Updated at: 22-05-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

Maternity clothing is a common question among new mothers. In order to answer this question, we’ve put together this blog article for your convenience.

First and foremost on the list of concerns while expecting a child is whether or not to purchase maternity clothing. Pregnancy stage influences the answer to this question.

At some point, it becomes impossible to disguise your pregnancy and people start asking why you wear clothes that are too small if you are not wearing maternity clothes.

When Do I Need Maternity Clothes

Even though the love, excitement, and exhilaration are mixed with tiredness and aches, pains, fear and emotional instability… Pregnancy is an exhilarating and exhilarating time in most women’s lives, and they want to look beautiful, healthy, strong, glowing, and feminine as they show off their growing bump. I was able to accept the changes in my physique by wearing clothes that I liked and that accentuated my best features.

How to Dress During Pregnancy Without Maternity Clothes - Growing Serendipity

Most women begin purchasing maternity clothing around week 13 of their second trimester, mostly because:

  1. After the 12th week of pregnancy, many women and couples wait to tell their friends and family about their pregnancy. Seeing the baby and hearing the heartbeat makes the pregnancy feel more genuine to many individuals, and the risk of miscarriage decreases during the first trimester.
  2. During the first trimester, only a small percentage of pregnant women exhibit a bump. It is common for first-timers to have a “pop” between 14 and 16 weeks during their pregnancy. The uterus can no longer be hidden behind the pubic bone around 12 weeks, and therefore it begins to protrude into the abdomen.
  3. Until they have that “pop,” most women may get by with their current wardrobe by wearing larger, looser, longer, stretchier, and lower-waisted garments like oversized t-shirts and sweaters, casual shirts, wrap-around dresses, leggings, low-cut jeans, and yoga trousers.

Women who feel delighted by the prospect of becoming a mother and want the world to know about it rush to buy maternity clothes right soon, but few actually begin wearing them during the first trimester.

However, subsequent pregnancies tend to be more noticeable. Since you’ve previously stretched your uterine and abdominal muscles, there’s less “resistance” to your growing baby bump. Repeat mothers are more likely to begin wearing maternity clothing earlier than first-time moms since they have already experienced the benefits of doing so.

With my first pregnancy, I felt a sense of pleasure in being able to wear my regular clothes halfway through my pregnancy and low-waisted flexible jeans virtually throughout the entire period of my pregnancy. When I found out I was pregnant with my second child, I immediately put on my maternity clothing after my 12-week ultrasound.

Now you know the answer to the age-old conundrum of “when do garments feel too tight during pregnancy? what is the best time to buy maternity wear?” or “how early can I start shopping for pregnancy clothes?” simply means, “It’s up to you.”

For those of you who are still unsure, here are some helpful hints:

Use comfort to guide you

Maternity clothing is more comfortable for many women because it’s customized to fit their changing bodies. When shopping for maternity wear, look for a line that employs natural fibers and focuses on high-quality construction. As a result of the absence of harsh synthetic agricultural chemicals like fertilizers and pesticides, natural materials like bamboo, organic cotton, and organic french terry (sweatshirt material) are more environmentally friendly.

You may notice red marks on your skin where elastic bands or seams have pierced through your skin, if you can’t button up your pants, if you’re struggling to sit comfortably, breathe freely, or if your clothes are causing discomfort around your neck, breasts, underarms, or below your bump, it’s time to try on some maternity wear.

“How do I look?”

This is just my personal perspective, but I believe that clothes should also make you feel good, in addition to being comfortable. The excitement and exhilaration of pregnancy is contagious, and I hope that you feel the same way on the outside.

Maternity clothing, on the other hand, is specifically designed to fit your growing body, allowing you to look and feel your best while you’re pregnant. Inquire within: “How do I appear?” Try on maternity clothes if you’re not feeling too thrilled about your impending pregnancies.

Try before you buy

If you’re unsure, order a couple styles and give them a test run at home. It’s free to “test before you buy” with many online brands and shops because of their free shipping and return policies. Mixing and matching your pregnancy clothing items and regular clothing will also help you discover what works best for you.

To keep things simple in the beginning of your pregnancy, you may find that some maternity tops worn with regular leggings (folded under the bump) or low-cut jeans are all you need to feel more at ease. You may also find that maternity leggings or trousers worn with some of your regular tops and shirts are sufficient. Maternity tops are likely to become your go-to choices as your pregnancy progresses because they’re more comfy and flattering than anything else you’ve tried.

