The Best Maternity Clothes Brands, Recommended by Moms
Pregnancy can change your body quickly, but that doesn’t mean you need to replace your entire closet. As a mom of two, I can tell you: The best maternity clothes are the pieces that make you feel most like yourself. With a changing body, it’s nice to be able to reach for a great pair of jeans that may not be your well-worn favorite, but still look and feel like something you’d normally wear.
And while it’s tempting to fill your closet with a brand-new maternity-specific wardrobe, Liz Teich, a New York-based personal stylist, style creator, on-air style expert and mom of two advises otherwise: “Most women tend to buy a lot and cheaply, but I advise avoiding 10 cheap pieces in favor of one item that makes them feel amazing.” Rather than building an entirely separate maternity wardrobe, Teich recommends focusing on a few hardworking pieces that fit well, get frequent use and ideally, continue working postpartum. That might mean investing in a maternity-specific jean or pair of trousers while continuing to wear oversized button-downs, loose dresses or other flexible pieces you already own.
To help you find the right additions for your wardrobe, we researched maternity clothing brands across a range of parent needs, including everyday basics, budget-friendly finds, activewear, special-occasion styles and pregnancy-to-postpartum pieces. We also considered comfort, style, value and versatility to find brands that make pregnancy dressing easier.
We took the following steps to curate a collection of the best maternity clothes brands:
- Our in-house editors (including me, a mom of two) carefully evaluated and rated brands we personally used during our own pregnancies. Our expert panel for this piece includes Ashlee Neuman, content director for The Bump and mom of two; Lauren Barth, mom of three and associate content director of lifecycle, Natalie Gontcharova and Jennifer Lee, mom of three and head of marketing at The Bump. Our five-women team shared feedback on the maternity fashion brands we personally used, based on style, fit, quality and value for the money.
- In order to hear from a wide range of women, we ran three community surveys and asked a total of almost a thousand expectant parents about the maternity clothes brands they’ve used and what they did and didn’t like about each. We then analyzed this data and used it to inform our brand choices.
- We interviewed two leading maternity stylists to get the lowdown on what to consider when browsing maternity clothes.
- We conducted exhaustive market research, scouring external forums and message boards and reading user reviews to find out what expectant parents across the country looked for when shopping for pregnancy clothing.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read more about how The Bump develops our product reviews.
The maternity clothes you’ll get the most use out of tend to be the least complicated: a comfortable T-shirt, a great pair of pants or jeans and easy dresses you can wear on repeat. For everyday basics, we looked for brands with versatile staples, comfortable fabrics and maternity-specific designs that can accommodate your growing bump without feeling like a completely different wardrobe.
- Nice selection of basics
- High-quality fabrics
- Affordable price point
- Smaller size range than other brands
The Bump takeaway: A strong pick for elevated everyday basics, especially if breathable fabrics and premium-feeling materials matter to you.
Why we love it: Quince is a great place to start if you want maternity basics that feel a little more elevated than your average t-shirt and leggings. The collection includes everyday staples like tops, bottoms and jumpsuits, but what really stands out is the fabric selection.
You’ll find maternity pieces made from linen, organic cotton, bamboo jersey, washable silk and even cotton-cashmere blends––materials more commonly associated with higher price points. And as someone who’s been through two pregnancies, I can attest that breathable fabrics became even more important during pregnancy, when fluctuating hormones left me feeling sweatier than usual. Soft, breathable options are especially welcome for basics you’ll wear on repeat.
What to know: Quince has a broad maternity assortment, but its sizing appears to top out at XL for many styles, which is more limited than some competitors. On the plus side, the collection includes plenty of maternity-and-nursing crossover pieces, which can help extend their usefulness postpartum.
**Size range XS to XL | Price range: $19.90 to $139.90 | *Return policy:* Items may be returned for a full refund or exchange within 365 days of the purchase date
Our community says:
Inexpensive, high quality clothing. - Sara, The Bump survey respondent and mom
- Comfortable cuts
- Soft fabrics
- Good inventory of all your basic essentials
- Inconsistent sizing
- Some items are expensive
The Bump takeaway: Best for shoppers who want familiar wardrobe staples—especially denim—in maternity-specific fits that still feel current.
