A Quick Look At Maternity Clothes
Maternity clothes had little place in the fashion world until around 1400. Before that time, women wore dresses that had little shape to them, so a maternity dress was normally just what they already owned. Late in the pregnancy, seams might be let out or an apron added to hide any gaps. While some wealthy women might order something special for their pregnancies, most women did not. Historically, the first dress designed specifically for wear during pregnancy appeared during the 17th century. This was a gown that had many yards of fabric that fell in folds down the front so that it could not only expand but conceal the pregnancy as well. By the 1900s, however, expectant mothers began demanding clothing to be worn during pregnancy. Even then, manufacturers felt that few women would pay much for clothing to be worn for just a few months, so the designs were far from fashionable. By late that century, however, women often worked until just prior to delivery. They also attended a full range of public functions, continued their exercise regime, and enjoyed formal events. In response to the demand, designers began to offer more choices and higher quality.
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.
Maternity pants have traditionally had a full front panel. Early in the last century, this was often a cut-out with two strings that were tied at the waist. Stretch panels were used when economical synthetic materials were introduced. This style can still be found today, but low-rise designs, featuring a band that fits below the stomach, have increased in popularity. Since some women find the bands uncomfortable or ineffective during later months, styles were developed to combine panels and bands. This allows the wearer to alter the fit by rolling the panel up or down. Waistbands that feature an expansion belt that can be adjusted as the baby grows and reduced for post-partum wear are also popular.
In the not-so-distant past, expectant mothers who needed formal wear had few options and often had to have their gowns tailor-made. As the media publicized a number of expectant actors and stars walking the red carpet at various awards banquets in the 1990s, demand for chic styles grew. Today, formal gowns can be found in a variety of lengths and with features such as plunging necklines or tiny straps.
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.
Pregnancy was once considered a time to remain sedate. Today, however, most women continue their routines, including their exercise programs. Manufacturers have responded with jogging outfits, attractive bathing suits, and gym clothes. Casual wear, including denim capris, shorts, and overalls are now easily located as well.
Many women have found they can continue shopping their favorite stores throughout pregnancy. Many boutiques and high-end stores now have maternity departments. Traditional chain department stores have expanded their selection of fashions for expectant mothers as well.
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.
Due Maternity is one of the largest online retailers of maternity formal dress and olian maternity accessories as well as baby products. When looking for the best be sure to visit Due Maternity’s informative website.
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