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Maternity Fashion: Dressing Your Bump on a Budget
Afraid buying maternity clothes will mean breaking the bank? You can build an affordable maternity wardrobe!
Ah, pregnancy. A time for joy. A time for new life. And time for a new wardrobe? Even the most enthusiastic shopper may fret at the thought of spending a fortune on clothes worn for such a short time. Before you break the bank on loads of new maternity outfits, get tips for smart shopping; with luck, your new little bundle of joy will still have a chance at that college education!
Your first visit to a maternity store can be a bit overwhelming. It seems like you need everything from sweatpants to pantyhose. Liz Lange, president and founder of Liz Lange Maternity and author of the new book, Liz Lange's Maternity Style: How to Look Fabulous During the Most Fashion-Challenged Time, suggests waiting until the second trimester to begin shopping for maternity clothes. At that time, if you are shopping on a budget, Lange recommends spending more on basics rather than trendier, less crucial pieces. Her list of basics includes a little black dress, a stretchy men's-style white button down, a great pair of jeans, two pairs of flattering pants (one under-belly, one over-belly), and a skinny little T-shirt. "These items will allow you the freedom to mix and match, and to add some chic accessories for different looks," said Lange.
When buying the basics and beyond, most women want to save as much money as possible. In addition to obvious money-saving strategies such as shopping sales and outlet stores, here are some more creative ways to fill all your maternity needs on a budget.
Borrow
Perhaps the cheapest and easiest route to dress your expanding belly is to borrow from friends and family who have had babies. If you know someone similar in size who had a baby recently, why not take advantage of this connection? If you can't think of anyone to borrow from, send out an email letting people know your quest, and someone is bound to be able to help. Oh, and don't forget your husband on your list of people to borrow from. Although his "bump" may be the result of years of beer and hot wings, some of his shirts just might make a cute, casual look for you.
Related Links
- Article: How to Find a Maternity Swimsuit That Fits and Flatters
- Advice: When Will I Start to Look Pregnant?
- Slideshow: Pregnancy Essentials: What You Can't Live Without!
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