If the idea of swimsuit season makes you tense up, stick with us. We know it’s not always easy to fully embrace our bodies, but times are a-changin’! Social media, fashion websites, even store mannequins have gotten with the program and are showcasing a wide range of body types. Now more than ever,  it’s much easier to find models and influencers that represent our own bodies. And although there’s definitely a lot of work still to be done as far as size inclusivity goes across the board, there’s progress in the air. The body positivity movement isn’t going anywhere, so the perfect mom swimsuit is out there. We promise.

Let’s remember, no matter how you feel about your body, every body is a beach body. Our kids just want us to put on the bathing suit and spend the season creating memories with them. Not only do they not care about your oh-so-human “imperfections”, they likely don’t even see them. We can guarantee that no one sees what you consider to be flaws the same way that you do. At the end of the day, we want to set an example for our children. Showing them that their own bodies are perfect just as they are starts with us learning to love our own. We aren’t saying it’s that simple; but we are saying that the first step in getting comfortable at the beach or pool is just doing it. Putting on the swimsuit and getting out there. And we’re here to help.

These mom swimsuits from Amazon are totally mom-friendly. They’re flattering, confidence-boosting, and downright cute. We’ve made sure that they’re also supportive, offer various levels of coverage, and include a wide range of sizes. These are some seriously adorable and wearable suits that we’re confident you’ll feel great in. Get ready to flaunt that hot (yes, hot!) bod this spring and summer in one of these mom swimsuits, all snaggable from Amazon!

SweatyRocks Monokini

SweatyRocks

This little number is like a bikini without the commitment. It also comes in a ton of colors so you may want to pick up more than one!

Amazon Review: I have an athletic build (with a few extra winter pounds in this pic ;) but love the suit for the most part. I wish it was a little less cheeky / narrow cut in the back and the off shoulder side was a little higher for a little more chest coverage. Overall very happy with it. Quality fabric and stays in place. I returned L because it was too small and the XL fits well. I usually I'm somewhere between a medium and large both for top and bottom. —SavvyStagerAndHomeMaker

SweatyRocks Monokini ($29.99)—Buy Now!

CUPSHE V-Neck Tummy Control One-Piece

CUPSHE

You've probably heard of CUPSHE, and with good reason. They're famous for creating cute and flattering swimsuits that are supportive and flattering, and this v-neck one is no exception! It comes in 19 colors and prints.

Amazon Review: First of all, I am just under 5’9” and it’s very difficult to find a one piece that not only fits correctly, but is also flattering. The color is beautiful and I can’t wait to wear this on my upcoming vacation. Buy the suit. It really does look good on everyone. —Scott Christensen

CUPSHE V-Neck Tummy Control One-Piece ($33.99)—Buy Now!

High-Neck Plunge Mesh One-Piece

Tempt Me

Our Shopping Editor actually owns this one in 3 colors. Yes, 3. It's incredibly flattering, a little flirty, and comes in a bunch of colors and patterns!

Amazon Review: All I can say is, oh my gosh!! I have a REALLY hard time finding one piece swim suits. I have a long torso and suits usually only reach my boobs. So frustrating. I took a chance with this one, hoping it would work. I’m going on a cruise on April and wanted something cute. This one is stunning! I got the white and the wine color. It makes me look good!! —Melissa

High-Neck Plunge Mesh One-Piece ($33.99)—Buy Now!

Retro Halter Ruched One-Piece

When retro-style swimsuits are this cute, we wonder why we ever changed them! This one also comes in lots of colors (are you spotting a trend here?).

Amazon Review: This suit is so flattering. I have a new baby and really wanted something cute that would make me feel confident even with my mom bod. Highly recommend —LauraWelcher220

Retro Halter Ruched One-Piece ($34.99)—Buy Now!

Flowy Tankini Two-Piece

Aqua Eve

If you like the retro silhouette but prefer a two-piece, this tankini will be right up your alley!

Amazon Review: I bought this for my 16 year old daughter. She is bustier on top and makes it hard to find a swimsuit that will hold those girls in. She absolutely loved this swimsuit and the shorts as well. Bought size 16 and fits her perfectly. She is 5’4” and weighs about 190lbs. —Sara

Flowy Tankini Two-Piece ($40.99)—Buy Now!

