When you’re pregnant, your body is changing constantly causing you to look for outfits that will keep you comfortable. It is natural to feel stressed about the changes your body is going through but it doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your style quotient. Here are some things to know about maternity wear to look cute and comfy at the same time.

When to buy Maternity Wear

This is a question that perplexes many first time moms. A lot of women do not believe in investing in specialized maternity wear, but it all depends on their individual comfort. Regardless of your choice, it is important to know that no two bodies experience pregnancy the same way. If you’re wondering when to start wearing maternity clothes, here are some clues that may indicate you’re ready to replace your wardrobe:

• Buttons of your pants start making you feel uncomfortable
• You feel at ease in lycra or spandex material of clothing
• You feel bloated all day and all the time
• Your bump has started to peek out
• Your button-down shirts don’t button all the way down

These signs occur with baby’s growth in utero. By week 20, the uterus is usually at the level of the navel and many women may start feeling the discomfort. For first pregnancies, the baby bump often shows a little later than other pregnancies.

What to look for in Maternity Wear

While shopping for maternity clothing, remember these tips to get the most value for your money. Be wise and purchase clothes that will last you beyond the bump.

• Stretchy Clothes: Your weight and size are going to continue to change as you move through each trimester. It is important to buy clothes that will adapt to your changing needs. Pay attention to the fabric of the maternity clothes you’re buying. Anything with a flex fabric such as a spandex is definitely going to give you more flexibility as you progress into your later trimesters.
• Ruching Fabrics: The ruching feature allows clothes to grow with your bump. It works with every kind of body type. Which means that even if you buy it in your first trimester, you’ll find that it fits with your shape even later on in your pregnancy.
• Think beyond pregnancy: Some maternity brands have nursing features built in their clothing. If you want to breastfeed after you’ve delivered, find maternity clothes that make nursing comfortable for you. In short, find clothes that you feel comfortable in for your nine months and beyond.

Ways to maximize your current wardrobe

Many pregnant women prefer wearing the clothes from their existing wardrobe. In the first couple of months, they adjust their clothing so that it is still wearable. Here are some ways to do that:

• Wear long fitting shirts and blouses, tunics, stretchy tanks, and tees from your wardrobe.
• You could also wear one of your favorite skirts a little higher than usual on your stomach. Make sure that it does not constrict or is too tight as it would be uncomfortable for you.
• Find loose-fitting pants and flowy tops during this time in your pregnancy.
• You can continue wearing your favorite pair of jeans comfortably for a while, with the help of a rubber band or elastic hair tie looped through the buttonhole and wrapped around the button.
• Bring out clothes with elastic waistbands and drawstring bottoms that are great for your baby bump. These do not constrict your slowly stretching skin. You can choose to wear pants and skirts with elastic over the bump or below it to suit your comfort.
• Wear low-rise pants below your belly bump.
• When buying clothes, get regular ones that are a size or two larger than what you are wearing currently. You can use them throughout your pregnancy. These clothes can also be great transitional items for after your pregnancy when your baby is getting back into its pre-baby size.
• Try wearing your partner’s clothes. Men’s sizes are usually larger and make for a great alternative for maternity clothing. You could pick up one of their T-shirts with a long tank top in one size larger than normal to later underneath as your belly grows.

Maternity wear for Working Women

Expectant women working in a corporate environment are often on the lookout for comfortable, yet professional maternity wear. They have many options when it comes to choosing maternity wear for office. Here are some wardrobe essentials all working women must have when they’re pregnant:

• A Flowy Blouse: A maternity blouse is both versatile and practical to wear during pregnancy. You can wear it with a blazer and slacks for an office-ready outfit or over jeans for a more relaxed look.
• Maternity Pants: A chic pair of pants is one of the most adaptable maternity work clothing. They can be dressed up or down and go with pretty much anything.
• A Blazer: A classic blazer is a must-have in every pregnant working woman’s closet. It goes well with everything from dresses to jeans and can make quite a power statement.
• A Cardigan: Offices can be quite cold, thanks to the AC running all day. Cardigans act as a bump-friendly piece of clothing that you can wear it open and draped around your belly. Not just that, it is easy to slip off when you’re hit with a hot flash.
• A Statement Dress: Everyone loves the little black dress, but you can have a lot more fun with a statement dress. Choose colorful options that make you feel amazing all nine months of pregnancy.

When it comes to maternity wear, it isn’t necessary to buy specialized clothing. Doctors recommend wearing anything that you feel comfortable in. If you think you will have more children in the future, invest in clothes of higher quality material. You can also look into buying convertible pieces that can be used during pregnancy, nursing, and beyond. Above everything, make sure you enjoy all nine months of your pregnancy by staying as comfortable as possible.

*Information shared here is for general purpose Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.