Soon Melbourne Maternity have just released their new range of Straight and Skinny Leg Maternity Denim, a much anticipated wait proves to be a big hit with all customers.   

Straight Leg Maternity Denim

This maternity jean has a slim-straight leg. They are made out of a cotton/spandex denim with a soft, comfortable stretch waistband. Thismaternity jean sits high at the back, securely holding you in, and scoops lower at the front allowing the band to sit comfortably around and under the stomach. Feature’s a ‘fake’ fly and usable front and back pockets with ‘soon’ hardware detail. Available in on-trend washes of Black, Light Vintage and Indigo. Great price at just $139.95

Skinny Leg Maternity Denim

This maternity jean has a true skinny leg, for the fashion forward girl, and great for tucking into boots. They are made out of a cotton/spandex denim with a soft, comfortable stretch waistband. This jean sits high at the back, securely holding you in, and scoops lower at the front allowing the band to sit comfortably around and under the stomach. Feature’s a ‘fake’ fl y and usable front and back pockets with ‘soon’ hardware detail. Available in on-trend washes of Black, Light Vintage and Indigo.  Priced at $139.95

Denim Skirt

A cotton/spandex maternity denim skirt with a soft, comfortable stretch waistband. Great length for dressing up or down. Features ‘fake’ fly and usable front and back pockets with ‘soon’ hardware detail. Available in on trend washes of Black and Light Vintage.  Priced at $99.95

Sooki Baby Spring Collection is now available on line and in store!!

Dijana's quirky and stylish designs are always refreshing to see, time after time, with every new collection released.  The most exciting news is that most styles go up to a Size 2, which has been a request made by mothers and stockists.

The different stories, all combined in well with each other, and it's no surprise that once you've bought one Sooki Baby piece, you will always come back for more.  They wash so well and retain their shape, wash after wash and wear after wear.

Even more exciting, is the new release of SoSooki which caters for toddlers, aged 3 - 7 years old.  Same quirky designs and fabrics.

Here is a brief outlook on what's to be expected this season!!

Sooki Baby and So Sooki is now available at Mamma Bella, in store and online!!!

Winter is here to stay (unfortunately, for the moment) and will be hanging around for at least another month or maybe two.... 

Our Winter Clearance Maternity Sale is on now with savings of up to 50% off throughout the store...  You will find great bargains, such as winter knits and tops - all with a minimum of 30% off....

Our Sooki Baby range is selling fast with great bargains still available....  The new Spring range is also now available.

Hotmilk Lingerie is all reduced with 30% off all nursing bras and briefs....

Hope to see you in store and online soon....

The Mamma Bella Mums

Helen & Enza

Sleepi Spaces Moses Bassinet  


The woven basket is made in Morocco and is imported into Australia. The liner, sheets, blanket and mattress protectors are made in Sydney. The Mattress is made by Anstel in Brisbane who make BabySafe SIDS approved mattresses.

Sleepi Spaces moses bassinets and stands are very safe and are manufactured to meet ‘Child care articles- Carry cots and stands – Safety requirement and test methods’ BS EN 1466:2004 + A1:2007. This is a British Standard.
The Australian Standards do not have their own guidelines and regulations to meet the specifications of a Moses Basket. Australian Standards advises Australian Manufacturere and/or importers of Moses Baskets to follow the British Standards. Moses Baskets have long been used throughout the UK and Europe and their standards stringently tested.
Sleepi Spaces issues ‘Instructions for Safe Use’ with every basket sold. Please ensure that your customer is fully aware of the instruction sheet, if the sheet is missing, please advise me. I can also provide you with additional ‘Instructions for Safe Use’ as back up copies.

To prevent fall hazards, do not use the moses basket when the infant begins to push up on hands or knees or has reached the recommended maximum weight if 7.3kgs. Sleepi Spaces recommends use for 3-4 months of age.

It is advised that you so not carry your baby while in the basket. Australian Safety Standards recommend that babies are only carried in a 5 point harness. Inevitably mothers will carry their baby in the basket, and the British standards require the basket to be manufactured to be able to do so. Always advise that the basket should be carried with hands on the base, rather than the handles if they do so choose to carry the baby in the basket. 

