Your body will change dramatically during the nine months of your pregnancy. The average amount of weight gained during pregnancy is 25 to 35 pounds. According to the March of Dimes, most of this gain occurs in the second and third trimesters at a rate of about one pound per week; women usually gain less than five pounds during the first trimester. Dressing for your rapidly changing body can be a challenge, particularly for the budget-conscious. Fortunately, today's expectant mothers have more maternity fashion options than ever before.
Step 1
Measure yourself at the beginning of the second trimester to find your new size. Most people can make it through the first trimester without needing maternity clothes. Have someone help you if possible. For the most accurate results, have a professional fitting session at a department store or boutique. You will need bust, waist, hip and inseam measurements, particularly if you will be buying clothes online.
Step 2
Choose appropriate undergarments. Underwear acts as your wardrobe's foundation. Comfortable maternity bras and panties will create a more flattering silhouette and prevent problems like pinching, binding and itching. The What to Expect website recommends wearing only 100 percent cotton panties to prevent infections.
Get fitted for a maternity bra. These bras, not to be confused with nursing bras, feature wider straps, bands and stretchy cups that provide support and accommodate your changing breast size. According to Her Room lingerie specialists, "each breast becomes 10 to 18 ounces heavier due to increased fluid and mammary gland growth" during pregnancy.
Step 3
Shop for key wardrobe pieces. Because you will only be wearing maternity clothes for a short time, many people find it impractical to spend a lot of money on a new wardrobe. Frugal options include gently used hand-me-downs from friends, family or acquaintances as well as yard sales, thrift stores and consignment shops.
Maternity fashion experts at the Baby Center recommend the top must-have maternity pieces. Their suggestions include comfortable tanks or camisoles for layering, a wrap dress that can be dressed up or down with accessories, a tunic top, a jersey-knit skirt, yoga pants and maternity jeans.
Choose pieces that are both comfortable and flattering. Dark colors are slimming, as is wearing one color from head to toe. Visually, horizontal stripes add width while vertical stripes slim and elongate.
Step 4
Add shoes and accessories to your wardrobe. The average woman's feet grow ½ size or more during pregnancy. Slip-on shoes eliminate uncomfortable bending when getting dressed. Look for comfortable, flat shoes with good sole traction to minimize the risk of falls.
Accessories are an easy way to add flexibility to a limited wardrobe. Some women prefer to spend a little more money on accessories, such as scarves, wraps and jewelry, because they can use them after the pregnancy.
