Some women like a smooth profile underneath clingy clothing like leggings or bodycon dresses, and there's no reason to give that up when you're pregnant. These super-popular thongs are not strictly maternity wear, but BabyCenter moms say they snuggle nicely beneath a pregnant belly and don't show under clothes. These thongs come in several different styles; moms-to-be recommend the classic or smooth styles. They're seamless, with raw edges on the legs so absolutely nothing digs into you. I'm a 32GG and have just bought two tankinis from JoJo Maman Bébé (one has flamingos on it!). I wouldn't want to go jogging in them but for wandering around the beach they're fine, and no escaping side boob!"(Vetted by Mumsnet user Pinkywoo) Our verdict Not only are they not as soft on the skin, it's thought that underwire bras can actually apply pressure to your milk glands. Ok, so there's no evidence as such, but as long as you have a well fitted underwire bra you're good to go (I definitely think the seamless life is the way forward)! Many moms-to-be find that underwear is the first piece of clothing to feel uncomfortable during pregnancy. As early as the first trimester, you may hate the sensation of elastic digging into your growing belly. Fortunately, there’s maternity underwear, which rests comfortably under your bump or has a panel to stretch over it for more support. Comfort: Fabric should be soft to avoid chafing, and if you prefer, breathable. Some find cotton or bamboo more breathable than man-made fibers like nylon, rayon, or polyester. Nothing on the underwear should cut into you or feel tight or itchy.

Isabella Oliver is pricey, but I got some jeans, loose trousers and a dress in their sale and they've been my go-to things throughout the second and third trimester." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Scirocco) Our verdict Fit: Maternity underwear should have a method of stretching to cover your belly as it grows, or an under-the-bump waistband that expands without allowing the undies to sag. Use your personal preference to decide between under- or over-the-bump or mid-belly styles, any will work. In pregnancy, your skin is more sensitive, your body temperature higher… and that’s before we even get to your burgeoning bump (and all the other bits that seem to be burgeoning, too). Pregnancy underwear that helps keep you cool and comfortable, and doesn’t constantly roll down, can help with all that. I recommend JoJo Maman Bébé. They do some beautiful dresses in their bump and beyond range.” (Brand recommended by Mumsnet user Marshy86)You’ll probably have a lot of physical changes happening, which might include weight gain and stretch marks. So if investing in some pretty maternity underwear helps you to feel good about yourself and your changing shape, then go for it. I bought the spandex/no show undies from Victoria’s Secret/Pink. They have a lot of stretch and are super comfy. Maybe not ideal for PP (I wear thongs) but definitely good for getting to that point!" However, the world of maternity wear has come on in leaps and bounds since the days of unflattering tent-dresses, and we're confident our guide has something for everyone, whether your preference is soft, stretchy leggings, on-trend maternity jeans or sophisticated work-wear. Is 12 weeks too early for maternity clothes?

These are awesome. I’ve worn them since 20 weeks. I’m now 35 weeks.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user PetaO) Our verdict The pretty lace band doesn’t pinch or dig in but adds a pretty touch that makes you feel a bit less ‘medical’, particularly important after a spell in hospital. The pants offer really full coverage, giving you that feeling of comfort and support, and create a slightly smoother silhouette too, with no rumpling, crumpling or sagging. You need full briefs from M&S, at least two sizes up. I am still in mine a year post partum. They're too darn comfy." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user MySoCalledStrife) Our verdict Here are the best maternity clothes 2023. The best maternity clothes brands and retailers: at a glanceMaternity clothes can split opinion - some say they aren't necessarily, others have a wardrobe full. It's worth noting that maternity clothes have been specially designed with the changing pregnancy body in mind, and therefore will be able to accommodate a growing bump more comfortably than regular clothes. Size: Maternity underwear is made to accommodate a changing body. You can generally buy your regular size, or perhaps go up just one size. I know, getting enough sleep can sometimes be an issue when pregnant. Wanting a good night's sleep whilst feeling supported - is that really too much to ask? A maternity sleep bra can solve the problems on those sleepless nights and is also a perfect choice for everyday loungewear! See our article about pregnancy weight gain to find out more about how your weight might change. Comfy pants for after the birth

I recommend Happy Mama. The quality is fine - easily lasted me a pregnancy and a bit afterwards.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user Ellpellwood) Our verdict Style: Like regular underwear, maternity undies come in briefs, bikinis, boyshorts, and thongs, amongst other styles. Whilst it’s admittedly not the most glamorous range on the market, the clothes rate highly when it comes to comfort and there are plenty of practical styles to choose from which are available in a huge variety of colours. Where - With the world of pregnancy growing so fast, there are so many places to get pregnancy underwear from. What is comes down to, is personal preference. Do you want an underwire maternity bra? Or are you a seam free, tag free kinda gal? The options are endless, and most maternity bras can also be used for breastfeeding too!

If you love striking prints and fun colours, finding maternity wear to reflect your style can be something of a challenge. Whilst we love a few pastel shades or a Breton stripe, sometimes it’s nice to stand out from the crowd and wear something a little different, and that's where Frugi comes in. Many may scoff at the idea of maternity underwear, thinking their regular underwear is stretchy enough to do the job. But what seems stretchy at your pre-pregnancy size can strain uncomfortably as your belly gets bigger. If you try to wear non-maternity underwear beneath your bump, you may find they sag or bunch up as you walk and sit. As you enter your final weeks, you might prefer to wear light-colored maternity underwear. These styles let you more easily spot any discharge, including your bloody show, which is the telltale sign that baby will make his appearance into the world soon. The best maternity underwear will be the pair you won't know you're wearing, from first thing in the morning as you take your prenatal vitamins to relaxing on the sofa with your favourite pregnancy book at the end of the day. They'll accommodate your changing shape all through pregnancy right up to labour (trust us, the last thing you want at that time is a pair of uncomfortable pants digging in, riding up or getting in the way of your TENS machine). Massive M&S full briefs! I remember sending my mum out to get some as my normal short style ones were agony to wear. My scar was quiet uncomfortable and itchy for a while, I think I wore them for about a year afterwards!"(Recommended by Mumsnet user LouLou198)