The moses basket is sold as a set, and includes:
 
- The Moroccan maise moses basket
- The Sleepi Spaces designer liner
- 1x matching minky blanket
- 1 x baby safe mattress
- 1 x fitted sheet
- 1 x mattress protector
- 1 x Large Storage and moisture protection bag 

Moses baskets have been the favoured choice of bedding for newborns in Europe, the UK and America for many years. However, moses baskets have proven to be a popular choice for new mum’s in Australia and the range and design choices of Moses Baskets is now growing. As an interior designer I was becoming tired of buying baskets and bassinets and having them recovered to suit the more modern and contemporary nursery.

Using a moses basket with your newborn (especially first time mums) gives you the comfort of having the baby with you, where ever you are. Be it in the kitchen, the backyard or in bed. The moses basket is so portable and easy to move with you.

When its time for the baby to advance to the cot, simply place the moses basket into the cot – this helps the baby adjust to the new environment, whilst still secure in a familiar one.

And lets face it, its all about kiddie couture and Sleepi Spaces are loved for their stylish, modern and bright fabrics.

The Sleepi Spaces Bassinet stand was designed so that when you were in bed or on the couch you can see the baby sleep. This is particularly favoured again by first time mums. Why have a stand that is so high you cant see in it, forever up and down making sure that your precious little one is safe. The stand is at a height that enables eye contact while you sit or lay. Its also nice to be able to place your hand in and sooth the baby whilst remaining sitting or laying.

Now available to purchase at www.mammabella.com.au or pop into the store at 60 Portman Street, Oakleigh to view this fabulous product!!!

Here comes the bride........and she is wearing Mamma Bella!!!

Mamma Bella maternity for the beautiful mum, offers our customers a great range of maternity wedding gowns suitable for the expectant bride.  The last few years has seen an increase in our customers looking for a gorgeous gown which they can wear on their wedding day.  Our expectant mums have the right to look and feel fantastic no matter what the occassion...especially their Wedding Day!   Our range is constantly evolving and we search high and low for the best styles around. 

Your wedding day is one of the biggest days of your life second to giving birth, so let Mamma Bella provide you with your special maternity wedding gown.  Our stock service gowns include the Grecian Style Deluxe Satin Gown, the Sunray Pleated Formal Wedding Dress just to name a few, and some exciting new styles arriving early September. 

Don't forget your bridesmaids as there are many styles in our range available in gorgeous colours that are perfect for your bridal party and won't break the bank.  We welcome you to visit us instore to experience the beauty maternity wear has to offer.

Congratulations..........Celebrate your Pregnancy and Wedding in Style

Beep Beep Slings are a native style baby sling.
This means no buckles, rings or knots.

The simple pouch design ensures no-fuss babywearing, suitable to carry your newborn right through to when they begin to take their own steps.

Studies clearly show that baby-wearing is a succesful settling method for fussing babies, and proven to assist in parent/baby bonding.

Small enough to fit in your handbag or glove box, Beep Beep slings make the ideal travel companion. Perfect for an afternoon shopping, dining out, airports and beyond... or just to be close.

There is one particular tip we always emphasise when placing a newborn into a sling. It ensures the baby sits up, well supported and with their face correctly positioned in the opening of the sling where they are safe, able to see you and you them.

"Pull the inside material high against your chest before placing baby in your sling".

Doing this makes the support for the baby's back and head more shallow, lifting them up closer to your face (rather than laying down below your chest). Having lifted the inside fabric high against your chest before placing baby in, now you can procede to place baby in the sling - but stay aware of keeping that inside fabric high against your chest with the baby's side pinning the fabric against you.

Once baby's weight has been rested into the sling, that weight will keep the inside fabric in place and therefore keep baby correctly supported. See the image of our Taiko Design above for a good example of the inside fabric being pinned high against mum's chest by the weight of the baby.

