You know how these Target designer collaborations go. We get all geeked out. We mark our calendars. We think we’re slick by shopping online during a 3:00 AM feeding (but there’s nothing left). So we forget about it. By the time we finally make it to Target with a crying toddler in tow, we’re sifting through the dregs of a collection (read: lame-o iPhone cases and coozies), drowning our disappointment in a cold chai latte, and wondering why we cared so much in the first place.
Been there? I have. And when the much-anticipated Lilly Pulitzer for Target line is released on April 19th, this fashion-stylist-turned-mama has a game plan. I’ve narrowed the 250 piece collection to twelve fab finds for new and expecting moms. Fabrics that fit. Cuts that conceal. Cute totes that double as diaper bags. Palazzo pants that will be your new best friend.
So take notes, get focused, and when Target opens their doors to Lilly loyalists next week (the line hits stores April 19) , beeline to these twelve best pieces for your busy mom lifestyle. You WILL snag an affordable piece of Palm Beach chic, and you’ll be stylin’ all summer long. Check them out in the slideshow above.
More Fashion for Moms:
Best Lilly Pulitzer for Target Finds for New and Expecting Moms
Bandeau Bikini
Shown here: Bandeau Bikini Top - Belladonna, $24; Hipster Bikini Bottom - Belladonna, $24; Button Down Shirt - Nosie Posey, $24; Charm Bracelet - Gold, $20, available at Target beginning on 4/19.
Why to buy: Hallelujah, high-waisted bikini! Fellow C-section mamas will relish in the chic yet concealing cut of these bathing suits. No side ties or scoop fronts means you can bend and twist at the baby pool with confidence.
Underwire Bikini
Shown here: Underwire Bikini Top - Fan Dance, $24; Scarf with Sequins - Fan Dance, $20; Straw Fedora - Gold, $20; Gold Sandals - Starfish, $30, available at Target beginning on 4/19.
Why to buy: This underwire style is a breastfeeding mom's dream. Supportive? Check. Nursing-pad friendly? Check. And at only $24, it's priced right to buy twice. Pick up your nursing size for now, and your pre-baby size for next season. Voila. You've extended the life of this cute suit for summers to come!
Eyelet Tunic Cover Up
Shown here: Eyelet Tunic Cover Up - White, $32; Straw Tote Bag - Happy Place, $30; Gold Sandals - Starfish, $30; Starfish Cuff Bracelet - Gold, $20, available at Target beginning on 4/19.
Why to buy: While I always love a cover up that doesn't resemble a muumuu, I also adore this piece for its versatility. The pretty eyelet detail helps it double as a maternity top! Start with a white maternity camisole, layer in the cover up, and add skinny white jeans, a long necklace, and cute espadrilles for an easy, breezy, stretch-your-wardrobe outfit!
Crochet Crop Top & Palazzo Pant
Shown here: Crochet Crop Top - White, $32; Palazzo Pant - Giraffeeey, $28, available at Target beginning on 4/19.
Why to buy: Because your yoga pants need a break. Next time you reach for your Lululemons to run errands, imagine how effortlessly chic you will look floating down the grocery aisle in these carefree and colorful pants! Note: Be sure to ignore whispering comments in the check-out line. "Did that calm mama just get back from a getaway in St. Barth's?" Nope, she paid less than $30 for that island-time look.
Strapless Maxi Dress
Shown here: Strapless Maxi Dress - Nosie Posey, $34; Necklace - Gold & Turquoise, $24; Gold Sandals - Starfish, $30, available at Target beginning on 4/19.
Why to buy: A strapless maxi is a pregant girl's godsend. It's a wardrobe essential. The fabric in this dress is flowing enough to conceal a first trimester bump, but flexible enough to flaunt it for the third. Layer this maxi with your tried and true denim jacket for a less preppy look, and pair it with glamorous gold-drop earrings for date night. This is one majorly versatile find that will take expecting moms from Memorial Day to Labor Day in style.
Shift Dress
Shown here: Shift Dress - My Fans $38, available at Target.
Why to buy: Because plus-sized ladies can finally relish in the fun. The Lilly Pulitzer for Target collection is the retailer's first designer collaboration to embrace the plus-size community. Iconic shift dresses, rompers, and more will be available in extended-size runs on target.com.
Nosie Posey Dress
Shown here: Satin Dress - Nosie Posey, $38; Giraffe Necklace - Gold, $24; Charm Bracelet - Gold, $20; Embroidered Clutch - Nosie Posey, $24, available at Target.
Why to buy: It's perfect for the postpartum momma. There's not much of a fashion market for the infant momma set. Stores seem to be infiltrated with trendy crop tops and high waisted pants that highlight the midsection. This silhouette chicly accents your best assets, while concealing the inevitable postpartum pooch in the tummy area. Layer in some gold bangles and Jack Rogers Navajo sandals for an ideal Palm Beach look.
The Fringe Trend
Shown here: Push Up Halter Bikini Top - My Fans, $24; High Waisted Bikini Bottom - My Fans $24; Fringe Kimono Jacket - White, $30; Turban Headwrap w/ Elastic Back - My Fans, $8, available at Target beginning on 4/19.
Why to buy: Fringe was one of the hottest trends on the NYFW Spring 2015 runways---this is your chance to snag the trend for $30. Wear it as a cover up. Wrap it with a belt. Get majorly moody and pair it with your favorite ripped jeans. Or sashay around your bedroom with it at night (your honey will thank us). Whatever you do, pick up this piece because it will be one of the most versatile items in your wardrobe this season.
Mommy & Me Satin Jumpsuits
Shown here: Satin Jumpsuit - Boom Boom, $44; Kids Jumpsuit - Boom Boom, $26, available at Target beginning 4/19.
Why to buy: Because you secretly smirked at all those moms who dressed their kids in matching Lilly...or you're one of them. Whatever side of the fence you've been on, you have to admit these mommy-and-me palm print rompers majorly amp up the cool factor on twinsie dressing. The kiddo style is available for toddlers, too---it's not just the big kids who get to have the fun!
Espadrilles
Shown here: Espadrilles - Upstream, $24, available at Target beginning 4/19.
Why to buy: Why pay more? You've lusted over the Chanel cap-toe espadrilles. You somewhat considered the Tory Burch ones. These puppies pack the same punch at a fraction of the price, so you won't feel guilty when they get dirtied up at the playground. Bonus? Moms-to-be will love the stretchable canvas fabric---perfect for swollen third trimester feet!
Weekender Bag
Shown here: Weekender Bag - Nosie Posey, $50, available at Target beginning 4/19.
Why to buy: Why lug that dark and dingy diaper bag? Lose the pack mule look and pop a purse organizer in this roomy tote. Fill with all your little one's necessities, and off you go. This fresh tote will instantly awaken any spring outfit.
Kaftan Cover Up
Shown here: Kaftan Cover Up - Wavepool, $34, available at Target beginning 4/19.
Why to buy: Are you due at the end of the summer? As momma to an August baby, I promise that long, breezy, cool, and concealing beach wear will be a godsend in the dog days of summer. Remember to size up to accommodate a growing baby bump!