Expecting a new bundle of joy can be a lot of fun for prospective parents, and a lot of that fun comes from shopping – both for the new baby, as well as for the mom-to-be. When you wake up and suddenly find that your clothes no longer fit as they should, it’s time to go shopping – either for traditional clothing in larger sizes, or maternity clothing.
To help you avoid splurges, and blowing your budget, you should go shopping armed with this maternity clothing checklist – don’t leave home without it!
• The first thing you should know is that maternity clothing can be quite pricey, because it’s a basic necessity for expectant mothers. To just get the basic maternity wear, you can expect to spend a minimum of $500, depending on which maternity stores you are shopping at.
• You need to think about the season, so that you can purchase what you need for the weather. If you’re expecting to be late in your pregnancy during the cold winter months, then you’ll likely need a warm coat, unless you can still fit into your old one.
Warm sweaters or sweatshirts will be necessary, along with some maternity pants made of heavy fabrics to protect you from the freezing air outside. If you’ll be attending any parties or special events, especially around holiday time, you may want to purchase a couple of dressy maternity outfits, just for those occasions. Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you have to run around being frumpy all the time!
• Underwear is also important, because you’ll need extra support for your rapidly expanding breasts and tummy. Maternity bras and panties are expensive, but essential.
If you’re planning to nurse, you may be able to save some money by just purchasing quality nursing bras now, rather than buying maternity bras now, then more nursing bras for after the baby is born.
You need to be careful to make sure you get the right bra size, and if in doubt, have someone help you take your measurements before shopping. A good bra while you’re pregnant can help prevent sagging breasts later.
Panties should have a cotton crotch, and be stretchy enough to be comfortable. You may need to purchase a couple of different sizes, smaller ones for now, and few larger pairs for the months to come.
• Shoes are also important, because you may go up a size during your pregnancy, or at the very least have to deal with swollen feet that can make shoes uncomfortable. If you’re delivering in the summer months, you may be able to get by with a comfy pair of slippers, sandals, or flip-flops.
For colder weather, you may have to shop around some to find shoes that are warm enough, while still providing comfort and stability. Non-slip bottoms are important, since falls when you are expecting can be very dangerous to both mother and baby.
• If you’re carrying twins, or have an unusually big baby, you may also want to consider purchasing some type of maternity support to help lessen the strain of your expanding belly and breasts on your back and hips.
These supports are expensive, but are well worth the money, especially if you’re on your feet a lot or are already experiencing back and hip pain due to carrying around on that extra weight.
Maternity clothes are important, and shouldn’t be skimped on. You can save money by purchasing used maternity clothing, as long as the quality is there!