Let’s talk about maternity outfits and must-haves! I think one of the most fun things about being pregnant is having some fun with your wardrobe.
Second best thing… ice cream (or maybe that’s number one…hmm…)
Either way, it’s a new adventure dressing your bump and it can be so much fun! Here are some of my favorite maternity outfits for inspiration, some tips I’ve learned through three pregnancies, and a list of my absolute maternity must-haves if you’re wondering where to begin!
*Please excuse the dirty mirrors. Welcome to mom-life…
What do you already have?
Let’s take a deep dive into your current wardrobe. I’ll bet you can still wear more of your current wardrobe than you think. We just have to look at the pieces a bit differently and maybe add some new styling ideas to make them work.
Dresses
No matter the season, dresses are your best friend while expecting! Look for empire waistlines to accentuate the bump. That higher waistlines are always bump-friendly and super comfortable. Also, look for dresses with elastic waistlines. You can adjust where they hit on your torso for more comfort!
The second thing to consider with dresses is the length. The further along you are in your pregnancy the more fabric you will need to cover that bump. Dresses that are knee-length, midi-length or maxi-length are your best bet. If you have a shorter dress with a maternity-friendly silhouette consider trying it on as a tunic with leggings or skinny denim jeans instead! You may be surprised what new outfits you can create!
Belts
Adding a belt to a dress can also help to shape the non-maternity pieces to show off your baby belly. Play around with this styling tip to see if it works for your body type. Personally I wear the belt at my natural waist in the back and then place it higher in the front to better shape my baby bump.
Think “slim” when choosing belts for your maternity wardrobe as you won’t have a lot of room over your belly. And wear them a bit looser than normal so you’re comfortable but still getting the maternity silhouette you want.
Skirts
Elastic waistlines are key here for sure! When looking through your closet for non-maternity items, choose the skirts with elastic and gathered waistlines as they will sit nicely over your bump and be extra comfy. You can also choose super-stretchy fitted knit skirts (like long pencil skirts) if you want to show off all of your curves!
Basics
Tees
Look for non-maternity tees in your wardrobe that are longer, straight-cut and maybe even a size smaller than you would normally wear. I know, sounds crazy but let me explain.
Too small?! In early pregnancy especially, those tighter tees will help to show off your new bump… making it more obvious that yes, you are expecting. This ain’t no burrito belly! 😉
Won’t tight tees just show off all my back fat?! Hide the unwanted lumps, bumps and love handles with layers! Layer those tees with a cardigan, flannel or jacket in the winter months or throw on a breezy kimono or vest in those hot summer months.
Graphic Tees
Always an essential in my wardrobe of course! You can still wear your favorite tees while expecting. Tie up or knot the bottom hem to show off your round baby bump! Layer them as you see fit for added styling.
- (Shop Home for the Holidays HERE)
Must-Have Maternity Pieces To Buy
Maternity Tees
My absolute best investment in maternity clothing has been my basic, solid layering tees! They are nice and long and the rouching at the sideseam hugs all those lovely baby bump curves.
I suggest investing in short sleeve, solid color styles first because they are most versatile for layering any time of year.
I’ve had a couple solid gray ones for over six years now and still love them!
- Here is a link to some similar ones I think you’d like: Shop HERE
Stretchy Long Tanks
This tank is my favorite because it’s fitted, smooths everything out and never rides up or stretches out! I wear it under tops and dresses!
It is not considered “maternity clothing” but it makes my list of must-haves. You can also wear these after baby for easy nursing access!
- Shop this must-have tank HERE.
Pants (Denim Jeans)
I’ve tried all of the tricks with wearing non-maternity pants over the years but nothing is as comfortable as true maternity jeans! Personally, I enjoy the high-rise options because they stay put on my body type (especially important if chasing other children around!)
Denim: Pick a wash that is very versatile for your style! A dark, clean wash with a skinny/straight leg are a great option in my opinion. They were my favorite because they were easiest to dress up or down and work with so many of my shoes!
- Shop my favorite denim jean style HERE
- Shop the bootcut version HERE
My BONUS “splurge” – Maternity Overalls!
While I wouldn’t consider maternity overalls a “must-have” in the truest sense of the phrase, they did become a maternity staple in my wardrobe during this last pregnancy!
I absolutely LOVED this investment! I decided to buy these halfway through my most recent pregnancy and didn’t regret it for one second! I wore them so much and found them to be so comfortable!
- Shop these overalls HERE
Here I am leaving for the hospital in my maternity overalls…
I was five days overdue and these bibs were bustin’! Haha! Not really… but it was definitely TIME to meet baby!
Watch the Video: Maternity Outfits & Must-Haves
I SO HOPE you enjoyed this post and video! Be sure to hit the SUBSCRIBE button on my YouTube Channel and the bell for notifications! I’ll be bringing you more outfit inspiration and styling tips soon!
Let me know in the comments below what maternity outfits were your favorite! Or what pieces you plan to purchase for your pregnancy?
Thanks for stopping by!
<3 Lauren