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By Worth Collective
When Your Body Temperature Runs Hot: Staying Cool and Cute During Pregnancy Pregnancy brings so many changes, and one that catches many women off guard ...
Pregnancy brings so many changes, and one that catches many women off guard is how much warmer they suddenly feel. That internal furnace seems to kick into high gear, leaving you reaching for lighter fabrics even when everyone else is bundled up. The good news? You can stay cool without sacrificing style or comfort.
Your body is working overtime right now. Blood volume increases significantly during pregnancy, and your metabolism is running at a higher rate to support your growing baby. This means more heat production, which explains why you might find yourself peeling off layers while your partner is still in a sweater.
This temperature shift isn't just uncomfortable - it affects what feels good against your skin. Fabrics that felt perfectly fine before might now feel clingy or suffocating. Understanding this helps you make smarter choices about what to wear.
Natural fibers become your best friend when you're running warm. Cotton, bamboo, and modal offer breathability that synthetic materials often can't match. Bamboo, in particular, has moisture-wicking properties that help keep you feeling fresh throughout the day.
Linen deserves special mention here. While it wrinkles easily, linen is incredibly cooling and gets softer with each wash. For pregnancy, look for linen blends that give you the cooling benefits without quite as much maintenance.
On the flip side, be cautious with polyester blends, especially in tops that sit close to your torso. They tend to trap heat and moisture, which is the opposite of what you want when your internal temperature is already elevated.
Lightweight fabrics aren't just about comfort - they're about function when you're pregnant. A heavy cotton tee might have worked perfectly before, but now it might feel like wearing a blanket. Look for garments made from lighter-weight versions of your favorite materials.
This is especially important for layering pieces. A lightweight cardigan or kimono-style cover-up gives you the option to add coverage without adding bulk or heat. You want pieces you can easily remove or add as your comfort level changes throughout the day.
Layering becomes an art form when your body temperature fluctuates. Start with a comfortable base layer in a breathable fabric, then add pieces you can easily remove. This might mean choosing a sleeveless dress with a light cardigan instead of a long-sleeved dress you can't modify.
Open necklines and sleeveless styles aren't just trendy - they're practical for pregnancy. Scoop necks, V-necks, and off-shoulder styles allow for better air circulation around your upper body, where you're likely feeling the most heat.
Consider the length and fit of your bottoms too. Full-length leggings might feel too warm, making cropped styles or breathable wide-leg pants better options. The key is finding pieces that don't cling to your skin while still providing the support and coverage you want.
Light colors reflect heat while dark colors absorb it - this basic principle applies to clothing too. Whites, creams, soft pastels, and light neutrals will help keep you cooler than deep, rich colors. This doesn't mean you have to give up your favorite bold shades entirely, but consider saving them for cooler days or evening events.
Patterns can be your friend here. Small prints and subtle patterns can be more forgiving than solid colors when it comes to showing any moisture or requiring frequent washing due to your increased body temperature.
Nighttime comfort becomes crucial when you're already running warm and dealing with pregnancy sleep challenges. Lightweight cotton or bamboo pajamas, or even just a soft cotton nightgown, can make a significant difference in your sleep quality.
For lounging during the day, consider pieces that work both for relaxing at home and quick errands. A lightweight maxi dress or soft cotton romper can keep you cool while still looking put-together if you need to step out.
You don't need to replace everything in your closet. Start by identifying which pieces in your current wardrobe are made from the most breathable fabrics. These become your go-to items during pregnancy.
For pieces you love but that might be too warm, think about how to modify your styling. That favorite blouse might work better unbuttoned over a tank top rather than worn on its own. A dress you love might be perfect with sandals instead of closed-toe shoes.
If you find yourself consistently uncomfortable in most of your current clothes, it might be time to add a few key pieces specifically chosen for their cooling properties. Focus on versatile items that can work for multiple occasions - a breathable maxi dress, a lightweight cardigan, or comfortable shorts in a neutral color.
Quality matters here because you'll likely be wearing these pieces frequently. Look for well-made items in natural fibers that will hold up to regular washing and still feel good against your skin.
Keep a light layer with you since indoor air conditioning can sometimes be too much when you step inside from the heat. A thin scarf or lightweight cardigan that fits easily in a bag gives you options without bulk.
Pay attention to your feet too. Closed-toe shoes might feel too warm, making breathable flats, sandals, or canvas sneakers better choices. Your feet may also be swelling, so having comfortable, airy options becomes even more important.
Remember that this is temporary. Your body temperature will likely return to normal after pregnancy, but in the meantime, there's no reason to be uncomfortable. Choosing the right fabrics and styles can help you feel confident and cool throughout this warm phase of pregnancy.