Pregnancy Clothes Must-Haves: A Capsule Wardrobe
The idea of a capsule wardrobe isn’t new, but it was to me and has made a massive difference in my wardrobe. If you’re new to the term, capsule wardrobes are a selection of pieces in your closet that are interchangeable. Meaning every piece complements the other. This sustainable clothing practice is also an excellent option for expecting moms.
Although the time you spend carrying your child flies by, you’ll end up purchasing new items for your wardrobe. If you’ve experienced weight fluctuations over the years or have a tendency to dress in baggier clothes, you might be able to get away with wearing items you already have. Still, by the time your third trimester rolls around, it’s a safe bet you’ll be purchasing some new clothes.
Enter the maternity capsule wardrobe. With the purchase of only a few pieces, you’ll curate an accessible, sustainable, and fashionable rotation of outfits that will make the process of dressing your growing belly a little easier. Plus, it cuts down your morning routine, which is good to start implementing before your little girl or guy makes their way into the world.
First, go through your closet.
Before making any big purchases, rummage through your closet and take inventory of what you have. Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you won’t be able to wear all the clothes in your wardrobe for the entire nine months. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Open-front cardigans, zippered or buttoned jackets, and button-down flannels can typically be worn all 40 weeks. While you most likely won’t be able to close any of them once you reach the third trimester, you can use them for layering. Stretchy clothing items like yoga pants and leggings will be your favorite pieces as your pregnancy progresses but may become too tight if they don’t sit below your belly.
Once you’ve decided what pieces you’ll be able to wear and what won’t be worn until after your baby arrives, rearrange your closet for easier access to your maternity-friendly clothes. Shove those tight jeans and form-fitting tops to the back and bring the stretchy, overside, and comfy pieces to the front. Then, you’re ready to start supplementing your wardrobe with maternity clothes, creating your nine-month style capsule.
Maternity Dresses
Many of my friends swore by dresses during their pregnancies, with one swearing by her favorite long maternity dress, which I’m pretty sure she wore every week during the last trimester. And I don’t blame her; they’re stylish, comfortable, and made her frequent trips to the bathroom easier.
Dresses also highlight your growing baby bump in the cutest way. So whether you get a maternity bodycon dress or find a flowy dress with an empire waist, not having any item of clothing constricting your belly is really helpful. Depending on your dress’s style and the season you’re wearing it, pair it with one of your cardigans or jackets.
Open-faced Cardigans, Wraps, and Jackets
This section of your wardrobe is why it’s a good idea to take inventory of your closet before rushing out to purchase all new pieces. Odds are, you’ll have some great jackets, cardigans, wraps, or shawls that will still fit throughout your pregnancy. Having a few cute pieces of outerwear that pair with the other items in your capsule is such a game-changer.
Maternity Leggings
While your regular leggings will still fit up until your second trimester, your growing baby will start to test their limits. There are some phenomenal maternity leggings out there made with quality materials that don’t become see-through as your body grows to accommodate your baby. I promise you will wear them constantly. No waste of money here!
Long Tank Tops
What goes great with maternity leggings? A long tank top. They are arguably the foundation of your maternity wardrobe, as their versatility is really unmatched. It doesn’t matter what season you’re pregnant in; you will wear a long tank top. It will be your saving grace for layering in the colder months and your sweet relief for dressing in the heat of summer.
Versatile Shirts
The tops you choose for your capsule wardrobe depend heavily on the season in which you’re pregnant. Still, as nine months spans a few seasons, I’d recommend sticking to the layering approach as much as possible. For example, purchase one or two long sleeve shirts and the rest, go with short or quarter-length sleeves. Most women run hotter during pregnancy, so you don’t want only to have long-sleeve options.
One last thing: Invest in a belly band.
The invention is magic for extending the amount of time you can wear your regular jeans by sliding over unbuttoned or unzipped pants without anyone knowing. Plus, the mild compression of the material supports your hips and lower back which is a game-changer for inevitable pregnancy pain.