Creating an Affordable Maternity Wardrobe | Mama + Baby

When I first found out I was pregnant, the first time, I must admit I couldn’t wait to go maternity clothes shopping. A valid excuse to go shopping! However, I soon found that many maternity clothes ranges were either very expensive, boring, uncomfortable or impractical. You really only wear maternity clothes for a maximum of six months, usually, so you don’t want to spend too much, however you do want quality as you will wear the pieces quite a few times. I bought a few basics that took me through, however I borrowed quite a few things off friends as well. In the past two years, it seems things have come quite a way, and this time I have been able to find affordable and versatile pieces that look great and are good quality too. When Bump, Baby and Beyond* asked me to try a few of their best sellers I jumped at the chance, and I was also happy to note that Bump Baby and Beyond stocks well-known brands, all sold at under the $100 price point – perfect!

I selected six of my favourite pieces that will work to create an affordable maternity wardrobe for just about anyone. I have styled the pieces two ways each below, however this is obviously just a starting point and there are many more possible combinations and the ability to add pieces from your current wardobe. I’ve kept the styling very simple – I’ve used the same shoes and scarf where possible to create eight different looks that will take you from grocery shopping to attending a wedding! And best of all, all of these maternity pieces are under $100, and some are also nursing compatible too. {Please note: I am 21 weeks pregnant in these photos, before pregnancy I was a size 8-10, and I am 158cm tall.}

Maternity staples: Maternity Jeans and Black Tank
Maternity jeans are an absolute must-have, in my opinion, and these jeggings by Ripe are the most comfortable I’ve tried. The simple black tank will also work well as a tunic over leggings or tucked into shorts in spring/summer. I’ve put together a very casual yet smart outfit and a dressier, cosy outfit.

Shop the outfits:
(Gifted) Ripe Isla Maternity Jeggings AUD$89.95 {I’m wearing the S}
(Gifted) Maternity Swing Tank AUD$39.95 {I’m wearing the XS}
(Gifted) Frankie and Co scarf, sold out.
(Gifted) Billy J Poncho AUD$44
ASOS boots and flats, both not current.

Maternity staples: Maternity Skinny Black Pants and Long Sleeve Top
I wear my skinny black maternity pants as you would leggings, almost – they are just as comfortable however look dressier and more polished! I’ve created two outfits here – one look would be perfect for as dinner out or a friend’s birthday, and the other is a perfectly smart casual outfit when you don’t feel like wearing jeans however still want to look ‘put-together’.

Shop the outfits:
(Gifted) Suzie straight maternity pants AUD$69.95 {I’m wearing the S}
(Gifted) Ripe long sleeve maternity top AUD$39.95 {I’m wearing the S}
Rubi heels AUD$49.95
(Gifted) Frankie and Co scarf, sold out.
Faux fur vest from eBay.
ASOS boots, not current.

Maternity staple: The Little Black Dress (nursing compatible too)
Another must-have for me was the black dress. So easy to dress up or down, I’ve created two totally opposite looks with the absolute same dress. One is perfect for a dressy cocktail occasion or work function, perhaps, and the other would not look out of place at a breakfast date or to the markets. Love this little number! The fact it has access for breastfeeding is a bonus, too.

Shop the outfits:
(Gifted) Black Bodycon Maternity Dress AUD$59.95 {I’m wearing the 12}
The Adorn Collective necklace, sold out.
Rubi heels AUD$49.95
Kmart boots, not current.
(Gifted) Frankie and Co scarf, sold out.
Chambray shirt, years old.

Maternity staple: The Fun Day Dress (nursing compatible too)
Everyone needs a fun dress that is comfortable, yet looks pulled together and cute, for days when you’re just feeling a bit blah. This little number sneaks up on you – it’s unsuspecting however once on, its slinky fabric lends itself to dressier occasions too – and who doesn’t love polka dots?

Shop the outfits:
(Gifted) Maternity and nursing polka dot dress AUD$59.95 {I’m wearing the S}
Cheap Monday denim jacket, not current.
ASOS flats, not current.
Tony Bianco heels, not current.

{*Please note: all items were of my choosing, however were gifted to me by Bump, Baby and Beyond. This post is also part sponsored by Bump, Baby and Beyond however all words and thoughts are mine.}

What is or was your favourite maternity fashion item?