CUPSHE Ruffle Lace-Up

Yep, it's another CUPSHE suit, but we obviously couldn't resist these ruffles and flattering plunging neckline!

Amazon Review: After three babies, I’ve struggled to find something I’m comfortable in swimsuit-wise. This suit is perfect. I never write reviews, but felt a fellow momma needed to know this suit is great for covering the mommy tummy due to the ruching and good support. Buy it! I got a size large and am 5’6”, 175lbs. Fits perfect. —Jennifer B.

CUPSHE Ruffle Lace-Up ($36.99)—Buy Now!

One-Shoulder Tankini

Tempt Me

Although this one comes in a lot of colors and patterns, we're crushing on this nautically-inspired navy one.

Amazon Review: I needed a new swimsuit for a trip and took a chance on this one. I couldn't be happier with the pattern, fit and detail with the one-shoulder bandeau! I am 5'3 and 128 lbs. and the Large fit so well. It showed on chart that LARGE is a 10-12 and I am usually a size 8-10 but this fit perfectly. I chose the Red Leaf design and love it. —Amazon Customer

One-Shoulder Tankini ($29.99+)—Buy Now!

Ruched Halter One-Piece

RXRXCOCO

We're firm believers that ruching is really flattering and the Amazon reviews agree.

Amazon Reviews: LOVE THIS BATHING SUIT MORE THAN LIFE! I like many women have a hard time loving their body; I'm not a mother, but I'm 5'8" with a short torso, and super long legs (about 190lbs). This suit made me feel SO good and confident. It's super comfortable & flattering, and I felt completely tucked in and adorable. I really am so glad I purchased after buying suit after suit that made me hate looking in a mirror. —angelica

Ruched Halter One-Piece ($21.49+)—Buy Now!

High-Waisted Two-Piece

American Trends

Another suit our Shopping Editors swear by! We love a high waist, too.

Amazon Review: Love this swimsuit! I am so glad I ordered this swimsuit. I had lost 50lbs so wasn’t sure what size to order. It fit perfectly and is true to size. It was comfortable and coverage was great. I can’t wait to order more in different designs —Amazon Customer

High-Waisted Two-Piece ($26.99)—Buy Now!

Crossover Strappy One-Piece

Hilor

Strappy is so on-trend and the negative space at the waist creates an hourglass figure!

Amazon Review: I have a very long torso so finding one piece bathing suits are difficult. I’m 57, 125 LBS and the suit fits perfectly, very flattering. Looking for a suit that has a full coverage on the bottom is also a plus. —pickyshopper

Crossover Strappy One-Piece ($26.59+)—Buy Now!

High-Waisted Bikini

Yonique

Looking to soak up a little more sun? This bikini shows some skin while still keeping you feeling secure.

Amazon Review: This came today and I ran to try it on. I have to say it is quite flattering for a woman of my size. I am a mom of 4 , twins included. It is plus and of very good quality, but it is nice. I wear 2 pieces all the time but I make sure they cover me and cinch me and I have very large DD cups or may even go to specialty stores and go up to an F or G. I am impressed that it offers support for me. That said I’m ready to hit Cancun in this 2 piece! —MBakerpsych

High-Waisted Bikini ($35.99)—Buy Now!

Rash Guard Bike Shorts Two-Piece

LALAGEN

Prefer some extra coverage? This set offers additional modesty while making it so easy to run or swim after your kiddos without having to adjust!

Amazon Review: Fit great and very comfortable on. As a plus size woman, I personally am uncomfortable wearing swimsuits in the public eye but I LOVE this suit. The shorts come down to just above the knee and are really comfortable. The top is not so low cut that I spill out, and the fit was GREAT. Not too tight anywhere. The top is long enough to cover my belly without riding up constantly and it dries fairly quickly. Definitely glad I bought it! —Aja Collins

Rash Guard Bike Shorts Two-Piece ($36.99)—Buy Now!

Cutout One-Piece

Daci

The little cutout and bow add a little something extra to this classic style!

