Last updated: May 2026 · 10-minute read
Your jeans don't button. Your favourite jumper is suddenly too tight across the bust. Or maybe you're three weeks postnatal, still in maternity leggings, and starting to wonder when (or if) any of it ends. Maternity dressing is one of those things nobody warns you about — you find out in real time, usually mid-changing-room.
This is a practical, no-fuss guide to building a maternity wardrobe for Australian mums that carries you from your first "these don't fit" moment to the postnatal months. Trimester by trimester, what to buy, when, and how many pieces you actually need.
Before you start: the capsule mindset
- Buy on demand, not in advance.
- Choose pieces that work in two trimesters, not one.
- Get the basics right first — leggings, nursing-friendly tops, one good maternity dress, support bands.
- Borrow before buying.
The full ChicMama maternity range is in the I'm Pregnant collection. The postnatal essentials sit in I'm Postnatal.
First trimester (weeks 0–13): you mostly don't need anything yet
Most of your existing clothes still fit — just not always comfortably. Your bust grows first, your waistband becomes the first to pinch. A soft non-wired bra is the only first-trimester purchase most mums actually need.
Second trimester (weeks 14–26): the moment everything stops fitting
This is when maternity dressing actually starts. Also when most mums buy their first nursing bra.
The four pieces you'll wear most
1. Over-bump maternity leggings. The ChicFlex™ High-Waist Maternity Leggings for the warm Australian climate, and the ChicFleece™ Over-Bump Maternity Leggings for cooler winter months.
2. A maternity dress. The ChicDress™ Sleeveless Maternity Dress works year-round in Australia.
3. A belly support band. The ChicBelly™ 3-in-1 Band.
4. Two soft tops. Stretchy, breathable fabrics for our climate.
Third trimester (weeks 27–40): comfort wins
- ChicStripe™ Active Maternity Leggings for active third trimester.
- ChicWaist™ Adjustable Belly & Back Band for back support.
- ChicLounge™ Nursing Pyjama Set for hospital bag.
- ChicVest™ Nursing Camisole for layering.
Postnatal weeks 0–6
- Over-bump leggings still work postnatally.
- Your nursing bras come into their own.
- Maternity dresses do double duty.
- The ChicSupport™ Adjustable High-Waist Underwear for recovery.
The 12-piece capsule
| Piece | When to buy | Wears through |
|---|---|---|
| 2 × over-bump leggings | Second trimester | Pregnancy + postnatal |
| 1 × active leggings | Third trimester | Pregnancy + postnatal |
| 2 × stretchy maternity tops | Second trimester | Pregnancy |
| 1 × maternity dress | Second trimester | Pregnancy + postnatal |
| 1 × belly band (3-in-1) | Second trimester | Pregnancy + postnatal |
| 1 × belly & back band | Third trimester | Third trimester + postnatal |
| 3 × nursing bras | Second & third trimester | Pregnancy + 12 months postnatal |
| 1 × nursing pyjama set | Third trimester | Pregnancy + postnatal |
| 2 × nursing camisoles | Late third trimester | Postnatal daily |
| 1 × postnatal recovery underwear | After birth | Postnatal weeks 0–8 |
Frequently asked questions
When do I need to start buying maternity clothes?
Most Australian mums buy their first maternity piece between weeks 14 and 18.
How many maternity outfits do I actually need?
A 12-piece capsule covers most mums comfortably.
How long will I wear maternity clothes postnatally?
Most mums wear maternity leggings and nursing bras for 6 to 12 weeks postnatally.
Ready to start?
Shop the ChicMama I'm Pregnant collection. Australian delivery in 7–14 business days.
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