The Secret Behind a Great Maternity Wardrobe

The first time I set foot in a maternity clothing store, I didn’t quite know what to expect. I was constantly wondering whether I had to buy clothes that fit me at the time of purchase, or choose a few sizes larger for what would be coming in the following months. I didn’t want to spend too much money on clothes I would be wearing for only a few months. Also, how much clothing should I actually buy? What were the essentials of a maternity wardrobe?

Four children later, I feel confident enough that I can share a few tips with you.

1-Stay true to your own style

We sometimes hear wisecracks about maternity clothing. Limited choices and horrendous styles were often disparaged. A lot has changed. Nowadays, fashionable pieces are part of the maternity isle. Therefore you can stay true to your own style up to the time you give birth. This will save you lots of money since you will be able to match the new pieces with your current wardrobe, even after birthing. Regarding the quantity of clothes you will need, your only limitations are clothes expenditure and clothing habits. Some accommodate themselves very well with only a few neutral key pieces while others prefer to have many pieces in different colors. Respect yourself…and your budget.

2-See further than your nose

Certain people balk at having to spend on clothes that will be worn for « just a few months. » You would be pretty surprised to know how many women still wear maternity jeans a year after childbirth. The primary function of maternity clothes is to put forward the full bloom of your curves but their fluid lines are perfectly adapted for the months after giving birth. Plus, if you choose to breastfeed, you can maximize your purchases by choosing pieces that are both convenient for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Classic and quality pieces will remain like new and will still be stylish and trendy if you become pregnant in two or three years.

3-Invest…in comfort

Pregnancy transforms a woman’s body. It is primordial to opt for maternity clothing, adapted to your new curves instead of regular clothes. Buying ordinary clothes in bigger sizes will leave you depressed because they don’t fall in the right places and strip you of the beauty of your new shapes. Proper fit will let you embrace them!

Make sure you go for extensible fabrics, wide support straps for skirts, pants and make sure your tops fall no higher than your hips.

4-Choosing the right size

The size you are looking for is the exact same size as your regular clothes. If your weight increase is normal during pregnancy, most clothes will fit up to childbirth. Resist the urge to go up a size. Read the maintenance and care labels. Spandex or Elasthane tends to expand. If the clothes contain it, stick with a smaller size.

5-My darlings

If you choose your clothing with your occupation in mind, your maternity wardrobe will look different than anyone else. But some pieces are multi-purpose and those are must buy:

-The support band: quite useful in the beginning of your pregnancy to help prolong wearing your regular clothes since you can just unbutton it as needed. It can also be worn up to birthdate to offer support to your growing belly. After giving birth, if you choose to breastfeed, the support ban is also useful to cover your belly while feeding. It gives the impression that you are wearing a camisole.

-The maternity leggings: fantastic to wear under a tunic or a dress. It is the ultimate in comfort. You will be able to wear them way after giving birth. It remains far more flattering than a regular leggings. Its high waistband will bulge from protruding.

If you need some more tips or seek the help of a professional, the staff at L’Enfantillon will gladly help and answer all your questions.

I am curious….What pieces of maternity clothing are dearest to you? What tips would you give to a new mother to be who is looking to buy some maternity clothes?

Josée Bournival