by Julia Beck, of Forty Weeks

Mom-to-be Jessica Alba had her glow on this week for an appearance at MTV’s Total Request Live in New York. Her look was both feminine and soft, and the end result was pure pre-natal perfection! Jessica wisely focuses on her natural assets as her biggest, boldest accessory -– her skin and hair are simply rich and radiant. And the stunning results speak for themselves! The sophisticated hue of her dress -– a deep chocolate brown, is finished off with opaque legs and a few, well chosen jewels (love that bangle). Brown is a great choice, as it's both bold and sophisticated and offers a world of daytime and evening options.

Here is what to keep in mind when stealing Jessica Alba’s “Craving Chocolate” look Forty Weeks Style:
*Chocolate is not the only shade of brown. Explore the full spectrum of solid browns including metallic (think bronze), as well as patterns that build on brown as a base.
*The cut of the dress is as important as the hue. Determine your best neckline first and choose from there. Focus first on fit!
*Dressing may call for layering. Keep camis, second skins and form-fitting tanks on hand to avoid too much exposure.
*Make sure your dress choice is able to accommodate your changing body and your new assets! And, make sure you have a bra that really fits (get professionally fit) to avoid too much “roll over,” or worse!
*Dresses are not special occasion only. Dress up with shoes, accessories, and make-up. Dress-down with boots, layers and a fresh face. Never let a great dress stay on the hanger too long –- get the maximum wear out of this comfortable, versatile choice.
*Keep it going -– dresses will work well into your fourth trimester -- buy and budget with this longer life-span in mind.

Steal That Look Forty Weeks Style – Chocolate Cravings!
Feed your cravings for chocolate with these just-right dresses that will quickly become a staple of your Forty Weeks! Keep an arsenal of accessories on hand to shift the look in subtle or stunning ways. Here we share some finds that are sure to hit your sweet spot!

A relative newbie to the maternity fashion world, Lauren Kiyomi continues to impress! Due Maternity has an exclusive on her knee-length Strapless Dress (right, $114) in chocolate brown. The dress is simplicity defined, with a golden silk sash that ties in the back. This one also features a built in shelf bra (though you need to make sure this is enough support). (CBB Deal: Save 15% with code CBB) 

Here is a dress that can go on and on! Flats, heels, crop jacket, boho accessories –- seriously do with this sweet little chocolate dress what you will! Gap’s Empire Waist Tank Dress (left, $50) is stylish and easy to wear and care for (machine washable!). The hue of this “earth brown” has undertones of red and will work well with denims, ivories and even pink! The wide tank straps and empire waist are sure to flatter almost any bump.

Babystyle calls the Cadeau Sleeveless Side-Shirred Dress (right, $128) a “pull-on-and-go stunner” and we agree. This versatile dress is made of Cadueau’s signature, super soft cotton that has enough memory to take you well through your pregnancy and beyond! Shirring is one of our absolute favorite tools for creating a well dressed bump. This dress frames and flatters to perfection!

Also from Babystyle, Cadeau’s Modern Print Dress (left, $89 on sale) is a totally mod-take on brown. This well cut dress can take you from day to night in flattering style. This jersey dress also comes in a black print on sale and is only available in limited quantities. 

Pickles and Ice Cream's Ripe Short Satin Bronze Dress (right, $159) is brown with some sexy shimmer. This stretch satin dress features an empire waist and bow tie back. Dressier than the others, this is a real statement dress that is cut to flow and flatter.

Isabella Oliver’s Wrap Dress (left, $124 on sale) is yummy soft and extra sexy (consider a layering piece here). The cut is snug yet slimming. And as always, Isabella Oliver’s clothes make the grade for quality and cut. This classic wrap will quickly make it to your faves list. And, we love the sale price!

And for the real deal? We are now, and forever will be huge fans of Belly Bar’s Baby Needs Chocolate ($26.99 for a box of 12 ). They disappear very quickly in our showroom and likely, you will become a major fan too! Seriously good stuff.