ML Interest Tag: compression

Maternity Leggings You’ll Absolutely Want to Live In

by Kate Cartia

Cute leggings = a better day. It’s common core mathematics. Being pregnant is an exciting time, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One of those challenges is finding comfortable, stylish clothes that fit your ever-growing bump. Especially when you’re looking for activewear and loungewear. That’s where maternity leggings come in. Even if you’re a leggings connoisseur when you’re not pregnant, rocking that beautiful belly changes everything—even your favorite, feel-like-they-were-made-for-you pair might feel, dare we say it?, uncomfortable.

While some may argue that leggings aren’t pants, we beg to differ—especially when you’re sporting a baby bump. We’ve rounded up the best maternity leggings on the market, so you can stay comfortable and stylish throughout your pregnancy. From buttery soft fabrics to supportive waistbands, these leggings will make you forget you’re even wearing pants (in the best way possible). Leggings that fit your growing bump (and post-baby bod) while making you look and and feel awesome are always an excellent motivator. Read on for our top picks for supportive and super comfortable maternity leggings.

Storq Signature Leggings

woman sitting on white couch wearing maternity workout clothes
Storq

Yesss, this is what we want to be rocking during and after pregnancy. Soft and stretchy leggings with a curve-hugging fit and a waist panel that falls mid-bump, is high-waisted when we're not bumping, and can be worn folded down whenever we want. Wear these to work out, when you're lounging or running errands, even if you're recovering from a C-section. Sizes: XS-4X. Buy these on their own or save money with an awesome bundle that includes a nursing sports bra and bike shorts.

Storq Signature Leggings ($74.00)—Buy Here!

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Love the Bump Midi Maternity Legging

pregnant woman standing in pink workout leggings and white sports bra
Beyond Yoga

Designed to be worn below or over the bump, these midi leggings let you choose the level of support and coverage you need that day. The fabric is quick-drying, moisture-wicking and offers UV protection, so it keeps you dry and comfortable in all weather and all sorts of workouts.

Beyond Yoga Spacedye Love the Bump Midi Maternity Legging ($108.00)—Buy Here!

Ingrid + Isabel The Performance Leggings

pregnant lady in workout clothes taking a break on a tennis court
Ingrid and Isabel

Worth the splurge if you plan to work out on a regular basis. These moisture-wicking, sustainable leggings come in a four-way stretch fabric to allow a full range of motion. They feature a contoured panel you can wear over your bump or folded down beneath it for maximum versatility, and they provide gentle support to the lower back. Sizes: XS-XL. Color: black.

Ingrid + Isabel The Performance Leggings ($88.00)—Buy Here!

Girlfriend Collective Seamless Maternity Leggings

pregnant woman standing in burgundy leggings and sports bra
Girlfriend Collective

A super stretchy, seamless maternity legging made from recycled fishing nets that’s ultra-lightweight, versatile and perfect for all-day lounging, running errands, or postpartum. Available in 5 colors, 2 lengths, and sizes XXS-6XL.

Girlfriend Collective Seamless Maternity Leggings ($88.00)—Buy Here!

Skims Fits Everybody Maternity Leggings

pregnant woman standing in black leggings and black sports bra
Skims

Skims' soft, second skin fabric that stretches with your growing belly—without losing its shape. They feature a 2-ply construction to prevent sheerness and a high-rise, elastic waist. Available in sizes XXS-4XL.

Skims Fits Everybody Maternity Leggings ($66.00)—Buy Here!

Zella Mamasana Studio Luxe High Waist Maternity Leggings

woman standing in grey maternity leggings
Zella at Nordstrom

Calling all Zella fans: The brand's maternity leggings have a stretchy, supportive panel to cover your bump and are made from a moisture-wicking fabric that keeps you cool and comfortable. Sizes: XXS-XXL.

Zella Mamasana Studio Luxe High Waist Maternity Leggings ($79.00)—Buy Here!

Lululemon Align High-Rise Leggings

woman in leggings and sports bra kneeling
Lululemon

These aren’t technically maternity leggings, so why do moms-to-be love them so much? The fabric! The buttery soft Nulu fabric of these Lululemons is stretchy and doesn’t feel tight, even when your belly is busting out of all of your other clothes. Best of all, you’ll get lots of wear out of them after pregnancy too. Available in a ton of colors and sizes 0-20.