Why we love it: The assortment feels familiar, but still offers pregnancy-specific fit where it matters. The current maternity collection includes tees, tanks, dresses, lounge pieces, pants and a particularly strong denim selection, with styles ranging from slim and straight cuts to baggy and wide-leg jeans. That variety is a big plus if, like Teich notes, you want maternity jeans that still feel current rather than settling for a single stretchy skinny-jean option. Parents we’ve surveyed have also praised Gap for its soft fabrics, comfortable cuts and everyday versatility.
What to know: Gap can be a little expensive at full-price—many current maternity jeans are around $80 to $100—but the brand runs frequent promotions and markdowns. Our parent feedback has sometimes flagged some inconsistency in sizing, so it’s worth checking reviews and individual fit notes before ordering.
Size range: XXS to XXL | Price range: $4.97 to $220 | Return policy: To return or exchange, items must be returned within 30 days from delivery date
Our community says:
For on-trend basics, I'd say the style is pretty good. Great fabrics and good cuts—definitely comfortable. - Ashlee N., Mom of two and content director at The Bump
Clothes were stylish and well-made. Cute jeans, cute work pants, adorable sweaters and tees…and all fit my 5'9" frame so well. – marivalentine09, The Bump forum member
GAP maternity is my favorite. – NikiGee, The Bump forum member
- On trend-pieces and basics
- Good quality fabrics
- True to size
- Less postpartum mileage
The Bump takeaway: A smart choice if you want true maternity construction and thoughtful fit details designed around your growing bump.
Why we love it: Ingrid + Isabel has been designing specifically for pregnant and postpartum bodies for more than 20 years, and that maternity expertise shows in the details. The brand says that every style is fit-tested on real pregnant and postpartum women, and its current collection includes true everyday staples like maternity tanks, denim, dresses and activewear. Ingrid + Isabel is also one of the stronger options on this list for workwear, with a dedicated collection of professional maternity clothing that include office-friendly jumpsuits, collared midi dresses, tailored pants and slip skirts.
What to know: Ingrid + Isabel leans into true maternity construction, so some pieces are designed more specifically for pregnancy than for long-term postpartum wear. If you’re trying to buy fewer pieces overall, look closely at the silhouettes and choose styles––like adjustable pants, tanks or layering pieces that can keep working as your body changes.
Size range: XS to XXL | Price range: $28 to $249 | Return policy: Accept returns of any unworn, unwashed and/or defective merchandise purchased within 30 days of the delivery date
Our community says:
The brand makes very comfortable and attractive clothes. – Emily R., The Bump survey respondent and mom-to-be
Ingrd & Isabel offers well-made clothes with high-quality fabrics! -Ashlee N., mom of two and content director at The Bump
Fit well (true to non-pregnant size) and cute styles. - Amira, The Bump survey respondent and mom
Great maternity wear doesn’t have to mean spending a lot of money on pieces with a short lifespan. These brands stood out for affordable staples that still deliver on comfort, fit and everyday wearability.
- Affordable price point
- Clothes have plenty of stretch
- Online shop can be filtered by trimester
- Selection is better online than in stores
- Sizes run large
- Some find Old Navy tags itchy and irritating
The Bump takeaway: Best for shoppers who want affordable maternity clothes that still feel like the styles they’d normally wear.
Why we love it: Old Navy remains one of the easiest places to build out a maternity wardrobe on a budget. Its current maternity collection is extensive—with over 400 current styles across tees, dresses, jeans, leggings, sleepwear and nursing-friendly options. If you’re dressing for the office, don’t overlook the maternity Pixie pants. The current assortment includes straight, flare and wide-length styles with pregnancy-friendly waistbands. The brand also runs frequent promotions, so already-accessible prices drop even further.
What to know: The biggest selection is online, not necessarily in stores, which came up in our previous parent feedback as well. That means you might have more options in terms of styles and sizes online, but fewer chances to try on pieces before buying.
