Congratulations on the pregnancy! I’m sure you are still getting used to the numerous surprises and changes brought on by this new phase of life. One of the biggest challenges you might be facing right now is dressing for your pregnant belly. I get it, I’ve been there and currently facing the same issue with my second pregnancy. But thankfully, I’ve learnt a thing or two about maternity fashion from my first pregnancy. I bring to you 6 maternity fashion tips that help you look fashionable without breaking the bank.
Do not splurge
I learnt this the hard way. When I was pregnant with Deepika, I went on a shopping spree and splurged on a new maternity wardrobe. And if you know anything about maternity clothes, you’ll know it’s anything but cheap. None of the maternity pieces fit me after I gave birth to my daughter and I ended up giving it away to my sister-in-law when she got pregnant.
I know it’s tempting to buy new clothes when you are pregnant but I’d suggest shopping sparingly since it’s unlikely you can wear any of the maternity clothes after your little one is out. The trick to maternity shopping is buying only key pieces that you can wear even after pregnancy.
Fabric is the key
I cannot stress this enough! Your belly grows exponentially with each passing month when you are pregnant and you need clothes that will grow with your belly. Opt for clothes in soft and stretch fabric that fits your belly no matter how huge it gets. Also, pants with elasticised waist are an absolute lifesaver!
Borrow your husband’s shirts
One of the last places you’d look into for maternity clothing pieces is your husband’s wardrobe but that is exactly where you should be looking! Even if your husband happens to be the lankiest man you’ve ever met, his shirts and tee-shirts are still going to be baggy enough for your very pregnant body. Being 7 months pregnant currently, my go-to outfit of lately has been a pair of leggings and a cotton shirt from my husband’s closet. And ladies, let’s be honest. It’s not like we haven’t stolen hoodies from our husband’s closet before!
Rent for special occasions
When I was 6 months into my first pregnancy, I had to attend a close friend’s wedding. Since none of my formal dresses fit me anymore, I went out and bought a new outfit. As beautiful as the maternity chiffon gown was, I still regret spending so much money on an outfit I wore just once. It gets worse. Wanting to wear that dress after my pregnancy, I got it altered and it turned out to be an absolute disaster. I now have a 9k ill-fitting dress stowed away in the back of my closet.
Re-use existing pieces
One great way to save on maternity clothes is by digging into your wardrobe. No, you might not find gold there, but I bet you’ll find a few pieces that will fit your beautiful pregnant body. Shift dresses, baggy tee-shirts, tunics, and longline sweaters are some pieces that will definitely work for your body even when you are pregnant. Even my crop tops became a part of my maternity style. All I had to do was style them over a nice camisole.
Accessorize
Another way to look stylish while you are pregnant without splurging on maternity pieces is by accessorising. Splurge on non-maternity pieces such as a bold pair of sunglasses, a colourful scarf, or a pair of statement earrings that will completely transform you into a fashionable mommy to be!
Do you have any Maternity fashion tips for the pregnant ladies out there? Feel free to share with us in the comments section below!
