I am in a season of life where my body is a complete yo-yo from early pregnancy, to about to pop and swollen, to postpartum and breastfeeding, then trying again, losing a baby, trying again, and repeat. Maternity clothing can either be just something you wear in the midst of it all, or it can be be a source of confidence and maintaining self. Because as you know, motherhood isn’t just a physical journey but also an emotional one.
Local Shopping
I have several go-to shops, both brick and mortar as well as online, for maternity clothing. However, my absolute favorite shop and local business is The Swanky Stork located in Cahaba Heights. This is the store where I get gift cards from my family for most every occasion; they know me well. The Swanky Stork began over 10 years ago when Bryson Kessler, one of the three sisters who own the store, was pregnant with her second child. She felt like she could not find clothes that were both stylish and affordable to fit her growing, changing body. “Being pregnant doesn’t mean you lose your sense of style, it just sometimes makes finding that style harder,” said Kessler. Thankfully, she felt there should be a place that made that possible. At that moment, she decided she wanted to open a store that provided a great selection of stylish, affordable, quality clothing for moms-to-be with exceptional customer service from the minute you walk in the door.
This is what sets The Swanky Stork apart from other maternity stores/boutiques. Many women shop online for maternity clothing and often go in The Swanky Stork frustrated that nothing fit or looked the way they thought it would. When a mom-to-be walks in the Swanky Stork, they work with her on all aspects of shopping for maternity clothes. They also are able to get an understanding of her personal style and body type. This allows them to show her pieces that are both flattering and expressive of her personal style. So when she leaves The Swanky Stork, she is confident in herself and in her style.
Additionally, Destination Maternity and Motherhood Maternity is located in the Galleria Mall in Hoover. It’s a franchise that also has an online presence. These two stores exist in a single storefront at the Galleria. You will find maternity clothing, nursing accessories, and baby gifts here. It’s a great option for basics as your body changes growing your bundle of joy!
For moms-to-be who need convenience with the option to try on clothing, Target is a good bet. There are multiple locations around town, you can shop online, and returns/exchanges are a breeze. Target is great for basic pieces, but they have some stylish options, too!
Online Shopping
As far as online shopping for maternity clothing, there are countless options. Some of my favorite online maternity shops include, but are not limited to:
- Pink Blush – Boutique-style clothing with good pricing and the convenience of online shopping, plus free shipping! This is my go-to for showers or sprinkles and other special occasions.
- H&M – Always a good stock of staples such as t-shirts and jeans. How wonderful that we have a location here in town now at the Galleria, and they’ve provided a section in the store just for maternity clothing! I’m a fan!
- Asos – Similar to H&M in that I have found some good basics there from swimsuits to jeans. Great quality, too!
- Nordstrom – I tend to think of Nordstrom as a good idea for more high-end basics — for example, if you’re wanting a certain brand of denim that reminds you more of your favorite non-maternity pair! Also, they have a large selection of everything, which is always helpful!
- Topshop – Trendy and chic, but also comfy and casual. Not a huge selection while also having a little bit of everything. But no matter what, you will feel cool and not so . . . pregnant.
- Old Navy – This is definitely a go-to and not just for maternity clothing. I have found great transitional pieces for amazing prices at Old Navy. They run sales pretty much all the time, so you don’t feel like you’re making a big commitment when your body is constantly changing.
- Gap – Fall into the . . . may we never forget that ad campaign or the fact that they have consistently produced quality denim and basics. They also run great sales!
Thankfully, we no longer live in the age of having to wear a mumu or a dress that resembles a tent for nine months or more. Can I get a collective, Hallelujah!