Many women can get by with just buying a bigger bra and unbuttoning their pants (a great tip: loop an elastic band through the buttonhole and wrap it tightly round that) and avoiding shopping for maternity clothes altogether, while others begin shopping for them the moment they learn they are pregnant. As long as they make you feel confident in your own skin, wearing maternity attire is entirely optional.

Clever maternity fashion tricks

  • Don’t try to cram your expanding figure into non-maternity attire. The more flattering of looks will be those that can support your increasing baby bump, as well as your legs, arms, and boobs!
  • It is possible to wear your regular clothes throughout the first few months of pregnancy, as you gain weight and your abdomen expands. If your regular clothes are starting to feel tight, it’s time to start thinking about maternity essentials like jeans, trousers, and maybe skirts.
  • Perhaps you won’t need to buy anything special for your growing baby. For those who aren’t pregnant but still want to incorporate some of this season’s hottest trends into their wardrobe, the multi-seasonal maxi dress and tunic and mannish tailoring may be worn in non-maternity sizes as well.
  • Maternity jeans and pants, on the other hand, are an absolute must. Being able to wear pants or jeans without feeling constricted is a no-brainer when your waistband is one of the most noticeable and rapidly expanding parts of your body. Over or under the belly, choose styles with soft and stretchy waistbands. The best boot cut for your growing bottom is the wide leg, so go for that if you have swollen ankles. Take a look at our special on maternity jeans for inspiration.
  • Stretch fabrics are the best choice because they may be worn even after you’ve given birth. With a belt, you can always cinch it in where it matters after having a kid!
  • Think carefully about what you wear. You can do this by picking out neutral, classic, and staple things that can be mixed and matched with other items in your closet. This will give the impression that you have a larger wardrobe than you actually do, and vice versa.
  • Keep an eye out for your undies! Buying maternity bras and panties as soon as you notice your undergarments are going tight is a good idea once you start to grow. As far as maternity fashion goes, there is a plenty of options. It’s also critical to have your measurements and fittings done on a regular basis. Don’t shy away from a free fitting service because you think it’s too expensive.

Are maternity fashion sizes different to pre-pregnancy sizes?

Buy maternity clothes in the same size as before your pregnancy rather than a few sizes larger when you go to buy them (during the second trimester, but everyone is different and it differs from woman to woman). When you’re pregnant, you’ll need more room in certain areas, and maternity clothing is made to accommodate this.

What to Wear during Pregnancy: Types of Clothes, Do's & Don'ts

Footwear in pregnancy

Pregnancy is more than simply a bloated belly. If you notice that your feet are getting bigger or more painful, it’s time to invest in a new pair of shoes. Flat shoes that support your arches, soft-lined boots that protect your ankles, or mid-heel styles if you refuse to give up your heels during pregnancy are all good options.

Maternity fashion must-haves

Dressed to impress

It’s critical to have a positive outlook in order to maintain your sense of self-worth as your body changes through time.

You need a special dress or outfit for special occasions, in addition to your regular wardrobe staples, if you want to look and feel great. ASOS Maternity and Topshop Maternity both have a wide selection of hip and trendy maternity outfits.

Maternity tights, jeggings, or leggings

To wear these beneath dresses, tunics, long T-shirts, blouses—pretty much everything! As long as the waistband isn’t too tight, you won’t have any trouble moving around. For leggings, check out Next.

Daylong has a wide variety of pregnancy tights to keep your circulation flowing and your bump comfy while you’re still at work or choose to cover your legs.

a cozy set of pajamas

As your due date approaches, you’ll find it increasingly difficult to get a good night’s sleep. You’ll have trouble tossing and turning because of your bump, and you’ll probably need to use the restroom more than usual.

Wear loose-fitting clothing made of soft cotton or other breathable materials to stay cool and comfortable. As long as it’s warm enough, wear a nightie, or if you’re wearing pants, consider lightweight materials with soft elasticated waistbands.

They have a wide assortment of maternity nightwear on their website.

Shoes that are properly sized

When your feet begin to swell, it is not a good idea to squeeze them into tiny shoes. Keep heels to a minimum and choose for wide-fitting options from Hotter. As less pressure is placed on your feet, this will assist reduce ankle swelling as well. Make sure to check out SimplyBe for wide-calf boots this winter.

