As The Bump editorial team’s resident pregnant woman (I’m 20 weeks as of yesterday — halfway there!), I get the pretty awesome job of being a guinea pig for the latest products. After all, someone’s got to see what works and what doesn’t, right? So of course, I wanted to pass along a few of my favorites so far.

What are your favorite pregnancy products?

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Top 6 Pregnancy Skin Issues (and How to Deal)

Is Your Beauty Routine Safe for Pregnancy?

Sneaky (and Cheap!) Ways to Stretch Your Maternity Wardrobe

Liz Lange, fashion guru, Target’s maternity design partner and fashionable on-the-go-mom, shares her tips on how pregnant women can stay chic during babymoon travels — without ever checking a bag.

1. Make a list and check it twice.

Create a list before you begin packing to keep the process organized and ensure you’re bringing only the necessary items. As I always say, when in doubt leave it out! Consider where you’re going, who you’ll be seeing and, of course, climate. If you’re heading to a tropical location, pack an assortment of flowy dresses. I love these maxi dresses from my Target collection — they can be dressed up or down for dinner or a day by the pool.

2. Stick with a color scheme.

Maximize versatility and suitcase space by packing items that fit within a three-way color scheme: I recommend two neutrals and an accent color. My favorites are black, gray and turquoise or brown, tan and red. Mix and match pieces in these palettes and you’ll have several interchangeable vacation looks that flatter a baby bump.

3. Wear the bulkiest items en route.

Avoid wasting prime real estate in your carry-on by wearing any jackets, chunky shoes and jeans on the plane instead of packing them. Make sure your jeans are comfortable and have some stretch, like this pair from my collection with an expandable belly band and a versatile dark wash.

4.  Load up on accessories.

Accessories are size-less, easily easy to wedge into suitcase corners and can transform your look without a complete outfit change. I’m partial to brightly colored scarves and statement jewelry.

5. Roll ‘em!

Rolling is a great space-saving, wrinkle-reducing technique for packing clothes. It works for shirts, pants, shorts, skirts and dresses, and is a fun way to get the kids involved in packing.

How did you pack for your getaway?

Plus, more from The Bump:

Planning a Girlfriend Getaway? Here’s How!

10 Babymoon Tips

Best Babymoon Destinations

With warmer weather well on its way (finally) it’s high time to clean our closet and replace those dreary winter clothes with lots (and lots!) of summer brights! Today, Jacqueline has some easy tips for putting together an adorable (and comfortable) summer staple — and it’s a must-have look for all moms-to-be! This sundress is light, bright and accessorized to perfection — plus, you can dress it up with heels and statement jewels or dress it down by adding flats and a sweater for when it gets cooler at night.

Each week, tune in for Jacque’s tips, tricks and demonstrations on how to make your maternity wardrobe work for you (especially with the summer heat comin’ on strong!). Want to see Jackie’s tips for sundresses? Check ‘em out:

Plus, more from The Bump:

5 Ways to Disguise Your Bump in Early Pregnancy

What to Wear in Early Pregnancy?

10 Stylish Maternity Wrap Dresses

I went to the doctor yesterday after a week of unexplained dizziness. “Oh, are you pregnant?” asked everyone I mentioned it to — because that’s the go-to diagnosis for women of childbearing age who complain of anything from a hangnail to a headache. Just try telling someone you feel tired, hungry, or nauseous and see what they say. Personally, I was afraid I had a brain tumor. The doctor’s diagnosis? Dehydration and anemia.

I was surprised, but I shouldn’t be. I am a vegetarian, so the anemia — or low iron — makes sense. I think that’s why when I was pregnant I had crazy cravings for spinach dip. I do take a multivitamin, one of the kid’s Flintstones chewables, when I remember. Even the dehydration makes sense. I get through my days fueled on coffee until the kids go to bed, and then I have a glass of wine. Sound familiar?

All the talk about pregnancy got me thinking: I totally didn’t capitalize on my symptoms when I was expecting. There are a lot of perks to being pregnant, which I didn’t fully appreciate at the time. For instance:

Indulging your cravings. So spinach dip isn’t that decadent. And you don’t want to go hog wild with the doughnuts. But you’re eating for two and you should enjoy it. Go ahead and have that ice cream. (Calcium!) Pour yourself another bowl of cereal. (Cap’n Crunch is iron-fortified!) Order those deep-fried tater tots with a side of ranch dressing. (Umm… there’s lots of potassium in potatoes?)

Catching up on sleep. Growing another person takes LOTS of energy. Sleeping in and taking naps are practically medically sanctioned. With years of sleep deprivation looming, get all the rest you can while the baby’s still in there and can’t whine for a fourth bedtime story and a glass of water.

Buying new clothes. OK, this one has nothing to do with health, but when I was getting dressed for my doctor’s appointment, I realized the sorry state of my closet. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said to myself in Old Navy, “I don’t really NEED a cute sundress. And the kids really DO need new bathing suits…” But when you’re pregnant and expanding by the day? That, ladies, is a foolproof excuse for going shopping.