Amazon Review: BUY IT! I am curvy! I HATE buying suits! Nothing ever fits right from very expensive to cheap! This suit is absolutely amazing! Hitting all the right spots and you wrap the top as tight or as loose as you want!!! After this first purchase I literally bought three more! —Nikki Vidal

Cutout One-Piece ($38.99)—Buy Now!

Yonique Cutout Swimdress

Yonique

Cutouts are clearly having a moment, and if you prefer some extra hip coverage, this swimdress checks all the boxes!

Amazon Review: Just BUY it! You have to try this bathing suit. Now I have never, like ever, worn a bikini and typically not thrilled with my stomach exposed, but I tried this suit due to all the positive reviews and pics of women of all sizes wearing it. It is so comfortable and flattering. I also liked it because it was one piece vs. a bottom underneath a swim dress. Perfect! —Melissa

Yonique Cutout Swimdress ($37.99)—Buy Now!

Ruffle Sleeve One-Piece

Blooming Jelly

The ruffle sleeves really make this suit even cuter and really unique!

Amazon Review: I felt so confident in this bathing suit, and that doesn’t happen often. Beautiful color, fit great in all the right places. Obsessed with the ruffles!! —Laura Osofsky

Ruffle Sleeve One-Piece ($35.99)—Buy Now!

Avanova Bow-Back Bikini

Avanova

The feminine bow in the back and adjustable straps mean that you can customize for the perfect fit.

Amazon Review: I LOVE this bathing suit, and it’s been a LONG time since I have felt good in a bathing suit! I’m 185lbs, 5’9”, where a 38 DD, don’t have much of a butt and I ordered an XL. By far a great buy! Probably will buy more soon! —Amazon Customer

Avanova Bow-Back Bikini ($26.99+)—Buy Now!

SUUKESS Wrap Push-Up Bikini

SUUKESS

We've very into bust support when it comes to our swimsuits, and this wrap top/high waist combo bikini is an easy fave.

Amazon Review: Bought for my 15yr old. Perfect color and fit. She's xl and larger on top. Held her well. Great suit, I was shocked to find one we both agreed on! Will buy more —Heather Joubert Bearb

SUUKESS Wrap Push-Up Bikini ($33.95)—Buy Now!

Blooming Jelly Lace Front Swimsuit

Blooming Jelly

The lace detail gives the illusion of an hourglass shape (and is really darling, too!).

Amazon Review: It has the vintage look with the elegance. Not the typical bathing suit you find at the store. Got a lot of compliments. —A.R.

Blooming Jelly Lace Front Swimsuit ($31.99+)—Buy Now!

Ruffle Off-the-Shoulder One-Piece

Tempt Me

Adjustable and removable straps, lots of colors—what more could you ask for?

Amazon Review: Often i have issues feeling comfortable in a bathing suit other than black. I am 5’2/ 165 lbs. I wear a size 36 DDD and i am on the curvy side. I would highly recommend this swimsuit. It makes me feel comfy & cute and covers up in the back. It is also hard to find a bathing suit that fits me correctly but this suit really holds the girls in. I am a size L for most stores and i ordered a large here. True to size- for me. —Kristina

Ruffle Off-the-Shoulder One-Piece ($30.99+)—Buy Now!

Yonique Blouson Tankini

Yonique

A blouson top is blousy and flowy, so if you prefer a less fitted option, this is a great way to go.

Amazon Review: Love the boy legs & blouson top. Better than I expected! —Skinner

Yonique Blouson Tankini ($37.99)—Buy Now!

Zip-Front Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Swimsuit

woman in pastel printed rash guard swimsuit
AXESEA

This suit is pretty much the definition of "secure". You don't risk exposure from carrying kiddos or big waves, plus it's really comfortable!

Amazon Review: I ABSOLUTELY love this product and rave about it to everyone. It’s modest and chic. This swimsuit is easy to put on, unbelievably comfortable, lightweight, padding is so comfortable, beautiful pattern. —Patience

Zip-Front Long-Sleeve Rash Guard Swimsuit ($38.99)—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.

As a new mom, it can be flattering when your children only want you. No matter if it’s a scratched knee, a bedtime story, or that special way you put on their socks, kids gravitate toward Mom. It can make you feel loved, needed, and (after a while) like you can’t be away for more than a moment. Actually, not even a moment. They find you fast.