If when you first attempt placing your newborn in the sling that inside fabric slips down or is not correctly pinned high against your chest, just lift baby back out of the sling and begin the process again. It may take a few attempts when you first begin, but it is worth working on getting it right - as your baby wearing experience will be much safer for baby, and more comfortable for you if you take the time to place baby correctly. 


Available in two sizes (most women wear Size M, where Size L is recommended for most Dads) - $89 and available in a range of styles and colours

Feel free to come in store and try one out!!

Here I am third time round just given birth to my beautiful little girl, where were the SRC Recovery shorts 6 years ago when I had my second child.  The proof is really in the pudding. I was a little unsure but these Recovery shorts have really made my recovery third time round much easier and have been worth every cent. 

For those of you who haven't heard of them, they are definitely a must have in your hospital bag.  A medical compression garment which gently helps your post baby body repair and heal. It's designed to be worn straight after giving birth. Each woman will vary on how soon they get this garment on.  Depending on the type of birth you have will also make a difference to how soon you get the shorts on.

After speaking to some of our customers most try and get them on straight away others may wait a few days.  I had a ceasarian and it took me about three days but once on, I didn't want to get them off.  They just held everything into place and have really made my recovery a breeze.  The breathable fabric makes them super comfortable to wear especially when going for your daily strolls with your newborn. 

It's been seven weeks since  I gave birth and I'm still wearing them cause the support they provide is fantastic. It is recommended that you get measured at 36 weeks as per the manufacturers instructions. 

Our staff at Mamma Bella are well trained to assist you in getting they correct fit for your post baby recovery.  The SRC Recovery Short is definitely a must have in every pregnant womans hospital bag.  I highly recommend it.

Thanks SRC for helping me get my body back..................Enza

It's getting cold outside so it's the perfect time to stock up your maternity wardrobe with the beautiful range of knitwear and cardigans on offer at Mamma Bella...maternity for the beautiful mum.

Labels like Soon Melbourne, Szabo, and Bliss have created pieces that will be favourites in your wardrobe well past your due date. The Taylor Tie Cardigan by Soon in a range of colours offers a great long line cardi which looks great over this seasons favourite skinny leg pants, and leggings/jeggings.

It enlongates the body with its clean lines and covers up the hips and buttocks - every womens pet hate. This cardi can be worn dressed down or looks great with the right accessories for that corporate meeting. The Chunky Knit Cardigan by Soon makes you want to pop on your boots and take that country walk.  With the adaptable high roll neck or open neck this chunky knit is the must have piece this winter. Available in Cherry and Charcoal the two button long line chunky knit looks great worn back with your skinny leg jeans. The detachable tie gives you the option to tie the belt under the bust for extra shaping.

Bliss Maternity has on offer the gorgeous blush pink waterfall cardi for that extra feminine look . The fine quality of the knit makes this piece very trans-seasonal, something we all need with our unpredictable weather. Another great piece is the Geordie Wrap by Soon Melbourne. Available in Black and Raspberry this cotton blend knit with lots of length and generous wrap design with tie is another of this seasons hot looks in maternity fashions.

The great thing is these pieces will be worn well after you give birth, worn back with nursing camis and tops they will continue to be favourites in your wardrobe. Why are we so confident because our customers come in well after they have given birth just to buy these pieces. The quality and functionality make maternity shopping worthwhile. So pop into Mamma Bella or visit our website to view the latest in Maternity Winter fashions.

Celebrate your pregnancy in style........ The mums at Mamma Bella.

Well what can I say, hospital food is far from perfect. One would think that the Maternity wards in hospitals would have a better seclection of foods on offer, after all most of the women there have just had a baby, they are experiencing all new found emotions, trying to bond with their precious newborns and the challenge of starting to breastfeed. 

It's not easy but it slowly does get easier. Don't rely on hospital food to give you that extra bit of energy.  NO NO you need someone to make you the best chicken and vegetable soup ever.  This is a soup that has been passed down three generations and is great for everyone.  Just get mum or someone close to you, to make a good heap of this soup and bring it into hospital for you, in a thermos.  You will thank me.