So, while it may be too late for me, please learn from my mistakes. If you’re expecting, take full advantage of the perks while you have the chance. And tell me how those tater tots taste.

Which pregnancy symptoms did you enjoy?

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Make Over Your Beauty Routine for Pregnancy

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Pregnancy Symptoms No One Warned You About

While vacationing in Greece, photogs caught a glimpse (just barely!) of the mom-to-be’s growing baby bump. Ever since announcing her pregnancy, Kim Kardashian has been trying to keep her baby-to-be under wraps (in leather and custom maternity-wear) but on vacation with her family, Kimmy let loose!

Since we love to see expectant mom’s showing off their pregnancy glow, we rounded up six other celebrities (currently pregnant and some who’ve gave birth within the last two years) who hit the beach with the perfect accessory: their bumps! We love to see these mamas-to-be shine bright, feel great and look radiant!

Check ‘em out:

What was your maternity beach-wear of choice: bikini, tankini or one-piece?

Plus, more from The Bump:

Best Maternity Swimsuits of 2012

Cutest Nursing Bras

Fabulous Maternity Fashion Collections

Meet our newest maternity fashionista, Jacqueline Weppner! Hailing from our very own NYC, Jackie is the founder and creative director of Merci New York — a chic, boutique styling house offering fashion, event and prop styling for weddings, special events and editorial projects, “providing chic style for the busy city bride.”

As a first-time mama-to-be, Jackie is finding new ways to stretch her pregnancy wardrobe without spending a fortune! Currently, she’s lovin’ maxi dresses (a maternity must-have!), especially this floral maxi mini from Rosie Pope’s maternity collection. She says it’s “colorful and comfy and I can’t wait to wear it on our babymoon next month!” Jackie says her favorite part of dressing her bump so far has been finding new ways to wear old things (and we couldn’t agree more!). She says, “Dresses have become tunics and scarves (around the neck, belted, layered atop a jacket) are a fun little no-guilt by whenever I go shopping!”

Each week, tune in for Jackie’s tips, tricks and demonstrations on how to make your maternity wardrobe work for you (especially with the summer heat comin’ on strong!). Want to see Jackie’s tips for stretching your maternity wardrobe? Check ‘em out:

Did you reuse older pieces of your wardrobe during your pregnancy?

Plus, more from The Bump:

5 Ways to Disguise Your Bump in Early Pregnancy

What to Wear in Early Pregnancy?

10 Stylish Maternity Wrap Dresses

I recently found myself at the Mall of America because of a work trip. I meandered with my coworker/friend and suggested I check out the maternity stores since I didn’t have to pay sales tax (woo hoo!).

I should mention that I have been putting off buying maternity clothes for several reasons: I’m in denial that I’m gaining weight, I’m scared, I pocketed some hand-me-downs from a girlfriend and oh, did I mention that I’m really, really scared about my changing shape?

So, I went into the maternity store anyway and was greeted with several over zealous saleswomen. While I’m not ginormous by any means,  I’m definitely a  fuller woman now. My size four pants are currently retired until further notice. The sales clerks told me I’m still small and I should fit comfortably in small pants — uh, no, I won’t.  But while I continued to peruse, my fitting room was filled to the top with an obscene amount of clothes. As if it can’t get any worse, Miss Perky Sales Lady asks me if I want to try on the “the bump“. You know, to gauge how I’ll look with the extra weight on my frame and to help factor what size I’ll truly be once I really pop.

Cue the panic. I started to sweat, the room began to close in and the scarf around my neck surely turned into a noose ready to hang me. But I skipped off to the fitting room regardless and to my horror, the bump was there. So, I did what any woman would do — I covered it with my coat. I started trying on the clothes laid out for me. One after the other, I put on the too-small sizes and was greeted, again, by an unfamiliar person in the mirror. Is that really me? I’m not having the easiest time dealing with my changing shape.

Rather than deal with getting bigger sizes, I panic and sweat some more while cursing  my new curves. I couldn’t have put my own clothes on any faster and run out of the room. I dragged my coworker, who was standing by to offer a second opinion, out of that clothing store so fast she must have thought I was crazy.

Now… I know I should be happy because gaining weight means healthy baby. However, after working my butt off for nearly a year and a half for my wedding just a few months ago it’s hard to not look in the mirror and wonder where  my hard work ran off to. Will I ever get used to this?

How did you deal with gaining weight during your pregnancy?

Plus, more from The Bump:

Tales from the Scale: The Obsession With Pregnancy Weight Gain

Pregnancy Diet: What to Eat When You’re Pregnant and Why

You’re Pregnant. Now What?

My body seems to have a mind of its own lately. Swollen, bloated, and my pants don’t want to zip or button anymore. Not to mention, whose new set of ta-ta’s are these? People are most likely wondering if I have “let myself go” since my fall wedding or if I’ve been eating massive quantities of donuts.

