant is the only pair I have for going to work. I am going to buy the blue wash shown in the photo for more casual occasions. For a slightly cheaper option, check out this maternity black pant ($30) from Target.

I love how Gap has the choice for you to choose your inseam among Short, Regular, and Long. As someone who have shorter legs and longer torso, the ability to choose a shorter inseam is amazing.

Note: for maternity pants, you do need a longer top to cover the maternity band. You can wear a longer top over it, such as this pull over sweater from Target or this dress shirt from H&M.

This ribbed half-zip dress has to be my favorite purchase during pregnancy so far. It’s stretchy, comfortable, and can be dressed up or down. If you wear a blazer over it or a dress shirt underneath it like the photo, it’s business casual. It’s so comfortable and molds around your body.

For tops

For workouts

During the first trimester, I wore the Lululemon drawstring pants that I’ve owned for thee last six years. As I entered my second trimester, my belly started to feel tight. I began looking online for maternity workout outfit options. I ultimately decided on these leggings ($19.99) and Yoga shorts ($19.99) from the same brand on Amazon. I think you only need two different workout pants and just need to do laundry more often.

For Work-from-hone/Lounging

These ribbed pants are so comfortable! I chose the black one. This way, I can run errands and hang out with friends, without feeling like I’m still wearing pajama pants.

These are the only pieces I’ve purchased during pregnancy so far, and most of them will last beyond postpartum.

As I transition into my third trimester in the coming months, I will keep exploring simple and chic outfit options that will keep you comfortable, stylish, and on a budget throughout pregnancy and beyond.

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Tell me in the comments, what has worked for you?