How to Find Good Secondhand Maternity Wear

While the thought of buying new clothes every few months might thrill some, it can feel like a burden to many expectant mothers. If you'd prefer to budget extra money for baby's needs or splurge on a pedicure, consider secondhand clothes as a low-cost and no-cost maternity wear option.

Instructions

1. Network with relatives and friends, who might have a drawer full of maternity clothes they'd love to get rid of, or might be generous enough to lend a few things out.

2. Organize a clothing swap or exchange with the women in your birthing and Lamaze classes. Talk to your church or temple about a maternity-wear clothing drive for current and future moms-to-be.

3. Shop the online auction houses. Many new moms sell their maternity wear for a fraction of retail prices.

4. Head to your local vintage and thrift stores. You may find slips that could work as lingerie, in addition to maternity basics such as leggings and button-down shirts.

5. Shop consignment stores for deals on professional and formalwear. Some may actually have a maternity section, and many will have sizes large enough to get you through your first and second trimester.

Tips & Warnings

• Raid your husband's, brother's or dad's closet. You'll find button-down shirts, T-shirts, shorts and sweats that could become part of your casual maternity wardrobe.

• If the holidays or a relative's wedding coincide with your pregnancy, consider renting a dress. Check the yellow pages for shops that rent special-occasion or formalwear to women.

• Always shop on secure and reputable Web sites.