Hello, my lovelies! It’s time for another edition of NYC Recessionista to the Rescue!
Today’s sartorial dilemma comes from Laura who is 34 weeks pregnant (congrats, that’s so exciting!) and is looking for chic and affordable plus-size maternity styles to get her through the rest of her pregnancy and beyond. She particularly loves Queen Latifah’s chic style and is looking for pieces that emulate that!
No worries, Laura – you are in great hands! Having done Queen Latifah’s ‘Looks for Less’ for the last year or so, I’ve become pretty familiar with her signature looks and know just where to find them on a budget!
First up: tops.
Queen Latifah loves really flowy and drape-y pieces that elongate her whole body.
This pleated sleeveless top from Old Navy is so totally something Queen would rock – but there’s extra room in there for your baby bump! I’d throw this on over some leggings with ballet flats and finish it off with some statement earrings. The best part? It’s only $24.94 and they come in sizes up to XXL / size 20!
Queen also loves asymmetrical hems and wears them quite often. This striped top from Motherhood Maternity has a really cute handkerchief hem. It’s just under $35, too.
Lastly, Queen wears safari-style button-down tunics a lot — and Motherhood Maternity has a style exactly like what she wears. This one’s on sale for $19.99 right now!
Next up: sweaters and cardigans.
One of the things I love about Queen’s wardrobe is her cardigans and sweaters — she loves drape-y, cascading styles.
A flowy sweater or cardigan is a great way to layer during pregnancy, too. Soft, thinner knits in these billowy silhouettes add some visual interest while keeping you warm (but not too warm). This this one from Motherhood Maternity is really cute AND nursing-friendly for after you have the baby! Comes in sizes up to 2X, too. At $29.99, it’s a steal.
This waterfall cardigan, also from Motherhood Maternity, is another great option. These are a favorite of Queen’s, too. Comes in sizes up to 3X! Also a steal at $29.99
Next up: dresses.
Another one of Queen Latifah’s signature looks is her maxi dresses … she’s always rocking them and gets so many compliments on them!
This tank maxi dress, also from Old Navy, is stretchy, comfortable and effortless … the perfect thing to wear when you’re expecting. Throw on some flat sandals and a necklace and you’re done! Adding a cardigan and boots later will help this dress transition into fall. These start at just $16.99 depending on the color, and also come in sizes up to XXL / size 20!
Next up: pants.
If I were expecting, I would pretty much LIVE in leggings. They’re totally effortless, comfy and go with pretty much everything. Leggings are a staple for Queen Latifah on her show, too!
These black leggings from Motherhood Maternity are buy one, get one free right now and at only $24.98, that’s a no-brainer. They come in sizes up to 3X / size 26!
Pick up a few key pieces like this and you should be set for the next few months … I hope this helps give you some great options, Laura!
xoxo
NYC Recessionista
PS – do you have a fashion emergency that you need help with? Reach out to me!
