The demand for pregnancy tests has risen dramatically over the last two years and this trend continues in 2011. Tesco has reported that its sale of condoms has dropped over the same period. The result? Well, we don’t need to go into detail! But if you find your shape is changing, your waist is fast disappearing and your boobs are about to hit mega proportions, don’t reach for that tent sized t-shirt or your partner’s joggers – stop right there - if you are a stylish dresser and want to maintain that style throughout your pregnancy, there is hope & help!

Whether you’re battling morning sickness, tiredness or simply having a problem finding clothes to fit and suit you, read on. You can maintain your style at this special time by investing in the right maternity wear and wearing the colours and styles that suit you and highlight your gorgeous pregnant glow.

• Why do I need well fitting maternity clothes?
  
  

  During pregnancy the volume of blood within your body increases by a huge amount. You need increased amounts of blood and your baby needs more as it grows. If you restrict the flow of blood through your body with ill-fitting clothing you are likely to swell in all the wrong places! This will make you feel uncomfortable, lead to hot flushes and hinder your enjoyment of your pregnancy.

  Remember, your baby needs room to grow and your body is going to grow to accommodate it. Be realistic, most of us grow more than the average celebrity mum!

• How should I choose my maternity clothing?
  
  In the first few months of your pregnancy, you will be able to wear your usual clothes. Select tops that have a bit of stretch in them and wear your jackets and cardigans open.
  
  As your bump begins to grow and you find that your usual clothes are getting tighter, an easy and flattering solution is to choose properly designed maternity clothes. Generally, stick to the styles and size you wore pre-pregnancy. Good quality, properly designed maternity clothing is made this way. Baggy is not best! You may be inclined to cover everything up as you grow but fitted clothing will be far more flattering and really show off your bump!
  
  Maternity tops with lycra/elastane in them are great for stretch and will help to flatter your shape. They will look smart for work worn under a jacket.  For casual wear, try tops in soft fabrics that are fitted over the bust and flow over the stomach. Teamed with your best maternity jeans your casual tops will help to make you look and feel great.
  
  A dress is a maternity must have. A wrap dress will drape in all the right places and can be worn for the office or provide a backdrop for glamorous accessories on a special occasion!  
  
  Once a hair band or safety pin holding up your jeans & trousers will no longer suffice, invest in a quality pair of maternity jeans/trousers. Many of these have a wonderful hidden elastic panel to allow wear throughout your pregnancy. Be sure to avoid drawstring waists on jeans.
  
  A trip to a reputable lingerie shop for a fitting is essential every 5-6 weeks. Your bust will be changing size and you must ensure you are fitted with the correct underwear. Wearing the correct underwear is key to ensuring your clothes fit well and look as they should.

• How can I get the best out of my maternity clothing and beautiful shape?
  
  No matter what stage you are at, colour is a fantastic way to give yourself a boost.  By simply wearing the right colours, you will glow.  This is particularly important now if you are suffering from morning sickness or tiredness and will also be a useful tip during those initial days when sleep is lacking following the arrival of your baby.  It is amazing: not only will you look brighter, but wearing the right colours will make you feel brighter too.  If black is a staple in your pregnancy wardrobe, use accessories, shoes, handbags, and jewellery to bring in colour to your outfits..…after all you’ll still be able to wear those when the baby arrives.   
  
  Remember: be true to yourself, do not compromise your style – your pregnant curves are something to be embraced; show them off. Be glamorous, be sexy, be colourful, be Bumpalicious.
  
  Visit www.bumpaliciousmaternity.co.uk for a fabulous range of stylish maternity wear.