The ManicaPost
THE question that most women ask during pregnancy is “what can I wear when I am pregnant?” My answer is as long as you are confident that others will look at you with that “shame look”, it is ok, but when others are looking at you like you are an alien or weird then something is not right.
When women are pregnant, they are beautiful yes, but they can put on the best fashion even though they are carrying a baby.
Whether you choose to buy high-quality maternity clothes or less expensive options, you need to make sure that they at least last through several pregnancy stages.
Ideally maternity clothes will be designed to flatter your body, stretch and support you in all the right places and be as comfortable as possible.
One of the more comforting aspects of pregnancy is that you can finally just relax and not worry about what anyone thinks about how you look. Psych! Everyone constantly looks at you so that they can evaluate your skin, hair, outfits, posture, boobs and choice of footwear.
Hey, which is worse? Being given suggestions of how to look sexy while knocked up, or being constantly told exactly how “pregnant cute” you look? Careful, I think it’s a trick question!
Doesn’t anyone realise that if you actually buy clothes for all pregnant logistics including post-birth and The New You (trademark pending), that you’d be buying no less than THREE entirely different wardrobes including underwear? Don’t forget the emergency clothes at the bitter end when you become a zeppelin, and also any “special occasion” outfits for the jackals who invite you to formal events during this time in your life and actually expect you to show up.
Here are our tips for maternity clothes to avoid:
Check labels: Clothes that are labelled with permanent press or are wrinkle-free. It’s been stated that these garments are treated with chemicals to ensure their fabrics remain increased and as such it should be avoided.
Synthetic fabrics: Clothes made from synthetics like polyester do not breathe and they can hold heat to the skin and irritate. It is best to look for natural fibres or blends with high natural fibre content. These types of fabrics keep moisture away from the skin and reduce or soothe itchiness and rashes. Ideally, maternity clothing should be breathable, soft, and durable with plenty of give.
Tight clothes: Tight fitting clothes, especially around the belly, that are not comfortable and can put added pressure on your tummy. Whilst tight clothes do not hurt or harm your baby, they can be very uncomfortable and potentially cause you more issues.
Stripes: Horizontal stripes, yes clothing with horizontal stripes are not flattering even though they are popular amongst pregnancy wear.
Clothes that take forever to get off: You’ll soon know that frequenting the toilet is common so the last thing you want to be wearing is a complicated belt or pair of pants that takes far too long to undo!
The wrong size: Wearing maternity tops, pants, jeans and dresses that are clearly the wrong size are not flattering and will end up being a nuisance, and make sure you get clothes that fit.
Underwire bras: If you prefer the comfort and support that an underwire bra provides, you may want to consider switching from a regular bra to a maternity bra whilst you are pregnant.
Shoes with heels: Yes, you should avoid stilettos, high heels and shoes with wedges when pregnant. Wear some boots, sneakers, sandals and even work shoes.
Wearing too loose clothes that make you look like a tent or hanger ons – yes it looks comfortable but it doesn’t actually accentuate your curves, well flaunt your body and style when you are pregnant, being loose and lousy doesn’t boost morale or self confidence, especially when you have your moods or are grumpy, wearing a nice maternity outfit boosts your spirits.
Wearing short shorts plus a T-shirt when one is outside the house and pregnant makes one look funny and the discomfort it brings is not commensurate to the attention and curiosity you are getting.
Hand-Me Don’ts
People will also give you clothes during this time, which is great, but sometimes these well-meaning polyester gifts will come with knowing advice such as, “Wear this when you want to feel sexy,” and inside you will laugh uproariously and also later out loud with your husband because all you’ve been doing is peeing yourself, sweating profusely, and getting huge throbbing ear zits for the past six months.—Online
