Saving Money on Maternity Clothes

Pregnancy is a blessing and can be one of the happiest times of your life. It can also be a frustrating time financially if you are not prepared. Not only will you most likely be spending more on groceries because you need to make sure you are eating healthier, but you also have to buy numerous baby items to prepare for your little bundle of joy. If that wasn't enough, you also have to deal with your body changing rapidly and not fitting into your existing wardrobe. If you are lucky enough to stay home, you can probably get away with wearing a combination of sweats, t-shirts and some of your husband's clothes for most of your pregnancy. If you are working or have an active social life, you will probably have to invest in some maternity clothes. No need to worry though, there are ways to look great during pregnancy without blowing your budget!

- Don't be afraid to ask friends and family if they have any maternity clothes you can borrow. Some women might be holding on to their maternity clothes simply because they felt bad throwing them out and may be more then happy to have someone take them off their hands. You can also have a clothing swap with some friends who are or recently have been pregnant to help you double or triple your wardrobe and get rid of items that no longer fit.

- Buy used maternity clothes on eBay and stores like Clothes Mentor. Also check out your local consignment shop or Once Upon a Child to see if they carry maternity clothes. Many consignment shops that primarily sell clothes for infants and children also have a small maternity clothing section.

- Skip the pricey boutiques and department stores and find a great selection of cute maternity clothes at Target and Old Navy. The Old Navy Maternity Department has tops for as low as $10 and dresses and jeans for around $30. They always seem to have items on sale and clearance for even bigger savings.

-Shop online and save big using coupon codes.

- Buy or use your existing non-maternity items such as button down sweaters, cropped tops or hoodies to help you stretch your wardrobe and transition in between seasons. Your summer maternity tank tops and dresses that you wear in the spring and summer can still be used in the fall by simply putting a sweater or hoodie over it. Don't worry if these items don't zip or button up, so long as they keep you warm. You will get more use out of them if they are non-maternity clothes because you can use them long after you are done being pregnant.