I have a weakness for timeless Chanel-style jackets, and thankfully Ann Taylor caters to that for a fraction of the price! This new arrival is very nice quality with a good weight to it, and I adore the dark chambray trim with fringed edges. The fabric itself is beautiful (mostly navy and cream with some confetti hues) and there’s a full lining. The tweed is pretty easy to pair with various other colors, but I especially like it against light blush, such as this shell. If you’re looking to reach the free shipping minimum, I can’t recommend these low block heel sandals enough! Mine are from years back and get so much wear.
For the first half of this pregnancy, the BellaBand worked like a charm for extending the life of my regular low-rise jeans and pants (with the exception of leggings – I love this affordable cotton pair for lounging + this thick, durable pair for working out / travel). But now that even widely-unzipped pants are starting to dig into my belly, it feels oh-so-good to slip into my first pair of maternity jeans and start living that zipper-free life!
I’ve been recommending LOFT skinny jeans for years, and am happy to report that their petite maternity jeans are just as good! Pre-pregnancy, I tried on the non-maternity version of these skinny jeans in “dark indigo” sz 24/00p and can attest they’re very similar minus the over-the-belly stretch panel. For fit reference, I went one size up here (to 0P) from my pre-pregnancy size at LOFT. I tried on 00p in their maternity pants but they would barely fit over my expanding hips, plus the belly panel felt snug. After sizing up, the legs are a little loose on me but more comfy overall, and I don’t mind some room to grow into over the coming months!
PS – A lot of LOFT items are on sale right now, including a pretty good petite maternity section! Expecting mamas should check out: maternity navy ankle pants, maternity black trousers (very flattering), and maternity legging jeans with a cropped 25.5″ inseam (the ones I’m wearing have a 27″ inseam). If you prefer side stretch panels instead of over the bump, I’ve heard lots of great things about J.Brand Mama jeans, which are 30% off here! I also made a few orders from other maternity lines, and will share thoughts after they arrive.
I’m filing this outfit under workwear, since you can easily swap in slim ankle trousers and make this business and meeting-appropriate. As office substitutes for skinny jeans, my favorite non-maternity navy pants are BR Sloans for stretchy all-day comfort (see them on me), or J.Crew Camerons which are more tailored with no waist gap (see them on me). I never machine dry the Camerons, but a reader let me know that hers have held up very well through machine washing + drying!
Did you have to tailor the jacket at all? I bought it and it looks boxy and old-ladyish on me, but super-cute on you! I’m wondering if maybe taking it in will help.
Hi Beth – aw I’m sorry to hear that! I did not alter the jacket at all – usually I will always disclose any alterations right at the top. I have gained weight though and am still wearing my pre-pregnancy size, so I think that must play a big part in filling it out and making it look less boxy.
If you’re getting your jacket altered, usually just slimming the sleeves can make a difference visually!
that jacket is so cute!!
xx Jen
http://lilthoughtswithjen.com/
I love your classy tweed jacket, especially the blue details and the fringed edges. This way it is less ‘only’ classical wear and thus more versatile. I can easily picture teachers wearing this in class. Love, Lieske
Funnily enough, when I started reading your blog in 2014 I was expecting my first child, and I wondered if I might find any tips for bump-friendly dressing here. Then I figured, you’re young, why would you be thinking about maternity wear. So nice to see you in maternity wear now!
This tweed jacket is sooo cute! <3 🙂 Loving the way you styled it for such a classy and elegant look!
XO, Elizabeth
http://clothestoyouuu.com/
You always look so classy and put together! Also, I agree with you on the Chanel style jackets. Love that Ann Taylor makes similar ones.
May || https://themoderness.com/
That jacket is so cute! Also, those maternity jeans look SO COMFY. I’m not planning on having kids anytime soon, but I kinda wish I had those in my closet.
Hi Jean
Awhile back I found you by way of Strictly Dumpling (Lobster video) and I immediately loved you! As an Asian working mother of 3 with very similar sizing measurements to you I have a hard time finding classy, trendy, affordable and age appropriate clothes for myself. Since discovering you my wardrobe has been transformed! I’ve purchased several of the items you’ve written about ( including the tweed jacket just now) and each item fits and looks great. Thank you for being my personal shopper and many blessing for Baby!
I love the tweed look! Your outfit is beautiful Jean!
Happy Thursday, I hope you’re having a lovely day!
Michael
https://www.mileinmyglasses.com
I never knew there is so much behind maternity denims! You’re right, the whole outfit is very workwear friendly. Love your tweed jacket btw 🙂
xx
Ankita | Real Girl Talks
http://realgirltalks.com/
Extremely and elegant outfit!
Very nice ensemble!
We share our weakness for Chanel style 🙂 And you look perfect in your look with the maternity jeans!
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
Such a classy and elegant look! The tweed jacket is gorgeous. 🙂
http://www.yzwears.com
I love the tweed jacket Jean 🙂 You look beautiful!
I never thought tweed could look so good! ❤️
You look beautiful, Jean! 🙂
http://charmainenyw.com
Such a nice easy and comfy look for a brand new Mama to be! ♥️👍🏼♥️
LA BIJOUX BELLA