Ok so if u r pregnant or know someone who is, then u must hv heard about maternity dresses, rite? But like what r they exactly and why can’t we just wear normal dresses? I was also confused till I did some digging. So yeah lemme tell u some stuff here, but idk if I’m totally right lol.
What’s a maternity dress anyway?
Basically it’s a dress made specially for preggo ladies coz normal dresses start to get tight and uncomfortable once ur belly grows. Like, u can’t fit in ur old dresses after some months so maternity dresses give u room to grow and still look good-ish.
They r usually loose or stretchy and sometimes have elastic parts or ties so u can adjust as u get bigger. Also, fabric is soft mostly coz pregnant skin is sensitive and u sweat more sometimes.
Why wear maternity dresses tho? Can’t I just wear my regular clothes?
Well u can try but honestly it gets super annoying after a while. Imagine squeezing ur bump into something tight and itchy, no one wants that. Plus ur body changes fast so clothes that fit now will prob not fit later.
Maternity dresses r made to give support where u need it and make u feel comfy, not like ur squeezing into a sausage lol.
Also, when ur mood is all over the place, dressing comfy can help u feel better about urself.
Different types of maternity dresses – there’s a bunch actually
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Maxi dresses: long and flowy, covers ur belly easily and comfy for everyday
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Wrap dresses: have ties u can loosen or tighten, super flattering and useful even after baby comes
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Bodycon dresses: if u wanna show ur bump (and why not) but make sure its stretchy or u’ll feel trapped
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Empire waist dresses: tight under bust and loose after, good for early pregnancy or if u want something loose
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Shirt dresses: button down style, easy to wear and can be nursing dresses later too
Fabric stuff
Pregnancy can make ur skin sensitive or sweaty so pick soft breathable fabrics like cotton, bamboo or jersey. Avoid rough or stiff ones or ur skin will hate u.
Stretchy fabrics r best but not the ones that get saggy and loose after washing, that’s annoying.
Where to buy?
U can find maternity dresses online or stores but selection varies. Big brands like Mothercare or ASOS Maternity r popular but also check local stores or thrift shops for bargains.
If ur broke (like me) thrift or resale sites r gold mines.
Styling tips for maternity dresses
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Layer with cardigan or jacket if it’s cold
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Wear comfy flats or sneakers, heels r risky coz balance is tricky when pregnant
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Simple jewelry like small earrings or pendants
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Add a soft belt above belly for shape but don’t tighten it too much or u’ll regret
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Scarves can add color and cover up if dress is low cut
When to wear maternity dresses?
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Casual: maxi or shirt dresses r great for running errands or chilling at home
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Work: wrap dresses or shirt dresses in neutral colors look professional
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Party: dressier maternity dresses with lace or satin make u look fancy but still comfy
Mistakes I’ve seen people do buying maternity dresses
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Buying too many too early when size keeps changing
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Choosing fashion over comfort and ending up miserable
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Buying tight dresses that don’t grow with u
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Forgetting postpartum use for nursing
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Not checking size charts properly coz brands vary a lot
Can u wear maternity dresses after pregnancy?
Totally! Wrap dresses and shirt dresses work great for nursing and postpartum comfort. So it’s kinda like a two in one deal.
Price range
They can be cheap or super expensive. Like u can get one for 500 INR or $10 or pay a lot for designer ones. Sales and discounts r lifesavers.
Final thoughts
Pregnancy is crazy and uncomfortable enough so don’t add more stress with clothes. Maternity dresses r there to help u feel comfy and look decent.
Invest in a few good ones that fit well and u like. Comfort should always come first coz ur body is doing so much work.