5 Things you must know before buying- Maternity clothes

Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey in a woman’s life. As the body goes through various changes to accommodate the growing life within, comfort and style become essential considerations. In this article, we will delve into the five key things you must know before buying maternity clothes to ensure you make informed and practical choices. Maternity clothes are designed to provide both comfort and fashion during this special phase. However, before you embark on a shopping spree for maternity wear, there are several crucial factors to keep in mind.

What size maternity clothes to buy

If this is your first pregnancy, it’s nearly impossible to figure out how your body will change as your pregnancy progresses. This means it’s even trickier to estimate what size maternity clothes you’ll need to buy. “Typically, if you’re a size six pre-pregnancy, then you’ll probably be a maternity size six. But everyone is different, so you might be a maternity size eight or you might be a maternity size four, depending on how you carry your pregnancy,” New York City stylist Samantha Brown says. “It’s important to buy what’s comfortable, same as when you’re not pregnant. It has a lot to do with the proportions of someone’s body.” And keep in mind, not every part of your body is growing at the same rate. “Some women go up many bra cup sizes before their belly even pops out, so I’d say just ignore the maternity clothing sizing and buy what fits and feel right.”

5 Things you must know before buying- Maternity clothes

It depends on your budget. Keep in mind that unless you intend to get pregnant, often, these are “short-term” items. You probably won’t even need any until late in your pregnancy, when you’re getting big.

1. Understand Your Changing Body-

Pregnancy brings about a myriad of changes to the body, and these changes are unique to each woman. Before purchasing maternity clothes, take time to understand how your body is evolving. Consider factors such as weight gain, breast size increase, and changes in body shape. Maternity clothes are designed to accommodate these changes while providing comfort.

One of the fundamental features of maternity wear is the stretchable fabric. Look for materials like elastane or spandex blends that provide the necessary stretch to accommodate a growing belly. Adjustable waistbands, drawstrings, and side ruching are also common design elements that allow you to customize the fit according to your changing body shape.

2. Prioritize Comfort-

Comfort should be the cornerstone of your maternity clothing choices. During pregnancy, the body is already undergoing significant stress, so uncomfortable clothing can add unnecessary discomfort. Opt for loose-fitting garments that allow your skin to breathe and don’t constrict your movements.

Invest in basics like maternity leggings, stretchy tops, and dresses with room for growth. Seamless and tagless options can also reduce irritation on sensitive skin. When trying on clothes move around and simulate various activities to ensure the clothing provides the required comfort during different daily routines.

3. Versatility and Layering-

As your pregnancy progresses, your clothing needs might change. Instead of purchasing an entirely new wardrobe for each trimester, consider investing in versatile pieces that can be layered and mixed, and matched. This approach not only helps you save money but also allows you to create various stylish outfits from a limited set of items.

Items like maternity jeans with adjustable waistbands, cardigans, and wrap dresses are excellent choices for versatile maternity wear. Neutral colors and classic patterns further enhance the mix-and-match potential of your wardrobe. Additionally, focus on clothing that can transition from casual to more formal settings with just a few accessory changes.

4. Plan for the Seasons-

The time of year, when you’ll be pregnant, plays a significant role in your maternity clothing choices. If you’re expecting during the warmer months, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen will help you stay cool and comfortable. Look for dresses, skirts, and shorts with elastic waistbands to accommodate your growing belly.

For colder months, layering becomes even more important. Invest in maternity coats or jackets with adjustable features that can be worn throughout your pregnancy. Maternity tights or leggings can be worn under dresses and skirts to keep your legs warm. Consider adding scarves, hats, and gloves to your ensemble to stay cozy while maintaining your style.

Also, check- Why UTI During Pregnancy Is Common – How To Avoid It?

5. Don’t Sacrifice Style-

Gone are the days when maternity clothing meant sacrificing style for comfort. Today, maternity wear encompasses a wide array of stylish options that cater to various fashion preferences. Embrace this opportunity to express your style while accommodating your changing body.

Empire waist dresses, maxi dresses, and wrap dresses are popular choices that flatter pregnant silhouettes. Off-shoulder or cold-shoulder tops draw attention to the upper body, balancing the look with the expanding belly. Accessorize with statement jewelry, scarves, and stylish footwear to elevate your outfit.

Furthermore, maternity wear isn’t limited to casual or everyday attire. Many brands offer elegant maternity evening dresses, workwear, and even activewear designed to support and enhance your style choices during pregnancy.

Choosing the right maternity clothes involves a delicate balance between comfort, style, and practicality. By understanding your evolving body, prioritizing comfort, planning for the seasons, and focusing on versatility and style, you can curate a maternity wardrobe that empowers you during this transformative journey. Remember that each pregnancy is unique, so listen to your body and choose clothing that makes you feel confident and comfortable as you embark on the beautiful adventure of motherhood.

Frequently Asked Questions-

When should I start buying maternity clothes?

The timing varies for each individual, but many women start to feel the need for maternity clothes around the second trimester, which is usually between weeks 14 to 27. This is when your regular clothes might start feeling tight and uncomfortable due to your growing belly. However, it ultimately depends on your comfort level and how your body is changing. Some women might need maternity clothes earlier, while others can make do with their regular clothes for a bit longer.

Do I need to buy a whole new wardrobe of maternity clothes?

Not necessarily. The key is to focus on versatile pieces that can adapt to your changing body throughout your pregnancy. Invest in essentials like maternity jeans, leggings, tops, and dresses with stretchable fabric and adjustable features. You can mix and match these with your existing wardrobe, especially during the earlier stages of pregnancy. This way, you can build a functional maternity wardrobe without having to replace everything you own.

Can I continue wearing my regular clothes during pregnancy?

In the early stages of pregnancy, you might be able to wear some of your looser-fitting regular clothes. However, as your belly grows, your regular clothes may become uncomfortable and not fit properly. Maternity clothes are specifically designed to accommodate your changing body shape and provide the necessary comfort and support. Investing in a few key maternity pieces can make a significant difference in your comfort level as you progress through your pregnancy.

Where can I find stylish maternity clothes?

There are several options for finding stylish maternity clothes. Many mainstream clothing stores now offer maternity lines both in-store and online. There are also specialized maternity clothing brands that focus exclusively on pregnancy wear. Additionally, online marketplaces and websites dedicated to maternity wear offer a wide range of stylish options. Look for clothing with stretchable fabric, flattering cuts, and adjustable features to ensure both style and comfort.

Should I buy nursing clothes during pregnancy?

While not a necessity during pregnancy, nursing clothes can be a smart investment if you plan to breastfeed your baby. Some maternity clothes are designed to transition into nursing wear by incorporating discreet openings or panels for easy breastfeeding. If you anticipate breastfeeding, you might consider purchasing a few nursing tops or dresses to have on hand for the postpartum period. However, these items can also be bought after your baby arrives, based on your needs and preferences.