Size range: XS to XXL | Price range: $3.97 to $38.99 | Return policy: Free returns and exchanges via prepaid shipping label or in store
Our community says:
This is probably one of the most affordable maternity brands out there, and for what you pay, you get cute, comfortable clothes that'll see you through those nine+ months. I think the value is fantastic! – Ashlee N. - Mom of two and content director at The Bump
I have loved getting basics from Old Navy because they have a good range of colors to choose from and the fabrics feel soft and comfortable, but it is more affordable than other options. – Lydia C., The Bump survey respondent and mom-to-be
It is an accessible price point and looks most similar to clothes I normally wear when I'm not pregnant. - Elizabeth, The Bump survey respondent and mom of one
- Accessible and affordable
- Inclusive size options
- Clothing is comfortable
- Quality varies depending on the brand
- Some parents wish there were more options in store
The Bump takeaway: A convenient, affordable one-stop shop with multiple maternity brands and plenty of everyday essentials in one place.
Why we love it: Target is one of the most accessible places to shop maternity on a budget, with everything ranging from nursing bras to basic tops, dresses and leggings. Its maternity department includes Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel, Motherhood Maternity and Auden, so you can shop different fits and price points in one place. Target can also fill a workwear gap, with maternity trousers from Ingrid + Isabel and Motherhood along with other office-friendly options online. The retailer also stood out in our research for convenience and was the most-recommended retailer among plus-size respondents in our survey.
What to know: Like Old Navy, the in-store selection is more limited than online, and because Target carries multiple maternity brands, the fit, sizing and quality can vary from one brand to another, so be sure to check size charts and product reviews before ordering.
Size range: Sizes vary depending on brand | Price range: $9.36 to $254.99 | Return policy: Most unopened items sold by Target in new condition and returned within 90 days will receive a refund or exchange
Our community says:
Target has great, affordable stuff. - anniemarie887, The Bump forum member
Comfortable, accessible and affordable. - Jessica, The Bump survey respondent and mom
Great bang for your buck. (Unless of course you're shopping at Target in person… Then you're bound to buy extra things you don't need!) - Lauren B., mom of three and associate content director of lifecycle at The Bump
- Affordable price point
- Cute pieces and basics
- Clothing is very comfortable
- Quality can be hit or miss
- Limited styles
The Bump takeaway: A dependable, maternity-focused option for practical staples, with the added convenience of shopping the brand through Kohl’s.
Why we love it: Motherhood has been around for decades, with a current assortment that includes maternity jeans and trousers, bump-friendly dresses, everyday tees and leggings along with its signature Secret Fit Belly Panel, which is designed to grow with your bump and provide support throughout pregnancy. The brand has also expanded beyond clothing with diaper bags, giving shoppers another reason to browse if they’re looking for new parent essentials all in one place.
Motherhood is also available through Kohl’s, which makes the brands easier to shop and gives you another option for browsing styles and making returns. The Bump survey respondent Autumn agrees that the brand has “a lot of stylish options that could be mixed and matched to create both casual and dressier outfits.”
What to know: While motherhood offers plenty of everyday maternity staples, the assortment is more limited and quality can be hit or miss depending on the style.
Size range: XS to 3XL | Price range: $15 to $80 | Return policy: Items can be returned for a full refund minus shipping fees
Our community says:
While the quality isn't as high as other maternity brands, the prices are certainly lower. I think you get good value for your money. - Ashlee N., mom of two and content director at The Bump
The price point is fair for the quality and style you're getting. - Lauren B., mom of three and associate content director of lifecycle at The Bump
Lots of options—affordable and stylish. - Emma*, survey respondent and mom
Just because you’ve got a growing bump, doesn’t mean you need to give up on style. These brands stand out for current silhouettes, trend-led details and pieces that still feel like something you’d actually choose to wear.
- New styles each season
- Affordable price point
- Over-belly panels
- Clothing sells out quickly
The Bump takeaway: H&M offers a maternity collection that’s best for trying out current maternity trends without making a major investment.
Why we love it: H&M is one of the easiest places to find maternity clothes that actually reflect current silhouettes. Its MAMA collection currently includes wide-leg denim, printed slip skirts, fitted ribbed tops and dresses as well as nursing bras. Teich tells us that maternity denim has come a long way, and that today’s return to low-rise styles can make under-the-bump dressing feel more current.