Children don’t mean to insult your partner by refusing assistance, and they don’t consciously intend to monopolize all your time. (Even though they often do both.) They simply seek comfort. At all times. And they are used to you.

 

What’s the best way to share parenting responsibilities?

There may not be an official best way that applies to all situations. There may be places where you want to be the go-to parent, and others you want to share. Even though your partner might already want to share in the duties, you might find you need to be the one to initiate communication. Often dads aren’t even aware of a problem unless we communicate our needs.

If you’re like most moms, the bulk of child interaction defaults to you. Plus, we sometimes overlook our need for space and time to ourselves. If we do recognize the need, we either feel guilty or dread the logistical challenges involved. (If you think, “What would I do anyway?” It’s is a clear sign that you need time to connect with yourself.) Remember, you are a better parent when you have time to recharge your own battery. If you’re in a spot where you want your partner to share the love AND have your kids running to both of you, try these three steps.

 

Step One: Communicate Your Needs

The first step is shining light on the issue. There’s a chance your spouse doesn’t even realize that you’re not in maternal bliss with your kids hanging on you 24/7. After all, that’s what moms do, right? You might need to let him know that you want a more balanced distribution of hang time (so to speak). Approach this conversation by recognizing the benefit of both parents and different parenting styles (even though hopefully you’ve discussed and decided on your overall parenting approach already). When you frame the conversation in terms of a win-win for everyone, especially the kids, you might get even more buy-in. Even if the issue deals more with your child’s behavior, having a conversation with your partner is always the place to start.

 

Step Two: Create Bonding Moments

No matter how upset your children get when you’re away, encourage your partner to develop his own way of playing and dealing with tough situations. Hopefully, there are already games and things that your partner and kids do together. You want them to be comfortable with each other when there’s not a crisis. That’s the place to start. Then, practice with the ‘crisis’ moments. If your child bursts into tears when you leave the room, have your partner come up with a game, story, or distraction to lessen that reaction and develop a stronger relationship. If you are the eternal boo-boo fixer, then let your husband craft his signature way of dealing with scraps and bruises. (And this could mean giving him the first aid kit and saying you really need to go to the bathroom, like, right now. Whatever works.)  Creating time when your kids play with your partner (especially if it doesn’t happen automatically) helps them develop a stronger relationship that will continue to grow as everyone matures. Sometimes you might be able to be home for these shenanigans, and sometimes you may need to physically remove yourself from their space.

 

Step Three: Remove Thyself

If you are always available, then your children will always want you. It’s good for you and your children to have some time away from each other. This cannot be overstated: It is good for you AND your kids to have time away from each other. Set a regular ‘mom’s out of the house’ time where your partner takes over. It doesn’t matter what you do with this time, but make sure you honor it. Keep to the schedule to give them time to grow and work out their own system. It’s ok for it to be awkward, for the kids to cry, and for your husband to find his own way of parenting without texting you constantly. That’s necessary for everyone’s comfort level. Note: Be wary of controlling what happens when your partner takes over. The benefit of different parenting styles is accurate, and even though it won’t be like you do it – whatever “it” is – everyone will be happier and healthier. And if the house is destroyed when you come home (thus, feeling like more work for you), revisit Step One and continue the conversation.

These three simple steps have endless variations and may need to be revisited as your relationships develop, your children mature, and your needs evolve. Don’t be afraid to have awkward conversations, speak up for what you need, and persist through any uncomfortable behavior from your child, spouse, or yourself. Changing up the expected dynamic is bound to push buttons and bring up emotion. Rest assured that when you can be away without crisis, you’ll be happier and your family will thrive no matter who’s got the snacks.

 

Cara Maclean, Wellness Coach & Writer, works with moms to undo what keeps them exhausted. We cultivate the calm, joyful energy needed to handle any challenge with humor and grace. Author of Just the Way It Is: A Look at Gifted/2e Families, Spring 2022, GHF Press. Learn more at CaraMaclean.com

Don’t Forget to Take the Pictures!

newborn photo with mom and dad
Photo: Kendra Greenberg

The first 48 hours go by so fast. You’re basking in the glow of love. Take a few moments and capture those precious moments of bonding before you head home and the family arrives to see the new addition.

