Hey, mama to be! We heard you’re about to start shopping for maternity clothes, and we want to let you know that we are here for you every step of the way! Shopping for bump-friendly clothes can be an emotionally trying process because there are so many things you have to come to terms with. With that being said, we also think that shopping for maternity clothes can be fun and exciting. So, let’s go maternity clothes shopping together. We have put together a list of tips on how to shop for your new clothes, as well as deal with any of the emotions you may be feeling at this time. But let’s get one thing straight: You’ve got this!
Learn to Embrace Your Beautiful Body
As women, our bodies grow and change so often, throughout our many phases of life, but they change the most when we are pregnant because we are carrying a growing life. This is such a beautiful and powerful transformation that our bodies have to make, but it can be hard to remember that. We equate our worth with the way our bodies look, and it’s not our fault. As women, we receive so many messages from the media and our peers about how our bodies should look.
But, thanks to the body positivity movement, we are starting to break free from the unrealistic societal beauty standards that keep us at war with our bodies. If you need a little extra help embracing your new and ever-changing body, follow body-positive bloggers or fellow moms on Instagram who are confidently rocking their bodies. This will encourage you to own and rock yours as well.
Do You Need Maternity Clothes?
Some pregnant women need maternity clothes and would prefer to wear them, while other women find that they get along just fine with their stylish bump-friendly maxi dresses. If you are more interested in keeping your current wardrobe, there are many different accessories to help you make your clothes work for your body like belly bands that allow you to wear your favorite pair of jeans.
Think About the Clothes that Make You Feel Comfortable
What do you love to wear these days? Do you feel comfortable in leggings, dresses, skirts, or maybe even jeans? Take note of the clothes you usually go for so that you can keep in mind your comfort when you’re ready to go shopping.
Determine Which Clothes Make You More Confident
Confidence is key—especially during this time where you are presented with the challenge of your body always changing. Our confidence is linked to clothing—so much so, that an outfit can instantly change your mood and outlook. And the clothes you feel comfortable in may not be the same clothes that make you feel confident. That’s why it’s important to take a look at both your comfort zone and confident desires so that we can marry the two while shopping for your new wardrobe.
Research Stores that Align with Your Style
There are so many brands that offer maternity sizes, as well as brands that are solely dedicated to selling maternity clothing. This means that you are destined to find a brand that makes clothing that falls in line with your current style. Pick a few brands that resonate with you and make you excited to shop for maternity clothing.
To Shop In-Store or Online?
It’s much easier to shop online these days because you have access to so many more options, but there is also appeal to shopping in person and trying things on to see how they fit. If you haven’t shopped for maternity clothing before and you aren’t quite sure of your sizing, it could be beneficial for you to shop in-store if you can. That way, you can find out what fits, what you feel comfortable in, and what you look good wearing. Once you have established your sizing, you can use that shop online at any store.
Tackle Dressing Room Anxiety
While being able to try on your new maternity clothes can be helpful in many ways, it can also be a tough process. No one likes having to try on multiple sizes when they feel uncomfortable in their bodies. So, to mitigate any insecurities or fears you are having around trying on clothes, develop a mantra or a few positive affirmations you can recite to yourself before you enter the dressing room or when you feel insecurities arising.
Your mantra could sound something like this: “My body is so strong and capable. My body is beautiful. I feel radiant and confident. I am worthy.” Reciting a mantra in a time of doubt has been proven to be very helpful to boost confidence. So, when you’re in doubt, say your mantra to yourself until you start to own what you are saying.
Shop for Items That Will Accommodate Your Body
Over the course of your pregnancy, your body will change week to week and maybe even day today. But you don’t want to be shopping for new clothing every time your body changes, which is why it’s important to get clothing that will grow with your body. Tunic tops are a great option that will contour to your curves while leaving you feeling comfortable and confident. These tops will follow you throughout your entire pregnancy, and they may even be worn after you give birth. We love versatile garments like these!
We understand that shopping for new clothing while learning to embrace your new body can be challenging to your mind and spirit, but we have full confidence that you will be able to shine through it.