Posh Maternity

Pregnancy has never been so beautiful, at least not in a retail context.

THE SHOP: Posh Maternity, 1111 E. Republic Rd., Ste. 152, Springfield, 417-889-7674. (Mon.–Sat., 10 a.m.–6 p.m.)

ATMOSPHERE: It’s obvious the minute you step inside Posh Maternity that this is not an ordinary maternity shop. Warm, tan walls and a chocolate stained-concrete floor make this place feel like many of the upscale boutiques in 417-land. Only the arty black and white photography of chic pregnant women and maternity accessories indicate the store’s specialty.

KEY PEOPLE: Although she has no children of her own, owner Amy Hopper knew in college she wanted to open a boutique. As she researched ideas, she realized an upscale maternity store was just what south Springfield needed. It didn’t hurt that many of her friends had children and offered advice and opinions.

WHAT YOU’LL FIND: As I perused the racks, I was disappointed that many of the stylish clothes were made just for pregnant women. What really stood out was the selection of jeans. Many maternity styles use a soft, wide elastic band to fit a woman’s growing midsection. The jeans by Habitual and Citizens of Humanity (yep, the same ones you find at other high-end local boutiques) allow for the transition with an adjustable inside waistband and lower cut in the front. At $185, they are still boutique priced, but can be readjusted and worn after delivery.

With dresses being the must-have item in every woman’s closet this summer, it was nice to see so many choices here for moms. A knit “balloon” dress by Olian was only $82 and could easily be worn at the office with a chic cardigan or jacket or at a poolside party. Many of the knit dresses by Japanese Weekend are reversible, allowing for more versatility. Who wants to invest too much in a wardrobe that only lasts a few months? Most styles are less than $100.

While you’ll find many varieties of T-shirts and jeans, Posh Maternity specializes in work wear. Knit separates by Japanese Weekend include tops, skirts, jackets and dresses that can easily expand your wardrobe without breaking the bank. I was fascinated by a skirt/top piece for $68 in a stylish red/black/white print. Worn at the waist, it’s a skirt; worn across the chest, it’s a tunic. And, like most of the Japanese Weekend line, it’s reversible. So for $68, it’s like you’re buying four pieces.

Most women, however, can’t call their wardrobe complete without the ubiquitous T-shirt, and Posh has plenty to choose from. I loved the design by local artist Jodi Oehlke, whose brand is called Sakrid, proclaiming, “coming soon.” The knit tops by Noppies feature all the latest trends of puffed sleeves, empire waist and bright colors for a mere $64. Even grandmothers can be stylish in $38 Posh Mama T-shirts exclaiming “Grandiva” or “Grannylicious.”

Of course, once the baby is born you’ll have to tote around all the accoutrements. Do it in style with diaper bags that look like this season’s “it” bags carried by the stars. I loved a black leather bag by Nest that featured gold studs and lots of hardware. At $325 it is an investment, but I’ll bet you’ll want to carry it long after your baby is out of diapers. If that’s a bit out of your range, you can still look chic carrying a chocolate and lime dotted bag by Kalencom for $70.

417 VERDICT: Fashionista moms-to-be rejoice! Posh Maternity will keep you stylish during and after your pregnancy.