Because of COVID-19, hospitals aren’t allowing professional photographers into the hospitals to take any pictures. Most mother-baby stays are shorter than normal to ensure that mom, dad, and baby all stay healthy.

So what’s the best way to document the first memories of your baby’s life? Kendra Greenberg Photography has tips and tricks for taking professional-looking pictures that you will want to frame, put in an album, and use for your baby announcements all from your iPhone. You can absolutely create some lasting images from your time in the hospital.

Kendra is a maternity, newborn, and family photographer based in the Los Angeles area. She has photographed over 1200 newborns at the hospital in their first two days of life and also does posed newborn photography. To learn more about Kendra, visit her website at KendraGreenberg.com and on Instagram @kendraslife.

1. Make a Plan
Visual examples are your best friend. Check out this free PDF Kendra has included if you need some inspiration. Also, if you have time, you can create a Pinterest page of in-hospital baby pictures that you would like to recreate.

Make sure to pack the items that you want with you in the photos, for example, a nice robe, baby outfits/headbands, plus any make-up and hair styling tools you’ll need if you want a certain look.

2. Kendra’s Must-Have Shots

  • Mom with baby

  • Dad with Baby

  • Baby Portrait: Pictures of the baby by themselves

  • Tiny Pieces: Close-ups on the head, hands, and feet

  • Family Picture: Have the nurse take this one!

3. It’s All about the Lighting
First, turn off all artificial lights and get everyone by the window—trust me—turn them off. Natural light complements all skin tones the best. If you leave any other lights on in your room, your baby and the photo will look orange, regardless of your skin tone. Also, turn off your flash. The flash will ruin the natural shadows that we love in documentary-style photography. On your iPhone screen, tap on the part of the image where you want sharp focus. This will also correct the brightness of the image.

PRO TIP: Don’t photograph anyone with the window directly behind them. Most hospitals have a blackout curtain and a shade curtain. Use the shade curtain if it’s too bright. Make sure there is no harsh sunlight on anyone. Make sure the soft light from the window is lighting their faces. 

4. Frame It Up
Get close to your subject to make the photo look more artistic. With intense close-ups like these, you will naturally get a blurry background which will give the picture that professional effect. You’ll want to focus the image in the same way as you did for step four: on your iphone screen, tap on the part of the image where you want sharp focus. This will also correct the brightness of the image. This technique is especially nice for images of the head, hands, and feet.

PRO TIP: Physically move your body closer instead of using the in-phone zoom feature. If you zoom in digitally the image will pixelate and you won’t get good print quality.

5. Get in the Picture
Moms, Dads, get in the picture with your baby! Don’t worry about how you look! Years from now all you’ll see is the glow of love on your face. Those first 48 hour memories are priceless and you can’t recreate the moment when you get home.

For parents who would still really prefer not to be photographed: Consider using your hands under the baby’s head or cheek for an artistic shot. As the baby gets older, they will cherish the image of you and them together.

PRO TIP: Photographing a parent from above with his/her eyes closed and head leaning in close to the baby is a very artistic and flattering shot. Everyone looks good in this picture! Regardless of how much sleep they’ve gotten. Just make sure to get very close and tap the screen to focus on the baby’s face.

6. Choose the Right Moment
Babies are either sleeping, eating, pooping, or everything at the same time, lol! You want to take your pictures when the baby has a full belly and/or is drifting off to sleep. It’s very difficult to get pictures of a one-day-old baby when their eyes are open because that usually means that they’re uncomfortable for some reason.

A warm room will make the baby more comfortable, but don’t let it get too hot for too long. Remember, if you have any questions, consult the medical staff. A tight swaddle, gentle rocking, and shushing sounds mimic the conditions in mommy’s womb. The nurses are expert swaddlers and they love to help new parents.

Most of all, have fun with it! Your first 48 hours with your baby are magical. Enjoy every precious minute of it together and remember, don’t forget to take the pictures!

To learn more, visit Kendra Greenberg Photography and @kendraslife on Instagram.