However, right now isn’t the time for me to scream from the mountain tops that I’m expecting. So, what’s a girl to do? Disguise that bump! I recommend making use of your prebaby wardrobe as much as you can. However, if you must break down and buy a few new items, here are five essentials that have made keeping this secret a little easier:

Remember, comfort is key, but so is stretching your wardrobe and the truth until your growing bump is just too big to button your pants. Happy shopping!

How did you disguise your bump?

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The Bump Best of Baby Maternity Fashion Winners!

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Be still my royal heart.Pregnant Kate Middleton was recently spotted out and about for the National Review of Queen’s Scouts at Windsor Castle, a parade celebrating scouts who’ve been honored by Queen II — touting a very visible baby bump!

While the rumor mill continues to churn out stories about Kate’s pregnancy (she’s having a boy! No! She’s having a girl!) — one thing is for sure: Kate continues to handle the growing spotlight — and her growing babe! — with as much grace and style as ever.

The Duchess, who is expecting her first child with her husband, Prince William, in July, accessorized her beautiful bump with a mint Mulberry Coat and her signature brown Whiteley fascinator.  She looked radiant (as always because dang! does this girl shine bright like a diamond every day or what?!) in the very spring-themed outfit. Looks like pregnancy suits the Princess well!  Kate was all smiles at the event, so I’m going to go out on a limb here and say just how natural she’ll be as a mum. And now that the Duchess is well into her second trimester, we can’t wait to see what maternity fashion she nails next. Spoiler alert: We’re hoping it’s more sheer-sleeved dresses!

Keep up with our Royal Bump Watch 2k13 on The Bump twitter by tweeting your Kate sightings, Kate musings and all-around affection for Kate Middleton, Prince William and the royal baby by using #TheRoyalBump!

What do you think, Bumpies? Loving Kate’s look?

Plus, more from The Bump:

6 Reasons Prince William Will Be a Great Dad

Kate Middleton Shows Off Her Baby Bump

6 Royal Nursery Ideas Fit for Life in the Palace

I walked into work the other day, fresh off spending the last few hours with my 7-month old. I made the usual rounds, coffee in hand, chatting it up with the boss and co-workers.  I suppose it was about two hours later when I shut the door to my office and settled in for a pumping session — I looked down as I unbuttoned my cardigan to see what I can only describe as Haley’s Comet traveling from my shoulder down the front of my black cardigan. The comet… was a booger.

I had a napkin in my desk drawer and a bottle of water nearby, so I dabbed at my little booger comet to no avail. Rather than blotting it out of the night sky, I only added to its glow with little bits of napkin fuzz. As I contemplated my next move, I realized two things. First, do a spit-up-drool-snot-boogey check before leaving the house. Second, never get caught without a backup.

The first I haven’t quite mastered.  The second, I have.  What do I mean about a backup?  Well, there are several options — all of which will become a working mom’s best friend if you plan ahead.

1. Pack a scarf: Ah, that tasseled, slinky little weave of sanity in an insane world.  The scarf is there when you need to cover the hickey-like splotches on your neck where your little munchkin thought it a good idea to explore the ol’ scratch ‘n pinch on his road to motor skill mastery. The scarf is there when you dribble milk down your front (2% or breast)  It’s great for dabbing messes, covering messes, and even makes a great breastfeeding cover if you need it in a cinch.  They come in approximately 17 billion patterns, colors, and price-points, and they squish, fold, or roll into the tiniest little packet for fitting into purses, diaper bags, or if you’re like me, into a jumbo bin by the front door or under your desk.

2. Grab your pashmina: With the fabric being a wee wider than the scarf, the pashmina is also great for those “oopsy” moments. Where the scarf falls short, the pashmina steps up and swishes its mighty girth over shoulders and around arms — areas which are all fair game for boogies, snot, spittle, and (gasp) even poop. All you need is one or two pashminas in a basic color to keep in your drawer.  Black, gray, or beige and call it a day.

3. Keep an extra cardigan at the office: Finally, the princess of the ball. That cover-all, dress-up, dress-down, all-American, apple-of-my-wardrobe cardigan. A working mom’s wardrobe staple. Not only is the cardiganmy wardrobe must, but it covers up any mess. Who knew? This little miracle garment is available for less than twenty bucks at most Target-like stores, and comes in long-sleeve, short-sleeve, 3/4 sleeve, crop, drop, button, zip, heavy, light (running out of air)… You get the picture. This is the big Kahuna of the working mom’s closet.  I keep a basic black one draped over my office chair for whenever I show up with my blouse crusted over with unknown substances. I’ve also been known to double up a scarf with a cardigan. (Hey, I dribble once in awhile myself.)

Who says we can’t be cute and stylish on the outside even when our boobies are leaking on the inside?  But, what do I know… I’m just the girl with the booger on her shoulder!

What wardrobe stables do you rely on now that you’re a mom?

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8 Biggest Mistakes New Moms Make

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