Maternity is the the period during pregnancy and shortly after childbirth. Maternity fashion is worn by women in some cultures as an adaptation to changes in body size during pregnancy.  Historically, maternity clothes had been rather basic.  Over the years, maternity clothes became more "fashionable" and stylish.

As your body changes, so should your clothing.

As the body is changing shape and therefore levels of comfort, most maternity fashion is made with Lycra, elastic and other stretch materials to provide for fabric stretch for body growth & comfort. For pants, the waistband is usually a thick layer of stretchy material that can be hidden by a shirt to give the pants a normal look. Depending on style and activity, tops often billow out to leave room for the belly and are made of varying cottons and elastic materials.

Maternity clothes around the world have been undergoing significant changes. In both Eastern and Western cultures, there is greater demand for fashionable maternity clothes.  pregnant women are no longer trying to hide or disguise their "baby bumps", instead choosing to wear garments which closely fit their new shape, often emphasizing the bust and abdominal area.  Popular clothing brands have made everyday wear for pregnant women both fashionable and accessible.

Apparel is essentially fiber and textile material worn on the body.  Fashion a popular trend, especially in styles of dress and ornament. Clothing has many subcategories such as pants, shirts, skirts, dresses, lingerie, activewear, sportswear, etc.  Most of the women's apparel categories can be produced in maternity fashion sizing.  The modern women can stay trendy before, during, and after pregnancy.