When you’re expecting, your body goes through many changes. Your belly grows bigger, your breasts get larger, and your regular clothes may not fit as well. This means it’s time to adjust your wardrobe to be pregnancy-friendly. Choosing the right maternity clothes can help you look and feel your best during this special time.
Some outfits and accessories are better to avoid when pregnant. Tight, restrictive and uncomfortable clothes put extra pressure on your changing body. Certain fabrics and styles also pose safety issues for mom and baby. Knowing what not to wear can help you dress your bump comfortably and fashionably.
Why Does Your Wardrobe Change During Pregnancy?
As your pregnancy progresses, the size and shape of your body transforms:
– Your breasts increase in size as they prepare for breastfeeding. Most women go up 1-2 bra sizes.
– Your waist thickens and your belly expands outwards. Maternity clothes accommodate this baby bump.
– You retain more fluid, which can cause swelling in your hands, face and ankles.
– Your center of gravity shifts as baby grows, so you may feel off-balance.
– Your feet get bigger due to edema and increased weight.
With these pregnancy body changes, your regular non-maternity outfits simply won’t fit right. Tight clothes are very uncomfortable and can restrict circulation or breathing. Loose, flowy fabrics designed for moms-to-be will make you look and feel better.
10 Things to Avoid Wearing When Pregnant
Here are 10 clothing items that are best avoided during pregnancy:
1. Tight Pants and Skinny Jeans
Slim-fitting pants and skinny jeans can be too restrictive as your belly expands. The snug waistband and legs dig into your skin, limiting your circulation and causing discomfort. Instead, wear maternity jeans, leggings or yoga pants with stretchy waistbands that fit under your bump.
2. Shapewear and Compression Garments
Spanx, corsets and other shapewear squeeze and compress your midsection. While some moms continue wearing these early on, it’s wise to retire these extra-snug items as your pregnancy progresses. Anything that digs into your belly can cause discomfort and possibly decrease oxygen supply to the baby.
3. Heels and Stilettos
Pregnancy affects your balance and center of gravity. As your belly grows, high heels increase your risk of tripping, falling or twisting your ankle. Flats, low wedges, supportive sneakers or sandals are much safer choices during pregnancy. Reserve heels and stilettos for special occasions later in your third trimester when baby has dropped lower in your pelvis.
4. Heavy Jewelry
Chunky necklaces, dangling earrings and heavy bracelets can feel uncomfortable and restrict your circulation as you retain more fluid. The extra weight of large jewelry pieces can also throw off your balance, which is already compromised during pregnancy. Opt for lighter accessories that won’t weigh you down.
5. Tight Bras
As your breasts increase in size, your regular bras will likely become too tight. Underwires and snug straps can dig painfully into your tender breast tissue. Invest in soft, supportive maternity and nursing bras that comfortably accommodate your changing shape. Look for wide straps, no underwire and extra hooks to expand the band as you grow.
6. Constricting Scarves and Turtlenecks
Anything too tight around your throat or neck can feel restrictive and uncomfortable, especially as pregnancy hormones increase swelling and fluid retention. Choose open, draping necklines over clingy scarves or turtlenecks.
7. Heavy Purses and Bags
Huge handbags will weigh heavily on your shoulders, causing muscle strain and soreness. Large totes can also throw off your balance as the pregnancy progresses. Downsize to a lighter cross-body bag or purse to ease the load.
8. Impractical Fabrics
During pregnancy, look for garments made of soft, breathable natural fibers like cotton, silk and bamboo. Avoid scratchy fabrics like wool. Steer clear of delicate silks or dry clean items, which may not get worn often. Seek stretchy fabrics with give that will mold to your changing form.
9. Fur and Leather
Pregnancy hormones raise your body temperature, so heavy materials like leather and fur can quickly become hot and cause sweating. Stick with light jackets, sweaters and other breathable layers. Your body runs warmer as it works harder to support your pregnancy.
10. Dangerous High-Slits and Loose Items
For safety, avoid outfits with super high-slits or flowing pieces that can catch or trip as you walk. Your shifting center of balance makes falling more risky. Seek shorts, skirts and dresses with modest slits. Cinch wrap dresses at the waist. Ensure tops and layers fit snugly rather than flowing freely.
Top 5 Maternity Wardrobe Essentials
To maximize comfort during pregnancy, include these must-have maternity items in your wardrobe:
1. Maternity Jeans and Pants
Jeans and pants with stretchy belly bands fit comfortably under and over your bump. Look for a wide, supportive panel that sits at or just below your belly button.
