Congratulations! You’re expecting a bundle of joy, and your life is about to be turned upside down in the most wonderful way. As your little bump grows, you’ll want to start transitioning into maternity clothes, but you might be a little unsure of what you’ll need. Creating a maternity capsule wardrobe will ensure you have an ample selection of interchangeable, complimentary garments, so you can look polished and put together without breaking the bank.
From everyday essentials to statement pieces that make you feel fabulous, here’s a list of must-have maternity clothing items.
Jeans or Leggings
During the first few months of pregnancy, leggings will be your best friend. If you’re a first-time mum, it’s difficult to predict how your body will change, as it is entirely normal to experience weight fluctuation and bloating before your bump has even made an appearance. If you’re finding that your regular pants aren’t fitting quite like they used to, but you’re not yet far gone enough to warrant maternity jeans, leggings with high-elasticity or loose-fitting harem pants are the answer.
Once you feel ready to purchase your first pair of maternity jeans, you’ll be met with a choice of over-bump or under-bump support, which is entirely optional. The cut of your jeans depends on your style preference; however, dark wash skinny jeans are flattering on a wide range of body types and offer the most potential for outfit building.
Tops
A good-quality standard t-shirt is an integral building block of any capsule wardrobe, and you’ll probably reach for one most mornings. You’ll want to include a few basic t-shirts or tanks in white or black for layering under blouses and cardigans. Again, consider loose-fitting cuts with bump-accommodating designs.
For workwear or something with a little more flare and femininity, incorporate a couple of blouses that can be dressed down with jeans or dressed up with a skirt and accessories. Ruffle hems and peplum designs will balance your silhouette and provide ample room for your bump.
Dresses
Consider a few staple dresses that can be layered for cooler weather and dressed up/down depending on the occasion. Dresses offer maximum comfort during the third trimester when bump bands become too confining. Look for wrap dresses or cuts with an empire waistline to allow room for your bump to grow.
Due to the soaring summer temperatures, lightweight dresses are a must for maternity clothes in Australia. Breathable materials such as cotton and jersey will enable air to circulate, keeping you cool during those hot flushes.
A versatile black dress can be styled with most accessories. If you favour patterned garments, opt for something timeless; for example, stripes, leopard print or floral. If dresses aren’t your bag, consider a loose-fitting jumpsuit or even dungarees.
Jackets and Cardigans
For outerwear, an oversize cardigan or jacket will fit throughout your pregnancy and keep you warm on chilly evenings. For evening outings such as dinner or mocktails with the girls, consider a tailored maternity blazer, which can double up as office wear, depending on how you style it.
A long-line trench coat in a neutral tone is trans-seasonal, durable and elegant. Although you may find it difficult to feel elegant whilst pregnant, a well-fitting maternity trench coat will keep you looking chic when layered over any outfit.
Footwear
Your choice of footwear will change significantly as the months wear on. At first, you may feel perfectly able to wear your regular range of shoes; however, you might begin to experience swelling, back pain and have difficulty being on your feet for long periods. To minimise discomfort, opt for casual shoes and sneakers that offer stability and arch support. If you really want to wear heels, stay safe by swapping the sky-high stilettos for lower wedges or kitten heels.
Underwear
While some folks stick to wearing their existing underwear, it’s often worth investing in some extra comfy undies for both during and after pregnancy. Supportive, fuller-cut bras and extra-stretchy knickers made from soft, cotton blends will help you stay comfortable as your body changes. You might find switching to sports bras helpful, although many styles of maternity bra double up as nursing bras.