With a few strategic purchases, you can create a versatile maternity wardrobe on a reasonable budget and still look fabulous for any occasion.

To avoid spending an arm and a leg on maternity clothes, choose versatile and functional pieces that coordinate well together. Stick with the basics at first, and add trendy or special items as needed. Ideas for basic bottoms include black leggings, a great pair of jeans, twill pants, and a flirty skirt. For basic tops, try a white or classic French blue button down oxford shirt, a denim shirt, or a solid color fitted top.

Resist the urge to buy several new work outfits - you may be able to use pre-pregnancy pieces such as your blazer, worn unbuttoned; or you may be able to wear pieces from your basics, such as black trousers with a classic cardigan.

Stock up on bargains by hitting the sale racks at your favorite maternity boutiques. And don't underestimate Target's maternity section; they are great for basic tops you can pair with a great pair of jeans - no one would ever know you got it at "Tarjay"!!

Strategizing when pulling together a nine month wardrobe will not only save you money, it will keep you in today's hottest fashions and looking fabulous.