RECIPE - about 4 serves

2 Skinless Marylamb Chicken Pieces

2 Carrots cleaned and chopped into small cubes

1 potato peeled and chopped into small cubes

1 large Zucchini washed and chopped into small cubes

1 Medium Brown Onion chopped

2 Sticks of Celery with small folage chopped

3 good Stems of Fresh Contential Parsely

1 Tablespoon of Leggo's Tomato Paste

1 Ripe Tomato or 2 pieces of whole canned tomatoes

1 full teaspoon of Salt & some pepper

Method.......

You will need a large 4-6 LT Soup Pot , clean ckicken thoroughly.

Wash and Chop all vegies add to pot , cover with water until double the amount of ingredients (leave 1/4 lower from height of pan) this depends on the size of pot.

Add tomato Paste , herbs and Salt and pepper. Put flame on med-high and wait till it comes to boil them turn down to med- low and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours .  The slower you cook the better it tastes.  Taste as you cook add more salt or tomato paste if needed.  Soup must get a loose redish colour.

When ready you will notice the chicken should fall away at the bone. All vegies should be well cooked .

Ways to Serve....

Eat as is with some nice bread

OR

Cook up some Risoni Pasta and add to the soup with the shredded up chicken mixed in well, add some fresh grated parmesan for extra taste.

OR

You can put the whole soup through the food Processor this is also great for baby soups.

I hope you enjoy this hearty soup - just what your recovering body needs...so you can get back to what is really important, enjoying your new bub and being a mum...the best job in the world!

All the best

Enza

Mamma Bella

After going into an unexpected c section, I really didn't have to wear much more than a glamorous hospital gown which was ever so comfortable and not to mention stylish.....NOT, but the midwives gladly sent my way. 

After going through another amazing birth experience and meeting my beautiful baby girl Giselle, I was quite happy to just lie there in this crinkled cotton bag . It wasn't the most pleasant piece of clothing I had worn and my little Giselle would probably not think much of it either, cause it was quite unappealing to her soft skin and it wasn't easy to acess my breast everytime I had to feed. 

The next day I knew what I had to do.  Determined to get up and have a shower I returned from the bathroom feeling radiant and felt ever so comfortable wearing my raspberry coloured Womama Birthing and Nursing wrap dress.  The lovely organic cotton felt soft and subtle on my skin.  The cap sleeve was a good length given the temperature in the Maternity ward. 

There was no restriction to my c section wound and I was feeling great. This was also evident from all the comments that came my way....gee you look great for having had a Caesarean only yesterday!!!  A popular coment made by my vistors and midwives.  This made me feel good.  The best part about the Womama Birthing/Nursing wrap was when I took hold of my new born girl and placed her on my chest .  The fabric so soft to her skin made me feel like I was doing something good. 

The organic nature of this fabric really felt good for both mum and bub.  Whilst breastfeeding, I just had to move the wrap to the side and all I had to do was focus on nursing my beautiful baby and share the amazing bonding experience.  The Womama Birthing/Nursing wrap was easy to sleep in and served every purpose whilst in hospital.  This piece was definitely well designed and definitely has a place in every pregnant woman's hospital bag. 

The beauty is its great worn at home back with leggings or back with the Boob maternity pants cause it looks great and feels amazing and ever so practical, when visitors pop by you know you can still look great.  10/10 for the Womama Birthing/Nursing Wrap.

Love my Birthing Wrap!!!

Enza

Mamma Bella...maternity for the beautiful mum!

Being the owner of my own maternity store, one would say that I had everthing at my finger tips.  And yes, being the fashion conscious person I am, I must admit it was a like a child in a lolly shop cause everthing was at my disposal.  I am not one to follow trends too closely as I believe a woman should have her own individual style and its the way she puts her pieces together and the confidence in the way she wears them, that depicts her fashion sense of style.  This is no different when you are pregnant, in fact knowing how to put things together cleverly, without breaking the budget will make a difference on how you look and feel. 

The first few months can be trying as your body starts to change shape, after all, its all new and getting a few key pieces together along with some great accessories can make all the difference.  Pants and bottoms are always the first stage along with some comfy maternity bras to accomodate your new found boobs.

