When I first found out I was pregnant, clothing and beauty weren’t the first things to come to my mind. Now that I am 21 weeks in (I can’t believe it’s already half way through!) it has definitely become more of a focus for me…. and while a growing belly has its time and place in making a woman feel beautiful, there are times when I just flat out feel “blah” (for lack of a better term). Belly or not, it’s an issue that strikes every woman now and then… bloating and “those days” are simply inevitable. This past Friday night, when I was getting ready to head out with my girlfriends, I was having one of those days. Feeling like I didn’t have anything to make me feel ready for a night out on the town, I quickly turned to my old trusty favorite… jeans and a white silk top. With a few extra additions to the ensemble, I felt instantly better and ready for a night out.

How could such a plain combination make me feel so much better? It wasn’t until I repeated the outfit, yet again, with slight variations, that I realized there were a few simple tricks to making a plain white shirt and jeans feel “sexy.”

1. Material is everything: A silky white blouse adds glamour, with subdued elegance. It’s as simple as that.

2. The proper undergarments work wonders: Initially I reached for the tried and true (as of these days) bandeau… but then I remembered that I had something a little more refined and sophisticated… and immediately switched. This doesn’t have to be racy or trashy by any means. A little lace poking out from silk is elegantly polished.

3. The right shoes: It’s so true, the right shoes will transform your “blah” feelings immediately. For Friday night I opted for these studded beauties… but for round two opted for these white sandals… perfect for these last days of summer.

4. Dainty gold accessories: Simply put, dainty will always make you feel feminine. I know some opt for the “more is better” mantra… but I prefer “less is best.” A few layered necklaces,  gold studs, and a gold bangle will do the trick.

5. Confidence: Simply put, the best accessory a woman can wear is confidence. Even if these tricks didn’t get you feeling like a 10, if your mind tells you you’re looking hot, it’ll come through… I promise 🙂

{Outfit Details || Jeans: c/o A Pea in the Pod , non-maternity here | Top: Topshop | Bralette: Free People | Pumps: Steve Madden | Purse: Chloe, cheaper option here | Star Necklace: Gorjana | V Necklace: Gorjana | S Pendant: David Yurman | Gold Bangle: c/o The Peach Box}