Maternity Shopping 101
Everything You Need to Know for Your First Trip to the Maternity Store
When do I need to start buying maternity clothes?
As soon as you start feeling uncomfortable in your normal clothes, it is time to go maternity shopping. Even though this time varies for each person, it is appropriate to start shopping after you have completed your first trimester. Many first-time moms choose to delay maternity shopping. However, it is important to purchase a few basic items at the beginning of your pregnancy such as pants and a few tops, so that you are comfortable and feel attractive. If you purchase quality maternity clothes, they should last throughout your entire pregnancy.What size am I now?
Often first-moms moms just purchase larger clothes to fit them during pregnancy. However, larger clothes often make the pregnant body look larger, and it is still possible to outgrow them because ready-to-wear clothes are not built to stretch and grow with you. Therefore, it is always best to wear maternity clothes once you are ready to purchase. In general, if you are pregnant with one child, your pregnancy size should stay the same as your pre-pregnancy size. However, some maternity brands run small, so you may have to purchase one size larger than your pre-pregnancy size. Always ask the sales associate how each line runs to gauge your size. On the other hand, if you are carrying twins or multiples, you should size up or plan to make a few shopping trips because your belly will grow faster and bigger. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the sales associate which brands and styles are ideal for your body type. Regardless of your size, choose items that will grow with you and will last throughout your entire pregnancy. In addition, if you choose to purchase premium denim, you should almost always purchase one to two sizes larger than your pre-pregnancy size.
What are the maternity basics?
Shopping on a budget and buying maternity clothes that will last your entire pregnancy are often important to expectant moms. That is why it is imperative to purchase high quality pieces that you can wear throughout your entire pregnancy. There are a few basics that every expectant mom should have. Convertible clothing is ideal. These pieces are designed to give the pregnant mom several style options with one piece of clothing. Be sure to speak to a sales associate about other useful pieces to include in your maternity wardrobe. Some other basics include:
- 1 pair of jeans
- 1 pair of black pants, khaki pants, and 1or 2 other solid colors that you can mix and match
- At least one white and one black top
- Corporate wear – a black suit and white dress shirt
- Shirts in pinks, baby blues, and soft greens for lighter complexions
- Shirts in jewel tones like royal blue, fuchsia, and turquoise for darker complexions
I plan to nurse. What should I buy?
If you are planning to breastfeed, you should start shopping for nursing wear around 7 ½ to 8 months into your pregnancy. Ask your sales associate to fit you with a nursing bra. Remember, your breast size will fluctuate once you have the baby. Therefore, choose a bra that has a little room to grow. (You do not want to select a bra with a perfect fit when shopping before you deliver because you may outgrow it.) Other necessary nursing accessories include:
- Nursing pads to wear inside your bra to prevent milk leakage
- Nursing bras with and without under wire (You may prefer under wire during the day for extra lift and support, and a soft cup to sleep in at home.)
- Nursing capable pajamas for the hospital and home.
- Nursing tops and tanks (Most brands can be worn during and after pregnancy.)
Will I be able to find maternity clothes that match my personal style?
Be open-minded. Your entire body is changing, so you’ll want to buy clothing that will accommodate this change. Be prepared for lots of stretchy fabrics and expandable waistlines. Remember, your number one concern is comfort, so you should select clothes that both look and feel good. For instance, try styles that compliment your figure. A popular pregnancy style is the empire waist cut. This style is fitted around the bust and flairs over the belly to accentuate your pregnant silhouette.
So many of these maternity tops are low cut. How can I make them more work-appropriate?
As you’ll soon notice during your maternity shopping, many tops are v-neck and relatively low cut on the bust. This is done to accommodate the growing bust and to allow for nursing. If you feel uncomfortable wearing certain tops in public or to work, ask your sales associate if the store carries solution pieces. A solution piece is a full or half camisole. A half camisole gives coverage to your bust without the bulk of extra fabric. In addition, both full and half camisoles can be worn underneath low cut or shear clothing. (They also come in a variety of styles including 3/4 length sleeve, strapless, thick strap and thin strap tops.)
What should I look for in a diaper bag?
You don’t have to sacrifice style for function when shopping for a diaper bag. You can find fashion-forward diaper bags with all the features you’ll need when leaving the house with your baby. To decide whether or not a diaper bag fits your personal needs, ask yourself the following questions:
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Can it be used as a purse too?
If you don’t want to carry two bags, you’ll want to make sure your diaper bag has enough room for your personal belongings as well. Many bags contain zippered interior pockets or small removable clutches for this purpose. -
Is it easy to carry?
No one wants to wear down their body with a heavy bag all day, so make sure your diaper bag has comfortable straps and handles. -
Is there enough room?
Be sure your diaper bag has plenty of pockets and pouches for your baby’s items. Check for insulated holders for bottles and places to store toys, diapers and a changing pad, and extra clothes. -
Can I attach it to a stroller?
Diaper bags with detachable and adjustable straps are a must-have item for moms who are always on the go.
