Replies

1. 
   Jen_Donnelly | Jun 16, 1999 12:39am | #1

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   Cheryl- I was looking at the maternity patterns in the Burda catalog- they had some much nicer things that didn't look sacklike or childish. I don't need maternity patterns right now, but hope I will within a year or so. I'm such a pattern junkie that I've already scoped out the maternity pattern scene. You're right, there is very little to choose from! Also, you should check out Sewing Workshop patterns. (www.sewingworkshop.com, NAYY) They have some very interesting tops that I have heard make excellent maternity wear, with a sophisticated, artistic look.

   As far as alterations of existing patterns, I have heard you should go up a size, and then split your front piece down the center front and across the front, level with the part of your belly that is sticking out the furthest. Then you pull the four corners apart. This adds fabric where you need it most. Of course, you may also need to add additional length, particularly in the front, because your belly will cause the front of your top to rise.

   Unfortunately, I think that unless you have already had a child, you don't really know how you will carry, or when you will need to go into maternity clothes, or what you will personally find comfortable. My MIL never needed to wear maternity clothes with her first child. So I think I will wait until the last possible minute to decide what to do.

1. 
   Carol_Fresia | Jun 16, 1999 01:38am | #2

   *You could always wait till you are just starting to outgrow your regular clothes (I think I was in my 5th month before my normal clothes didn't fit, so you may have plenty of time), and then go snoop shopping at one of the nicer maternity shops. The prices in these places are, in my opinion, way too high, but they do often have nice styles in fashionable fabrics, so you can get some idea of what will look good on you, what's comfortable (there are various ways of building in space in front, some less flattering or pleasant to wear than others), and what size works best. Some of these stores specialize in career-wear and offer good alternatives to the big flowered smock. And of course I'm sure you could find one of those t-shirts that were popular (WHY??!!) a few years ago that say "BABY" with an arrow pointing down. Yeeks.

1. 
   Susan_Dryer | Jun 16, 1999 06:39am | #3

   *Sandra Betzina in Power Sewing has a good explanation on altering regular patterns for maternity use. Check it out.As for RTW, many of the "better" and more expensive maternity clothes are made of mediocre rayon which must be drycleaned. And what time in your life are you urged more than any other to avoid unnecessary chemical exposure?! I suggest simple styles in lovely washable fabrics. Jumpers with an assortment of blouses with flattering collars and comfortable sleeves in favorite colors and prints can give a lot of choice in attractive ways. Also, accessories can help focus attention on your face (and away from your belly.) A jumper without blouse can be an attractive evening dress. Hope this helps.

1. 
   Sarah_Kayla | Jun 16, 1999 08:48pm | #4

   *I would also check out plus sized ladies clothing for basic tops, t-shirts, silk blouses and turtlenecks. It took me 3 pregnancies to figure it out. The larger sized stuff is made in the same quality as smaller sized clothing and is reasonably priced, as opposed to maternity clothing which is both expensive and cheesy -even the top of the line stuff. The other advantage is that the larger ladies clothing is overside in both the bust and stomach area - the sleeves are too wide but that didn't bother me.I would also check out thrift stores in a really fancy neighborhood. Often a good source for better maternit

1. 
   Sarah_Kayla | Jun 16, 1999 08:49pm | #5

   *I would also check out plus sized ladies clothing for basic tops, t-shirts, silk blouses and turtlenecks. It took me 3 pregnancies to figure it out. The larger sized stuff is made in the same quality as smaller sized clothing and is reasonably priced, as opposed to maternity clothing which is both expensive and cheesy -even the top of the line stuff. The other advantage is that the larger ladies clothing is overside in both the bust and stomach area - the sleeves are too wide but that didn't bother me.I would also check out thrift stores in a really fancy neighborhood. Often a good source for better maternity c

2. 
   Ginna | Jun 17, 1999 09:02pm | #6

   *I used a very minimal wardrobe while I was pregnant because it is not worn for even 1/2 a year. I sewed 2 skirts, a jumper and a jacket that could be worn with all of them. I purchased a pair of jeans and a number of blouses. Everything coordinated so I could make many combinations - in effect, a maternity capsule. I also found that I could wear my regular blouses under the jumper if I only buttoned the top buttons. This certainly stretched my options further. I worked fulltime and this wardrobe saw me through 2 pregnancies very comfortably.

3. 
   Sue_M_Wilson | Jun 18, 1999 07:03am | #7

   *Good topic! My baby (#2) is 6 weeks old, and I had the same challenges!! Adding to the other hints/tips, Vogue has some good maternity patterns that are not too "baby doll" like, especially some nice suits. I also made a Geoffery Beene swing jacket that I sized up which fit me to about 7-8 months or so. The biggest and best tip I can give you is don't buy maternity pantyhose!!! For less money (and better colour options) buy plus sized pantyhose with a panel -- they are exactly like maternity hose. This was especially helpful for me as I'm very tall and maternity pantyhose don't come in tall sizes -- I used the stretch up instead of out. Good luck and good pregnancy!