We all want to be fashionable and have stylish clothes, even if we’re pregnant. Thank heavens for manufacturers that have come up with younger and fresher designs for the younger generation. However, pregnancy clothes are expensive. A shirt alone will cost around P350 to P400. Now if these were shirts that I could wear post-pregnancy I’d buy it. Shorts sell around P400 to P600 depending on the brand, while pants range between P500 to P1,200. Maternity clothes are expensive, no doubt about that, but what are we supposed to wear if we’re on a tight budget?
Your workplace should be considered first and foremost. If you work in a company that provides office uniform, then you may have to order a new set of maternity wear. If however, you wear your own clothes, then keep in mind the dress code in your office building. Your office pregnancy clothes can actually revolve around a few pairs of pants, dresses and about 7 to 8 blouses. My advice is to buy 3 or 4 pairs of solid colored slacks, a pair or two of denims. You can also opt for leggings and capris that are appropriate for your working environment. Buy some dresses if you want to dress up for the weekend or if you have a party to attend. You just have to learn to accessorize with scarves, jewelry and even your jackets.
Drawstring pants, shorts and slacks may not look all that fashionable to you; but it’s actually very comfortable to wear. Look for larger sizes if you don’t want to buy expensive pregnancy clothes. Aside from “normal” clothes being cheaper, you can still use them in the future – if you ever fill out and gain weight.
If you have old shorts, capris, pants and slacks that still fit you, you can have a seamstress modify them for you, or you can buy a belly belt. This is more cost efficient than buying a new pair. You’re also helping the environment through recycling. Don’t worry that you won’t be able to wear them, because you’ll probably have other opportunities to do so if you plan on getting pregnant again. You can also lend them to friends and relatives.
It’s fashionable to wear those tent blouses. So you probably won’t have a hard time finding a larger size that will fit you. The blouses and shirts are easier to find, so you don’t have to buy a dozen in one shopping spree. Take your time and just buy as your tummy bulges out. What you can wear on your 6th month might not fit you on your 8th or final month of pregnancy.
If like me, you work or stay at home most of the time. You can just buy extra large shorts with elastic waistbands. Sundresses are my favorite. Not only are they airy and comfortable, you can actually use them when you go to the mall. Just choose colors that flatter your complexion and don’t go over the top with bright neon pinks, greens and oranges.
Don’t buy too many clothes, as I presume that you have sisters, cousins or friends who have become pregnant. You can wear these hand-me-downs, just choose the ones that don’t look too well worn. If you have bulkier or larger relatives, you can also try out their clothes; especially the dresses. Friends are willing to lend out clothes as long as you return them. Make sure that you know who you’ll be returning the clothes to at the end of your pregnancy.
If you have other tips, please feel free to comment here. I’d love to hear what other moms have to say.
