Every woman has a different take on pregnancy and maternity clothes. Some women like to maintain their fashion plate status throughout their entire nine months, regardless of cost. Others prefer to spend as little as possible on a wardrobe that is only good for as long as their pregnancy. There are so many choices available now that women shopping for maternity clothes can choose fashion, function or both.
History of Maternity Fashion
The folks at What to Expect recall a time, only a decade or so ago, when a pregnant belly was something to hide. Maternity clothes in the past were big, bulky and unattractive. Today, however, maternity clothes are available in many major department stores, including styles by top designers. Rather than hide the belly, today's maternity fashions are designed to show it off.
Time Frame: When Do You Need Maternity Wear?
Even though a pregnancy lasts less than a year, chances are maternity clothes will only be necessary during the second and third trimesters. The Mayo Clinic remarks that the first few months of pregnancy is a time of "invisible transformation" -- in other words, you can't tell from the outside that you're pregnant. A woman can often wear most of her usual clothing through her first trimester. However, she may need to upgrade her bra. According to the Mayo Clinic, tender and swollen breasts are common in early pregnancy. They suggest wearing a supportive bra early on. Try to buy one with room to grow, since the breasts will only get bigger.
Options in Early Pregnancy
During the second trimester of pregnancy, starting around week 14 or so, the belly starts to show. However, since it is likely to be small for a while, some women use a rubber band to keep their favorite jeans "buttoned" temporarily. A maternity band can help as well: available in many colors and trims, a maternity band keeps unbuttoned pants up, and add a modest layer for shirts that are getting "shorter." Women may have some other items in their closet that can help them transition to maternity clothes, including stretchy fabrics and elastic waist bottoms.
Size Matters: Second Trimester and On
As the second trimester progresses, rubber bands will no longer be enough. The Mayo Clinic reports that women can expect to gain around four pounds a month during this pregnancy stage, much of which will be in the middle section as the uterus expands. That's 12 pounds this trimester alone! This is when most women have to start investing in maternity wear. Fortunately, there are many options for maternity clothes today. Women can save money if they choose by buying versatile basics that will last the entire pregnancy. They may also wish to consider shopping at discount stores, or even online auction sites. And if they want to splurge? Today, pregnant women can go to specialty maternity stores to buy outfits worthy of the red carpet.
Final Considerations
Regardless of their style, pregnant women should consider comfort when maternity shopping. Sure, those low-rise, hip-hugging slims might look cute now, but during the ninth month in the summer heat they won't be at the top of the want-to-wear list. Late in pregnancy, many women have swollen breasts as well as swelling in their hands and feet. They may also feel warmer than usual. Even the most die-hard fashionista may choose function over appearance at this stage in her pregnancy. To maintain comfort toward the end, keep fabrics light, cool and nonbinding.