Lululemon Align High-Rise Leggings ($98.00-$118.00)—Buy Here!

 

Belly Bandit Maternity Bump Support Leggings

pregnant woman wearing black maternity leggings
Belly Bandit

The Belly Bandit Maternity Support Leggings feature a customizable waistband to give you the best fit. Not only are they super comfortable and super soft, but they also help give your baby bump some extra support with their underbelly ribbed paneling, smoothing you from the waist down, too. Available in 3 colors and sizes S-XL.

Belly Bandit Maternity Bump Support Leggings ($50.95)—Buy Here!

 

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

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The Best Carry-On Suitcases, Backpacks & Luggage for Parents

by Kate Loweth

These backpacks and suitcases will make you actually look forward to traveling with your kids

Traveling is fun, but traveling with kids? Let’s just say it isn’t always a dream come true. That’s why having luggage that works for you is a must. From versatile backpacks and lightweight carry-ons to large suitcases that pack tons of room for several kiddos, we’ve rounded up the best travel gear for parents. Keep scrolling to get prepped for your next family vacation!

Best Travel Backpacks & Accessories for Parents

The Getaway Bag from No Reception Club

$235 BUY NOW

If you’ve ever boarded an airplane with a baby, you know that the amount of stuff a small person needs is in inverse proportion to their size. Diapers, wipes, a change of clothes for all parties, snacks, a breast pump, and more and more and more—they all need to fit into your carry-on bag. That’s where No Reception Club comes in to save the day. The narrow shape makes it easy for any parent to carry and the stylish black exterior makes it more of an everything bag than a diaper bag. Our favorite feature is the flexible organization system with two “shelves” that velcro securely into the main compartment.

STM Goods Myth Backpack

$140 BUY NOW

Just because you're carting around diapers and burp cloths, doesn't mean you want to give up on style. We love this backpack because it has enough structure to protect your laptop plus space for snacks and an outfit change for both you and your kid. It also has our favorite feature: the luggage pass-through.

Able Carry Max Backpack

$278 BUY NOW

Looking to ditch the suitcase entirely? This bag is for you. Roll up your clothes and you can easily fit enough to get you and your tiny travel partner through a long weekend or more. We like this option for parents traveling solo with a kid because it keeps your hands free to push a stroller or tend to a little one.

Solo New York Parker Hybrid Backpack Tote

$83 BUY NOW

You only need one bag when traveling––this one! Solo New York’s hybrid backpack easily transforms into a tote bag with hideaway straps that will meet your complete itinerary needs. Our editors love the padded laptop compartment, ample interior pockets and a back panel that slides over your luggage handle to make those airport runs a breeze. The lightweight bag also comes with padded feet to protect the bottom while on the go and stylish gold hardware.

Vaschy Backpack

$44 BUY NOW

Not only does this backpack look super stylish, but it’s made with water-resistant polyester, has an interior spot for a laptop and five interior pockets for chargers, books, pens and more. There’s a secret side pocket to keep your phone, and there’s a clip in the front pocket that is perfect for keys. The pull cord on the interior lining adds extra protection from theft while traveling too.

Atlantic Daytrip Backpack

$90 BUY NOW

Available in coral orange and ocean blue, this adorable backpack will be your go-to carryon choice as it has just the right amount of pockets for all your gear and plenty of space to store those extra diapers and snacks you always need.

MinkeeBlue Nilah Tote

$135 BUY NOW

While not an official backpack, this tote does it all. Don’t schlep 3 bags through the airport when she can have just one that does it all! A Black + Woman-owned brand known for their bag with all the room you need to pack your necessities, the Minkeeblue Nilah tote offers zippered compartments that keep shoes and other essentials separate from other items, making it the perfect solution for working or traveling moms looking to make life easier.

Bee & Kin Tech Organizer

$55 BUY NOW

This sleek tech organizer keeps all your cords and electronics in one place! This would even fit perfectly in any of the backpacks above. The Bee & Kin Tech Organizer is perfect for traveling or while on the go for work. If you need help with keeping your things in one place, this is sure to do the trick!

Cincha Travel Belt

$36 BUY NOW

If you need help keeping your belongings together as you zip around the airport, then you’ll love this Travel Belt! All you has to do is neatly secure your personal bag to your carry-on or checked luggage handle!

