Rent or buy maternity wear at Maternity Exchange

October 22, 2013 14 Comments

My approach to dressing has always been simple, practical. That’s why I tend to go for easy dresses that can be worn for different occasions - work or play.

When it comes to maternity wear, I’ve been blessed with pass-arounds from friends and have thus far survived on basic tops, stretchy pants, skirts, and of course, easy-to-wear dresses.

When I was invited to pick an outfit from Maternity Exchange, I was excited. It felt like I was shopping for a special occasion but thankfully the experience was cosy and stress-free, with the salesperson offering me helpful advice on picking the right dress. Quite simply, a dress that suits me.

As I was wandering through the racks, she asked what dress or style I was after and offered me a few different ones to try. (I eventually chose the one she had picked!)

To be honest, I was a little worried at first that I wouldn’t be able to find something nice. I’ve got a few problem areas like a heavy bottom and flabby arms. But I was pleasantly surprised to find most of the dresses I tried were well-cut and generally forgiving. I chose this red number as I thought I’ve had enough of black or dark-coloured dresses in my wardrobe. It was also casual enough for a day out with the girls, and professional enough to show up in at work.

It even doubles up as a nursing dress, with an extra cloth piece over the chest allowing for easy nursing!

Actually, I’ve always known Maternity Exchange for its innovative buy or rent retail concept. It offers mums-to-be the option to buy or rent their maternity outfits, so that we can enjoy a wide variety of clothing and the best fit throughout the different pregnancy stages. It’s like maternity wear that “grows” with us.

They even offer pre-loved pieces at reduced prices. And the best part? You can purchase the outfits that you’ve rented and fallen in love with.

Of course, we mums can have a rather tight hold on our budget, in view of a new baby’s arrival. But judging from the quality of the outfits and the modern designs, I felt the prices were quite reasonable - the purchase price of the dresses I picked ranged from $80 to $120 (The more expensive pieces are occasion wear/gowns and can go up to $500). Tops and bottoms start from $20.

If you’re looking to rent, rental prices for dresses start from $30, tops and bottoms from $25, and occasion wear from $50. Check out how their rental packages work here.

While browsing, I was rather pleased to find that the store also carries some nifty gifts and accessories for mums-to-be, new parents and babies. From psi bands for morning sickness, belly bands, swimwear, to swaddles and baby carriers, and even this Mama Earth Angel Baby’s mama bottom balm. I also picked up some really comfy and soft maternity/nursing bras (without wires), for everyday home use.