Written by: Adrienne Sale for Kendra Greenberg Photography

I'm a mom to 3 crazy kids, wife and, photographer!  I’ve been a photographer for 20+ years. I have photographed over 1200 newborns in hospitals all across Los Angeles and it never gets old. I’ll never lose the awe and wonder at this journey of self discovery that is parenthood.

 

Brianne Manz

I'm Brianne Manz, once a fashion showroom owner turned mom and blogger/writer. I live in Battery Park with my husband, our three children & our puppy Cooper.

As much as I love summer & summer dresses, fall is my favorite season in New York City. There’s nothing quite like the changing colors in Central Park. But fall in the north east can be a tricky time for fashion! We continue to have bright sunny days but overall cooler temps. I find myself constantly asking, should I bring a layer or not? I love a cozy knit but sometimes I get too hot. And I love a dress but they aren’t always warm enough. I also start to pull out all my jeans around this time of year after having put them away for summer. I have gathered some of my current favorites to help inspire us all during this gorgeous season!


1

Forrest Wool Coat

$895

Chic for fall, this oversized trench-style jacket has an exaggerated, relaxed silhouette with a hood, double-breasted buttons down center front, a wide belt and twin patch pockets at front.

BUY NOW

2

Potter Cashmere Pullover

$495

A cashmere is a fall & winter must have. These sleeves bring so much fun and femininity to a classic sweater option. Also comes in 4 colors!

BUY NOW

3

Demi Dress

$130

I love how flattering the bodice of this dress is while the sleeves are soft and flowy.

BUY NOW

4

Chalet Turtleneck Sweater Dress

$315

This is such a cozy staple for fall that can be worn with any style boot and coat!

BUY NOW

5

Isla Slim Ankle Boot

$450

This is a classic slim bootie that is totally easy to wear and in a versatile color.

BUY NOW

6

Remington Hoodie

$495

Fall is the epitome of comfy cozy and this hoodie is also just that! Perfect for running errands or staying home by a fire.

BUY NOW

7

Vote Mask

$16 BUY NOW

Tis the season for voting! This mask comes in both children and adult sizes! A fall 2020 must have!

Chances are you’ve seen the viral posts that make the internet rounds about moms getting in the picture, but as Chrissy Teigen points out in an Instagram post, it’s not often easy to get in the picture when you’re always the one acting as family photographer.

Mom and celeb Teigen shared a selfie with daughter Luna to Instagram with a caption explaining that she is the family photographer. “I never have pictures of myself because I am selfless and am the designated photo taker and keeper for my family and no one else seems to care to be thoughtful and take good photos of me they merely click them off without paying attention to angles or lighting or general photo ambience,” she wrote.

Thousands of followers chimed in, commenting that they shared the same experience and were often left out of photos as moms. While Teigen makes a valid point, her husband John Legend wasn’t going to let her off the hook so easily for being called out in front of her 25 million followers. In response, he posted an Instagram message of his own with a very flattering image of his wife. He captioned the photo, “When your wife says you’re a bad Instagram husband but you’re like…”

And to drive the point home he posted a second adorable shot of Teigen and Luna apparently enjoying a tea party with the hashtag #goodinstagramhusband.

Touché. Still, the message is an important one. Let’s all get in the picture more often.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: Chrissy Teigen via Instagram

 

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The sun is shining, the temps are rising, and your adorable bump is growing. That means it’s time to take inventory of your closet and make sure it’s stocked with pieces that help you look and feel cool all summer long. Here are 10 warm-weather maternity pieces that’ll keep expectant mamas happy until labor day!

Noa Jumpsuit from HATCH

HATCH

Get a jump(suit) on summer with this gorgeous one-piece by HATCH. It's as stylish as it is comfortable and makes getting dressed in the morning a breeze. Special details like the side seam pockets, cropped wide legs with slits at the ankle and adjustable knotted straps will make this a wardrobe staple throughout your pregnancy and beyond. We love it in flamenco red, but it's also available in a neutral dune and basic black. 

Available at hatchcollection.com, $248.