Best Carry-On Bags for Parents

Travelpro Platinum Elite Expandable Hardside Spinner Luggage

$333 BUY NOW

Breeze through the airport with the sleek and durable Platinum Elite Carry-On Expandable Hardside Spinner fro Travelpro. This lightweight option makes it possible for littles to transport it themselves due to the exclusive PrecisionGlide™ System, made up of 8 MagnaTrac® self-aligning wheels. Plus, each one comes with extrenal USB A & C ports that can connect to your own power bank.

LEVEL8 Road Runner Carry-on

$180 BUY NOW

We love this 20" carry-on as it easily stores your laptop on the zip-down side so you don't have to carry it in your backpack. It also has plenty of room for 3-5 days worth of clothes. The hard shell will stand up to wear and tear and the spinner wheels made for a smooth ride through the airport. 

Rollink Flex 360 International 21

$249 BUY NOW

If you are short on space to store your luggage at home, this is the luggage for you. It collapses to 4 inches for east stowing under your bed. Plus, you'll love the seven color options.

Amazon Basics 21-Inch Hardside Spinner

$89 BUY NOW

Your luggage takes a beating no matter how expensive it is, so why not opt for a budget-worthy option that still gets the job done? Our editors love the no muss, no fuss luggage from Amazon Basics that bring simple yet functional style to your travels. This hybrid bag is large enough to carry what you need, but small enough to fit as a carry on when you don’t want to check luggage. It has internal organization, a front tilting pocket, spinner wheels and a two-level adjustable, ergonomic handle.

Traveler’s Choice New London II Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage

$97 BUY NOW

The sleek look of this bag is just part of the draw but its functional features have us bringing it with us whenever we travel. Pack it with the expanders closed and you’ll have plenty of space to add on souvenirs to bring home. The zippers are super sturdy and will stand up to lots of use.

Best Checked Luggage for Parents

Atlantic Convertible Medium to Large Checked Expandable Hardside Spinner

$200 BUY NOW

You'll love the colorful options in this collection (Sunshine Yellow! Coral Orange! Ocean Blue!) and its ability to expand to fit all those souvenirs you just HAD to have. Two handle heights means the kids can take a turn pulling it.

Away Expandable Medium Suitcase

$345 BUY NOW

Away luggage is the crème de la crème when it comes to traveling. This particular suitcase checks all the boxes: nice medium size, water resistant exterior, expansion capabilities for up to an extra 1.75″ of space plus an internal compression system so you can squeeze in everything you need.

Herschel Heritage™ Hardshell Carry On Luggage

$225 BUY NOW

We love the split design of this luggage that has two same-sized compartments, perfect for opening on that luggage rack in your hotel room. It comes in carry-on and large carry-on (to accommodate international carry-on rules), as well as medium and large sizes for checked baggage.

Travelpro Crew Versapack 29″ Suitcase

$350 BUY NOW

Luggage has gone through a transformation over the years and that means no more crazy heavy bags that break your back before you even pack! This huge suitcase is one of our favorites because it only weighs eight pounds and is large enough to pack multiple people’s worth of clothes. It’s a spinner, has an adjustable handle and plenty of room to pack everything you need.

SwissTech Navigation Hard Side Check Luggage

$109 BUY NOW

This work horse of a suitcase packs a ton of bells and whistles. From a built-in lock and integrated interior pouches to the two-inch expandable zipper, you can stash all your gear for your vaycay and then some!

—additional reporting by Gabby Cullen & Karly Wood

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

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Chill Out: The Coziest Loungewear for New Moms & Pregnant Moms-to-Be

by Eva Ingvarson Cerise

Hanging out at home awaiting baby’s arrival or nesting after you’ve given birth means needing comfortable clothing to lounge around in, day or night—or both. Here are our favorite ways to stay cozy while you’re holed up at home.

Women's Ultra-Soft Bamboo Jogger Pant from Cozy Earth

Cozy Earth

Here's why you need these joggers: They're softer than your favorite old t-shirt. They have pockets for your phone, pacifiers or anything else you're toting around. The bamboo-based fabric is temperature-regulating so you'll feel cool and cozy even with a baby sleeping on you. And also? You'll look like a million bucks in them, especially if you pair them with the brand's pullover crew or lounge tee.

