Maternity Jeans How-To

At 36 weeks pregnant, I couldn't justify spending $189 on white maternity jeans that I'll wear a few more weeks. I found a regular pair of inexpensive ones that would fit (unzipped) and made them into maternity jeans with a few minor adjustments...

With a seam ripper, take apart the front waist band and zipper. Then cut the waist band 1/2" from each side seam. Pin and sew the zipper and pockets down along the seam lines (cut out the pocket lining if you want less bulk.)

You need a piece of elastic the same length as the front of your jeans (they sell this by the yard) and enough knit to cover it. I bought 1/8 of a yard (the minimum) and had plenty of knit leftover. Fold the knit over the elastic and sew along the 3 edges.

Pin and sew the knit to the front of the jeans and then sew the side seams together.

Maternity jeans for $15!

I've avoided buying maternity tops this time around by wearing longer, loose-fitting styles. This black Zara blouse is cut on the bias and has gone casual or dressy depending on how I accessorize it.

I found this coral chiffon top at TJ Maxx and swapped the cheap-looking buttons for gold ones. I wear it over a nude cami and it also works great as a swimsuit cover-up. 

I borrowed this embroidered Mexican tunic from my mom's closet. I wore it today with nude flats and my gray tote and can switch those out for wedges and a clutch.

This striped pea coat and green scarf is my go-to outfit when I need to be ready in 5 minutes. A light-weight scarf (this one is Love Quotes NYC) has been perfect for layering with a bump.