Are you dreading buying maternity clothes? You’ll actually be surprised at the choices available to you today.
Are you dreading buying maternity clothes? No need to worry. You’ll actually be surprised at the choices available to you today. Believe it or not, shopping for maternity clothes can be both practical and enjoyable!
Now that you’re pregnant, the last thing you want to worry about is your wardrobe. But, the fact is most women are self-conscious about their bodies and all the changes that take place. The average weight gain for a pregnant woman is between 25-35 pounds, and weight gain usually begins to occur in the middle to end of your first trimester. You not only gain weight from the growing baby, expanding uterus, enlarged breasts, etc., but your weight may shift as well. Many women even end up with a bigger shoe size that lasts even after they give birth!
Wearing the right maternity clothes is the smart way to add comfort to your life and give you an added image boost in the process. Good maternity wear adjusts to fit your body’s needs as you grow and develop physically, readjusts as your body is slimming down, and can even double as nursing wear.
And, thank goodness, maternity wear is now available in wardrobe mix and match essentials that can work as day wear and extend right into your evening ensemble. Making a few pieces mix and match well is key to saving time and money while looking great. Here are some tips to keep in mind when shopping for maternity wear:
- Concentrate on your maternity wardrobe as soon as you start feeling uncomfortable in your pre-pregnancy clothes. The sooner you plan your maternity wardrobe, the more you’ll get out of it.
- Remember that maternity wear sizes are meant to reflect a woman’s normal, pre-pregnant size. For example, if you normally wear a size 10, then more than likely, you’ll wear a medium in maternity wear.
- Buy with room-to-grow. You can’t imagine how large you’ll be at nine months. Wear appropriate undergarments. Pregnancy underwear and a maternity/nursing bras will make you feel more comfortable, no matter what clothing you’re wearing as a top layer. Some things in life you just shouldn’t live without! If you’re used to wearing bikini underwear, you still can do so comfortably; being pregnant doesn’t mean you have to wear bulkier panties. Whatever is most comfortable is best!
- Buy solid-colored, mix-n-match separates. This can give your wardrobe more flexibility, while stretching your dollar. Avoid clothing that may draw attention to your middle, like shiny belts or hip ruffles. Darker, one-color garments emphasize a leaner look. Never-ever wear a belt as a fashion accessory even if you’re proud of your new burgeoning belly. It’s simply not flattering.
- Buy lighter weight garments than you normally would buy. Most pregnant women find themselves overheating quite frequently during pregnancy, even if it’s wintertime.
- If you’re a working professional, keep your maternity wardrobe simple. Basic colors without trendy patterns are always more businesslike. Wear comfortable, lower-heeled shoes, which are easier on your feet and safer for you.If you’re an active woman, there are plenty of casual maternity pieces from which to choose. Jumpers, shorts and full piece leotards (if you happen to be pregnant in the summer) are comfortable wear for keeping in shape.Stick to styles that you like and that represent who you are. If you normally wear jeans and t-shirts, wear them while you’re pregnant as well. You don’t have to wear dresses with high waistlines if they don’t match your personality.Don’t wear restrictive clothing, if at all possible. If you must wear pantyhose, choose maternity support stocking which allow more freedom of movement and better circulation.
- Wearing more comfortable, fun maternity wear will go a long way in helping you feel good about yourself and enjoy your pregnancy!
