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Tip Store: Clothes: Maternity

​Buying Maternity Clothes in Bulk

I happen to live very remotely, but the advice still applies. Try buying bulk clothes on eBay (from the same seller). I found this to be very successful especially if you live in the same city and could probably pick up goods from seller rather than pay postage.
​- Contributed by Rachel, Gove, November 26th 2006

​Buy Larger Sizes

Try going to 1626 now called autograph, they often have clearance sales/racks where my friend went and bought items from as little as $5.00 an item. It saw her through the winter in her pregnancy.
​- Contributed by Christine, South Morang, November 23rd 2006

​Savers Op-shops

I found the saver's op-shops to be great for this sort of thing. The range is huge, and though the maternity section is a little sparse, I found buying a size or two bigger than normal suited me quite well for maternity wear. Store locations are found in the white pages or at www.savers.com.au and there are quarterly 50% off sales that are well worth going to.
​- Contributed by Bernadette, November 22nd 2006

​Bump and Beyond

There is a new site, www.bumpbabyandbeyond.com.au, that has very reasonably priced maternity wear... all their Ripe, Blush and Ripe Ltd styles are under $30. They also have designer brands at really cheap prices, if you are after something special. You can also get really cheap kids wear - Bump, Baby & Beyond buys end of season stuff (like baby cares!!) and passes on the savings - hope this helps!
​- Contributed by Catherine, Bet Bet, November 22nd 2006

​One or Two New Outfits and Adapt Normal Clothes

​I am a mother of six and spent a lot of time worrying about how to try to stop looking like a beached whale and feel comfortable during those months when I was "blossoming". I know Sydney (Frenchs Forrest) and Canberra have shops that stock "seconds" or last year's fashions. Second hand stores often have sections purely for maternity wear. The other thing I found was in trying to think practical, if I only bought one or two new outfits (one for work and one for evening wear) I was able to make do by adapting clothing I had with maternity inserts in zippers, or just by buying loose fitting (often the size up) regular clothing. I am so grateful that fashion has changed from the "tents" women use to wear (even back 10 years ago) to now being able to still look sexy and be proud of that beautiful little bump. - Contributed by Sara, Stirling, November 22nd 2006

​Ciao Bella Factory Outlet

I bought all my maternity clothes from eBay. It was easier than buying normal clothes because most things are stretch so the sizing doesn't have to be perfect. I did find one seller on eBay who also has a factory where you can go and buy direct and they are quite cheap. They are called CIAO BELLA 89 Railway Parade Marrickville 2204 NSW. 9.30 to 4.30 Mon to Fri.
​- Contributed by Larissa, Brighton-Le-Sands, November 22nd 2006

​Department Stores for Value and Style

I would suggest you try looking at Kmart and similar stores. I looked at various factory outlets in Melbourne but ended up getting mine from Kmart who had similar styles and colours but were cheaper - I spent under $200 and ended up with 4 pants, skirt and matching cardigan and about 7 long sleeve tops. Wait for one of their 25% off sales and save even more.
​- Contributed by Catherine, Burwood, November 21st 2006

​Maternity Bargains Online

Online auction sites really can be great for maternity wear bargains! I know you say you like to try on first, however, if you pay a good price and don't like it, you can always re-sell it online and maybe even make some money! Also, instead of paying delivery, see where the seller is based and see if pick-up is convenient. Stores like KMart and Target can be great for simple pieces too - especially when they have a storewide sale or clothing discounted!
​- Contributed by Brooke, Everton Hills, November 21st 2006

​Boomerang Recycled

Check out boomerang recycled - not only do they sell second hand maternity clothing, but apparently they also hire it for special occasions. http://www.boomerangrecycled.com.au/maternity_wear_hire.htm You may also want to see if you can find a freecycle community near you. This is an online community that focuses on recycling things that are no longer wanted by one person, but that another person may find invaluable. I recently gave away my deb dress to a lady who needed one for her daughter.. If it had have been around when I was getting rid of my maternity clothes I would definitely have posted an Offer on the site.
​- Contributed by Helen, Alfredton, November 21st 2006

​Breastfeeding Tops for Less

Approximate $ Savings: $50-$500+

I am the mother of two breastfed babies. When I had my son I was under no illusions that it would be easy, so was expecting failure, and didn't buy any breastfeeding tops. I was pleasantly surprised, and breastfed him for three and a half years, but always had that nagging feeling that I should have bought some tops, and was uncomfortable sometimes feeding in public. I recently (12 months ago) gave birth to a baby girl, and planned to breastfeed her, so bought a couple of tops to make life easier and more comfortable. They sure did, but they also stretched the wallet a bit! They start at around $40-$50 a top! Then I hit on a great idea. Instead of buying breastfeeding tops, just invest in some singlets with either stretchy or loose straps. You can wear these under any top, and when it comes time to breastfeed, you just need to pull your top up, and the side of your singlet down over your breast! Helps to keep your tummy covered, and toasty warm in winter!! I have about 5 singlets now, which potentially saves me $250-$400 on breastfeeding tops!
​- Contributed by Leanne, Brunswick East, 23rd September 2008