We are here to help and advise when it comes to choosing the right maternity wardrobe.

Having had two children myself, I know all too well how important it is to get your maternity wardrobe right.

Nobody wants to make expensive mistakes especially when, in hindsight, that money could have been spent on something for the new baby.

There does not have to be a trade-off between looking good, feeling comfortable and not having to spend a huge amount on a wardrobe which will only be worn for a limited amount of time.

When considering your wardrobe, remember that you may move up one or two sizes during pregnancy.

This is all perfectly natural and can be due to the baby lies as it changes position or the level of amniotic fluid around the baby.

However, this is not always the case and some pregnant ladies will have a neat little bump and not have to buy any additional items. Every pregnancy is different!

Another thing to consider is that you will probably wear your maternity clothes for roughly up to 2 months after giving birth particularly if you are breast-feeding or this isn’t your first pregnancy.

Sizing
Designers and manufacturers will always advise you to buy any maternity wear in your ‘pre-pregnancy’ size.

To be honest this is great when you first start to buy maternity clothes, but as mentioned earlier, you may alter in size as you progress through your pregnancy.

So by the end you may have found that you have gone up a couple of sizes.

If you do purchase something from us and it doesn’t fit then just return it to us and we will be happy to give a refund, provided it is within 14 days of receipt.

Wardrobe Basics
Firstly, don’t be afraid to rummage through your partner’s wardrobe.

When at home, I lived in my husbands t-shirts and occasionally wore his tracksuit bottoms.

Not only were the elasticated waists ideal, but the extra length in the leg meant that they could be worn over my bump without being too short.

Also take a look at what you have already, you may have trousers with drawstring waists, stretchy tops and t-shirts in your wardrobe.

These may not see you through to the end of your pregnancy but they may do for a month or two.

Casual wear
If you are at home all day, as a bare minimum, I would suggest two or three pairs of trousers.

Whether you want this to consist mainly of jeans or you want something smarter is up to you.

Two dresses for the day and perhaps two skirts, if you prefer trousers add another couple of pairs to your essentials list.

Obviously, what you decide to buy is dependent on the season, so you may want to substitute a pair of trousers for a pair of shorts in the warmer months or add a couple of sweaters to see you over Autumn and Winter.

When it comes to buying tops, I would suggest at least 5 tops. These could be short or long sleeve t-shirts, tops or blouses.

Of course if you are working you will probably not need as many casual clothes but bear in mind you’ll be wearing these if you have time off work prior to having your baby and you will probably still be in your maternity clothes for a couple of months after giving birth.

Workwear
A lot will depend on what you do and if there is a need to adhere to a dress code.

Some employers may relax their policy for pregnant employees but will still expect them to look smart.

If in doubt check with your employer first before going out and buying items that could be unsuitable.

If you have to wear a suit, consider buying a jacket that also has a matching skirt and trousers in a versatile colour such as black and navy.

You can add variety by wearing brightly coloured tops and blouses.

A longer length, tie-back jersey dress looks equally as smart and can double up to provide you with something smart for special occasions.

If you don’t have to wear a suit then invest in two or three pairs of smart trousers or skirts if you prefer.

Remember, work clothes can wear just as much as clothes that you may wear at home for running after children in!

So you will need something that is easy to care for and being able to throw it straight into a washing machine, instead of dry cleaning, is a bonus!

Occasional Wear
Whether it’s a wedding, a dinner invite or just a night out with friends, we all want to look our best and there is no reason why we shouldn’t when we are pregnant.

Being pregnant gives you the perfect opportunity to show the change in your shape.

You also may be one of the lucky women who have wonderful skin and hair as a result of being pregnant.

So don’t be afraid to buy items that show off these new found attributes!

However, there is the dilemma about spending money of items that you really are not going to get as much wear as you would if they were clothes intended work or casual wear.

My advice is think smart about what you buy.

A black jersey dress can be dressed up for a wedding using a colourful wrap, pretty sandals and perhaps hair feathers.

That same dress could also be worn to a dinner party and accessorised with eye-catching jewellery and a bag that matches your sandals.

Stretchy velvet trousers and tops are also another option; adding enough glamour, comfortable to wear and do not have to break the bank.

You will also get wear out of them after the birth, another bonus.

Underwear
Look nobody can see them, so if you feel comfortable wearing ‘big daddy’ over the bump knickers then just do it!

Of course, you can purchase ‘under the bump’ briefs and maternity thongs so you are bound to find something to suit you.

You can wear your normal underwear for a few months but you will get to the point where these are no longer suitable for your ever-growing bump.

When it comes to bras, make sure you get measured properly as like the rest of your body your bust size is likely to change.
If you are wishing to breast-feed, then it is advisable to get measured by week 38 of your pregnancy.

With so much choice now available, you will be able to find pretty nursing bras that also provide the correct support and are comfortable to wear.

By investing in a few good quality, key items and wherever possible combining them with non maternity items you will have a maternity wardrobe that will ensure that you look good, feel comfortable and have money left over to spend on the new arrival!