Updated at: 24-05-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

What size should I buy for maternity clothing? Get a doctor’s opinion and take your body measurements before making a decision. You’ll know your size before you even start looking for garments this way!

Check out our pregnant apparel guide, as well. For each stage of pregnancy, we provide a wealth of information on the best clothing for that time.

How to Build a Maternity Wardrobe

Pre-owned maternity clothing from major brands may be found on sites like Zulily and RueLaLa, which are always worth a look. Don’t forget about places like Motherhood Maternity and Destination Maternity, though, for your last-minute shopping.

Choosing the Right Size Maternity Clothes

Those who previously wore a size 10 will fit comfortably in a maternal size 10.

It’s important to remember that everyone’s body is unique and changes during pregnancy, so there may be some discrepancies. As a result, it’s critical to try on maternity clothing in person first to see whether you need size up or down for a proper fit. To get an idea of how your items will fit when your belly expands, most maternity boutiques feature fake stomachs that you can strap on and try on.

However, there is no need to rush out and buy maternity clothing right away. Because your belly won’t grow significantly in the first trimester, you can wait until the second trimester, which begins around the 13th week of pregnancy, to start shopping for maternity apparel. This is the best time to think about what size of maternity clothes you should buy.

How to Find the Right Size Maternity Clothing

Since most maternity apparel manufacturers retain the pregnant size the same as pre-pregnancy size, it’s easy for you to figure out how much larger you’ll need to be in order to fit a growing baby bump in your pre-pregnancy size.

Measure your bust, waist/bump, and hips if you’re trying to find the ideal fit for your body type. Follow these steps to do it correctly:

  1. Take a tape measure around the broadest portion of your chest while you relax your arms on the sides of your body.
  2. Take a measurement around the largest portion of your waist or your growing belly.
  3. Measure the broadest area of your hips, which is normally placed approximately 20 cm below your waist, by standing up straight and taking a tape measure.

Importance of a Proper Fit

We’re all aware of the importance of a good fit, so I won’t go into it in great depth here. There is nothing worse than looking in the mirror and being dissatisfied with the clothes you are wearing. However, many expectant mothers are concerned about these risks.

Your body goes through a lot of changes while you’re pregnant. This can take some time to go away after birth, and your body may never be the same again in some circumstances. Unfortunately, one’s body image and self-esteem may suffer for a short period of time.

The fact that your old clothes may no longer fit is only the cherry on top of an already shaky cake. You’ll walk more confidently and comfortably if you wear pregnant clothes that fits you well.

How to Size Maternity Clothing

So, where can you go to purchase maternity clothing in the correct size? Most of the time, your post-pregnancy size will be similar to your pre-pregnancy size.

If you were previously a medium, you should continue to wear the maternity medium. Pants are the same way. Women who are pre-pregnant and are a size 10 will still be a size 10.

However, you may need to choose a pregnancy size that is different from your regular clothes size in some instances. The method you’re holding your infant and the brand’s sizing are the only things that really matter.

In this case, fitting rooms can be a lifesaver. I’d suggest getting several different sizes of the same thing. Pre-pregnancy size, plus one larger or lower size.

Try them on in the fitting room after that. In the end, it comes down to personal preference.

The only problem I had was with the pants. It didn’t help that my pre-pregnancy size 8 jeans kept sliding down. I was able to find pants that fit after downsizing a size.

Because pregnancy shirts and dresses tend to be more flexible, you may be able to get away with sizing down a size.

In some cases, you may want to buy a size or two larger in non-maternity apparel, depending on the design of the item. However, this is where you’ll have to be careful. Ensure that you try on the garment before purchasing, or familiarize yourself with the return policy of an online retailer.

The Best Plus Size Maternity Clothes

When to Look for Maternity Clothes

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to pregnancy. Depending on how quickly their bodies respond to the stretching and weight gain, some women may be able to continue wearing their regular clothes for an extended period of time.

