During your first trimester, your body will slowly begin to expand in order to make room for your baby. But it will happen so gradually that you may not need to immediately purchase maternity clothes for the office. In fact, there are plenty of stopgap measures you can incorporate before you finally make the transition to pregnancy wear. For example, unfasten one of the top buttons on your pants and untuck your blouse to cover the space. You can also wrap a rubber band around the loose button to provide a little extra breathing room.

Eventually, you'll need to shift your workplace wardrobe to maternity wear. In this article, we'll provide a few helpful hints for making the transition as seamlessly as possible.

Making The Transition To Maternity Clothes

Right before pregnancy clothes become essential for maintaining your comfort, you'll enter a transition period. It's during this time that your body will appear as if you have gained a few pounds, but few people would guess you're pregnant. Skirts with elastic waistbands will still fit comfortably and conveniently, though you may need to move up a size. You'll be able to get away with wearing long shirts, cardigans, and low-rise pants for a short time as your tummy grows.

Before long, your body will have passed the point beyond which normal office clothes will suffice. You'll need to officially transition into maternity wear. By this time, you should have a good idea regarding the type of outfits you'd like to own for your wardrobe.

Building Your Wardrobe

The type of clothing you purchase should reflect the normal attire worn at the office. Some workplaces maintain a protocol of strict business wear while others are far more causal (though still professional). Assuming your office leans toward business attire, consider buying seven or eight pieces in complimentary colors that you can mix and match. Buy one or two pairs of pants, a jacket, a skirt, a few blouses, and a dress. By mixing and matching, you should be able to create nearly a dozen outfits, and even more if you mix in a few cardigans.

Also, consider asking friends and family who have had children whether you can borrow some of their old workplace pregnancy clothes. Even if you only manage to work a few extra items into your growing wardrobe, you'll be able to create a large number of new looks.

Dressing For Evening Events

Many companies organize evening events at which their employees are expected to make an appearance. This may have been a simple matter of scheduling before you became pregnant. Now, with a growing stomach, attending requires a little fashion finesse.

First, black is always a good choice for evening wear because it has a slimming effect and it's appropriate regardless of the season. Second, black is an ideal color for adding hints of jewelry and other accessories. Small earrings, a thin necklace, or even a colorful scarf can add a subtle splash of style and sophistication. This is an opportunity to indulge yourself in a high-quality suit or dress that fits comfortably and looks great.

Shopping On A Limited Budget

Many maternity wear designers have priced their clothes at an affordable level for working women. Even so, creating an entire wardrobe can put a strain on any budget. As mentioned earlier, begin listing the office maternity clothes you want to buy before your body forces you to make the transition. Start with seven or eight items that you can mix and match for a variety of different looks. Then, splurge and buy an attractive, elegant evening outfit that you can use for company events and going on dates with your partner.

Consider these clothes an investment in your comfort and confidence. They'll help you maintain your professional appearance leading up to your maternity leave.