What to bear in mind when planning your pregnancy wardrobe
•Invest in the basics of jeans, black trousers, a few good-quality tops and properly-fitted bras. Try to buy complementary colours, so you can mix and match your wardrobe.
•Think about how the clothes will fit into your lifestyle and whether you need a separate work wardrobe.
•Make use of shoes and other accessories - these can brighten up a basic maternity outfit and will outlast the pregnancy.
•For more expensive items, aim to get classic styles that will remain fashionable and will fit during and after the pregnancy, such as wrap tops or trousers and skirts with inner adjustable waistbands.
•Think about what season it will be when you will be heavily pregnant and buy accordingly. If you are expecting in summer, go for breathable fabrics such as cotton. If you are expecting in winter, wear layers you can peel off easily if you are too warm.
•If you are buying online, order in the size you were before pregnancy, unless you know the clothes are small-fitting. If in doubt, e-mail the supplier for a siz\e chart. Maternity clothes are often cut to be roomier around the chest and back, and ordering a larger size than you would normally wear could make you look square or shapeless.