by Stacey Miller

Created on: January 02, 2010

One of the many joys of being pregnant is the opportunity to update your current wardrobe to accommodate your beautiful growing figure. If you have reached a point in your pregnancy where your regular clothes are beginning to feel a little stretched at the seams, here are some economical options for finding maternity clothes that will work for your changing body.

1) Get the basics: Depending on your day to day activities you will require different wardrobe necessities. As a career woman I have found it necessary to own 3 pairs of dress pants (black, brown, grey is a great place to start), 2 dresses, 2 skirts and about 8 tops that you can mix and match. Thy high stockings/nylons, rather than expensive maternity specific leggings or nylons, may also be a wardrobe staple for you. A couple larger cardigans are handy if you have not yet hit the point where you seem to be a human heater. Keep in mind that most people do not notice if you where the same black pants 3 times a week, just jazz up your outfits with cute accessories, as necklaces and earrings will always fit. 

I also have found a need for about 3 pairs of casual pants (jeans or Khakis) and large supply of lounge pants and casual cotton tees. Remember that comfort for a growing belly is key, but you still want to look appropriate for your surroundings. 

2) Think outside the box: Regular women's clothing may work, look for long shirts, empire cuts and stretchy waistbands. Now is a great time for pregnancy friendly styles. Many stores house clothing cuts that flatter a rounding belly. Look for shirts that flow away from the body and have a bit of lycra in them for comfort. Also, keep you eyes peeled for skirts with stretchy waistbands and flowy cotton dresses, again with some lycra in them. These items are fairly easy to find and will transition to your regular wardrobe with ease. 

3) Remember this wardrobe is for now, not forever: Accepting hand-me-downs may be a great way to stretch your wardrobe. Many people have friends or family members that are in a similar stage of life and will be more than happy to give you clothing that they are done using. If this is an option for you, think about using your friends’ generosity as a point for expanding you wardrobe. Remember most people are happy to give to friends in need rather than storing  boxes of clothing that no longer fit.

4) Swollen feet need extra attention: If you are one of the many people that suffer from swollen feet, you

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