There are some great workwear finds, too––including maternity slacks and wide-leg dress pants that feel much more current and on-trend than straight-leg options. The prices are also relatively affordable, making H&M a good place to experiment with trends without spending a fortune.
What to know: While the maternity collection is extensive, styles can sell through quickly and availability varies by size and color. The brand also mixes trend-driven pieces with basics, so shoppers might need to browse a bit to find more fashion-driven items.
Size range: XS to XXL | Price range: $5.99 to $99 | Return policy: Unworn, undamaged items can be refunded or exchanged within 30 days, minus shipping and handling costs
Our community says:
Has good staples but also cute styles. - Abby, The Bump survey respondent and mom
As a fast-fashion brand, H&M isn't typically known for their long-lasting, high-quality clothing. But I was pleasantly surprised at how well my maternity pieces held up over the course of two pregnancies. - Ashlee N., mom of two and content director at The Bump
Sizes are true to pre-pregnancy sizing and consistent. [The] prices are affordable and you can often order online during a sale. – Taylor B., The Bump survey respondent and mom-to-be
- Wide range of trendy maternity clothes
- Inclusive sizing options
- Relatively affordable
- Certain items lack stretch
- Some say occasion dresses were itchy
The Bump takeaway: PinkBlush is a great place to shop when you want maternity clothes with more personality—especially if you’re shopping for a standout dress.
Why we love it: PinkBlush is a true maternity specialist with a particularly strong focus on clothes that feel fun and fashion-forward. Its current collection includes bump-friendly jeans and tops, activewear and loungewear with a wide selection of dresses.
PinkBlush was a go-to when I was pregnant with my boys––everything from my baby shower dress to my favorite maternity distressed denim came from there. In our parent research, shoppers also liked the variety of silhouettes, from more fitted styles that highlight the bump to looser, more relaxed options, as well as the brand’s broader size offering.
What to know: With such a wide assortment, fit and fabric can differ substantially from one style to another. Some shoppers say that some pieces had less stretch than expected, so it’s worth reading product reviews before ordering.
Size range: XS to 3XL | Price range: $18 to $129 | Return policy: Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery date, for free via return bar or minus $5 for shipping
Our community says:
PinkBlush is a versatile maternity brand that I always recommend to other parents, whether they're looking for nice dresses or useful basics. – Natalie G., mom of one and senior lifecycle editor at The Bump
I really like the pretty and flattering patterns. There are also a range of options from fitted to flowy, especially for dresses, which is great. – Libby J., mom-to-be and The Bump survey respondent
Items to wear during and after pregnancy that are in style. – Lexi, mom and The Bump survey respondent
- Wide range of fitted silhouettes
- Designed to work pregnancy through postpartum
- Fitted, body-conscious look
- Higher price point
The Bump takeaway: Bumpsuit is a splurge-worthy pick for parents-to-be who want to show off their bump in sleek, fashion-forward silhouettes.
Why we love it: Bumpsuit is all about fitted dressing with dresses, jumpsuits and bodysuits designed to highlight rather than hide a growing bump. Signature styles like the Cindy Maternity Romper and Lucy Maternity Unitard are designed to grow with you through pregnancy and still work postpartum. For pregnant parents who want maternity clothes to feel fashion-forward and fitted, rather than overly loose or traditional, “maternity,” Bumpsuit is a top pick.
Teich is especially enthusiastic about the brand. “I wish Bumpsuit was around when I was expecting and that would be the top brand I’d splurge on if I ever did it again,” she says. She cites the brand as filling a “much needed gap in the market for expecting moms” with “pieces [that] look like something anyone would be so comfortable wearing all of the time."
What to know: Bumpsuit is definitely on the expensive side, so it makes the most sense if you're especially drawn to the brand’s signature fitted aesthetic and expect to wear the pieces often. Many styles are also designed to work beyond pregnancy, which can help justify the higher price point.
Size range: XS to XL | Price range: $11.00 to $486.00 | Return policy: Returns must be initiated within 14 days of delivery. A $14.99 return fee applies, and sale/final-sale items are not eligible for return.
