Young fashion retailer River Island is gunning for a slice of the £139m maternitywear market with a range targeting expectant mothers.

The retailer will make its first foray into maternitywear later this month with a 79-piece collection featuring T-shirts, knitwear, jeans and outerwear.

The range also includes more fashion-forward sequin trousers and wet-look leggings with elasticated pregnancy panels.

Called River Island Maternity, the range will be priced from £19.99 to £74.99, and initially introduced in 16 of its 273 shops as well as its website.

➤ Etailer Figleaves has extended its kids’ Minileaves range with a baby offer.

The collection includes products from Bob & Blossom, Oh Baby London, Hunter and Bonnie Baby and launched on its website this month.