Available at cozyearth.com, $108.

"Damn You're a Good Mother!" Chari-Tee by Boob Design

Boob Design

Remind yourself what a great job you're doing with this inspirational t-shirt from Boob Design. In addition to the confidence boost, you'll feel good that 10% of revenue a leading women's rights organization. The top is designed to work with and without a bump and featured a figure-flattering front panel that even works for nursing. 

Available at boobdesign.com, $69. 

Jane Maternity & Nursing Pajamas by Kindred Bravely

Kindred Bravely

This ultra-soft fitted sleepwear set is stylish enough to wear all day and night, and you'll likely be wearing it long after your child is done nursing. Thanks to the clever construction of the top, you can lift the top's nursing panel for breastfeeding while you stay warm and covered.

Available at kindredbravely.com, $34.99.

CozyChic Unisex Robe by Barefoot Dreams

Nordstrom

To know Barefoot Dreams is to love them, so get ready to fall head over heels for this calf-skimming robe. Just as soft and cozy as the brand's beloved blankets and cardigans, the robe doesn't shrink or pill. And it's machine-washable, so it can take on all of baby's messes.

Available at nordstrom.com, $74.25–$99.

Slumber Party Top from JJwinks

JJWinks

The Slumber Party top is perfect for those long, sleepless nights and cozy mornings with your baby. The signature top from JJwinks, this stylish piece features the company's amazing Light Hug (soft elastic shelf) inside to keep you bra-free and comfortable. The double back strap adds a touch of sexiness to this chic top.

Available at jjwinks.com, $75.

Poppy Leggings by Anook Athletics

Anook Athletics

Available in tall (28.5”) and short (26”), these leggings come in two neutral colors (heathered char and heathered stone). Both colors and lengths feature a waistline power mesh that won’t have you pulling or adjusting the belly band every five minutes. It’s supportive and giving enough for a growing bump and offers compression after baby is born. The extra-wide gusset with antimicrobial liner offers ventilation, and the moisture management knit material wicks away sweat.

Available at anookathletics.com, $98.

 

Grown-Up PJs by Primary

Primary

Moms love Primary's clothes for kids for their great quality, timeless style, easily matchable colors and classic patterns, all at a reasonable price. And thanks to the recent launch of pajamas in adult sizes, you can lounge in style while twinning with your littles. Bonus: They come in unisex sizing, so you can deck out the whole family. 

Available at primary.com.

Mother Tucker Moto Style Leggings by Belly Bandit

Belly Bandit

With an ultra-high waist and compression for postpartum belly support, as well as a nice boost to your bum, these leggings are just what a new mom needs to feel like herself again. Available in olive green, steel gray and black.

Available at bellybandit.com, $89.95.

Nursing 3 Piece Sleep Set

Motherhood Maternity

A short robe, elastic-waist pants and a polka-dotted tank top (with nursing clips if you need them) make up this cute set for new moms. It's comfy for sleeping in and you'll feel covered up if someone stops by unexpectedly.

Available at motherhood.com, $34.99.

The Back in the Game Nursing Jumpsuit from HATCH

Fourth Trimester: The After Baby Collection
HATCH

Stylish and functional, yes, please! This chic jumpsuit looks sophisticated, especially in this rich brown shade (it also comes in black), and it features an ingenious double layer of fabric at the V-neck that you can pull aside for nursing or pumping. 

Available at hatchcollection.com, $248.

—Eva Ingvarson Cerise

featured image: HATCH

RELATED STORIES:

10 Maternity Fashion Tips Every Expecting Mom Needs

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11 Fresh Mom & Me Styles That Make a Statement

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These Must-Haves for Pregnancy & Postpartum Are Covered by Insurance

by Jamie Aderski
Partner Content

Pregnancy comes with its highs (tiny little kicks, that first ultrasound image, growing an awesome human) and its lows (swollen feet, backaches, stretch marks). One thing every pregnant woman needs through it all is support—and not just the kind you get from a mom group. We’re talking gentle, targeted compression garments that help alleviate all of those aches and pains and speed up postpartum recovery: Motif Medical’s Maternity Compression Garments.

