Choosing maternity wear - best pregnancy clothing buys UK

Choosing maternity wear can be a real buzz: your pregnancy has begun to show, your skin and hair are glowing and you're feeling on top of the world. However, don't rush out to buy UK maternity clothes before you need them. Your own clothes will probably only start to feel tight at about week 20 in a first pregnancy, and a little earlier in a subsequent or multiple pregnancy.

The best bet is to buy a few well-chosen pieces for your maternity wardrobe. Opt for stretchy fabrics in plain colours, stripes and patterns can make you look bigger than you are. Avoid anything with a tight waistband as it may restrict your blood flow and make sure that there's enough loose material around the bottom and in front so that as your bump grows it doesn't pull to the front and bunch around your bum. If you're planning to breast feed choose tops that give easy access to your breasts.

Specialized maternity wear shops, department stores and mail-order catalogues are the best places to buy. If you can, try on maternity wear before you buy; although it may look big enough on the hanger you really can't tell until you wear it yourself. Opt for designs with a number of button fasteners or Velcro so that as your bump grows the waistband can simply expand.

One of the most important pieces of maternity wear is the maternity bra. Initially bra extenders - extra fastening hooks to create more space - may work but as your breasts grow you'll need new support bras. It's very important that your breasts are well supported during pregnancy as this minimises the risk of stretch marks and saggy breasts after the birth.

If you have the option, get measured properly and invest in a good bra. By the time you give birth your breasts may be two cup sizes larger than normal and your chest measurement will have also expanded as your ribs spread to make room for the baby. You'll generally need a new bra size by week 24 and another size by week 36. At this later stage you may want to opt for a nursing bra that you can use after the birth. If you've got large or heavy breasts you can also buy a lightweight sleep bra to be worn at night.

When buying bras opt for designs with wide, adjustable straps that distribute the weight evenly and don't dig into the skin. Buy cotton bras rather than ones made of synthetic fibres as they allow the skin to breathe. A broad band under the cups will support the breasts as they get heavier, and a hook and eye back allows the bra to be loosened as the chest expands. Avoid all underwire bras as they can pinch or damage the breast tissue.

You may also want to invest in some maternity tights - the high waistband helps to keep your tights up and the support nature of the materials used help to prevent aching feet and varicose veins. Support belts may also help with aching legs and backs and are a great investment for multiple pregnancies. However, it's important not to wear them all the time as they can weaken the abdominal muscles.

While pregnant avoid wearing high heels as they can affect your posture and contribute to back pain. Opt for comfortable, flat shoes and try to alternate your shoes to give your feet the most room. In the last stages of pregnancy you may want to avoid lace ups as you'll have difficulty bending over to tie them.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Maternity Wear