Gathering your Wardrobe
Comfort is the watchword in pregnancy. Try to stay one step ahead of your growing size by buying clothes that are slightly too big so that you always have something to wear.
 Look in the racks of maternity clothes for ideas and make a note of the way they allow for expansion with elasticated inserts and Velcro strips, for example. You can use the same techniques to adapt your existing wardrobe.
Front hems on maternity dresses tend to be 2.5cm (1inch) longer than usual, so if you make your own or buy a non-maternity dress, check you have the extra fabric in the hem.
See if there is anything in your partner's wardrobe that you might borrow, for example a sweater or a shirt.
Replace elastic in a waistband with a drawstring.
Loose-fitting jackets, shawls, fleeces and A-line coats are the best cover-ups.
Choose natural fabrics such as cotton, wool or silk, which are much more comfortable than synthetics, particularly in hot weather.
Wear layers for comfort - a long shirt over a T-shirt, for example so that if you get too hot you can easily remove the top layer.
Big prints and wide stripes tend to make you look larger, whereas plain colours are subtler.
Stretch fabrics are comfortable, but avoid clingy materials.
For a special occasion or if you need to look smart for work, look for drop-waisted dresses or suits with long-line jackets.
To cut the cost when buying a special outfit, visit shops that specialise in nearly new maternity clothes.
On the beach, wear a muu-muu or sarong, or just a large T-shirt. Maternity swimwear is now readily available in department stores, and is generally both comfortable and stylish.
A layered skirt with an elasticated drawstring waistline can be worn under armpits as a sundress, then pulled down and worn with a pretty top to make a versatile summer outfit. |
