Maternity clothes are a fairly recent fashion development. Up until the 1400s, women s dresses were not fitted, so expectant mothers just wore what they had. If necessary, they would let the seams out to accommodate their pregnancy. The wealthy sometimes had a special dress or two made for the occasion, but the average woman did not. The first dress on record designed for pregnancy was made in the 1600s, a voluminous gown that concealed as well as expanded. By the 20th century, however, special clothing for expectant mothers began to achieve popularity. Still, it was far from cutting edge couture, since clothing manufacturers did not believe that women would be willing to pay very much for garments that would be worn for so short a time. As the century progressed, expectant mothers were often employed until late in their pregnancy. Fashions changed, and more options became available.
Dresses and tops normally have additional material in the front, which is also a bit longer than the back. This has been the traditional style for decades. However, in recent years, more form fitting garments have been offered. Some tops are made from stretch fabrics that hug the body. Designers have also scaled back on the large collars and bows that dominated maternity wear even as recently as the 1980s.
Pants today may have a full stretch panel that covers the stomach or an elastic band that fits below the belly. Some of the low rise styles are not comfortable during the last trimester. Designers have begun to make jeans and pants that offer both features and can be adjusted to match the baby s growth. Another popular design is a waistband equipped with a sliding belt that can be let out as needed. Immediately after birth, the waistband can be taken in to get more use from the pants.
Formal wear suitable for the most elegant occasion can be found in a variety of styles. The explosion is due in part to the number of expectant celebrities walking the red carpet in the 1990s and later. They proved that pregnant women could wear attractive clothing and did not need to confine themselves to unflattering styles or remain at home.
With more women working until delivery, suit makers paid heed and developed lines of career wear. Jackets run the gamut of lengths and fit, as do skirts. Dressy blouses to go with the suits also made an appearance.
Today, expectant mothers can choose from workout gear, bathing suits, and designer jeans. Plunging necklines and tops that hug their curves are also popular. Overalls, capris, and shorts make sure that a woman can build an entire wardrobe of denim separates.
There is no need for women to forego shopping at their favorite stores due to pregnancy. Many popular stores and high end shops now devote departments to maternity fashions. Even traditional department stores are offering expanded lines of maternity wear.
Designers and manufacturers have recognized that the modern woman expects to be able to find chic, quality items for their pregnancies. They do not want to settle for ill fitting styles, so garments are now available for tall, petite, and plus size women. With a market share that has been growing steadily, more options are sure to appear.
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