Maternity Must-Haves: 5 Clothing Essentials for Expecting Mothers

For many mums-to-be, a positive pregnancy test is just the beginning of a long list of changes to their daily routine. This momentous journey brings a lot of physical, emotional and psychological changes to the expecting mother’s life, culminating in the birth of a beautiful new life.

While pregnancy is indeed an exciting experience, it also comes with its challenges, especially when it comes to our bodies since we have to accommodate a growing baby. As the weeks go by and your bump continues to grow, you may find yourself needing new clothes that are comfortable, practical and flattering.

What Should You Wear When You Are Pregnant?

While all mums have different styles and preferences, there are certain maternity clothing essentials that every expecting mother should have in her wardrobe. These items not only provide comfort and support in all the right places but also make you feel good and confident in your changing body.

Maternity Dresses

A timeless staple in every expecting mother’s wardrobe, loose-fitting and bump-friendly dresses can make your pregnancy journey a whole lot more comfortable. Their open and flowy designs provide enough room for your growing belly, with more than enough space to move around freely.

Nowadays, most models feature a round or V-neck design with gentle stretchy fabric to accommodate your changing body and provide support where needed. Some of them even have a strapless design with a supportive top band, which can be a lifesaver in the hot summer months.

In terms of materials, viscose is particularly popular due to its soft and breathable nature, with an exquisite drape that flatters the bump. Its minimally irritating properties and natural moisture-wicking ability can make pregnancy a much more pleasant experience. Even if you are not typically drawn to this kind of clothing, well-fitted and bump-friendly dresses may well change your mind.

Another worthy option is polyester and viscose blends, often used in maternity wear for their form-fitting abilities and shape-retaining qualities. While not entirely wrinkle-resistant like pure polyester, they are quite close. They also provide excellent thermal insulation and moisture control properties, which can come in handy during pregnancy.

As for the length, most expecting mothers prefer midi dresses with a hemline that falls just above the knees or sits at calf length. This is because they provide enough coverage for your growing bump while still maintaining some semblance of style. Of course, if you’d like to go for shorter or maxi models, you’ll have no shortage of options at your disposal.

Perhaps one of the most sought-after and well-liked features of these pieces of clothing is the side seam with adjustable strings that can be tied up or let loose as needed. This not only gives you more control over the way the fabric drapes over your body but also means you can wear the same dress throughout the entire term of your pregnancy.

Pregnancy Tops

Nothing beats the feeling of a loose and comfortable top that not only flatters your bump but also offers support to your changing body. During pregnancy, your breasts tend to grow and change shape, so you’ll need a few new tops that provide enough coverage and support without being too tight or restrictive.

Similar to maternity dresses, their relaxed fit and stretchy fabric are two of the main selling points, but they do offer some unique features as well. For instance, some models come with an elasticated band at the bottom that hugs your bump and prevents the top from riding up. If you’ve ever felt your top suddenly bunched up under your bump, you’ll know how irritating and uncomfortable it can be.

Lounge Pants and Leggings

Jeans and tight-fitting trousers may not be the most comfortable option for expecting mothers, especially during the last trimester. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives that offer a perfect combination of comfort and style – lounge pants and leggings.

While they both come in various styles, prints and patterns, they share one common feature – an elasticated waistband. This particular design element allows the fabric to stretch over your growing bump while still holding everything in place. Plus, they are incredibly soft and skin-friendly, perfect for those days when your body is feeling extra sensitive.

Maternity Bras

Breast changes are an inevitable part of pregnancy, and as your body prepares for nursing, you may find that your pre-pregnancy bras no longer fit. If you add the constant soreness and tenderness to the mix, buying a few well-fitted maternity bras is a no-brainer.

One thing that separates pregnancy bras from regular models is the cup design. With a much more generous and accommodating cup, they provide enough space for your growing breasts without feeling too tight or uncomfortable. Most of them also come with wide, supportive straps that help distribute the weight evenly, reducing back and shoulder pain.

Swimwear and Activewear

Who says you can’t stay active and enjoy the beach while pregnant? After all, this can be a fantastic way to keep your body healthy and functional, in addition to taking your regular vitamins and supplements. Why stop right in the prime of your life when you can wear pregnancy-friendly swimwear and activewear that offers support, comfort and style?

Swimwear designed for expecting mothers usually comes with a cross-back design, adjustable straps and a supportive bust area that hugs your growing belly. As for activewear, you’ll find plenty of options with relaxed fit, moisture-wicking abilities and supportive bands around the waist. Both of these types of clothing are versatile enough to wear throughout your pregnancy journey and beyond.