Keeping up with an expanding waistline when expecting can be difficult. If you’re a pregnant mother worried about your budget or don’t want to waste money on clothing that will only fit for a single trimester, there are ways to extend your wardrobe that will last throughout your pregnancy and into your postpartum months. For ideas on how to handle clothing sizing during your pregnancy, read on.
Plan ahead, and think in layers.
Maternity clothes can get expensive as your body changes. Savvy moms have learned that they can expand their maternity wardrobe simply by layering. For example, a baggy summer sundress can easily convert to a winter outfit when topped with a cardigan sweater. Where you might normally opt for a long sleeve dress, when you’re pregnant and dressing for the season, layering is a great way to save that budget.
In some cases, finding the right winter maternity clothes made specifically for cold weather will be important. If you’re experiencing a winter pregnancy and need to keep that baby bump covered for work, for example, it’s a good idea to invest in a few loose pieces that won’t mean a snug fit later in the pregnancy. Even here, you’ll want to consider ways to layer your winter pregnancy outfits with accessories, like scarfs, to get the most out of them.
When shopping for outfits you can layer, another great trick is to buy clothing with a loose fit two sizes up from your current size. This will buy you time and may even get you through the end of your pregnancy.
Mix and match clothing for best fit.
The good news is that pregnancy doesn’t mean you have to look perfect. With a natural pregnancy glow and most people’s attention on your stomach, you might even be able to get away with comfortable clothing like leggings and sleep wear paired with an oversized blouse. That is, when assembling maternity outfits, don’t be afraid to mix and match clothing normally reserved for other purposes. A summer nightgown could easily be paired with leggings and a sweater and not many people would know the difference. You might even be surprised how mixing and matching clothing with different purposes enhances your style by making you a little more creative with your wardrobe.
Shop in thrift stores.
You’re far from alone if you’re struggling with maternity clothes. The reality is that many women find themselves putting their clothing on maternity consignment shortly after giving birth. For this reason, you can easily find maternity wear in thrift shops in your area if you’re willing to take the time to look. In many cases, the clothing you find will be either gently, or even never, worn.
Trade with friends and family.
If you have friends or family who have just been through a pregnancy, ask them to save their maternity clothing instead of giving it away or throwing it out. Do the same with your own maternity clothing and pay it forward later. In working with other new moms to build maternity wardrobes, you’ll not only save money but find you have a lot in common, too. These friends and family, even from virtual support groups, will understand what you’re going through and the excitement you feel about your impending arrival. They’ll be great resources for after your baby is born as well.
In the end, no matter how you decide to go about choosing your maternity clothing, the most important thing is the health of you and your baby. Considering layering, working with friends, and using resources to expand your wardrobe now will seem like a little thing after your baby arrives. With that said, you can save a lot of money and still feel at your best if you plan with maternity outfits well before your baby comes. Congratulations to you on your pregnancy, and have a happy and healthy delivery!