If this is your first pregnancy, it’s nearly impossible to figure out how your body will change as your pregnancy progresses. This means it’s even trickier to estimate what size maternity clothes you’ll need to buy. Typically, if you’re a size six pre-pregnancy, then you’ll probably be a maternity six. But everyone is different, so you might be a maternity eight or you might be a maternity four, depending on how you carry your pregnancy. Just ignore the maternity clothing sizing and buy what fits and feels right.

How much maternity clothing to invest in?

A lot depends on the season you’re due and exactly how your body changes, but choosing a few maternity wardrobe staples is a good place to start. A pair or two of quality maternity jeans (in a wash that goes with everything) will take you far, as will at least one pair of basic black leggings—trust us, you’ll live in these postpartum too. If you don’t already own a few longer tops that could stretch over your bump (don’t forget to shop your own closet!), consider buying a minimum of three to five maternity T-shirts or tanks in colors that pair well with your existing wardrobe. They’re great to throw on under your favorite blazer, jacket or a stylish cardigan. It’s also a good idea to invest in two to three versatile dresses that can be dressed up or down, whether for work or play. Depending on what you’ve got planned for the later weeks of your pregnancy, you also might want a fancier dress suitable for a wedding, maternity photoshoot or your baby shower. Beyond that, what you need might be purely seasonal (think: a winter coat that can actually zip over your belly, or a maternity swimsuit.

Maternity capsule wardrobe essentials

Two buzzwords you’ll hear on repeat when it comes to maternity clothing are “basics” and “essentials.” While some items will sound like familiar favorites in your pre-pregnancy closet, others are maternity wardrobe staples unique to accommodate and flatter your bump.

• All the T-shirts. Buy a few stretchy maternity T-shirts in white, gray and black. Nothing tops off a pair of (maternity) jeans better than this most basic of basics.

• Mom jeans, please. With so many changes happening to your body, you’ll feel comforted that you can still throw on a pair of jeans. And once you try super-comfy maternity jeans, you may never want to go back to your old ones.

• Leggings for days. It’s a good idea to have a few pairs of leggings in rotation. They mold to your body and are hands-down the best option for comfort.

• Don’t underestimate your underwear. Invest in comfortable but pretty underwear and a few stylish, supportive bras. (Many maternity bras double as nursing bras, which gives you more bang for your buck.) Being intentional about this most intimate layer of clothing sets the tone for everything else you put on.