A pair of well-fitting pants or jeans

It’s plenty to get you through the day if your jeans or pants are well-fitted. When shopping for maternity jeans, look for styles that fit well and provide adequate coverage for your growing belly.

Choose whether you want the waistbands to go over or under your growing belly. The bottom part should be snug, but not too tight, with the length sitting an inch below your ankle.

How to Buy Maternity Clothes

As a result, there’s no denying that you’ll require maternity attire. But how do you begin? What to look for in quality maternity clothing and how to find out your size are covered in the following sections.

What size maternity clothes to buy

You may not know how your body will change as your pregnancy continues if this is your first time having a baby. Predicting the size of your postpartum wardrobe is now much more difficult. Size six pre-pregnancy is often a size six during pregnancy.” But everyone is different, so depending on how you carry your pregnancy, you might be a maternity eight or a maternity four,” stylist Samantha Brown from New York City adds. The same rules apply while you’re pregnant as they do when you aren’t.” A person’s bodily proportions play a large role.” Also, keep in mind that your body does not develop at the same rate throughout. Pregnant women may increase their bra cup size well before the baby is visible. As a result, “I’d recommend just ignore the pregnancy clothes sizing”

How much maternity clothing to invest in

Choosing a few maternity wardrobe basics is a fantastic place to start, but a lot depends on when you’re due and how your body changes. A good pair of maternity jeans (in a wash that goes with everything) and a pair of basic black leggings are must-haves for expecting moms, and you’ll be wearing them long after the baby is born, too. It’s a good idea to buy three to five maternity T-shirts or tank tops in colors that go nicely with your existing wardrobe if you don’t already have some longer tees and tanks that can fit over your belly. They’re perfect for layering under your favorite blazer, jacket, or cardigan for a chic look. You should also get two or three outfits that can be dressed up or down, depending on whether you’re going out for work or a night out. If you’re planning a wedding, maternity photo shoot, or baby shower in the final weeks of your pregnancy, you might prefer a fancier attire. A maternity bikini or a winter coat that zips over your belly are examples of seasonal need.

Maternity clothing essentials

When it comes to maternity wear, “basics” and “essentials” are two of the most common buzzwords. While some of the pieces in your pre-pregnancy wardrobe will sound familiar, others are maternity wardrobe essentials that are tailored to accommodate and flatter your growing belly.

• Every single T-shirt. Invest in a few white, gray, and black stretchy pregnant T-shirts. A pair of (maternity) jeans can’t be complete without a simple pair of jeans.

• I’ll take a pair of mom jeans, please. You’ll be relieved to know that despite all the changes to your body, you can still slip into a pair of jeans. And if you’ve never worn pregnancy pants before, you might never want to go back.

Wearing leggings every day. Keeping a few pairs of leggings on hand is a smart idea. They conform to your body, making them the most comfortable alternative.

Keep an eye on your pants. Invest in a few attractive, supportive bras and some comfortable underpants. When it comes to pregnancy and nursing bras, you get more for your money. Setting the tone for everything else you wear begins with this most intimate layer of clothing.

Maxi saved the day. As your figure and proportions change, a slimming version of this famous dress may help you feel less chubby.

These little black dresses will make you the most valuable person in the room. Whether it’s a wedding, a shower, or an after-work gathering, you’ll want a few black dresses you feel comfortable in.

Wear blazers when you go out. An oversize blazer makes a terrific supplementary layer. It’ll look great on you no matter how much weight you gain during your pregnancy.

Tips for what to look for in maternity clothes

These basic hints will help you get the most out of your maternity apparel shopping spree. Investing in a few quality items can even help you get through the hiccup.

• Is it pliable? As you progress through each trimester, you never know where your weight may accumulate, so Greenstein advises paying attention to the fabric of your maternity garments. In general, “you’re going to have more flexibility in anything that has either a flex fabric, stretch fabric, or jersey fabric.”

• Do a sheerness test. Ask the fitting room attendant whether she’s able to see anything that she shouldn’t be able to. According to Brown, “Maternity apparel tends to have a lot of stretch, so it’s crucial to look at it in motion. When shopping for maternity clothing, look out for garments that become sheer when stretched.

Consider using ruching. Allows you to expand into your maternity clothes as your baby grows. “It works with any single body type,” Greenstein explains. No matter how early in your pregnancy you decide to buy something with ruching, you won’t have any problems with the garment fitting you properly.

Think about your life after the birth of your child. She finds it “very convenient” when pregnancy brands include built-in nursing capabilities. “If you plan to breastfeed, buy maternity clothes you’ll love for the next nine months and beyond that make you feel good about yourself.”

