Blog2: Seven Women Maternity When to Buy a Maternity Coat – Timing and Fit Guide Pregnancy brings a lot of change. Your routine shifts, your clothes stop fitting, and your comfort needs start evolving. But in the middle of it all, one thing should stay simple: staying warm in winter without squeezing into a coat that no longer fits. In the Greater Toronto Area, temperatures often drop below – 15°C, with stretches hitting – 30°C. For moms-to-be, that kind of cold does more than cause discomfort. When your belly is exposed to low temperatures, your body pulls heat from your hands, feet, and face to protect your core. This can make you feel even colder than everyone else. Knowing when to buy the right coat and what to look for will help you stay warm, feel confident, and make smart choices through every stage of your pregnancy. Blog2: Seven Women Maternity First Trimester: Wait a Bit, or Shop Smart In the first few months, your bump may not be showing yet, and your regular coat could still zip without much trouble. Many moms don’t feel the need to switch coats right away, especially if they’re still comfortable and the weather hasn’t hit its coldest point yet. But it helps to think ahead. If you see a maternity coat you love early in the season, especially during fall sales, it might be smart to buy it now before sizes sell out. As long as the return policy is flexible, you’re protected if your body changes faster than expected. Second Trimester: When Fit and Function Meet This is when things start to shift, and we’re not just talking about your wardrobe. Somewhere between 12 and 20 weeks, your bump starts to show, and that trusty old winter coat may suddenly feel a little tight around the middle. This moment is what many moms call the sweet spot. You're showing just enough to need something new, but not so far along that shopping feels overwhelming. It’s the perfect time to look for a maternity coat that moves with your body and gives you room to grow. If you're in Toronto, aim to shop between late September and early December. Stores are still well- stocked, sizing is easier to find, and you won’t be scrambling when the wind really kicks in. A good coat now means more comfort all season long. Third Trimester: Time to Bundle Up By the third trimester, your baby bump has become more of a baby belly, and if your coat still won’t zip, you're definitely not alone. Many moms walk into stores wearing their jackets wide open, hoping a scarf will do the tric k. But in Toronto’s deep freeze, that’s just not enough. Here’s the thing: when your belly gets cold, your body works overtime to keep your core warm for the baby. It pulls heat from everywhere else: your face, hands, legs, leaving you feeling even colder than you expect. It’s your body doing its job, but it can leave you shivering. A coat that fully covers your bump helps keep your entire body warm. It keeps the cold out, reduces heat loss, and protects both you and your baby when temperatures drop. Look for coats with expansion panels, two- way zippers, or babywearing inserts if you’re nearing your due date. Fit Tips That Actually Work Let’s talk sizing, because this part often confuses moms. The good news is that most maternity coats are made to fit your pre-pregnancy size. If you were a medium before, you should still be a medium now, with extra space built into the design for your growing bump, bust, and hips. A great maternity coat should move with you. It should zip without a struggle, let you sit and walk easily, and feel like something you want to wear every day, not just something you have to wear. Blog2: Seven Women Maternity Adjustable waistlines, drawstring details, and empire cuts help create both shape and comfort. If it feels stiff, bulky, or too snug in motion, keep looking. When your coat fits well, you feel warmer, more comfortable, and more confident stepping outside. Where to Shop: Seven Women Clothing Recommendations At Seven Women, we see it all the time, moms walking into our Toronto store with their coats wide open, unsure why they feel so cold. The truth is, when your bump is exposed to freezing air, your body pulls heat from your limbs to keep the baby warm. The right maternity coat plays a key role in keeping both you and your baby warm, protected, and comfortable through winter. That’s why we offer more than just coats. We help you dress smarter for Canadian winters. Looking for something that lasts beyond pregnancy? Try our Nicky Waxed 3-in-1 Maternity, Baby Wearing & Beyond Coat . It is designed with a removable insert so you can wear it during pregnancy, for babywearing, and again as a regular coat. It’s cozy, flexible, and built f or life in – 30°C weather. Not ready to commit to a full maternity coat? No problem. We also carry the Make My Belly Fit Universal Adaptor and the Make My Belly Fit Shell Insert, which offer plenty of space without sacrificing style. Our team will help you find a solution that aligns with your stage and lifestyle. We carefully select coats made from wool blends, high-quality synthetics, and weather-resistant materials to keep you dry and warm through snow, wind, and slush. The M Coat Maternity Winter Coat is a customer favorite, fully insulated, convertible for babywearing, and thoughtfully designed with soft linings, deep pockets, and sturdy zippers. It’s built for everyday winter wear in real Canadian weather. Pair your coat with Seven Women’s Raw Edge Maternity & Nursing Tee , a cozy layering essential that feels gentle against your skin and stretches comfortably with your bump. For something a bit dressier that still works with winter layers, try the Nella Maternity & Nursing Dress It’s nursing - friendly and flattering, whether you’re at holiday dinners or running errands. Both are warm, versatile pieces that work beautifully with winter coats and help build a complete wardrobe that grows with you. Quick Fit & Function Checklist Before you buy, make sure your coat: - Closes comfortably over your bump with a sweater underneath - Has room to grow or includes an adjustable panel - Is wind- and water-resistant for Toronto slush and snow - Offers flexibility for babywearing or future pregnancies Ready for Your Perfect Fit? If you’re in Toronto and need a coat that can handle real Canadian winters, we’v e got you covered. Our maternity coats are designed to keep you warm, comfortable, and supported through pregnancy, babywearing, and beyond. Every detail, from fit to function, is chosen with your journey in mind. Blog2: Seven Women Maternity We’ve also curated the perfect layers to g o with it. Explore our full range of maternity clothes, including cozy ribbed basics, wrap-style maternity dresses, and elegant pieces for special occasions. Each item is made to grow with you and help you feel your best every step of the way. Visit our maternity store in Toronto or shop online from the comfort of home. Don’t wait for the cold to catch you off guard, your warmest, most confident winter starts here.