- Maternity clothing used to be a voluminous covering of cloth designed to hide a pregnancy for as long as possible. These days, maternity clothing is designed to fit and flatter a pregnant body, allowing women to be both stylish and comfortable through all three trimesters. Some trendy maternity clothing has a designer price tag attached, leading thrifty pregnant women to consider more economical options. Since pregnancy is a time-limited condition, secondhand maternity clothing is often in new or like-new condition and costs much less than retail prices.
- Since pregnancy is a time-limited condition, secondhand maternity clothing is often in new or like-new condition and costs much less than retail prices. For women who live in more remote areas, buying secondhand maternity clothing online offers a wider selection than a local store or two with one rack of maternity wear. For women who move through a wide range of sizes during a pregnancy, secondhand items will allow for a full wardrobe all the time instead of two pairs of sweatpants and a tank top. Also, pregnancy can be a time to re-evaluate personal style. Since a curvier size and shape is more socially acceptable during pregnancy, women can show it off with some secondhand pieces that are outside of their fashion comfort zone without spending a fortune.
- While the size marked on a piece of brand-new clothing may be an excellent indicator of how large or small the piece is, this may not hold true for secondhand items. In secondhand stores, a wide variety of pieces may fit well regardless of the size marked on the tag. Even a few washings may turn an extra-large tunic shirt into large or even a medium, so it's important to try the piece on and evaluate it for comfort, fit and attractiveness. When purchasing secondhand clothing online, it's important to have accurate measurements of the belly at its roundest point, bust circumference and shoulder-to-waist length. Don't buy something unless the seller is willing to provide measurements, because those are your best indicators of fit when you can't try on the actual item. Returns are usually not accepted for online auctions of secondhand items, so check the listing carefully before bidding.
- Choosing a neutral color like black, chocolate brown or gray for pants, skirts and suits makes it easier to buy coordinating shirts and accessories. Make a list of needed pieces before shopping, and stick to it. Sometimes secondhand stores have basic pieces, but you may have to splurge on a few basics such as dress pants or jeans to get the right size and style.
- Paying secondhand prices does not have to mean settling for a low-quality garment. Check each piece for holes, stains, or other defects before buying, and don't hesitate to ask for a lower price on items that need extra repair or cleaning.
