I’m so excited about our new collaboration with Wendy Bellissimo for Destination Maternity! As a successful and stylish mom of four, Wendy is a true inspiration. What I love the most about the collection is how her relaxed, effortless style comes through in each of the pieces. It’s not surprising that the collection instantly became a favorite of style influencers, bloggers and expecting moms alike. I had a chance to chat with Wendy and wanted to share what she had to say with all of you. I think you’ll agree Wendy is pretty fabulous, just like her collection. -Olivia

Photos: Courtesy of Wendy Bellissimo

O Myers: How would you explain your own personal style and how has that influenced your collection with Destination Maternity?
W Bellissimo: My signature look from home decor to apparel is uncomplicated yet chic and my style is definitely rooted in nature with a certain sense of comfort and ease. This design aesthetic translates perfectly to my collections for Destination Maternity, because looking great and feeling comfortable during pregnancy helps with all the changes a woman is experiencing. Getting dressed shouldn’t be a chore, especially when you are pregnant!

O Myers: Why did you decide to partner with Destination Maternity for your maternity collection?
W Bellissimo: I feel like I was nonstop pregnant – I had 4 babies in 5 years, so I personally know the challenges women face. Destination Maternity is the leader and they understood my vision and passion to create beautiful, comfortable clothing that women want to wear during pregnancy and even after. Their experience and understanding of my vision made this a perfect partnership.

O Myers: Tell us about your design process and how you create from concept to completion?
W Bellissimo: From concept to completion I always think about the woman. I want her to feel put-together without looking like she is trying too hard. Offering her style that she feels good about is important to me. It’s about creating a balance of sophistication, comfort and down to earth luxury. Next come color and pattern. The WB brand is known for rich colors and signature prints that grab attention, yet still speak softly. I try to develop looks that can easily move from casual to a night out just by changing a few accessories. Seasonless style is a meaningful part of the process and each collection is approached from that point of view. Most women run very hot when they are pregnant; therefore, layering pieces are a must. We also design the styles so that they can be worn after pregnancy, becoming a part of a woman’s everyday wardrobe. This is an important part of the design process as it allows women to make smart purchases that last. When we hit all of these goals I know that we have created a successful collection.

O Myers: Being so successful and working on so many projects, how do you juggle having a family and a career?
W Bellissimo: To be completely honest the juggling is a big personal struggle for me. Every day I fall short somewhere. Nothing will ever be perfect. You have to work extra hard at being the best mommy you can be and the best wife you can be while still managing a demanding career. Luckily, my husband is my business partner so we get to work together and after we had our 4th child we transitioned our business to work from home.

O Myers: What is your favorite thing about being a mom?
W Bellissimo: The simple things – the hugs, smiles and love from my little girls. Just knowing they are happy and healthy is the best! I have to pinch myself every day just looking at them and my husband. They are all my dream come true.

O Myers: What is the one piece of fashion advice you have for expecting moms?
W Bellissimo: Be prepared! Every pregnant woman eventually realizes she can’t squeeze in to regular clothes for her whole pregnancy. That is why I am so passionate about creating amazing maternity clothing that women want to wear. Being pregnant is a gift and dressing your bump should feel like a blessing, not a curse!

We are celebrating this exciting collaboration with Wendy at our NYC flagship Destination Maternity store on August 26th, so please join us!  The collection is currently in stores and online at Motherhood Maternity.