A new book helps women who are pregnant celebrate their changing bodies with fashion, beauty and grace. "Rock Star Momma: The Hip Guide to Looking Gorgeous Through All Nine Months and Beyond" (Atria Books) is a comprehensive well-being guide with a foreword by actress Gwyneth Paltrow. Here's an excerpt:

Denim To Die For
Thanks to the advent of those famous 501s a hundred and fifty years ago, jeans are a major part of our daily twenty-first-century wardrobe — whether it's to the office, for a night out on the town, or running those endless errands. Yet considering how often you wear them, it's still shocking at how hard it is to find the perfect pair. Now try adding pregnancy and a whole lotta pounds to the equation. Yikes! Don't fret. Why? Because you're gonna make your first major maternity investment right now. (Pause for effect.) You. Are. Going. To. Buy. A. Pair. Of. Maternity. Jeans.

I know, I know. I understand you're glued to your Sevens and Hudsons. I know it's terrifying to imagine life without your Citizens or True Religions. But take a deep breath and listen to me: Your behind is going to get bigger. Your hips, legs, and thighs, too. And you've probably already lost that thing you once so proudly called your "waist." Maternity jeans are designed with all these things in mind — unlike regular jeans, which are designed for supermodels (which explains why finding the perfect fit for mortals is so insanely difficult).

Truth is, maternity jeans have come a very long way from what they were even a few years ago. Phew. Whereas once upon a time, maternity jeans were those full-paneled "mom jeans" —with a panel so high, it could readily be mistaken for some sort of breast support, and those giant, unflattering pockets made even Twiggy's ass look the size of Texas — today's pregnancy jeans are available in a plethora of hip styles that'll make even the most stylish momma smile.

Use your pre-pregnancy sizing as a general reference for maternity sizing, but as with tees, there really isn't much consistency among maternity brands. If you can't bear the thought of those scary dressing room mirrors, order online and try dozens on in the comfort of your own home. But remember: Ignore what the numbers say on the tag and go for what truly fits (repeat the mantra: "I am embracing the new me"). While you're at it, follow the handy guide below to finding the perfect pair of kick-ass maternity jeans.

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