You don’t have to wear maternity clothes at a specific point throughout your pregnancy. When you begin to feel uneasy in your everyday attire, it’s time to start shopping. If you’re still unsure, keep an eye out for the following warning signs:

  • It’s not Thanksgiving, and your pants won’t button: However, if you aren’t ready to give up your regular pants just yet, there is a helpful hair tie method. Put the hair tie in the buttonhole and you’re ready to go. You can then wrap each side around the button.
  • It looks like a little bit of your tummy is showing through your shirt. Pregnancy clothes are a good idea if your stomach is starting to peek out from under your shirt.
  • Your bra is too small: Breast health and comfort depend on a well-fitting bra. To alleviate the discomfort caused by your bras, consider purchasing maternity or nursing bras.
  • Your button-down shirts won’t fit anymore: If you put another shirt underneath and left it open, you might be able to get away with wearing these for longer.
  • As soon as I started to feel bloated, I started doing the hair-tie trick with my jeans.

Tried and True Maternity Garments

Shopaholics, take a look at yourself. Shopping for clothes that you’ll only wear for a few months isn’t as bad as you think. I’d want to share some ideas with you.

You can wear these outfits even after your pregnancy is over. And, let’s face it, you’ll still be wearing your maternity clothes for the first few months after your kid is born.

  • It is common for maxi dresses and skirts to provide a good amount of covering because they are roomier and stretchier than most other types. They’re more comfortable in the summer because they’re light and flowy. It’s possible that some of them come with a breast-feeding-friendly top section.
  • T-shirts that are looser around the belly: Most maternity t-shirts are going to be looser in the belly area anyway. Many different outfits can be paired with a few basic pieces in black, white, or grey. Often, they’ll feature an empire waist to enhance your expanding baby bump.
  • Leggings: Leggings are one of our favorite clothing items because of how comfortable they are. As soon as you put them on you’ll feel like you’ve been wrapped in a soft blanket. Most pregnancy leggings include a high-waist design that provides additional support.
  • Pregnancy jeans vs. overalls: this is a toss-up between two popular looks. Elastic panels are inserted into the sides of some, while a belly band is included in others. Regardless, both are useful, but I like the elastic sides because they’re more modest and may be utilized after the birth of your baby.

How to Buy a Bigger Size Instead of Wearing Maternity Clothes

If you’re pregnant and don’t want to spend money on maternity clothing, you can simply buy larger clothing. Because you can easily wind up with ill-fitting clothing that makes you seem ugly, this demands a precise balance. However, there are ways to maximize your pre-pregnancy wardrobe and discover clothing that fit even if they aren’t maternity-appropriate.

To maximize your current wardrobe for maternity use, you can do the following:

  • Take advantage of your long-sleeved clothes. Certain blouses, tunics, and stretchy tanks and t-shirts fall into this category.
  • Keep the pressure off your expanding belly by wearing your skirts a little higher on your tummy.
  • Make sure you have your loosest jeans and flowiest tops on hand.
  • Make your jeans last longer by tying a rubber band or ponytail around the buttonhole and button.

Non-maternity clothes (and a few tips) that can be lifesavers for those who choose regular clothes over maternity clothes are:

  • Drawstring or elastic waisted bottoms.
  • The forgiving nature of soft knits is due in large part to the inclusion of elastic in the fabric.
  • Blazers and cardigans without buttons (for working moms that need a bit of formality).
  • Ordinary garments sized up by one or two sizes from your typical size. These garments are also excellent for resizing after childbirth.
  • Pants that sit lower than your belly button.
  • Lycra or Spandex-based clothing.
  • Try to steal your partner’s clothing!
  • Your pants can grow with you if you make a few holes around the zipper and lace them up with ribbon.
  • Make sure your bottoms stay in place by purchasing a Bella Band to wear over your bottoms.

How Many Dress Sizes Should You go up When Pregnant?