Our community says:
The material is so comfortable, stylish, and a lot of their clothing pieces can be worn during and postpartum. – mom and The Bump survey respondent
Pregnancy doesn’t have to mean compromising on style. These brands stand out for polished maternity dresses and occasion-ready pieces for weddings, showers, photos and more.
- Stylish occasionwear
- High quality fabrics
- On-trend designs
- High price point
- Limited sizing options
- Not all clothing is nursing-friendly
The Bump takeaway: HATCH Collection is worth the splurge for elevated occasionwear that can stay in rotation beyond pregnancy.
What we love: HATCH Collection is a go-to for elevated maternity dressing, with polished dresses and separates that work for baby showers, weddings, maternity photos and other special occasions. The brand’s silhouettes tend to feel more fashion-forward than traditionally maternity-specific, with pieces designed to accommodate a growing bump without relying on obvious ruching or excess fabric.
Teich calls HATCH Collection her “top choice” because “their pieces last well beyond the bump and also have great resale value.” At HATCH Collection’s prices, it helps that many pieces can still work postpartum, rather than becoming one-and-done purchases.
What to know: HATCH is definitely a splurge, and its sizing is more limited than some of the other brands on this list. If you’re investing, it makes sense to choose a silhouette you can picture wearing for more than one event––or beyond pregnancy altogether.
Size range: US 0 to 16 | Price range: $24 to $298 | Return policy: Free exchanges for a different size or color; all other returns deduct shipping cost from refund or store credit
Our community says:
I liked that the items were stylish and comfortable. – Megan, mom and The Bump survey respondent
HATCH definitely uses high-quality fabrics that feel comfortable against my skin. I'd wear my pieces all day long without any qualms. -Ashlee N., Mom of two and content director at The Bump
Very good quality and unique pieces. - Chelsea, The Bump survey respondent and mom
- Extensive special-occasion collection
- Maternity-specific sizing and fit
- Some maternity and nursing crossover styles
- Higher price point
- US returns are international
The Bump takeaway: Tiffany Rose Maternity is a standout for truly dressy maternity occasions, especially weddings, showers and formal events where you want a more polished fit.
What we love: Tiffany Rose is a true special-occasion brand with maternity dresses designed for weddings, baby showers, maternity photos and formal events. The current collection includes lace dresses, full-length gowns, fitted midi styles, bridesmaid options and even maternity bridal gowns, so it’s especially useful when you need something more polished than a casual dress. The brand also offers nursing-friendly styles, which can give some pieces a little more life after pregnancy.
What to know: This is a higher-priced brand, with many dresses landing well over $150 and formal gowns costing considerably more. The standard size range also appears to run from 2/4 through 14/16 for most of the collection, although select plus-size styles are available.
Size range: US 2-4 to 20-22 | Price range: $70 to $600 | Return policy: Returns on unworn, unwashed, undamaged items with original tags attached are accepted within 30 days of receipt
Whether you’re working out, walking or just living in leggings, the right maternity activewear needs to stretch and support without digging into your bump. These brands stand out for comfortable, pregnancy-specific fits that can keep up with you however you like to move.
- Soft, stretchy, UPF 50+ fabric
- Side ruching and over-belly panels
- Some leggings have pockets
- High price point
- Limited sizes
The Bump takeaway: Beyond Yoga is a premium pick for ultra-soft maternity activewear that works just as well for workouts as it does for lounging.
What we love: Beyond Yoga is the kind of maternity activewear you can easily end up wearing all day. The brand’s Spacedye fabric is soft, stretchy and moisture-wicking and the maternity collection includes featherweight tees, midi maternity leggings, biker shorts, tanks, maxi dresses and nursing bras for everything from workouts to errands to lounging at home.
The comfort factor really came through in our previous testing and parent feedback. “I rave about Beyond Yoga to any pregnant parent-to-be,” says Ashlee, our content director. “This activewear combines performance with ultimate comfort.” One survey respondent told us she “lived in their yoga pants and shorts” during pregnancy, while another described the fabric as “buttery soft.”
What to know: Beyond Yoga is pricier than some maternity activewear brands, but it’s not just gym gear––the pieces are easier to wear well beyond a workout, which can help justify the cost if you live in leggings during pregnancy.
