Maternity clothes today are far more sophisticated and stylish than in years gone by. Taking inspiration from the latest summer trends and styles in fashion, top maternity wear designers are offering expectant women a plethora of clothing choices during this very special time in their lives.

Many women around the country are displaying the natural changes their bodies undergo during pregnancy, especially during humid summer months. Laura Hillard, owner of The Sassy Stork in Little Rock, Ark., agrees, noting her expecting clientele are becoming more comfortable bearing their tummies. "With the heat and humidity that summer brings, halter tops are always popular due to the fact that they keep you cool when it's 95 degrees outside," she says. "The majority of women love the more fitted look halters offer, since they show the belly and make them look pregnant instead of bulky."

"Shorts cut above the knee, but not so uncomfortably short that you can't sit down, in colors like raspberry, white, green," are popular choices among her customers, says Hillard.

Novelty tops by maternity wear designers such as MollyAnna and 2 Chicks have also increased in popularity among women. "Our slogan tank tops are popular – this year's selection includes sayings like 'bun in the oven,'" says Missy Rae, general manager of Naissance on Melrose in Los Angeles, Calif.

"Some of the fabrics have changed this year, such as the lightweight voile fabric in our bandeaus and sundresses and our terry cloth pieces," adds Rae. "We are also seeing expectant moms wearing lace camisole-style tops as well."

Finding just the right outfits to wear to work while you're pregnant can be a source of frustration. A solution to this problem is to mix and match your choices for working wear.

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