Looking good through the nine months.

Assemble your maternity wardrobe carefully - you don't have to feel and look frumpy. Thanks to the choices available, the times of hiding expanding stomachs under layers of fabric are finally passe. 

The following are tips to keep in mind when shopping for maternity wear:
 

Size Up

Look for good maternity wear which adjusts to fit your body's needs as you grow and develop physically, readjusts as your body slims down, and can even double as nursing wear. Be careful in selecting appropriate size. Always buy with room-to-grow. You can't imagine how large you'll be at nine months. Dungarees are a great choice.  
 

Splurge A Little

To take care of formal outings it's better to have a few great ensembles than many mediocre ones. Definitely invest in one outfit that makes you feel special. A sexy dress, black velvet pants and a swingy top or a stunning salwar suit can make you look like a million dollars when you feel anything but. 
 

Restrictions A-part

Don't wear tight belts, socks or stockings with elastic bands. Also avoid clothing that may draw attention to your middle. Never-ever wear a belt as a fashion accessory even if you're proud of your new burgeoning belly. It's simply not flattering. 
 

Wear Appropriate Undergarments

You'll look and feel better if your underwear is comfortable. Pregnancy underwear and maternity/nursing bras will make you feel more comfortable, no matter what clothing you're wearing as a top layer. Some things in life you just shouldn't live without! Always remember whatever is most comfortable is best! 
 

Dress Cool

Buy lighter weight garments than you normally would buy. Also layer your clothing. Your metabolic rate increases by about 20 percent when you're pregnant, which means that if everyone else is shivering, you're might find yourself complaining about the heat. With a layered look, you can peel clothes off as needed. On cold days, put a T-shirt or polo under a sweater. 
 

Shoe Sense

This is not the time to be strutting around in stilettos. Choose comfortable, low heeled shoes or shoes with wide, chunky heels instead. And buy slip-ons - bending is a problem later on. Thanks to fluid retention, you'll probably have bigger feet now than you did pre-pregnancy. 
 

Must Do's

• Identify 3 favourite pieces of your pre-pregnancy wardrobe and find them in maternity styles.
• Slenderise your look by wearing the clothes in similar tone. Avoid overuse of scarves with complex patterns.
• Stick to styles that you like and that represent who you are. If you normally wear jeans and T-shirts, wear them while you're pregnant as well.

Some Money Saving Tips

• Pick wisely and well. Maternity clothes work out to be expensive as they are worn for a short time. In fact, for everyday wear the more you can beg, borrow and steal from formerly pregnant friends, the better.
• Some of your best outfits might be right under your nose. Try on all your old formal dresses, even the ones in the back of your closet that you haven't worn in years. Styles change drastically, and you might be surprised that something so old fits well over your new shape.
• Check up your mate's closet before going on a shopping spree. Stretch leggings from a maternity shop paired with a large shirt from your partner's wardrobe works fine for most occasions.
• Wear regular stretch leggings backward during your pregnancy. You have more room in the butt for your belly.
• Buy solid-colored, mix-n-match separates. This can give your wardrobe more flexibility, while stretching your money. Maternity wear is now available in wardrobe mix and match essentials that can work as day wear and extend right into your evening ensemble.
• If you do buy new tops or sweaters, pick up those that will accommodate you at your biggest. 

You don't have to go undercover because you're pregnant. You're having a baby! So don't sacrifice style! Browse around and pick up comfortable clothing to fit your attitude, and your changing body. Wearing comfortable, fun maternity clothes will go a long way in helping you feel good about yourself. It's wonderful to be pregnant. Enjoy it while it lasts!