Size range: XXS to XXL | Price range: $74 to $148 | Return policy: Free returns and exchanges are available within 30 days of purchase.
- Soft, stretchy, over-the-bump panels
- More affordable than premium activewear brands
- Multiple bottom silhouettes and inseams
- Sizing can run large
- Fewer maternity tops
- Less compression than some other performance leggings
The Bump takeaway: CRZ Yoga stands out for its offering of true maternity activewear at a more accessible price point, with soft, supportive waistbands and inseam options that make it easier to find a comfortable fit.
What we love: With leggings, shorts, tops, pants, skirts and dresses made for pregnancy, this collection goes well beyond the basics. CRZ Yoga puts a lot of emphasis on soft, stretchy belly panels designed to stay comfortable without rolling or digging in. We also like that the bottoms come in a range of silhouettes––along with classic leggings, the brand offers flare leggings, wide-leg pants and straight-leg styles, many with different inseams and pocket options. That makes it easier to find maternity activewear that feels a little like what you’d normally grab from your closet.
What to know: While this maternity collection does have dedicated maternity tops, including built-in-bra tanks, ruched tanks and long-sleeve tops, the brand’s maternity offering is clearly deeper in leggings, shorts and pants, with multiple silhouettes and inseam options.
Size range: XXS to XL | Price range: $26 to $48 | Return policy: Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery
If you want to get more mileage from your maternity clothes, it helps to choose pieces that can keep working once baby arrives. These brands offer styles designed to carry you from pregnancy into nursing, pumping and the fourth trimester.
- Tops have easy nursing access
- Inclusive size options
- Assortment leans very casual and lounge
- Return fee applies unless you purchase Checkout+
The Bump takeaway: Need clothing that keeps working into the fourth trimester? Kindred Bravely stands out for its one-stop-shop and pieces that transition from maternity to nursing and pumping.
What we love: One of the biggest mistakes you can make when shopping for maternity clothes is only thinking about the duration of your pregnancy. Teich says maternity brands and shopping guides should be “taking more than nine months into consideration,” adding, "It's great when it checks all of the boxes, including postpartum!”
Kindred Bravely organizes its assortment around pregnancy, postpartum and nursing, with pieces like maternity-and-nursing tops and dresses, maternity-and-postpartum lounge pants, pumping and nursing bras and postpartum underwear and sleepwear. That lets moms-to-be shop with what comes next in mind, rather than buying pieces that stop being useful once baby arrives.
What to know: Function is a major focus here. Much of the assortment incorporates nursing, pumping or postpartum-specific features, so Kindred Bravely is strongest for practical, everyday pieces rather than trend-driven maternity fashion.
Size range XS to 3X | Price range: $12.90 to $164.70 | Return policy: Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery
Our community says:
I love Kindred Bravely pieces for their outstanding quality and comfort. The fabrics feel heavenly and hold up well, and the cuts are designed for all-day wear—perfect for lounging around during pregnancy when you’re otherwise feeling pretty uncomfortable! - Ashlee N., Mom of two and content director at The Bump
Comfiest joggers EVER. – Catherine, mom and The Bump survey respondent
Big fan of Kindred Bravely. Lots of their stuff doubles as nursing clothes as well, which is great. - and_peggy, The Bump forum member
- Stylish, modern designs
- Pregnancy-to-postpartum versatility
- International returns
- 14-day return window
- Not all styles are nursing-friendly
The Bump takeaway: Bae the Label stands out for maternity pieces designed to carry into postpartum, including tops and dresses with discreet nursing access.
What we love: For maternity clothes you’ll actually want to keep wearing, Bae the Label gets a lot right. With an offering of stylish denim, pants, dresses, sweaters and activewear alongside true crossover pieces designed for both pregnancy and nursing. Their Me And You Nursing Tee, for example, is made to accommodate a bump and includes discreet feeding access for postpartum wear.
Bae is also worth a look if you need maternity workwear: it has a dedicated collection with polished black pants, straight-leg styles and other office-friendly pieces designed around your growing bump.
Parents speak highly of the brand’s longevity—in our forum research we found that one mom cited she wore Bae pants throughout pregnancy and was still wearing them five months postpartum, while another praised the brand’s quality for both maternity and postpartum wear.
