How to Choose the Right Maternity Size (When Your Body Keeps Changing)

How to Choose the Right Maternity Size

The biggest maternity shopping mistake is buying for the body you have today. Your bump, bust, and hips will keep changing — so the goal is clothing that grows with you.

Start With Your Pre-Pregnancy Size

Most quality maternity wear is designed to fit your pre-pregnancy size through all trimesters, with built-in stretch and room for the bump. If you were an M before pregnancy, an M in true maternity wear will usually see you through.

How to Measure Correctly

Use a soft measuring tape and measure over light clothing:

• Bust: Around the fullest part.
• Waist (pre-bump): Your natural waist — note this even as it changes.
• Hips: Around the widest point.

Compare against the size chart on each product page rather than assuming across brands.

When Should You Size Up?

Size up only if:

• You're carrying multiples.
• A specific style runs fitted (co-ord sets and ethnic wear can).
• You want a piece to double as postpartum/nursing wear.

Buy Pieces That Last Beyond Pregnancy

Empire waists, wrap styles, and oversized fits stay wearable postpartum. This is where your money works hardest.

Browse size-inclusive styles in Maternity Dresses, Maternity Ethnic Wear, and Maternity Co-Ord Sets.

Related reads: Maternity Nursing Tops Buying Guide