Joey Tank from Nom Maternity

Nom Maternity

This laid-back, basic tank from Nom Maternity is undeniably flattering, and the longer length and black-and-white stripes makes it a perfect match with your favorite leggings or jeans. The super soft jersey fabric will keep you comfortable and cool on those long summer days.

Available at nommaternity.com, $48.

Tie-Front Maxi Dress from A Pea in the Pod

A Pea in the Pod

Made with the needs of expectant mamas in mind, this tulip-print maxi dress from A Pea in the Pod checks all of our boxes for the perfect summer essential: easy, breezy and oh so stylish. It also comes in black, blue-and-white stripes, and a different floral pattern.

Available at apeainthepod.com, $96.

Tank Dress from Storq

Storq

Between scheduling doctor's appointments, researching car seats and keeping up with your normal day-to-day responsibilities, the last thing you want to worry about is putting an outfit together. That's why this ribbed tank dress from Storq is heaven sent. It's flattering, comfortable and can take you from day to night with ease. Also comes in gray.

Available at storq.com, $92.

Floral Print V-Neck Dress

H&M

Whether you're gathering with friends after work or off to brunch with your family on the weekends, you'll feel comfortable and stylish in this floral v-neck dress from H&M. Dress it up with heels or wear it with sandals for a more casual look. 

Available at H&M, $39.99

Striped One-Piece Swimsuit from Pez D'Or

Nordstrom

For the days when floating is the only thing you feel like doing, reach for this flattering navy one-piece bathing suit. The classic style has built-in side boning for support and offers a breezy nautical look that's perfect for relaxing at the pool. It has a back clasp closure and ties behind the neck.

Available at nordstrom.com, $99.

Marlow Cuffed Lounge Pants

Mama Muse

The talented designers at Mama Muse are the ones to thank for these cool, everyday maternity lounge pants. Made from a fluid, stretch-poly blend, these tapered-leg pants are printed with a flattering, pretty floral motif.  Soft, smocked elastic cinches the ruffled waist and cuffs. Pair with a neutral top and sandals and you're out the door in no time. 

Available at mama-muse, $129.

Knit Pencil Skirt from A Pea in the Pod

A Pea in the Pod

This forever-relevant knit pencil skirt is built for office hangs, plane rides, dinners out, you name it. The high waistband covers your bump while the mid-calf length makes it easy to wear all summer. 

Available at apeainthepod.com, $58.

Shorts with Smocking from H&M

H&M

Say hello to your favorite summer shorts! These H&M shorts in a woven viscose and linen blend with wide smocking at the waist and side pockets are the perfect short for everything from a day at the beach to running errands in town to hanging out in the backyard. The fabric is easy and breathable and just what you're looking for on those balmy summer days. 

Available at www2.hm.com, $29.99

The Monica Top by HATCH

HATCH

Its feminine fit, darling print and silky fabric are just a few of the things we love about this flattering top from HATCH. Pair with their boyfriend jean or beach pant and you're ready for all the summer fun that's lined up. 

Available at hatchcollection.com, $128.

Aimee Della Bitta

featured photo: HATCH

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9 Top Maternity Leggings to Work Out In

10 New-Mom Outfit Essentials to Add to Your Wardrobe

 

 

If you’ve been wondering, “Is Reese Witherspoon pregnant?” the 42-year-old actress answered the question herself on Instagram this week. OK! Magazine latest cover features the Big Little Lies actress, along with pal Jennifer Garner, claiming both friends are pregnant right now. Judging by Witherspoon’s rad reaction, the mom of three knows how to shutdown pregnancy rumors in the best way possible.

This isn’t exactly the first time the tabloids have got it wrong. Celebs are constant targets for pregnancy rumors, making news for doing nothing more than eating a big meal or wearing a not-so-flattering dress. Stars such as Jennifer Aniston and Cameron Diaz have been dodging these types of expecting accusations for years.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvC-LomjYwg/

More recently, Lady Gaga faced her own not-so-real rumors about a possible pregnancy. The superstar singer/actress put an end to those by promoting her next musical effort, tweeting that she’s actually pregnant with #LG6 (her soon-to-be-released album).

