Practical tips for choosing maternity clothes

You don’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe when you’re pregnant. Knowing what type of maternity clothes to buy and thinking about how your needs will change throughout your pregnancy will help you look and feel great. Here are some tips to help you.

• Size: Many pregnancy clothes are labelled with pre-pregnancy sizes but don’t assume you’ll remain the same size. Many women put on extra weight during pregnancy.
• Fabric: Look for items that are soft, breathable and made from natural fabrics such as cotton or modal.
• Casual wear: Wearing maternity leggings, tank tops or baggy t-shirts can be an easy, comfortable choice when you’re at home or in casual surroundings.

• Adjustable waistbands: By choosing something adjustable like a drawstring, you can let your waistband grow with you.
• Extra length: Wearing a long top or a maternity maxi-dress means your body is still covered as your belly grows.
• Empire waist: A waistline that is higher than usual (sometimes to just below the bust) is flattering and comfortable for pregnant women.
• Gathers: Gathers or ruching down the side of maternity tops flatter your shape and give you room to move and expand.
• Colours and patterns: Choosing a subtle pattern or a solid colour that flatters your shape helps keep you looking slim.

• Dresses: Feel feminine and flatter your bump in a maternity dress. From sundresses to evening gowns, there are many options for all stages of your pregnancy.
• Pants: Whether you’re looking for maternity jeans, shorts or something else, aim for comfort. Pants with panels around the waist allow your belly to stretch and don’t have uncomfortable zippers or buttons. Drawstring or elastic waistbands and low-waisted pants and shorts are good choices.
• Tops: From warm sweaters to well-tailored business shirts, maternity tops are a wardrobe staple for moms-to-be.
• Bras: A maternity or nursing bra should be comfortable and practical. Look for extra hooks (to expand with you as you grow), strong straps, feeding clips and soft fabric.
• Swimwear: Stay active in the pool with a stretchy swimsuit, bikini or tankini. Tankinis are particularly popular thanks to the longer top coupled with a bikini bottom.
• Outerwear: Keep warm in a maternity coat. Many have a flared shape and adjustable features to accommodate your bump through all stages of pregnancy.