by AmberRMW

Created on: April 02, 2007   Last Updated: August 07, 2009

Whether you're a first time mom eager to make the jump to maternity clothing, or an experienced mom who would like to stay in their regular clothes as long as possible, it is inevitable: you will need maternity clothes. Whether that time comes in your second month or your seventh month, it will come. The hardest part is dealing with the fact that you are buying an entire wardrobe for only a few months and that so many maternity clothing lines are aware of this and attempt to get every penny out of you while they can.

However, you can look stylish and have an extensive maternity wardrobe without dropping thousand's of dollars. Look for sales, and not just from stores that specialize in maternity wear. Stores such as Old Navy, JC Penney's, Target and more have great looking maternity clothes and often have amazing deals. If it is winter and you know you are having a summer baby, buy up all the out-of-season clothes at amazing markdowns. I went to Old Navy in November while they had all of their clearance items an additional 50 percent off and came out with two tank tops, two shirts and a pair of capris for around $10. I couldn't even believe the deals I got.

Do not be afraid of buying maternity clothes used. Normally they are in great condition (seeing how their is a nine-month limit to their wear and tear) and are often found at a great price from a mom eager for more diaper money. I have hit consignment sales, garage sales and slightly used stores to get what I need for both work and casual wear.

And, after baby comes, know your time line for the next child. If you think it will be soon, keep what the maternity clothes you have so you can just add to it when the time comes for the next child. However, if it will be a few years, consider selling them to another mom looking for as good a deal as you got. And remember, even if you paid $50 for a maternity shirt you never wore, no one else wants to pay that price. Be reasonable, and know that your loss will be another soon-to-be mom's gain.

Learn more about this author, AmberRMW.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.