With pregnancy comes an increase in the metabolic rate resulting in greater heat production. The baby's metabolic rate generates additional heat. Add to that hormonal fluctuation, which induce hot flashes, and it becomes clear that pregnancy can be an uncomfortable time. Luckily the mother's body temperature steadily decreases over the course of her pregnancy to prevent her core temperature from rising with the metabolic rate. Maternity insurance or health insurance may cover treatments for women who experience extreme hot flashes during pregnancy. However, it is preferrable to attempt to lessen the effects of hot flashes and changing seasonal temperatures using clothing.

Because of these temperature fluctuations, expectant mothers need to be careful when exercising. Although pregnancy helps you to regulate your core temperature more efficiently, it is still recommended that pregnant women avoid exercising in non-breathable clothing, and to avoid exercising when it is very hot or humid. Wearing light-colored, loose fitting clothing may help in dissipating heat during exercise.

Denim is perfect for pregnancy ? it keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the cooler months. Denim also comes in many styles, and can be worn in a lot of different ways. You can dress darker jeans up more, and they are the most versatile maternity fashion staples. Seven for All Mankind maternity jeans are a very popular and fashionable option. A well-fitting pair of black pants is also a must, because you can dress them up or down.

Fashion designer Liz Lange advises pregnant women to stick with the same kind of things they wear when they're not pregnant. Maternity clothes can be costly, particularly when you consider that you'll wear them for only a few short months. So scour your closet for the clothes that you tend to wear when you're a little heavier than normal. Even your favorite jeans can last a couple of extra months if you use a little ingenuity.

For work, buy a jacket, skirt, pants and dress in the same quality, stretchy fabric, in neutral tones such as black, gray, navy or tan. A vivid shirt or blouse (in summer) and a sweater set (in winter) will brighten up your outfit. For your feet, pick a comfortable sling-back pump or an elegant flat in a larger width than usual to let your feet breathe. Scarves, necklaces, earrings, and other accessories can add personality to your outfit.

This strategy will help you look good in any season: flaunt your best features. If you have nice legs, wear a short sundress. If you're proud of your pregnancy cleavage, show it off with a low-cut blouse. Maternity clothes have gotten more stylish, and today we have a broad selection of clothes, from business, to formal wear, and even maternity lingerie.

Article By Michelle O'Connor, Maternity Gifts for the Expectant Mom