My favourite pants during my pregnancy would have to be my Szabo Skinny Sateen Black Pants and my Boob ever so comfy Maternity pants, along with my Pea in a Pod Maternity Leggings.  These three different bottoms were versitle enough to get me through many occassions.  My favourite tops I must say were my Seamless collection by Soon whether sleevess or with sleeves they were a staple on their own or could be worn back with cardis, tunics, jeans. 

The must have and my ever so favourite pieces were the Vigorella Collection.  Its not a maternity label, but boy did I love these pieces prior to becoming pregnant and wearing them on a daily basis cause they always looked good, super comfy and received comments everywhere I went.  No ironing and one size fits most they are a must in every womens wardrobe pregnant or not......

Comfy knickers and bras is where Hotmilk and Cake Lingerie came to my rescue.  They not only made me feel comfortable but made me feel like a woman. As the pregnancy went by, I did indulge in my fettish for clothes but always kept in the back of my head which pieces really did work well through this time in my life and also mindful of the pieces I would wear post pregnancy. 

The Ripe Hug nursing tops are another favourite flattering the growing baby bump and giving you a classic piece to use post baby for the easy feeding access.  Depending on the season one accomodates her wardrobe to suit, keep on hand a good stash of colourful beads and interesting neck pieces.  My Apple Baby Chime necklace was definently a favourite cause its simplicity and symbolisim made wearing it that ever more special. 

A good collection of scarves also just added that extra touch to certain outfits I would wear.  I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed being pregnant for the third time and the positive comments that came my way shows that if you wear you clothes properly, and keep your individual style, you too can enjoy the pleasure which pregnany brings.  One does not have to sacrifice her individual style - infact use it to your advantage and you will find a new found confendience in your beautiful new shape, which after all is carrying the most amazing gift of all....your new baby. 

Our gift, our beautiful little girl that was born on Monday 31st May, a sister to Carla and Alessandra!!

Enjoy your pregnancy in style.....

Enza from Mamma Bella .....maternity for the beautiful mum!

The day has finally arrived!!  Tomorrow, being Tuesday 2nd February 2010, Mamma Bella .... maternity for the beautiful mum will commence trading from their new location, 60 Portman St, Oakleigh.  We haven't moved far, just a hop, skip and a jump across the road from our current location!!

We have spent the last couple of stressful months, before and after Christmas organising, meeting and putting together what is now our new location!!  It's been hard work, but worth every minute of every day to finally see the end result....

This last weekend was spent wheeling racks of clothing to and from our current location to the new location!!  We joked and carried on, but in the end the job was done!!  We almost felt like we were wheeling racks of clothes through the streets of New York, only difference being we were in Oakleigh, and not in Manhattan.

We would like to thank a couple of very special people who made this project come together, namely being our two husbands, David and George, who without them, this would not be possible....  A big heartfelt thanks goes out to our parents, who without their help, love and encouragement, this dream would not have been possible....  Another special mention goes to our good friends Dimitri and Debbi who put their lives on hold to make this dream come true...

So, next time you're in Oakleigh, pop in and say hello, our door is always open.......

Our current location at 51 Portman St, will be used as a Clearance Outlet and will be open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10am - 2pm.  You will find some great bargains with prices starting as low as $5.

We would also like to welcome our new part-time girl, Catrona who will work between the both stores....  She is an experienced mum, who has been through the pregnancy and birth stages and is ready and willing to assist you with your clothing needs....

Oh, and by the way, Mamma Bella is expecting a baby too!!  Enza is 21 weeks pregnant at the moment with her third child, a very exciting time in their lives, we'll keep you posted on our progress..

Pictures will be available soon.....

STAY TUNED.....

Mamma Bella, Helen and Enza joined forces with Christalia Formoso (a friend and a relative!!) to host our first ever Girls Night In Fundraiser.  Nerves and tension were high leading up to the big night out - but with lots of preparation, countless telephone calls and sms's, we did it!!  And what a success it was!!

We had over 80 ladies attend on the night, only to be greeted by our husbands, brothers and relatives dressed in uniform and ready to take their donations and waiter on us!!  They did a wonderful job, and had a lot of fun too!!