Made with moms in mind, these maternity compression garments are are FDA-listed and designed by healthcare professionals to provide comfortable and gentle compression where you need it most. Plus, Motif uses soft, breathable and supportive fabrics that are undetectable under your clothes.  Best of all, moms may qualify to receive theirs through insurance. Here are a few of the ways Motif supports mom during pregnancy and after delivery.

Whatever stage of pregnancy you’re in, Motif is ready to lend some support. See if you qualify to get Motif’s Maternity Compression Garments through insurance!

Motif Medical’s Pregnancy Support Band

Recommended from 3-9 months.

Stay active, comfortable, and supported! The Pregnancy Support Band works by lifting, supporting, and redistributing the weight of the baby. These adjustments relieve pregnancy-related pressure from the lower back, abdomen, hips and pelvis to reduce the aches and pains associated with body changes during pregnancy. The easy-to-use band is adjustable and also improves posture!

Motif Medical’s Compression Socks 

Recommended from 3-9 months.

Stay comfortable on your feet for longer periods of time and prevent swelling, circulation issues and varicose veins with Compression Socks. These socks provide increased blood flow through your ankles and legs to support your cardiovascular system with a controlled and gradual amount of pressure. Motif’s ultra-stretch fabric makes them easy to put on and stay in place with all-day comfort. And the cute designs guarantee these will not look or feel like your great auntie’s compression socks!

Motif Medical’s Recovery Support Garments 

Recommended for postpartum: (Natural & C-Section)

Motif Medical offers two options in their Recovery Support Garment: a Natural Birth Recovery Garment and a C-Section (and Natural) Birth Recovery Garment.

Once baby arrives, you’ve got enough to worry about. Heal and recover quicker after birth by stabilizing joints with Recovery Support Garments. These support garments reduce postpartum swelling, bleeding, aches and pains, while increasing mobility. Thanks to its tightening and toning, the garments also help shape and firm your belly, hips, waist, pelvis and lower back.

The C-Section Birth Recovery Garment also has a side zipper for easy, gentle wear, helping avoid irritation of the c-section incision.

Both garments are cleared and approved by the FDA for the treatment and prevention of postpartum-related issues and discomfort. 

Whatever stage of pregnancy you’re in, Motif is ready to lend some support. See if you qualify to get Motif’s Maternity Compression Garments through insurance!

 

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7 Gifts for Moms Who Are Frequent Travelers

by Amber Guetebier

There’s a special place in our heart for moms that travel: whether it’s with baby (or tot, or tween) in tow on a long car ride or a solo flight for a work trip, moms are always on the lookout for low-fuss, practical items that simplify their lives (and packing time). As frequent travelers ourselves, our team of mom-editors put a few products to the test. Read on to get their recommendations.

Unbound Merino Women's Black V-Neck T

Unbound Merino

This shirt had a big promise: the only shirt you'll need. As parents we know that there's a ton of little things (peanut-butter finger smears, leaking milk, spit-up, strange shiny stains we can't account for) that can ruin a shirt quick, so the concept of one shirt travel seemed a little ambitious. 

So, our Managing Editor put it to the test. Literally. The claim? This Unbound's Merino Black Mernio V-Neck t-shirt was wicking, odor resistant, light weight, fast drying and nice enough that it can go from pick-up to date night, with the right accessories. 

"I was skeptical, I'm not going to lie. That's a lot to claim, but I love to travel as light as possible so I decided I'd give it a try. This shirt actually gets better with every wash, but I've only had to wash it twice in a month (and the second time was in a bathroom sink with...hand soap!) It dried in about two hours just hanging there, and was as fresh as ever. Also, it doesn't wrinkle. I don't really like t-shirts, but this one, I love and will willingly throw out all of my others."

The price tag may seem steep for a single shirt, but it's probably the closest thing you'll find to a miracle in clothing form. It actually does resist odors, and it's better after the 3rd day. If you pack a blouse or two, this really would be the only t-shirt you need. For all you moms out there, get yourself a two-pack and you'll be set for a week. 

$65. (Two pack for $115). Shop at unboundmerino.com 

 

Dr. Segals Compression Socks

Compression socks are not what they used to be (prescription only, for example). Dr. Segals offer a lightweight compression sock that are designed to combat muscle and leg fatigue and discomfort brought on by long car rides, air travel or even everyday life (aka pregnancy and postpartum). 

