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How do I Choose the Best Maternitywear?

Sheri Cyprus
Sheri Cyprus

Choosing the best maternitywear usually means sticking to the same guidelines for picking regular-sized fashions for yourself. For example, if you have shorter legs, shorts that reach just below the knee are often the most attractive and this is unlikely to change during pregnancy. Yet, some people may notice a fuller face, and this difference may be flattered by a different neckline shape than usual. Other considerations to make when looking for the best maternitywear are budget, flexibility and clothing needs.

The time of year of your pregnancy should reflect the types of maternity clothing you'll need to purchase. For example, if there is not likely to be cold weather during your pregnancy, it may be best not to buy a heavy coat, but several lighter outwear options instead. If you're wary of buying some maternitywear options, or have a lower budget for a wardrobe during pregnancy, many secondhand maternity shops today have gently used clothing in fashionable styles.

Maternity dresses can make pregnant women who wouldn't have otherwise felt attractive feel beautiful.
Maternity dresses can make pregnant women who wouldn't have otherwise felt attractive feel beautiful.

Buying maternity separates that you can mix and match as well as layer in different ways is often the best approach. This flexibility allows you to create many different looks from core pieces that flatter you. When choosing core maternitywear pieces such as trousers, a blazer and knit tops, take the time to try them on for the best fit. Most maternity shops have different sizes of stomach pad you can use when trying on the clothing to give you a better idea of how the pieces will look in different stages of your pregnancy.

Secondhand stores ofte have used maternity clothing.
Secondhand stores ofte have used maternity clothing.

If you are having difficulty finding flattering neckline shapes and pant or skirt lengths, it's best to try shopping another day at different stores rather than settling for pieces that you don't really like. Ordering online is another option, especially as your pregnancy may make you feel more tired than usual. Before buying maternitywear from an e-commerce website, check the returns policy so you can get a refund if you're not pleased with the fit.

When shopping for maternity nightwear, choosing nightgowns and pajama tops that are also suitable for nursing can let you wear them after the baby is born. Look for nursing maternitywear pajamas with expandable stomach panels and hidden breastfeeding openings. If you're not planning on nursing, or you want to buy separate nightwear after the pregnancy, it's a good idea budget-wise to purchase only enough pieces to last a week, so they can be washed and worn again.

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    • Maternity dresses can make pregnant women who wouldn't have otherwise felt attractive feel beautiful.
      By: inarik
      Maternity dresses can make pregnant women who wouldn't have otherwise felt attractive feel beautiful.
    • Secondhand stores ofte have used maternity clothing.
      By: Laurent Hamels
      Secondhand stores ofte have used maternity clothing.