Maternity clothing checklist

Congratulations on your pregnancy! Shopping for your changing body can be a minefield, but it is the perfect opportunity to invest in items for your wardrobe that will be comfortable, practical, and stylish. You deserve to look and feel good as you grow another human!

All our bodies change differently when we are pregnant, and it is good to buy clothing that will grow with you through the different stages of pregnancy. Soft and breathable fabrics like cotton are a must-have so you look – and feel – your best.

When will I need maternity clothing?

There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to hitting the shops for a new wardrobe, and pregnant women will decide to start wearing maternity clothing at different times.

For most women, the start of the second trimester, at around 12 to 16 weeks of pregnancy, marks the right time to think about maternity clothes. Around this time, your pregnancy might start to show, so you may wish to accentuate your bump.

By around 20 weeks of pregnancy, most women will be wearing maternity clothes or sizing up their regular wardrobe.

Can I buy a size bigger rather than maternity clothes?

Maternity clothing will have the same sizing as regular clothing. If you wish to purchase regular clothing, you may wish to size up. There are certain items that this works well for, such as loose tops, flowing dresses and baggy jumpers, but they are not nearly as flattering as dedicated maternity wear.

Maternity clothing is often the preferred choice because it is specifically designed to accommodate your changing shape. It will be styled to suit pregnant body shapes, so if looking good is important to you, it makes sense to invest in a few staple items of maternity wear to see through your pregnancy.

How many bra sizes do you go up during pregnancy?

As your body changes during pregnancy, your breasts will become larger and heavier. You will want to wear a bra that supports your breasts and is comfortable. You can buy a dedicated maternity bra when you feel ready, and your breasts are likely to go up a number of sizes.

Everyone will be different, so the best thing you can do is go and get your breasts measured regularly so you are wearing a bra that fits you correctly. Many women opt for styles that offer greater coverage and comfort with wider straps.

If you work out and wear a sports bra, it is important to remember that this will need to size up, too!

What items do I need in my maternity wardrobe?

It can be quite tempting to go through your maternity with minimal items, particularly if you are on a budget. However, it is worth remembering that you might not only get bored of your wardrobe, but you can wear maternity clothes after your baby is born because it will take some time for your body to return to its pre-pregnancy shape.

It is worth thinking about your lifestyle and the clothing you need to fit with that. For example, if you work in an office where your colleagues dress smartly, you will need additional work maternity clothes.

Take a look at your wardrobe and start from there. Start building a new maternity wardrobe with simple tops and timeless essentials, and go from there. There are certain items that you can dress up and down, and accessorising with jewellery, bags, and shoes is an easy way to make the same clothes look different. This is an excellent way to make a limited wardrobe look bigger than it is.

• Maternity trousers or leggings
• Maternity jeans
• Bump bands
• Dresses
• Tops, such as short-sleeve tops or shirts, depending on the season
• Jumpers, cardigans and a jacket that fits comfortably over your bump
• Maternity bras
• Special occasion wear if you have a special occasion!
  

Bump band

A maternity bump band is a wide, elasticised piece of fabric that can slip easily over unzipped or unbuttoned jeans, trousers, or skirts. This will allow you to wear your non-maternity clothing for longer. It can also be used after giving birth during the gradual return to your pre-pregnancy wardrobe.

1. Mamaband Maternity Bump Band in Twin Pack

1. ESPRIT Straight Maternity Jeans

1. Foucome Women’s Over Bump Super Soft Maternity Leggings

Dresses

There will always be occasions when a dress is called for – whether a work meeting or a night out with friends. Many maternity dresses are designed to be worn after birth.

Tops

Build your maternity wardrobe with a selection of stretchy maternity tops in neutral colours. These can be worn under jumpers, cardigans and coats without riding up over your growing tummy. Many have built-in nursing access, so they can be worn when your baby is born.

Jumpers & Cardigans

Opt for jumpers and cardigans in stretchy materials that will see you through your pregnancy and beyond.

Maternity bras

When you are pregnant, your breasts will change, so you may wish to wear maternity bras that will support you and provide nursing access when your baby is born. These bras tend to be made from super-comfy fabrics and are wireless.

3. Vinfact Smooth Nursing Bra

This bra is buttery smooth and comfortable and uses double support technology. It features a 3D silicone strip, which is invisible and soft to prevent sagging. It is seamless and wire-free and offers easy nursing access when your baby is here.

Jackets

You may be able to get away with using a pre-pregnancy jacket, but if you are heavily pregnant during the winter months, a maternity jacket will be designed for your shape and will keep you warm. Many jackets are also designed to be worn with your baby.

1. MAMALICIOUS Women’s Maternity Jacket

This super-practical and stylish jacket can be used during pregnancy and postpartum, with an extra panel at the front for your baby. In versatile, plain colours, it features elasticated cuffs and handy zip pockets.

Casualwear

When relaxing at home or out with friends, mums-to-be will want to feel comfortable but look stylish.

1. YESNO Women’s Dungarees

Many pregnant women opt for jumpsuits or rompers due to their loose fit and the fact they have no waistband. This set of lightweight dungarees looks great during pregnancy and beyond. They come in a range of colours and can be dressed up or down.

2. Baohooya Striped Maternity Nursing Set

A comfy loungewear set is a must-have for maternity. This set can be worn before, during, and after your pregnancy. It is made from pure cotton for comfort during the day and at night.

*Prices may vary.