The Rest is Just Icing A Daily Account of Style and Inspiration

The Luxe Mommy Guide: 1st, 2nd and 3rd Trimester Essentials

Belli Skincare Maternity Acne Clearing Facial Wash

Your skin will glow, but BEWARE! That glow produces extra oil, which causes pregnancy acne. (Something I’ve fought with during both pregnancies). Since alpha-hydroxides and harsh acne treatments are no-no’s during pregnancy, you’re usually stuck with just having to cover up. I found this product recently and decided to try it out I’ve noticed a great difference. Available at Nordstrom.

The Cotton Legging

Leggings have been my favorite this time around, because they are so comfortable! I remember shelling out $250 for a pair of Rock & Republic maternity jeans my first pregnancy, and I also remember wearing them a total of 3 times. Jeans are the worst when you’re pregnant because they hurt, your butt is growing, your belly’s growing and there is nothing worse than trying to squeeze into jeans when you can barely breathe as is. Leggings have been my savior this time around, and they come in so many lengths and colors and the best part is they are very inexpensive ($12-40). I recently just purchased a fall must have, the denim legging at motherhood maternity for $19! You can pair them with tunics, sweaters, tees, dresses…your options are unlimited! Available at any maternity store.

3^rd Trimester

Mustela® Stretch Marks Double Action

Your tummy, hips and breasts are going to feel like they are going to stretch completely out of your body. Your skin will feel so tight, and it will ache! The best product I’ve found to date is Mustela® Stretch Marks Double Action Crème. The texture is great, and it’s non-greasy, smells great and will leave your body silky and smooth. It feels like instant comfort for your stretched skin the second you rub it in, and your body will beg you for it! I have had many friends and family members recommend it, and everyone I know who has tried it hasn't had a single stretch mark appear. I know creams aren't the only answer, and diet and exercise play a huge role, but this cream truly is a miracle cream! I’m a big fan of Mustela products, and you should definitely give them a try. Available (in town) at Al Varela, Babies R Us and Nordstrom.

Look for more products and tips coming soon!

I found out I was expecting my first child at the age of 22. I was in my prime--I wanted to look great, felt great and dressed even better. Getting pregnant put a big strain on things that, at that time, seemed most important to me. I soon traded in my Louis Vuitton bags and Dior heels for maternity belly bands, nursing bras and soon made watching movies and decorating our apartment my number one priority. Pregnancy wasn’t something I had in my plans at the time, and I really didn’t know what to expect, what to use, what to buy or what to wear.

I desperately tried to keep my same style and fashion-forward habits, but shopping at the local maternity store wasn’t really my idea of staying ahead of the game. I also faced the great challenge of gaining 60 pounds during my first pregnancy, so squeezing into fashionable maternity clothes got pushed to the side for yoga pants and flip-flops. I quickly had to find ways to look fabulous and most importantly, feel fabulous. I made the most out of it, I embraced my curves and new body and found ways to still look and feel great, despite the challenges I was facing. My first pregnancy wasn’t as graceful as I had always envisioned, but the end result was a beautiful healthy baby boy that I adore more than anything.

Now, 26 and pregnant with my second baby boy (due in early January), I feel that I know the tricks of the trade and I’ve put my foot down and I’m not allowing my pregnancy to change who I am--a fashionable mother! I have searched the Internet and department stores for all the “top” products and best lines for pregnancy and I’m here to share them with you, as I wish someone had done with me.

I've asked Jessica & Cassie to allow me to share some weekly tips with you. Even if you aren’t pregnant, you more than likely know someone who is and you can pass the tips along. Take it from me, every new mother loves any tip she can get! My key point is that no matter what challenges motherhood brings, always try to find a way to feel great inside and out!

Happy Mommyhood & Enjoy!

-Crystal S. Bocanegra, Hommework/Recess Owner & Mother