In total, we managed to raise over $4,300 which was a huge effort!!  None of this would have been possible if it wasn't for our generous support network of local businesses and sponsors.  In total, we managed to raffle off over 70 prizes varying from hair salon vouchers, manicures, massages & a wonderful array of gifts collectively put together!!

All girls had a great night and the word was still buzzing the day after!!  Word was spreading about such a successful evening, and the question we heard time and time again was "Are you doing another one next year?".  Seems like we've set a precedent and no doubt, future Girls Night In Fundraisers will be organised, but now we have set ourselves a target, following this year's achievement, and we can only strive to outdo this year's efforts!!!

Thanks to all who attended and made this night possible, and many thanks to our wonderful sponsors!!!

Below are some pics from the evening!! 

Hospital Checklist - what do i need to pack for the hospital when giving birth?
Not sure what to take to Hospital with you?? Here's a guide from two mums who have been there and done that. The honest truth and only what is necessary.....

Labour Bag
A small extra bag for the Labour ward would be handy. Include your blood group card, medicare card, health fund details, camera, socks, list of important numbers, snacks, a change of clothes for your partner, hair-ties and a tshirt or nightie to labour in. You could take in your birth plan, but who'll have time to consult in it, oh and also music, if you'll be in any state to listen to it!!

Nightgowns or PJ's
Make sure they're comfortable and oversized with easy access for breastfeeding. Only wear them at night time, because you'd want to look nice when the visitors start arriving.

Leisure Wear
Unfortunately, your tummy does not disappear instantly, so don't even bother with your pre-pregnancy clothing!! A lot of Mamma Bella's maternity clothing is specifically chosen for the simple reason that it can be worn after your baby is born. Two pairs of loose fitting trackies and a couple of nice tees, and if you're breastfeeding, our Top Secret range of Nursing Wear is perfect for hospital stays and discreet feeding.

Dressing Gown and Footwear
Hospitals are sometimes like human incubators, so a lightweight gown will do. Thongs or slippers are the go, because your feet do tend to swell a day or two after baby is born.

Comfortable Lingerie
Lingerie is the nice term to describe this section, bras and undies is the more comfortable term. Make sure your maternity bra is fitted correctly prior to going into hospital, because whether you decide to breastfeed or not, your breasts will go through some interesting changes following the birth. Crop tops are another option. Cheap underpants, whether yours or your partners, is another must have.  Hotmilk Lingerie offer some sexy looking bras and undies to make you feel good on the inside!!

Breast Pads/Sanitary Pads
The Pigeon brand of breast pads have a good reputation. Big bulky sanitary pads are a thing of the past, just make sure they have wings for extra comfort. Three packets of these are generally a good idea to pack.

Personal Toiletries
You want to look nice, feel nice and smell nice, so pack it all. A touch of make up (or Natural Glow) was our favourite, peps you up a bit in the morning and makes you feel good about yourself!!

Pen/Paper/Magazines
You won't be bombarded with visitors all day, and your baby will actually sleep for some of the day, so in the quiet times, indulge in your favourite mag and write a list of your visitors to send Thank You cards once you're at home.

Mobile Phone & Charger
Just check with your hospital whether it's allowed.

For Baby
This is a rough guideline of what is needed to bring. You might not use it all, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
* 6 gowns/growsuits
* 6 cotton singlets
* 6 light wraps
* 2 pairs mittens, booties and hats
* Baby bath solution (although most hospitals do provide!!)

Nappies
Most hospitals provide cloth nappies, otherwise don't forget your disposable nappies.

Bottle Feeding
If you decide to bottle feed, make sure you take at least two bottles, steriliser and formula. From what I remember, hospitals don't allow microwave sterilisers, so an electric one is sufficient. Most hospitals use the Milton's Method of sterlising.

Being a fashionable mom-to-be is easier than you think. All it requires is that you listen to your inner fashionista and avoid these top 5 fashion mistakes.

1. Forgetting your personal style: Don’t start wearing tailored maternity dresses if your pre-pregnancy wardrobe consisted of jeans and flowy tops. Find maternity clothes that are the style you love, but cut to fit your pregnant body.

