Pregnancy is a wild ride. Your body is changing, your cravings are questionable (gherkins and tabasco sauce, anyone?), and suddenly, your favourite jeans refuse to cooperate.
So, what’s a mama to do? Fear not, maternity clothes are here to save the day!
The ultimate guide to maternity clothing: Here’s everything you need to know about what to wear, from must-have pieces to when you should start shopping.
Grab your favourite snack, and let’s dive in!
Why do I need maternity clothes? Can’t I just buy bigger clothes?
Oh, if only it were that simple! Grabbing bigger sizes may seem like a good idea to save money and keep your own style, but pregnancy isn’t just about getting rounder – it’s about your body shifting in ways you never expected (hello, expanding ribcage, widening hips, and suddenly suspiciously large feet). Regular oversized clothes may work for a while, but soon, they’ll start to feel like a frumpy truce in a war you don’t have to lose.
Maternity clothes, on the other hand, are designed to keep up with the grand expansion. They’ve got the stretch, support and clever tailoring to accommodate not just your belly, but also your growing bust, aching back and need for extra room everywhere.
Your future self will thank you for the circulation!
When should I start shopping for maternity clothes?
Every pregnancy is different, but here are some universal signs that it’s time to embrace maternity wear:
- Your pants are staging a protest: Buttons, zips and waistbands are suddenly your worst enemy.
- Your bra is begging for mercy: Your girls have grown and that tight underwire bra just isn’t keeping up anymore.
- Your tops have become crop tops: If you’re unintentionally flashing your belly every time you reach for the peanut butter, it’s time.
Instead of squeezing into clothes that no longer serve you, invest in maternity pieces early on so you can enjoy stretchy, comfy bliss throughout pregnancy, postpartum recovery and yes, even beyond that.
The trick is to purchase neutral and versatile basics that you can mix and match daily with items already in your wardrobe – because variety is the spice of life, even when you’re pregnant!
What size maternity clothes should I buy?
The great news? Maternity clothes are sized like regular clothes! If you were a medium pre-pregnancy, you’ll likely be a medium in maternity wear too. These clothes are designed to grow with you, so no need to size up, unless:
- You have a larger bust size
- You’ve gained extra weight beyond the normal pregnancy range
- You’re growing more than one tiny human (twins, triplets? Bless you!)
For first-time moms, it can be hard to predict exactly how your body will change, so the recommendation is to stick to your regular size unless you experience significant changes in body shape.
Next week, we’ll dive into the maternity clothes you really need, what to wear in the hospital after giving birth, and more.
Compiled by: Woman & Home
First published by Woman&Home
Also see: Maternity Leave & Your Rights