Where to Buy Maternity Clothes

Pregnancy might feel like puberty all over again with all the physical and mental changes you’re going through. That is, unless you have a list of maternity clothes brands recommended by professional maternity stylists handy.

Here is a selection of the greatest retail and e-commerce stores that have been vetted by stylists to help you stay true to your personal style as you transition into adulthood.

For on-trend style

For the most part, we’re very up on the latest trends, and that doesn’t have to stop just because we’re expecting. There are fashionable maternity garments available at these four fashion retailers.

  • Hatch Objects of Art
  • Hana is a steadfast companion.
  • Ingrid “Izzy” Oliver
  • Isabeth and Ingrid

For maternity work clothes

Dressing a pregnant woman for the office can be difficult: You want to be stylish, but you also want to be comfortable. When it comes to getting through the day and into the evening in comfortable maternity apparel, Brown advises women to stick with tried-and-true styles. Here are a few places you might want to check out:

  • A Pod of Peas
  • Seraphine
  • Nordstom
  • She is known as Rosie Pope.

For inexpensive maternity clothes

Since you’ll only be donning these styles for a short time, it makes sense to stock your maternity closet sparingly. If you want to appear stylish this season without spending a lot of money, here are our favorite places to shop for affordable maternity wear that still looks expensive.

  • ASOS
  • H&M
  • Target
  • Vintage Clothing from Old Navy

For plus-size maternity clothes

Is it possible to be overweight and pregnant at the same time? Fashionable and comfy solutions are available for curvaceous women who want to flaunt their growing belly.

  • PinkBlush
  • Storq
  • Maternity and motherhood
  • In Your Own Clothes

For petite maternity clothes

Keep your belly out of the way by opting for maternity basics that are customized to your smaller frame rather than opting for bigger styles that hide your pregnancy. Try these fashionable, small pregnancy clothes alternatives.

  • Storq
  • PinkBlush
  • Pregnancy at the Loft

For comfortable maternity clothes

  • Bravely, Kindred
  • Blanqi
  • Gap
  • Beyond the practice of Yoga

Where to Rent Maternity Clothes

This is a terrific option to enrich your wardrobe without having to buy a completely new one: garment rental services.

Over 450 designers and brands are included in Rent the Runway’s subscription service for pregnancy and postpartum-friendly clothes. As a part of the basic subscription ($89/month), you get four new pieces each month; with unlimited, you can keep them for as long as you like and swap them out.

You may also choose your favorite styles from Le Tote’s maternity subscription and wear them as many times as you wish. Simply return the contents of the bag in the pre-paid envelope when you’re ready for a new shipment of new outfits. If you’re a member, you’ll be able to keep an item at a reduced price for as long as you like (up to 50 percent off retail). Starting at $79 a month, maternity subscriptions can be purchased from the company.

Maternity wear for a twin pregnancy - BabyCentre UK

FAQs

When do I start wearing maternity clothes?

In the fourth or fifth month of pregnancy, you may begin to wear larger clothing. Around six months into their pregnancy, the majority of women begin shopping for maternity clothing.

Is 12 weeks too early for maternity clothes?

First-time pregnancies tend to have a slightly later “popping” of the baby bump than subsequent pregnancies. Even in the early stages of pregnancy, it’s natural for first-time moms to get thrilled about being pregnant and showing off their belly. In the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, resist the temptation to buy maternity clothing.

Is 18 weeks too early for maternity clothes?

Most women don’t start showing signs of pregnancy until they are between 12 and 18 weeks into their pregnancy, so you can shop for maternity apparel whenever you’re ready.

Is 14 weeks too early for maternity clothes?

It’s possible that your belly will expand around 14 weeks of pregnancy, but most women don’t start displaying until around 16 weeks. Most women will be wearing maternity or at least loose-fitting clothing by the 20th week of their pregnancy.

When should I start wearing maternity belt?

During the first few months of pregnancy, many women prefer to wear belly bands because they don’t need as much support. However, postpartum women can also utilize belly bands to help them transition back to their pre-pregnancy apparel.

What size maternity jeans should I buy?

In most circumstances, your pre-pregnancy size will be the same as your post-pregnancy size (2). If you normally wore a medium, you should continue to do so during your pregnancy. Pants follow the same logic. Women who were pre-pregnant size 10 would continue to be so while pregnant.