2. Waiting too long to buy maternity clothes: You will be more comfortable and get more bang for your buck if you buy clothes that fit well before you start popping out of them.

3. Buying all your maternity clothes at once: It is impossible to tell exactly how your body will look at Week 28 when you are at Week 12. Buy a few pieces as your body changes, but hold off on buying everything at once (especially with maternity bras).

4. Wearing large “tent-like” dresses : Avoid the tent look through buying clothes that fit and gently hug your growing bump. Look for details like an empire-waist with a tie back or side-shirring to give your body form and style.

5. Not pampering yourself: You will feel more put together and sexy if you indulge yourself a little and get a pedicure and a fabulous haircut.

A pair of maternity jeans should be a staple in every pregnant mum’s wardrobe. Trust me, you will wear them throughout your pregnancy and well into those first post-partum weeks as well. What should you look for when buying maternity jeans?

Top 5 tips for buying maternity jeans

Panel: You have three choices when it comes to the belly panel, and it is definitely a personal preference. Try on a variety of jeans to decide if a full panel, mid-panel or underbelly fit is most comfortable for you. At Mamma Bella you can find a large range of jeans from sizes 4 – 22.

Cut: Boot-cut jeans are always the most flattering cut on a pregnant woman. The height at the bottom balances out your growing midsection. Lately, skinny leg and straight leg have made a good impression on the market. Depending on what you are used to wearing pre-pregnancy, will depend on what style of jeans you choose. The wide leg denim jean is also making it's debut this autumn/winter, available in store from April 2009.

Stretch: Look for jeans that are labelled “stretch” denim for little extra give that feels oh-so-good. Maternity jeans contain a lot more elastane in the denim than normal, allowing for growth and stretch. 

Wash: Dark-wash jeans are a little dressier, whereas jeans with a lighter wash or “rough” edges are more casual. When in doubt, go for a dark wash jean for their slimming and lengthening properties.

The right fit: We encourage our customers to walk around in store in their jeans to make sure the fit is just right. Sit down in your jeans when you are trying them on to ensure they will be comfortable. Jeans do have to be a little on the firm side when trying on, to allow for stretch over the following months.

Reversible maternity clothes: Stretch that dollar!

Buying a few reversible maternity pieces is a great way to stretch your clothing budget. After all, it is like buying two for the price of one! Here are a few stylish reversible options to consider adding to your maternity wardrobe.

The Szabo Reversible Tunic (pictured - $119.95, also available in Charcoal) available at Mamma Bella gives you two stylish looks for the price of one. This tunic will look great dressed up with pants or dressed down with leggings.

The Szabo Reversible Jersey Skirt ($99.95) takes versatility to a whole other level. Wear it as a black skirt one day and then as a charcoal skirt – no one will even know that it’s actually the same skirt!!! Genius!

                      

Teamed up with our basic long sleeve tops and knits, you’ll look a million dollars, without going to the expense!! Add some long boots and some thin scarves, and you’re all done for Winter!!!

Life just got more comfortable for pregnant women everywhere with Bella B Wear's seam free collection.  Breathable and functional fashion offering unparalleled comfort, durability and sexiness!!

Founded in 2003 by international fashion designer, Bella B Wear burst onto the scene creating huge excitement with their innovation collection of seamless garments.

Seam free garments give you the freedom to move while providing support, and the unique stretch micro fibre is incredibly soft against the skin.

Bella B Wear's latest collection reflects the demands of the modern-day woman, who wants more from her fashion; the woman who wants style, no-nonsense fashion that reflects a fashionable edge without the designer price tag.  Bella B Wear believes a woman should expect their clothing to be comfortable, easy to wear but that is be durable and of course affordable, Bella B Wear is essential and functional, our designs will take you from the office to after-work drinks and from the gym to the beach and even the bedroom.

From classic basics that lend themselves to layering, to funky urban styles, the current range includes cami's, stylish rouched tops that allow stretch from early conception to full term pregnancy.

Check out their entire range at www.bellabwear.com.au