I wouldn’t say that I’m a seasoned expert now by any means, but if my second pregnancy has taught me anything, it’s that every pregnancy is different. While my own personal first pregnancy was a breeze, this one is a little bit more trying, and I find myself leaning into an entirely new closet and skincare routine.

Whether it’s your first pregnancy, second pregnancy, or you’re the ironwoman who’s now carried 3+, I hope you’ll find one or two things you can agree with in my latest list of maternity must-haves.

Non-Maternity Loungewear

There’s something purposeful and empowering about rocking non-maternity loungewear throughout the duration of pregnancy. Yes, I own maternity leggings. But I try not to live in them. Investing in non-maternity loungewear pieces builds a wardrobe that will carry you from the first trimester through to postpartum and beyond. And these are a few of my favorite finds.

My cousin’s new fashion line, AWAKENbybliss, upped the game for my second pregnancy style with fair trade, handmade, organic, and one-of-a-kind cotton leggings. I’ll admit, I’m obsessed.

These Free People Seamless Rib Bike Shorts also changed my life. I’m in my third trimester and the XS pair still hugs my bump without the least bit of tightness. They’re growing with me and I think that they’ll shrink with me someday soon too.

Surprisingly, it’s difficult to find high quality sweatpants or joggers that fit comfortably and hit right above the bump when you’re pregnant. Last time, I wore my husband’s sweatpants and tore the elastic out. But this time around, I fell in love with the sustainably chic sweater joggers from the brand B New York.

Speaking of sustainable, there’s nothing I love more than an elevated, eco-conscious knit that can flatter my body now and post-birth. Enter: Oyun.

Sometimes, pregnant bellies also just call for a dress. And while there are a number of maternity dresses that I love, this sweat dress doesn’t need a bump to be complete.

Serious self-care rituals

During my first pregnancy, I was allowed to go to a spa for a prenatal massage or take a 30 minute shower without a toddler getting into trouble in the other room. This time, things are a little bit different. But for that reason, self-care is that much more important.

I swear by Erbaviva right now. I know that stretch marks are more likely to be hereditary than offset by any magical solution, but stretching skin is so uncomfortable and this set is insanely soothing.

And an eye mask is the type of thing that will scare so many partners that they’re bound to buy you a few minutes of much-needed alone time. So, I recommend stocking up on a few.

I also started getting into jade rollers pre-pregnancy but the morning puffiness these days is all too real. Whether it’s mental or not, I take a few minutes to calm and sculpt my contours in the morning when I’m pregnant, and I wouldn’t give the time back for anything else.

Unexpected glam

Whether it’s the peak of covid-19 or not, pregnancy can feel a bit drab. Sparkle, shine, and unexpected details are the ultimate solutions. From weekend nail-art to highlighter, these are a few of my must-haves that just seem to add a little glam to an otherwise dreary maternity moment.

Whenever I can, I try to experiment with DIY nail art for the artistically impaired. Luckily, so far, I haven’t managed to mess up ManiMe.

NOTE: Use the code LeyaLovesManis for $5 off of ManiMe.

I also show up to a few zoom calls with just the right amount of shimmer for someone to mention a pregnancy glow. I’d like to give my growing baby credit but I’m pretty sure the shine is really thanks to this Illuminator.

I’ll also never give up the glow when it comes to my lips. In between drinking enough water to stay hydrated for two and feeling a bit less than myself, I lean on the tinted balms…in excess.

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