We always want to look our best. This also applies to our special time in life, i.e. when you are pregnant. When a maternity apparel market research was conducted, most women reported ‘comfort’ as the first factor that they consider vital while buying their maternity apparel, pregnant women wanted fashionable yet comfortable clothes and companies started to focus on this demand. The global maternity apparel market is expected to cross $7 billion by 2023 and is likely to grow at a CAGR of more than 2% during the forecast period 2016–2023.
Every conceiving mother is different and therefore, each pregnancy is different. There’s a number of buzz words out there in the maternity apparel market about ‘maternity essentials’ but this can vary between each pregnant mother. While someone may suggest you to buy two pairs of maternity leggings and stretchy jeans because they lived in them, this may or may not suit you. Maternity apparel is not that one hat that can be worn by all. We need to be selective and sensitive to our own selves while making a purchasing decision.
The maternity apparel market report suggests the various factors one should consider when buying maternity clothes and to ensure they last throughout your pregnancy and beyond.
- What season is it now and when are you due?
Yes, that’s a very cute baby doll polka dot maternity dress and would look great on someone who is 8 months pregnant, but what season is it going to be when you’re in your maximum pregnancy term. Is it the scorching heat of summer or will it be the pouring monsoon?You may find that exclusive winter jacket but you may decide on stealing your husbands for 6 weeks instead of forking out. Have a think about how big you are going to be and what the temp is likely to be. This will help determine when to buy maternity clothes.
- What is your personal style?
Think of what is your usual style and what are the favourite pieces in your wardrobe. The idea is to stick to them but in a maternity version. Don’t attempt to wear something out in public if you aren’t comfortable in it. The maternity apparel market size is huge and has so much to offer. Don’t go for a clingy maternity tank if you’ve never worn Lycra before. If you don’t like wearing dresses then don’t start now. The same goes for tops, sleeves, V-neck, jeans etc. The intelligence lies in selecting a few key pieces and accessorizing around them. - What are you going to be doing during your pregnancy?
If you are going to continue to work in an office right up until your due date, you might not need 4 pairs of pregnancy jeans. Work out what you will be doing for the next 10-11 months and purchase accordingly. Remember that it will take some time to get back to your pre-baby weight so be ready to keep wearing some of your pregnancy clothing after you have your baby too. - Assess your body, breast and weight
All women experience some weight gain, which can vary. It’s best to try garments on before you buy them and sometimes this is not just with a pillow on your belly. Not only is your belly growing but your hip bones are expanding to accommodate your belly, your organs are being pushed towards your spine, your breasts are getting bigger and are tender, your ribcage is unlocking and to top it all off your feet are swelling and your ankles are pulsing under the added pressure. Try to only buy items as they are required, as you may be disappointed and this can also become a costly exercise. Not only may they not fit you in size but also, they may not suit you and your belly either.
