Things you should consider before maternity shopping.

Pregnancy is a special phase in your life and you want to look your very best! We bet you’d want to show-off your baby bump while being comfortable in your clothes at the same time. Don’t worry though, as we give you the whole rundown on things to consider before your maternity shopping.

Each pregnancy is different and each person is different. Someone may tell you to buy 2 pairs of leggings and stretchy jeans because they lived in them, but this may or may not suit you. Here’s a list of things you need to consider before purchasing your pregnancy wear, so let’s get started:

1. The Season

You may find a perfect winter jacket or an all-season jacket, but you could steal your husband’s jacket for 6 weeks instead of investing in a new one. Also, would you be more likely to wear a jacket and go out, or stay indoors on a freezing day or rainy day? As a smart soon-to-be-mother, plan out your pregnancy wardrobe keeping the specific months of your pregnancy in mind, as well as the seasons to match with it. If it is raining, keep the rainy wear you need handy. If it’s sunny, have your sundress ready and if it’s cold, get those cute but breathable woollen clothes. 

2. Find your style

Think of your usual style and your favourite pieces in your wardrobe. Try to purchase similar styles, but in a maternity version. You’ll be more comfortable in those clothes rather than attempting to step out in athletic wear if you’re not used to wearing it.

Do you like to wear clothes that are short, loose or tight? Don’t go for a clingy maternity tank top if you’ve never worn lycra before. If you don’t like wearing dresses then don't start now. The same goes for tops, sleeves, V-neck, jeans.

If you’re into dresses, get some cute flared dresses. If you’re into baggy clothes, get yourself some baggy pants and t-shirts, if you love jeans switch to jeggings and leggings that are similar yet much more breathable. 

3. Function and purpose

If you have decided to continue working in your office right up to your due date, you might not need excess of pregnancy clothing items. Figure out what you will be doing for the next 9 months and purchase what’s needed accordingly. Keep your work outfits cozy and breathable. It might seem like you need to have many maternity clothes, but keep in mind that you won’t be wearing them for more than 9 months.

Remember, that it will take some time to get back to your pre-baby weight, so be ready to keep wearing your pregnancy clothes after you have had your baby. Will you be wearing that top after you’ve had your baby? Will you be breastfeeding in social settings? Can you breastfeed easily and comfortably in those clothes?

4. Underwear

This is where it gets a little bit tricky, but we’ve taken the effort to help your breasts stay supported and comfortable.

0-3 months pregnant: Choose a soft, stretchy, and supportive non-wired bra for this stage as your breasts can grow up to 3 cup sizes and can be rather painful. Avoid the pain with a comfortable bra.

3-8 months pregnant: Any well-designed nursing bra will be fine for you at this stage, from flexible wires to soft cup bras with 6 hooks for greater support and extension as not much growth occurs, but your ribcage will be expanding.

8-9 months pregnant: Your ribcage will be at its widest. So, if you are buying a bra, buy a smaller band size and a bigger cup size as your ribcage size will shrink after you’ve had your baby. Your breast size at this stage will most likely be your nursing cup size after you’ve delivered. Practice unlatching your bra with one hand for feeding when you are pregnant.

0-4 week’s post-pregnancy/breastfeeding:  Your breasts will be at their maximum size, weight, and tenderness due to the milk production required. Your seamless bra will also come in handy once you’ve delivered.

5. Body, breasts, belly, and weight

If you are one of the 10% of women who only get a belly, then you won’t have to go through many size jumps when shopping for your pregnancy. Most women experience some weight gain which can be a little or a lot, especially your belly and your breasts. Try on your maternity clothes before you buy it to be sure that it fits.

Not only is your belly growing, but your hip bones are expanding. To accommodate your belly, your organs are being pushed towards your spine, your breasts are going to swell up and become tender and to top it all off, your feet will swell up and your ankles will pulse under the added pressure.

Try to only buy clothing items that you need, as you may be disappointed when most things don’t turn out to be as useful or wearable as you thought it might and it can also become a costly exercise. Not only they may not fit your size, but also, they may not suit you and your belly. Each woman’s body is unique. What worked for your friend during her pregnancy may not work for you during yours. Try to find the perfect fit for your specific needs and requirements.

6. Shoes

If you always wear stilettos, now is the time to turn to some flats. Try to wear only leather or natural fibers, as these will grow better with your swelling feet. Add some comfy gel inner soles to your usual shoes and exchange the laces for elastics instead. Do not let your feet suffocate, let them be free and comfy.

So, have some fun and wear what suits you, your size, your style, and is comfortable. Wear clothes that make you feel good. Maternity is a beautiful phase of your life and you should enjoy that just as much as any other phase of your life. So, sit back and enjoy this journey towards parenthood.