The Mother Lode

Bargain hunters headed for Bangkok's cheap-clothing markets and custom tailors can now add designer maternity wear to their shopping lists. The city's one-year-old Amayi boutique has become a magnet for mums-to-be, thanks to the fashion sense of founder Nida White. Disappointed with the clothing choices she faced during her pregnancy, the onetime political-science student decided to establish her own clothing line, trading on a combination of trendy design and the kind of luxe fabrics not usually associated with maternity garments (goodbye spandex!). "Everybody wants to look good all the time," says White. "If people say, 'You're pregnant but you still look very good,' it cheers you up."

White's creations include elegant satin strapless blouses ($85) and blue-silk chiffon floral skirts ($88). Strap-on cushions let newly pregnant visitors to Amayi see how they will look in a few months.

White creates the designs and selects the fabrics herself, aiming for outfits that fit loosely but still look hip. The results are attracting expectant local celebrities like Thai screen star Wanwalai Posayanont. "They actually look like clothes that I would wear when I'm not pregnant," says the 30-year-old actress. For details visit www.amayi.co.th