Listen up, mamas-to-be – when it comes to maternity lingerie, you can’t just grab any old bra off the rack and call it a day. Been there, learned that the hard way! During my first pregnancy, I naively thought I could skate by with my regular everyday bras, just going up a cup size or two. Boy, was I wrong! Let’s get to know how to Shop for Stylish and Functional Maternity Bras: Bubba Bump.
Not only was I incredibly uncomfortable from lack of support, but those ill-fitting bras also managed to make my beautiful, blossoming pregnancy breasts look anything but sexy. After months of chafing, back pain, and absolutely zero shape or lift, I finally wised up and invested in some quality maternity bras. It was a total game changer!
So let me save you from my rookie mistakes. Here’s everything you need to know to find functional AND fashionable maternity bras that’ll keep you looking and feeling like the goddess you are.
Get Professionally Fitted
I know, I know – getting fitted for a bra sounds about as fun as a root canal. But your breasts are going through a ton of changes right now, so that old size you were wearing pre-pregnancy is pretty much null and void at this point. Do yourself a favor and get sized up (no pun intended) at a reputable lingerie store – preferably one that specializes in maternity and nursing bras.
The fit experts will ensure you’re trying on the right band and cup sizes to prevent shoulder strain, back pain, and those dreaded underwire marks that no amount of concealer can hide. They’ll also assess your breast shape, skin elasticity, and any other unique sizing factors that come with your beautiful bare bump. Think of it as an excuse to get a little extra pampering in before baby arrives!
Seek Out Wider, Reinforced Straps
With those quickly expanding cups comes extra weight and strain on your shoulders and back. Regular bra straps simply aren’t built for that type of endurance, which is why you’ll want to look for maternity bras with reinforced, criss-crossed, or even gel-padded straps. The wider shapes and fortified materials help evenly distribute your breast weight instead of digging into your shoulders and upper back (seriously, ouch!).
Many maternity bra brands also utilize advanced strap designs with additional support embroidered right into the fabric to lift and secure even the most stubborn side/underarm bulge. If there was ever a time to splurge on a high-quality bra, this is it!
Look for Stretchy, Breathable Fabrics
Along with accommodating your breast growth, maternity bras need to have enough stretch and flexibility to mold to your expanding ribcage as your bump gets bigger. Look for soft but sturdy fabrics like lightweight cotton, moisture-wicking microfiber or four-way stretch spacer material. Avoiding constricting, rigid bra bands will help prevent painful skin indentations or irritation as your belly expands.
You’ll also want to keep an eye out for those clever four or six row hook-and-eye closures that allow you to easily adjust the band tighter or looser as needed throughout your pregnancy. Trust me, having a bra that can “grow” with you makes all the difference!
Consider Pretty Patterns, Lace and Colors
Just because you’re dressing for maximum comfort doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice feeling sexy! Many maternity lingerie brands have totally stepped up their game, offering pretty patterned bras with delicate lace trims and fun, vibrant color options to choose from. Don’t be afraid to have a little fun with flirty details like bows, cute prints, or embroidered accents – after all, you’re creating a tiny miracle! Why not look and feel amazing while doing it?
Look for Clip-Down or Front Openings
Sooner than you think, those glorious maternity bras will transition into nursing bras to provide easy boob access for feeding baby. Keep this in mind as you shop, and prioritize styles with one-handed clips on the straps or front-opening cups. You’ll want to be able to quickly unhook or pull aside the cup with one free hand without having to undress completely – a total lifesaver when you’ve got a “hangry” newborn in your arms! Many maternity/nursing bra combos also feature handy pull-aside panels at each cup, giving you the flexibility to nurse or pump with ease.
So there you have it, friends – everything you need to seek out the crème de la crème of maternity bras! Treat yourself to a few high-quality options that’ll keep those growing gals feeling supported, comfortable and looking their absolute best. You’ve got this, hot mama!