Bridesmaid duties during pregnancy are one of the most challenging size concerns a pregnant woman can confront. Many steps must be taken to ensure that your dress will fit you on that important day because you don’t know how your body may change.

Some precautions you should take include:

  • Take an alternative approach to measuring. For the time being, taking your waist measurement is pointless. Measure your breast and hips, then add a few inches to each measurements to account for potential growth.
  • Consider the date and time. Typically, bridesmaid dresses are ordered between five and six months prior to the wedding date. Take your final measurements and final modifications as long as you possibly can before the big day to ensure that your dress fits perfectly.
  • Find a seamstress with prior expertise making dresses to pregnant women’s specific measurements and needs.
  • It’s probably okay to wear the same outfit as everyone else if you’re less than four months pregnant. It is possible to order your gown a size or two bigger than your actual size and have it altered closer to the big day. In most cases, dresses can be adjusted down to a maximum of two sizes without having to alter the dress itself.
  • If you have the freedom to pick your own style, go for an empire waist dress or a chiffon dress. Pregnant women can wear either of these styles comfortably.
  • It is highly suggested that you get a pregnancy bridesmaid dress if you are expecting more than 5 months. It’s possible you won’t be able to match the other women’s style, but at least you’ll be able to match their color scheme!
  • To keep your hemline from raising, order your dress a few inches longer than normal, and avoid any ruching because it is extremely difficult to adjust.

Maternity Essentials

Because maternity clothing can be pricey, it’s a good idea to have a list of the essentials before you start shopping. Pregnant women need to know not only what size of maternity clothes they should purchase, but also which maternity garments are essential to any pregnancy wardrobe. You’ll be able to save money while still getting the look you want. Maternity essentials are outlined in the following chart, which includes both general and seasonal information.It’s easy to ignore the importance of wearing comfortable shoes when getting ready for your pregnancy, but it’s crucial. Pregnant women should wear certain shoes designed to accommodate their enlarged feet while yet giving support.

Closed-toed, lightweight flat shoes like TOMS Women’s Espadrilles can be a great option. Skechers Performance Women’s Go Walk shoe is an excellent choice for no-lace shoes that are lightweight and supportive. Pregnant women can wear the Franco Sarto Sela Mule, a shoe that is both stylish and comfortable.

Pregnancy clothes: Where to buy maternity clothes | BabyCenter

FAQs

Do you go up a size when pregnant?

Maternity clothing is based on a normal pregnancy weight increase range because all pregnancies are unique and individual. If you want a looser fit or if you have a large bust, you may want to order a larger size.

Do you buy your own size in maternity clothes?

Buy maternity clothes in your pre-pregnancy size rather than several sizes larger when you go to buy them (though this varies from woman to woman). Maternity clothing is made to accommodate your growing belly, and many styles may be easily altered to fit your changing shape.

What size should I buy when pregnant?

Most of the time, your post-pregnancy size will be similar to your pre-pregnancy size (2). If you were previously a medium, you should continue to wear the maternity medium. Pants are the same way. While pregnant, a woman who was a size 10 prior to pregnancy would remain a size 10.

Should I buy maternity clothes or just bigger sizes?

What’s the most important piece of advice? During your whole pregnancy, wear clothes that are one or two sizes larger than your present size. When your body hasn’t yet returned to its pre-baby size, these outfits might be terrific transitional goods. Make sure you’re wearing low-rise jeans underneath those expanding thighs.

How do I know what size maternity clothes to buy?

Sizes in maternity apparel are the same as those in non-maternity clothing, so you’ll be the same size in both. Pregnant women typically wear a size small. Similarly, a regular 6 or 28 is equal to a maternity 6 or 28 when it comes to numbered size designations.

When should a baby bump be given?

Mothers who grow too protective of their children should receive a baby bump. Biologically, moms are wired to protect their offspring, thus this is more common in mothers than fathers.

At home, if you sense that your partner or acquaintance is becoming overly protective, offer them a baby bump.

