The "M" Word

             Ever sense I announced my pregnancy there's been a sense of disbelief from those around me that I'm "really pregnant" (as if grown ass women lie about that type of thing). Its primarily because I either look very pregnant or not pregnant at all in my clothes. What people fail to realize is 1. I'm a big girl so my wardrobe is already catered to making me look smaller than I am anyway 2. I haven't really gained much weight during my pregnancy and 3. all pregnant bodies and women for that matter are not created equal. Most people think every single pregnant woman looks like the women you see on social media or TV with perfectly round hard bellies that peek around month 3 and remain until the end. But with MANY plus size pregnancies that's not the case. We typically don't start showing until later and don't gain much weight to be honest.
             That being said. The other problem with this cookie cutter mentality is the issue of the "m" word. "Maternity clothes" is like the ugly red head step child of fashion. Its baffling to me that so many retailers don't offer maternity clothing for plus size women. Like are they unaware fat people get pregnant too? Shocker I know fat people also have sex smh. Most places I've seen only offer maternity clothes up to an XL. Ill never forget when one of my friends was pregnant last year and wanted to know where I shopped at because "maternity clothes were the same thing as plus sized clothes" I couldn't even believe that level of ignorance came out of her mouth. But going to retailer after retailer and only seeing maternity options for skinny women I'm beginning to think she isn't the only one with that mentality.
              Luckily, my ever supportive mother took me to Orland Park one Saturday in search of the seemingly impossible. We came across Destination Maternity and I was pleasantly surprised. Not only were their designs cute and versatile but they weren't horribly expensive either. And the customer service was superior. All the women working were either pregnant and/or plus size and waited on you in a girlfriend stylist type of way instead of a pushy sales associate trying to make commission. I walked out with a bag full of clothes which so far have still held up since purchase. My manager had been telling me about these maternity pants forever and they're my favorite piece. They have an expandable insert sewn on that allows your belly to grow but still provides some tummy control. And the shirt has just enough room for my growing bosom. Definitely will be going back to my new spot over the next 3months.

Shirt & Pants - Destination Maternity, Shoes - Grasshopper