Because of an injury, our editor suffers from frequent leg cramps while traveling, so she was eager to try these out. "They felt great, not too tight, and I did feel less strain on my feet, especially. But the real test was to whether or not I'd get leg cramps on a flight. I am happy to say that on a recent two-and-a-half hour flight I did not get a foot or leg cramp, which is unusual for me."

These socks are not overly-constricting so while they are not medical grade, they would definitely work for pregnant women as well. The best part? They are adorable! They come in a variety of styles from stripes, to patterns to solids, so they don't have that orthopedic look. 

$29.99/pair. Get yours at drsegals.com 

Belly Bandit Mother Tucker Moto Style Leggings

Belly Bandit

These compression leggings aren't like the rest; yes they hold it all in, including your tummy, thanks to the fabric and the high stretchy waist. But unlike other compression fabrics, Belly Bandit's are remarkably comfortable. You could easily wear these all day! (buh-bye, zippers!)

Our editor said, "Even though I'm vertically challenged—aka short—the high waist still worked fine for me and they weren't super long. I felt sucked in but not too sucked in, so felt good wearing these on a flight. The added 'moto' element made them look a little fancier than your average legging. Also, they dry fast if you need to spot clean."

The come in steel, black and army. Get yours at bellybandit.com for $89.95

Lissom Flyte Shoes in Python

Lissom

Whether you're heading from pilates to playground or having lunch with clients, the Lissom Flyte shoes are so lightweight it's almost like going barefoot (but with all the support you need). They mold right to your foot, too, so you can't beat the comfort and they come in a ton of colors, though our fave this year is the Python. They're like a ballet flat meets a running shoe. 

Our Managing Editor put them to the runway test—as in running to catch a flight. "I thought they wouldn't have enough support to run in, and I wouldn't do a workout in these, but if you need to dash after a toddler or grab your flight, treat yourself to these. They also weigh next to nothing and are pretty flat so they work great as a second shoe in your carry-on."

Try them at lissom.com, $99.

Travelambo Front Pocket Minimalist Leather Slim Wallet RFID Blocking Medium Size

Amazon

With over 1500 5-star reviews on Amazon, this slim little wallet is as popular as it is sleek. Not only is it small enough to slide into the pocket of your skinny jeans, it's RFID blocking and comes in 42 different colors. And did we mention the price tag? From as little as $6.79. 

Our editor says, "My college-aged niece wanted a wallet that she could 'put in her pocket' but it was hard to find something that was both attractive and fit the bill. Since most of the colors of this wallet were under $8 we took a chance. She loved it so much we got one for her mom and one for me, too!"

Grab yours here, $6-$11

SugarSky Headbands

SugarSky Shop

A headband from SugarSky is the perfect addition to a busy mom’s arsenal. With over 37 different prints (see the latest collection here), each one can be worn four different ways! The bands are also handsewn in the U.S. and are made from 79% recycled water bottles. Now, that’s a fashion-forward idea we can get behind.

Our Sr. Editor swears by these for good hair days, bad hair days and all the in-between days. She never travels without them. 

Available at sugarskyshop.com, $22.

The Dylana Tote from Naturalizer

Naturalizer

This grown-up bag for moms has a high-end look with a moderate price tag. It's roomy enough to hold your laptop, a change of clothes, plenty of snacks, a book, charging cords and more, all without looking overstuffed. It zips on the top, so you don't have to worry about stuff spilling out. It comes with a removable small clutch with a cute chain strap, which fits perfectly right in the outside pocket, so you have something evening-ready without having to pack two purses. 

"My favorite feature of this bag," says our Managing Editor, "is the pockets. There's an inner zip pocket, and the outside one that fits the clutch, but there's also two very deep hidden pockets that held my giant iPhone, a notebook, and the headphones with room to spare. I even had room for a water bottle in the other one. The whole bag doesn't feel overly heavy either, even when you load up all your mom stuff."

