10 helpful tips when dressing for two
BEING pregnant is no excuse for losing your sense of fashion, but this doesn’t mean that you should try to squeeze yourself into the same clothes you were wearing pre-baby to avoid wearing some of the ghastly pregnancy fashion items on the market.
Arnetta Brown-Porter, managing director of Baby Complete, a store, which caters to the needs of both mom and baby from conception to beyond, offers these tips:
1. Buy your right size. The rule of thumb — use your pre-pregnancy size as a guideline except for circumstances where you have gained very much additional weight. Then, you may have to choose a bigger size.
2. Don’t be trapped into buying plus sizes. These will not flatter your body as they may be too loose or baggy. Buy maternity clothing which are bigger in the right places.
3. Shop for quality, not quantity. Remember, quality is not always expensive. There are always reasonably-priced alternatives.
4. Choose pattern and colours which flatter your body type and skin tone.
5. Ensure that the garments are constructed in a way to accommodate your growing bump. Tops and dresses should have extra length so that you are appropriately covered.
6. Empire waistlines and adjustable waist garments will extend the wear-life of the garment to the full term of the pregnancy and post pregnancy.
7. Choose breathable fabrics such as cotton.
8. Wear appropriate undergarment, especially brassieres. Get them fitted as your breast grows. Remember, your breasts must always be supported and cared for.
9. Experiment with maternity accessories such as belly bands to make your pre-pregnancy clothing serve you a little longer while you transition into maternity wear.
10. Select a maternity store where they understand your needs during this period.