Witherspoon didn’t take the same approach as Lady Gaga, but her social media share was just as effective. The actress-mama Instagrammed a pic of the tabloid cover, asking Garner if the pair could raise their “imaginary babies” together! Garner commented on Witherspoon’s post, adding that the pair should just move in together now and become the “cutest imaginary family.”

Other celeb friends commented on the rumored pregnancy, with actress Sarah Michelle Gellar offering to imaginary baby sit and Ali Wentworth suggesting that she throw the imaginary shower!

—Erica Loop

Featured photos: Reese Witherspoon via Instagram

 

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It’s officially spring and around here we’re excited to get outside and play. This is a great time to grab your camera, whether it’s a fancy DSLR, a simple point and shoot, or your smartphone, and take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather. These 5 easy tips will help you capture better, more authentic pictures of your little ones outside.  

1) It is all about the light. The light in the early morning and late afternoon is typically the most flattering and easy to work with. As the clock heads toward noon, the direct and bright rays make for warm sunshine but from a photographer’s perspective the light is harsh and unflattering. If you are outside mid-day, the best light for photographs is in open shade. Open shade is easy to find – you just have to look up. If you aren’t in the sun and there’s nothing blocking your view overhead, you’ve found it. Shooting in open shade results in more even lighting, fewer harsh shadows and a more natural, even skin tone.

2) The only cheese allowed is the kind you eat with wine. You see your kids laugh and smile countless times a week. You know what the real thing looks like. For some reason, a completely different and frankly, odd-looking, face comes out the moment kids (and some adults) are asked to smile for the camera. My advice:  talk to them instead. Think about the thing this week that they are most into or think is funny (a cow riding a bicycle? their favorite kind of ice cream? silly knock-knock jokes?) and engage them in that topic. The smiles will be real and, for the most part, if you talk to them about something that they are interested in, they will look at you. Just be sure you have your camera ready for when they do.

3) Get down lower and move around. Crouch, kneel and lay down on your belly to get photos that fill the frame with your child and show the world from their point of view. And instead of taking the same picture three times, move around to capture different angles of the same thing. You’ll be amazed at how the light and the mood of the photo changes when you move even a few feet. 

4) Pay attention to the background. Look around for an angle that gives you a clean and uncluttered background. Outside this might mean moving your child so that a group of trees or a plain brick wall are in the background. Keeping the photo simple allows the focal point to be on the subject of the photo: the kid(s).

5) Practice, practice, practice. Take your camera with you and use it. Challenge yourself to take one good picture of your kids each week. Yes, you will take a lot of bad pictures. But in the age of digital photography, who cares? Delete those you don’t like and keep going. I promise you will end up with some gems. 

Happy shooting!

Kristin Lunny is a family photographer and full-time mom to her 3 year old daughter.  Orginally from Colorado, Kristin now lives in the Bay Area and when she's not behind her camera, she can be found trail running, finger painting or off on an adventure with her favorite 3 foot tall playmate. 

Fluctuating cup size and easy access for baby are just a few of the fashion challenges you face while nursing. Don’t let that keep you from putting your best look forward. Find inspiration for your fall nursing wardrobe with these flattering and functional pieces. They’re so stylish, you’ll want to keep them in your closet long after baby gives up the breast.

Go with the Flow

The flowing design of this long-sleeved nursing top makes for a flattering fit. The gathered material in the front moves to the side for when it’s feeding time. It’s a shirt ideal for nursing with a sling.

Available at milknursingwear.com, $44.00.

What are your favorite looks for fall? Share in a comment.

–Katie L. Carroll

Whether beating the heat this summer or relaxing poolside or beachside on your babymoon, you need a maternity swimsuit you feel confident in stat. You can rock your bump in style in one-pieces, tankinis, bikinis and even flowy and flattering swim dresses. Here are nine maternity swimwear looks to love for every budget.

Tankini for the Win

This top offers the best of both worlds: lots of extra material to accommodate your bump and halter ties to provide support, which is especially necessary for many mamas-to-be, as their busts grow considerably during pregnancy. Plus, with a price tag of under $25, you really can't go wrong.

Available at target.com, $24.99.

How do you rock your bump at the beach? Tell us about your maternity style in a Comment.
—Jane Putnam