Get yours at naturalizer.com, $99

—Amber Guetebier with Gabby Cullen

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5 Things New & Expecting Moms Don’t Know Their Health Insurance Covers

by Beth Shea
Partner Content

Pregnant or have a newborn? Chances are you’re on the shopping spree of your life. From diapers to nursing supplies to maternity wear, your credit card is getting a workout. But, before you swipe one more time, we’re letting you in on a little secret: many resources and products for new and expectant moms may be covered by your health insurance. Read on for five surprising things you might not know are taken care of by your insurance plan.

1. Breastfeeding Support & Supplies

Motif Medical offers a trio of breast pumps in varying designs that accommodate a variety of mothers’ needs at work and on-the-go. The Luna, their most powerful pump, features a quiet motor and helps pump more milk in less time. The Duo or “savvy traveler” is a lightweight pump that fits in one hand and conveniently slips into any bag. And, the Twist is their “affordable portable” breast pump that’s sturdy, economical and features a portable power option for a simple pumping experience while out and about. All three streamline the pumping process to make it easier for moms to manage breastfeeding.

In addition to breast pumps, Motif Medical also offers breastfeeding supplies including a stylish backpack or tote bag, replacement supplies, milk storage and nursing pads. Check your insurance to see exactly what they cover.

2. Prenatal Vitamins

It’s important to take prenatal vitamins both before and after baby is born (if you are nursing) to ensure you and your growing baby are getting the sufficient amounts of minerals and vitamins you need for optimum health. Many insurance plans cover prenatal vitamins and folic acid supplements and/or you can pay for them by taking advantage of your tax-free flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA). Be sure to check your coverage to see if your vitamins and supplements are eligible.

3. Compression Garments

Motif Medical literally supports expecting mothers and new moms with their comfortable collection of compression garments. Compression garments are FDA-listed medical devices that in addition to helping speed up recovery, also shape and firm your postpartum belly, hips, waist, pelvis, and lower back. Compression garments also provide comfort during pregnancy as well.

Motif Medical offers three types of compression garments:

Their breathable and discreet Pregnancy Support Band provides relief and support during everyday activities during 3-9 months of pregnancy by relieving pregnancy-related pressure from the abdomen, hips, and lower back to reinforce the body’s core.

Postpartum, Motif has new moms covered as well, with their Natural Birth Recovery Garment and their C-Section Recovery Garment. Both are designed by healthcare professionals to aid in healing and help recovery by stabilizing joints, reducing pain, and increasing mobility. The C-Section Recovery Garment also features a side zipper for ease of use and to avoid pulling fabric over an incision.

Use Motif’s Insurance Lookup Tool to see if your insurance covers compression garments.

4. Birthing Classes

Birthing classes help prepare you physically, mentally and even emotionally for one of the most important days of your life. There are so many different types of childbirth education classes available––from Lamaze to The Bradley Method––and you’re sure to find classes you’re comfortable with to get the information you need. You’ll be happy to have the foresight and knowledge you’ve garnered once labor begins. Birthing classes are often covered by insurance, so be sure to check with your insurance company to get a list of classes on your plan.

5. Alternative Medical Treatments Like Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been shown to relieve nausea, headaches, lower back pain, depression and even labor pains, so many women are turning to this ancient healing art to soothe symptoms during pregnancy. Ask your insurance provider what your coverage is for alternative medical treatments. Even if they don’t pay in full, they may offer discounts on services or have a list of providers they consider in-network.

Motif Medical’s goal is “to help you discover your options, support your body, and bond with your baby.” They’ve got your back, and your best interest in mind, during one of the most pivotal times of your life. Visit Motif Medical online at motifmedical.com for more information.

Disclaimer: We are not health professionals. The content herein is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always check with your doctor for the best course of treatment and with your insurance company to see what is covered under your insurance plan.

––Beth Shea

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Finding Cool Gear for Kids with Special Needs Just Got Easier

by Gabby Cullen

It’s hard enough for parents to find clothing and gear that kids will deem cool enough to be seen on the playground. And for kids with special needs, it’s a whole new ball game. Luckily for parents of kids of all abilities, there’s an online marketplace that curates inclusive clothing and gear for kids—everything is fashionably sensible, and most importantly, totally cool. Keep reading to find out more.

What It Is

Founder Alexandra Connell was born with dyslexia, anxiety and various other special needs. Now a Columbia graduate, she founded PATTI + RICKY for people exactly like her. Her special section for kids includes fashionable gear like hearing aid charms, compression vest accessories, wheelchair bags and more.

