Bamboo dresses in pregnancy and what gives room
Short answer: A dress without a sewn waist gives room all the way through pregnancy, because there is no point that has to sit exactly right. That is why jersey works so well here.
No waist to grow out of
A T-shirt dress or a loose cut follows the body without a fixed point. The bump gets room without a seam cutting across it or creeping up under the bust. The same dress can be worn for many months, while a dress with a sewn waist soon fits badly. See bamboo T-shirt dresses.
Fabric that gives
Jersey with a little elastane stretches and springs back. Woven fabrics do not, so a woven dress becomes unwearable long before a jersey one. The fabric follows the bump as it grows and does not pull out of line, because it can give in every direction, not only lengthwise.
The length changes
A dress gets shorter at the front over time, because the bump takes up some of the length. The hem lifts at the front and hangs lower at the back. So choose one that is a little longer from the start, and you will not need to switch. Look for knee length or longer in bamboo dresses.
The bust grows too
It is not only the bump that changes. Many find the bust gets larger early on, and a dress that is tight over the bust rides up at the front, just as it does over the bump. Choose a cut with a little room at the top, or a size that gives space over the bust, and let the rest fall loose.
Softness against the skin
Skin can become more sensitive during pregnancy, and seams are felt more. Flat seams and soft edges count for more than usual, especially at the neck, sleeves and sides. A soft fabric that does not rub makes a difference on long days. The same goes for tops under a cardigan. See women's bamboo tops.
The warmth
Many feel warmer than usual during pregnancy. Bamboo viscose moves moisture away from the skin and feels light, so the dress does not cling on a warm day. A loose cut leaves air between fabric and body, which helps more than a thinner fabric. Dark colours also hide damp patches best.
Layers you can take on and off
A short sleeved dress with a cardigan over it is more flexible than a long sleeved dress. The temperature changes, and it is easier to take off a layer than to change dresses. Choose layers that can stay open at the front, so they never need closing over the bump.
After the birth
A dress without a sewn waist can often be worn on after the birth, while the body is still changing. It gives room without squeezing and is easy to put on. That makes it one of the most worn items in the wardrobe at a time when there is little energy to think about clothes.
Washing and fit
Wash the dress at a low temperature and hang it to dry so it does not shrink. A dress that has shrunk a little in length soon gets too short at the front as the bump grows. Avoid the tumble dryer, and gently pull the dress into shape while damp, so it keeps its length.
Frequently asked questions
Which dress shape gives the most room?
One without a sewn waist. The T-shirt dress and other straight cuts follow the body all the way, so no seam cuts across the bump or creeps up.
Does the dress get shorter at the front?
Yes, over time, because the bump takes up some of the length. Choose one that is a little longer from the start so it still works late in pregnancy.
Why are seams felt more?
Because the skin can become more sensitive. Flat seams and soft edges make a bigger difference than usual, and if you feel discomfort, talk to your midwife or doctor.
