While you may be thrilled about being pregnant, the prospect of giving up your favourite clothes in favour of tent dresses and sweatpants may be less than exciting. Being pregnant doesn’t mean muumuus have to become your staple, however, because with a few simple wardrobe ideas you can be a hip and comfortable mum-to-be. Here are some tips:
Don’t Break the Bank
You can still wear maternity clothes that look and feel good without having to buy a whole new wardrobe. You will only have to wear these clothes for a few short months anyway, so why not try out some pre-loved pieces? Friends, consignment stores and thrift stores are great resources for you to find pre-loved already worn clothes in maternity clothes for cheap. You never know when you may even come across some designer brands at a fraction of the original price. By taking the cheaper route, you can also afford to buy far more clothes, which will help you complete your maternity wardrobe.
Buy Transitional Pieces First
If you’re ready to shop but still have a lot of growing to do, it may be worthwhile for you to look into some transitional clothes to help you get through the awkward in-between sizes. Start by buying a couple pairs of inexpensive non-maternity pants and tops that are a size or two bigger than what you would normally wear. If you’re lucky, you may be able to find some tops that change sizes as you do, such as wraps. Keep in mind that, while you don’t need heaps of transitional sizes, they will also come in handy during those months after you have given birth as well.
Show Off Your Curves
Blossoming bellies and breasts shouldn’t be covered up with frumpy maternity smocks; instead these new curves should be celebrated and showcased. It’s fun to be able to show off these new assets, because they don’t stay around forever!
Layer to Your Advantage
Your body works hard when you’re pregnant to ensure your baby gets enough blood, nutrients and oxygen, which means that you may find that you are generally warmer than you normally would be. With layered clothing, you can peel off clothes as needed without worrying about overheating. Make sure that you have some nice t-shirts, polo shirts, sweaters and cardigans that work well together to pull off your desired look.
Feet First
Are your shoes starting to feel a little tight? That’s not surprising, seeing as though some women experience their feet going up two full sizes during their pregnancy. Fluid retention is partly to blame for this problem, as are the joints in your body that are expanding and preparing for childbirth.
You need support and comfort at this time, so choose ballet flats or shoes with wide, chunky heels or low “kitten heels”. Whatever you do, make sure you can find some comfortable slip-ons to avoid having to bend over to tie your laces while you’re nine months pregnant!
Accessorise
With the right accessories, you can get plenty of mileage out of a plain outfit. Take the basic black top and jeans and give it a new look every time by swapping a necklace for a scarf or by throwing on a new belt or hat. The best part is that you can still use the accessories after you have given birth!