What to know: Bae is based in Australia, so US shoppers need to factor international shipping and returns into the purchase. The brand accepts US returns within 14 days of delivery, but customers are responsible for return shipping costs and refunds may be reduced by applicable taxes. If you’re unsure about sizing, check the brand’s measurements carefully before ordering.
Size range: XXS to XL | Price range: $35 to $107 | Return policy: International returns accepted within 14 days of delivery
*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.
The short answer? Not always. Many pregnant people can continue wearing pieces they already own, especially earlier in pregnancy. Oversized shirts, stretchy dresses, cardigans and other flexible styles can often adapt as your body changes.
And then there’s certain pieces designed to fit a growing belly where regular clothing simply can’t. Teich says maternity-specific jeans, trousers and active leggings are often worth considering because they’re designed to support growing belly while maintaining comfort.
The key is not buying an entirely new wardrobe at once but instead to add pieces as you need them and focus where maternity-specific design makes the biggest difference. Teich also recommends thinking beyond pregnancy while shopping: “Taking more than nine months into consideration” is one of the biggest things she thinks maternity guides often overlook. Pieces that work postpartum––or have a strong resale value––can make a higher price tag feel more worthwhile.
What’s worth buying maternity-specific?
- Jeans and trousers. Maternity waistbands and panels can provide support and comfort as your bump grows.
- Activewear. Maternity leggings and workout clothes can offer stretch and support that regular activewear might not.
- Fitted dresses or tops. Thoughtful maternity cuts can accommodate a growing bump without adding excess fabric.
What can you adapt from your existing wardrobe?
- Oversized button-down shirts
- Loose dresses
- Open cardigans and jackets
- Stretchy sweaters
- Some lounge and athleisure pieces
This isn’t to say you shouldn’t buy maternity clothes—just to make sure the pieces you choose actually earn a place in your closet.
Once you’ve figured out what gaps you actually need to fill, a few details can help you get more out of the maternity clothes you buy. From fit and fabric to versatility and value, here’s what to keep in mind while you shop.
- Fit and sizing. Look for maternity clothes that fit more than just your bump. Shoulders, bust, hips and legs should still sit properly, while features like stretch panels, adjustable waists and over- or under-the-bump bands can help accommodate pregnancy. Teich notes that fit preferences may shift too: Some people prefer looser silhouettes earlier on, then more fitted pieces as their bump becomes more pronounced.
- Fabric and comfort. Softness, breathability and stretch all matter when you’re wearing something on repeat. Teich says she’s seeing more natural fabrics in maternity collections now, which she welcomes after years of synthetic and jersey-heavy options. As someone who ran hot during both of my pregnancies, I can confirm that breathable fabrics make a noticeable difference.
- Versatility and longevity. Before buying, consider how many ways—and for how long—you’ll realistically wear a piece. Styles that work across trimesters, mix easily with your existing wardrobe or continue into postpartum can offer better value. Teich especially likes pieces that don’t look obviously maternity specific once the bump is gone.
- Where to splurge and where to save. Teich recommends spending more on “everyday workhorses” like jeans and trousers, where fit matters and you’re likely to get plenty of wear. For more affordable maternity pants and denim, Halara is another place to browse, with current straight-leg work pants and several jean options. For pieces you may only need briefly, resale and rental can be smart alternatives to buying new.
About the writer:
Christine Carpenter is a contributing writer and editor at The Bump, where she covers pregnancy, postpartum and parenting products. As a mom of two with a background in the fashion industry, she brings firsthand experience with maternity clothes and understands the challenges of finding pieces that are comfortable, flattering and still feel like owning your personal style.
Plus, more from The Bump:
Expert interviews:
Liz Teich is a New York-based fashion stylist, style creator, on-air style expert and mom of two. She has been a professional commercial stylist for over a decade, styling fashion and home goods for print and digital advertising campaigns for major brands and retailers.
Surveys:
The Bump April 2025, March 2024 and May 2023 Surveys. Editors conducted a survey of more than 991 new and expectant parents from among The Bump community, and asked for insight on a range of maternity clothing brands and specific garments.
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