Should I buy maternity clothes or just bigger sizes?

What’s the best advice? During your entire pregnancy, wear clothes that are one or two sizes larger than what you are now wearing. When your body hasn’t yet returned to its pre-baby size, these outfits might be terrific transitional goods. Make sure to cover your developing belly with low-rise jeans.

What should I wear at 12 weeks pregnant?

It’s a good idea to invest in a stretchy cotton shirt at 12 weeks. While a T-shirt dress keeps its shape, it will also expand with you when your hormones soar. If you’re looking for a casual appearance for the weekend, wear your stretch dress with simple sneakers and a denim jacket.

Should I Breastfeed or Use formula milk on my baby?

Your baby’s immune system will be bolstered, their growth and development will be supported, and their risk of acquiring allergies will be reduced if you breastfeed.

Safe substitutes for breastmilk, baby formula milks deliver nourishment that is comparable to that found in human milk. For many reasons, including the health and body type of the mother, her work schedule, the quality of infant formula on the market, and other similar considerations, it might be tough to decide whether to breastfeed or use formula milk.

If I am unable to perform duties at work do I get paid during pregnancy?

Women who have recently given birth and are pregnant cannot be forced into physically demanding employment unless they offer documented medical confirmation to the contrary.

Companies must make appropriate accommodations for pregnant women on the job in accordance with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

During her pregnancy, a woman is entitled to either paid or unpaid leave, which must be supplied by her employer if she is eligible under FMLA.

Nevertheless, you should make contact as soon as possible because your firm has a deadline for when they must renew this offer of work, so anyone who waits to speak up risks losing their rights till after giving birth. It all comes down to how far along you are in your pregnancy when you submit your application for maternity leave.

Can I apply for maternity benefits if unemployed?

Anyone who has worked and paid into social security for at least four of the six months preceding up to the birth of their kid is eligible for maternity benefits.

Maternity benefits are available even if you are out of work! As soon as your baby is born, you will need to apply for maternity leave and then apply for job seekers’ allowance (JSA). To be eligible, you must have worked or been self-employed for at least 12 weeks prior to your due date or since the birth of your child.

Maternity Benefit will no longer be available to moms who work less than 39 hours a week or earn less than €30 per week during this period, therefore those who work part-time will not be eligible.

Is it possible to have fertility treatments during pregnancy?

Pregnant women should not undergo any infertility therapy; instead, they should speak with their doctor about their options. It has the potential to be deadly. Suppose the egg doesn’t fertilize. What happens? Each month, your body flushes an unfertilized egg out of your body as normal.

When an embryo is developed but does not adhere to the uterine wall, it is described as a “chemical pregnancy,” which implies there was no actual baby created, despite the fact that you experienced all of the signs of pregnancy.

Pregnancies of this type are relatively common and frequently go unreported by the expecting mother. It’s possible that the “phantom” pregnancies you’ve been experiencing are the result of your prolonged infertility treatment.

Is it possible to get pregnant if fertilization fails? Yes! After intercourse, sperm can remain inside your body for up to five days. When an egg leaves the ovaries, the swimmers may still be alive and swimming if you have intercourse four or more days before ovulating (the time at which an egg is released).

What type of bra should you wear when pregnant?

Pregnant women should look for a bra that is less restricting, supportive, breathable, and wire-free. Additionally, you’ll need something that’s seamless. In most cases, a cotton style gives the best benefits, but you can experiment to determine which works best for your body during pregnancy!

What countries provide paid maternity leave?

Norway became the first country in history to grant fathers an additional two weeks of paid leave, beginning in July of that year. Previously, many corporations, like Starbucks, provided up to 16 weeks of paid time off every year..

What states provide this benefit?

States such as California and Rhode Island provide maternity benefits as examples. Up to 16 weeks of paid time off is common at many organizations, including Starbucks.

Is paternity leave paid as well?

Taking paternity leave in Europe is not paid, but it is covered by Social Security, which you begin to accrue as soon as you start work.

What does the U.S have better than Europe for parental/maternity leave?

Maternity leave in the United States is superior to that in Europe. There are no rules requiring employers to provide paid time off for new mothers or fathers in the United States.

https://www.thebump.com/a/maternity-clothes

https://nine-and-quarter.co.uk/blogs/news/when-should-you-start-buying-maternity-clothes

https://www.madeformums.com/pregnancy/when-is-the-best-time-to-purchase-maternity-clothes/