Find your style!!

Shopping is always exciting. And shopping when you're pregnant is even more fun, with fashionable maternity clothing to choose from. Shops that specialize in maternity wear tend to offer items that are just reshaped versions of ones you already have in your closet. Here are some guidelines to help you put together an attractive wardrobe for the coming months.

Tip #1: Retain your own fashion style if you want to look and feel like yourself. Women who live in jeans and t-shirts should stick with jeans and t-shirts. Those who love crisp business clothing should strive for that look. In other words, dress as you always have. But if your new shape makes you feel adventurous, feel free to treat yourself to something a little different to celebrate your new shape.

Tip #2: Don't buy a whole new closet of clothing. Good maternity clothes can be expensive. Instead, select just a few basics tailored to your style. It is a good idea to make sure everything can be coordinated (colour and style-wise) for extensive mixing.

Tip #3: Wear as many of your regular clothes as you can. As long as you still feel good, and they fit comfortably, wear them. When it comes to pants, jeans, skirts and underwear you'll probably need to buy the maternity versions as your pregnancy progresses.

Tip #4: Check thrift shops or consignment shops for good bargains. Maternity clothes rarely wear out in the course of a pregnancy, so you'll be able to find something almost as good as new in these previously owned items. If you need something formal, you're almost sure to find it at a thrift shop or consignment shop.

Tip #5: Buy as you grow. Right now, you don't know how big you'll be in three or four months, or how you'll be carrying the baby. So keep your purchases to a bare minimum. You always can add an item or two later.

Tip #6: Accept clothing offers. Family and friends usually are happy to pass their favourite maternity items along to a loved one. Enjoy the new clothing and be appreciative of their thoughtfulness. Try borrowing from your husband too; a crisp, white dress shirt looks great with skirts or jeans

Tip #7: Accessorize. When you're pulling out the same black dress for the third time in a week, don't be discouraged. Spruce it up with a bright silk scarf or drape it with a shawl. Adorn yourself in colourful bangles and beads. Buy yourself some fabulous new earrings. It may be the same basic dress, but you can have a lot of fun with it.

Did You Know?

If you want to be careful with what you spend on maternity clothes, second-hand is a great way to go. Maternity clothes get worn for 9 months at most, so you can often find them in nearly-new condition.

For more information on this topic, check our Q&A Section. If you don't find the information you're looking for, please feel free to Ask a Dietitian.