Whether you choose to buy high-quality maternity clothes or less expensive options, you are going to want 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.
To ensure you get the right maternity clothes for your size, check out our recommended maternity size guide.
Here are our tips for maternity clothes to avoid:
- Check labels: Clothes that are labeled 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 fibers or blends with a high natural fiber 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. Check out our maternity clothes size guide 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. Here’s why!
- Shoes with heels: Yes, you should avoid stilettos, high heels and shoes with wedges when pregnant.
If you are looking for a range of comfortable shoes to wear during pregnancy, take a look at our recommendations. There are some boots, sneakers, sandals and even work shoes.
Do you have a tip to share? What one item of clothing (or footwear) would you recommend to avoid during pregnancy?