2. Maternity Tops and Dresses
Tops and dresses designed for moms-to-be suit your changing shape. Look for soft, flexible fabrics with room to grow and side ruching to flatter your bump.
3. Supportive Bras
Invest in new bras offering comfort, support and room to expand as you go up in cup and band size. Opt for wide-set straps, soft cups and breathable fabrics.
4. Maternity Shapewear
If you want light control and smoothing under dresses, choose stretchy maternity shapewear with belly support. Avoid overly compressive styles as your bump grows.
5. Flats and Sandals
Pregnancy-friendly footwear includes flats, low wedges, supportive sneakers, slip-ons and sandals. Prioritize comfort and avoid high heels and narrow toe boxes.
When to Shop for Maternity Clothes
Some key times to shop for maternity wear include:
First Trimester: Your regular clothes still fit, but opt for styles with stretch like leggings and sweatpants. Maternity jeans with belly bands also work early on.
Early Second Trimester (14-18 weeks): You’ll notice your waistline expanding. Maternity clothes provide more room for your small bump.
Mid Second Trimester (18-24 weeks): Invest in maternity tops, dresses and more pants as your bump grows. Time to size up in bras, shapewear and shoes too.
Late Second Trimester (24-28 weeks): Your belly continues expanding, so you’ll get a lot of wear out of maternity clothes. Focus on stretchy, breathable fabrics.
Third Trimester: Stick with stretchy, loose and flowing maternity styles as your bump reaches maximum size. Only need a few versatile items to mix and match during the home stretch.
Aim to get at least 2-3 months wear from maternity pieces. Seek quality over quantity, since you won’t use most items long-term. Add staple pieces gradually as your body changes shape.
Top 5 Maternity Stores
Not sure where to shop maternity clothes? Here are 5 top retailers offering stylish options:
1. H&M
Trendy maternity fashions at budget prices, including basics and workwear. Sizes XS-XXL.
2. ASOS
Chic maternity clothes for every style. Dresses, jeans, swimwear and more. Sizes 2-20.
3. PinkBlush
Cute maternity and nursing clothing. Tops, pants, loungewear and special occasion dresses. Sizes XS-XL.
4. Motherhood Maternity
Leading maternity retailer with clothes and nursing wear. Sizes XS-3X. Stores and online.
5. Old Navy
Affordable maternity styles, from casual layers to work clothes. Sizes XS-XXL. Plus size too.
Check out local consignment shops too. Ask friends where they shopped for deals on gently used maternity wear.
Budget for Your New Maternity Wardrobe
Maternity clothes can be expensive, especially if your body changes a lot during pregnancy. Here’s a budget breakdown of what to expect:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 5 maternity tops | $150 ($30 each) |
| 2 maternity dresses | $140 ($70 each) |
| 2 pairs maternity jeans | $140 ($70 each) |
| 1 pair maternity leggings | $25 |
| 2 bras | $100 ($50 each) |
| 1 swimsuit | $50 |
| 1 weekender/bag | $50 |
| 1 pair flats | $50 |
| Total: | $805 |
Budget $800-$1,000 for a maternity capsule wardrobe with 10-15 key pieces to fit your changing shape. Shop smart to avoid overspending. Look for deals on high quality items you’ll wear frequently.
Many moms also rely on hand-me-downs or borrowing clothes from friends or family members. See what pieces you can get for free before investing in a brand new maternity wardrobe. Consider reselling items after pregnancy to recoup costs.
Shoe Shopping Tips for Pregnancy
Along with maternity clothes, you’ll need comfortable shoes as your feet grow larger and swell during pregnancy. Here are top tips for maternity shoe shopping:
– Size up by 1/2 to 1 full size in the second and third trimesters. Your feet get bigger!
– Try shoes on later in the day when swelling is more pronounced.
– Look for soft leather or stretchy knit fabrics with give.
– Prioritize arch support, cushioning and shock absorption.
– Avoid high heels and narrow toe boxes that pinch feet.
– Opt for flats, sporty sneakers, sandals and low wedges under 2 inches.
– Consider slip-ons, buckles or velcro closures over tight laces. Loafers and moccasins work well too.
– Shop sales and check return policies in case feet shrink after birth.
Invest in supportive, low-heeled shoes you can wear throughout and after pregnancy. Well-cushioned shoes help ease back pain and swelling too.
Conclusion
When building your maternity wardrobe, opt for stretchy, breathable fabrics with ample room to grow. Avoid anything too tight, heavy or constricting as your body changes. Seek maternity-specific clothing and shoes designed with comfort in mind for expectant moms. Prioritize versatile pieces offering functionality and style during this beautiful time preparing to welcome baby!