Connell says, “PATTI + RICKY is a passion project. It is inspired by my own disabilities and family members. When you are caring for someone with a disability or medical condition that absorbs a lot of your time, and finding products that are stylish and that fulfill a specific need is also time-consuming. There isn’t time to do both. My goal is to make PATTI + RICKY an online marketplace that redefines the disability shopping experience so parents, caregivers, people with disabilities can find what they need and want in one place.”

How It Works

It’s a one-stop shop when it comes to inclusive gear on PATTI + RICKY. Since everything is curated with special needs in mind, there’s no need to dig around the site to find what you’re looking for.

Find out more: pattiandricky.com

What’s your favorite website or resource for special needs kids? Share with our community in a comment below. 

—Gabby Cullen

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Get Color Happy at the Crayola Experience

by mikaela walker

Are you raising a mini Michelango, Donatello, Rafael or Leonardo? We mean the artists, not the turtles. If you are, then take them to visit the Crayola Experience (30 Centre Square, Easton, Pa) where they can let their inner artist be free and you don’t have to suffer through hours of scrubbing crayon and marker off of your walls.

What’s There to Do

The Crayola Experience, has four floors of family fun. Each floor is chocked full of activities for kids, that will interest even the older jaded kids in your group who think they’re too old to go to a museum dedicated to crayons. We promise, they aren’t, and it isn’t just dedicated to crayons either. Inside you’ll find activities that use crayons, of course they’re still the star of the show, but others that feature markers, modeling clay and art mediums. 

When you get to the museum, we recommend first heading to the theater AKA Crayon Factory to watch a show on how crayons are made. The show stars two animated crayons, Scarlet and Turk and a Crayonologist AKA He or She who makes the crayons. The show is only about 20 minutes long and gives a live demonstration, along with video from the factory floor, of how crayons are made. The animated crayons keep the kids entertained and they will love seeing the new crayons being born.

After the show, head up to the fourth floor, for a bevy of melted crayon activities. In Drip Art, kids (and parents too if you want) pick two crayons to create a swirled masterpiece. They place one crayon at a time into what looks like a compression chamber from a 70s TV show with a piece of paper underneath. While the crayon melts, they spin the paper at varying speeds to create a pattern. Add a second crayon, rinse and repeat. At Meltdown, your kids throw themselves on the floor and start screaming and kicking. Sorry, wrong meltdown. This one is actually a good thing. Kids get to paint with a variety of different colors of melted crayon. The results are pretty amazing. A word of caution, once dry, melted crayon tends to flake so make sure to keep the artwork secure in your plastic bag (they give you one when you enter the museum to hold your artwork) on the way home so you don’t end up with crayon flakes all over the car.

Ever wanted your kid to be a star? Well at the Crayola Experience they can be the star of their very own coloring page. In the Be a Star exhibit, you have a photo taken of your kid, kids or the whole family and then it gets transformed into a coloring page. Pretty nifty, huh?

There are three exhibits at the Crayola Experience that require tokens, Wrap it Up, Marker Mania and Modeling Madness. When you purchase your tickets for the museum, you will receive three tokens, one for each exhibit. If you want to repeat any of the attractions, you can purchase additional tokens for $.50 each. At the Modeling Madness exhibit, you can purchase additional packs of modeling clay for $.50 each or holders for the modeling clay, such as a dragon fly body or monster feet, for $2.00 each (mark our words, your kids will want one of these!). 

What Does It Cost

Admission to the Crayola Experience is $15.99 per person ages 2 to 64. Purchase tickets online, to save $1.00 on each. Seniors 65+ are $12.99 per ticket. Annual passes are $29.99 and are worth the price if you plan to visit two or more times in a year.

How to Get There and Where to Park

The Crayola Experience in Easton, Pa, is around 1 ¼ hours from New York City by car. Take the Holland Tunnel from New York City to Route 78. Take exit 75 off of Route 78. The Crayola Experience is 1.5 miles from the exit.

Metered parking is available on the street near the Crayola Experience. There is also a parking garage behind the Crayola Experience with parking for $2 per hour.

To Do Nearby

Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom is only 30 minutes away in Allentown, Pa. Make it a Pennsylvania weekend and visit both attractions.

– Mikaela Walker

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