Building Your Maternity Wardrobe
Shopping Tips From a Professional
Congratulations. You've had a lot of "firsts" lately. You've completed your first pregnancy test, made your first visits to your OB, and told your friends and family that you're expecting. You've lovingly rubbed your belly, and done a preemptory walk-through at the local baby store. And soon, if it hasn't happened yet, you will buy your first piece of maternity apparel. And let me say, relax. This process can be just as enjoyable as your old non-pregnant shopping trips at your favorite boutique or department store…if you know a few things first.
Where to Begin
As you may have noticed, in the past few years the silhouettes of women's clothing have become more voluminous, with tunics and empire waist tops and dresses spilling off the runway and into your local stores. This is to your advantage, as you can lengthen the life of many of the pieces in your closet. Go through your closet and put away anything that doesn't fit you now. And be truthful about the fit. Remember you are pregnant, and as I have often said to my customers, "You are on a train, and that train is going in one direction…to a bigger place." Also put away structured dresses, skirts and pants that will have little to no stretch in the waist. Pull aside and save any long, generous tops, easy-waist skirts and pants, and roomy cardigans. These will be pieces that you will be able to wear for at least the beginning of your pregnancy. Refrain, and I repeat this emphatically, refrain from raiding your husband's closet. His t-shirts and button-ups are fine for lounging around on Sunday morning, but unless his style is truly your style, just keep his closet door closed.
Start Shopping!
A common question among newly pregnant women is, "When should I start wearing maternity clothes?" Many women start buying maternity apparel at around 4 or 5 months, but really, it's whenever your regular clothes feel uncomfortable. When your pants become too tight at the waist, you have one intermediary option. There are two accessories that are "quick-fixes" to extend the life of your pants. The B-Buckle by NOM hooks though your belt loop to allow you to unbutton with discretion. And the Bella Band is a band of fabric that covers the entire top of your pants. Both these will get you about a month's more use out of your pants in the first trimester. After that, you need to fully dive into maternity land.
Keep in mind that maternity designers use a different dress frame when they build their collection and cut their clothes. This frame is one with a round belly and beautifully growing frame much like yours. Maternity tops and dresses are typically cut longer in front that in the back to even out the hem line. And of course the difference in maternity pants is more obvious: STRETCH. Whether it's under-belly or over-belly, pants, jeans, and skirts have the elastic to keep your pants up, and keep you comfortable.
Now comes what to buy. The most important style tip is to be true to your personal style and comfort. It may take more time, but you can find the clothes you love. My suggestions for the essential list includes 4-5 pants, one being a great pair of maternity jeans; 2 skirts; 2 dresses, think one versatile solid dress, and one print that you really love; 1 or 2 poplin or voile blouses; 4 or 5 knit tops; and if you are pregnant over the winter months, a few warm sweaters, cardigans being a great choice. Having a reasonable amount of clothing will give you peace of mind each day during your "what-to-wear" morning routine. You need to have enough options to have a competent, put together appearance.
If you job requires a crisp, professional style, buy dark pants and a few more button-up blouses. Maternity jackets are hard to come by. My suggestion is altering your look to a dressier tops and sweaters. If your profession is more casual, stick with knit maternity tops in natural fibers like modal, cotton (with a little Lycra for stretch), and some of the new greener fibers like organic cotton and bamboo.
And if you have weddings or events to attend during your pregnancy, one fantastic solid dress can get you a long way. A well-fitting piece in navy, black, wine, or grey can be easily upgraded with some great bold accessories. And if you have a special shower or baby party planned, get another pretty dress in a print or a luscious color. You're only pregnant with your first baby once.
The Facts About Maternity Clothes
There's great news in buying maternity clothes. Here are some easy, digestible notes to keep in mind.
- Maternity styles have gotten so stunning that many of my non-pregnant customers shop the maternity section…including my employees, and, okay, me.
- There's a long life to these pieces. You will wear you maternity clothing (most often pants) for at least two months after your baby is born.
- There is versatility to many of the pieces. If you are nursing, your maternity cardigans will serve you well for a little privacy during feedings.
- Finding great maternity clothes that fit your personality and style will bring you great happiness. It may sound like a line from a fortune cookie, but it's really true.