The following examples will give you an idea of how a baby bump can be used:

If your partner or friend is getting irate at anyone who gets too close to the youngster, tell them to calm down and approach them with a protective hand on their shoulder.

When you arrive home, inquire if they’re fine. Their overprotective behavior in public attracted more unwanted attention from outsiders, so this reassured them that everything is great.

What is the average cost of a maternity photo shoot?

A maternity photoshoot typically costs around $200. Prints and digital images are included in this pricing, as well as an online gallery where you may see your images. In some cases, a maternity gown will be included for you to wear during your photo session.

At what point do you start wearing maternity clothes?

In the 14th week of pregnancy, you may begin to notice that your abdomen has grown a little, but most women don’t begin to show until around 16 weeks. The majority of pregnant women will be wearing maternity or at least loose-fitting clothing by the 20th week of pregnancy.

How do you prepare for a maternity photoshoot?

Because maternity photo sessions might last for several hours or perhaps the entire day, clients should plan accordingly. Make sure you wear clothes that are both comfy and flattering.

Try on different outfits beforehand if needed, but don’t try anything new on this shoot since things can go wrong easily. You need to make sure that you get everything just right with makeup too because it will only last a certain amount of time.

Keep things simple for this photoshoot and don’t experiment with any new costumes ahead of time because things can go awry quickly. Makeup, too, has a limited shelf life and necessitates meticulous application to avoid smudging or flaking.

What is the best colour to wear for maternity pictures?

Maternity photos are a wonderful way to document the growth and development of your newborn baby. You may find it difficult to choose the right color for your pregnancy photos but there are a few easy rules to keep in mind.

White, ivory, and light blue are all examples of colors that fall into the “muted” category.

Jewel tones — Emerald green, sapphire blue and amethyst purple are all included here.

Vibrant hues, such as yellow/gold or red/orange, yet with modest saturation.

How should I dress for a maternity photoshoot?

As long as you are comfortable in your clothes, you are more than welcome to wear pants or slightly baggy clothing for your pregnancy photoshoot. It’s also a great idea to layer up and accessorize with jewelry for added flair!

Don’t forget to make an appointment for your hairstyling! Having worked with pregnant women for the duration of their pregnancies, your stylist will have an idea of what looks best on you. Don’t hesitate to ask if they have any suggestions based on what they’ve seen in the past.

Also, remember to get a manicure/pedicure before going into the studio so your hands and feet look clean and well-groomed. And don’t be afraid of getting creative with nail art when choosing colours because this might give even more photos opportunities later down the line!

What should I wear to an outdoor maternity shoot?

As a final reminder, make sure you obtain a manicure and pedicure before entering the studio. For even more photo opportunities, don’t be scared to experiment with nail art while picking colors!

When it is time to enter the studio, make sure you have a manicure and a pedicure first. For even more photo opportunities, don’t be scared to experiment with nail art designs while picking colors!

Go for a button-down shirt combined with leggings and boots or flats for a more casual look (or wedges).

Try things on beforehand if you are hesitant because there is nothing worse than trying something new on only to discover that it does not fit or look right. – -Don’t be afraid to use color! Whether or not your baby bump likes what you’re wearing, it’s likely that you will, too.

Check to see if any clothing items have zippers or buttons that could damage the infant, unless they can be worn under another item (i.e.: avoid hot pink silk blouses that button up).

-When paired with a beautiful pair of boots, maternity jeans can be a terrific way to feel confident and ready for photos in front of your fireplace/with flowers/etc. at the same time.

Maternity Clothes Have Always Been Complicated - Vox

Conclusion…

As you can see, maternity clothing is just as subjective as the rest of your wardrobe. Finding the perfect outfit for a special occasion might be difficult, but it is attainable with some effort and inspiration. Comfort is the most important consideration while shopping for pregnancy clothing. Because, after all, you’re producing a new life form!