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29 Cute Maternity Summer Dresses You’ll Live in This Season

On the hunt for summer maternity clothes? Get ready to stock your seasonal wardrobe with these light, comfy, casual maternity dresses.
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profile picture of Danielle Halibey
Updated April 21, 2023
summer maternity clothes-hero
Image: HATCH Collection
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With high temps in the forecast, a summer pregnancy calls for summer maternity clothes. There are plenty of seasonal separates on the market, like ruched tees and side-panel shorts, but when the weather heats up, you just can’t beat an easy, breezy maternity sundress.

The best maternity summer dresses are made from “breathable fabrics like linen, 100 percent cotton, Lyocell and viscose” says Liz Teich, a New York-based fashion stylist and mom of two. “It can get extremely hot, because not only are you carrying all that additional weight, but your hormones are also doing a number on you, so you really need to be mindful of that.” These days there are tons of cute maternity dress styles to choose from. Teich—who works regularly with moms who want to edit their closets and wardrobes for pregnancy, postpartum and beyond—loves “breezy, flowy and caftan-style dresses for early on in the pregnancy,” she says. “They’re easy to wear, especially if you want to conceal the bump.” Later in pregnancy, “you may want to opt for something more form-fitting/body-con,” she adds. Especially once you’ve really popped, “I find that if you have too much fabric, you just feel massive. It’s a great time to show off curves and that bump!”

Whether you go for a fitted sheath dress that shows off your bump, a stylish swing dress that allows for air flow or a flowing maxi dress that Teich says is one of the best trends to explore “when you don’t want your legs to show—especially when you get to the point where you can’t reach to shave,” there are plenty of cute maternity dresses to fit your unique style and have you feeling your best once the weather heats up. Ready to start shopping? Scroll to see our favorite summer maternity dresses for this season.

Where to Shop for Casual Maternity Summer Dresses

There are tons of fashion-forward maternity brands online, so you can shop maternity summer dresses from the comfort of your home, avoiding the stuffy dressing rooms and seemingly endless lines. Here are our favorite places to buy (or even rent!) cute maternity summer dresses.

  • HATCH. For quality maternity clothes that’ll last you through pregnancy and beyond, HATCH is known for chic looks that will make even your non-pregnant friends jealous. We’re obsessed with the brand’s summer collection that’s chock-full of floaty feminine styles made from natural fabrics.
  • H&M MAMA. Moms-to-be who want to stock up on easy-wear basics and airy, woven-cotton pieces for summertime while on a budget will have no problem finding them at H&M, Teich says. T-shirt dresses, sleeveless tank styles and versatile wear now/nurse later options round out the collection, with most available at price points under $50.
  • Nordstrom. Nordstrom carries a variety of brands that we know and love: Angel Maternity, Kimi + Kai and Nom Maternity, to name a few. And, of course, we can’t get over their flexible (and free!) returns—a must when you’re still getting used to dressing a completely different shape, in a totally unpredictable season.
  • PinkBlush Maternity. This brand has a fantastic range of trendy maternity sundresses and plus-size styles at an affordable price point.
  • Bumpsuit. You may have seen this brand pop up on your Instagram feed, especially if you’re into the “hot pregnant mom” trend! The brand’s slinky, sexy dresses are something Teich wishes she could have slipped into during her own pregnancies. If you’re after a stylish, celebratory look, you’ll find it here.
  • Rachel Pally. This LA designer got her start with jersey dresses, so it tracks that more than 20 years after her career-launching capsule came to be, she’d still be creating fashion with comfort and ease in mind. These days, though, her dresses are crafted with even more ethically sourced, maternity-friendly fabrications, from organic cotton gauze to lightweight linen and buttery-soft modal.
  • Rent The Runway. Don’t feel like investing in summer maternity clothes that might not make it another season? No sweat. The clothing rental service Rent The Runway has maternity wear in its rotation. There are a number of flexible membership plans to play with; use our exclusive promo code BUMP40 for 40 percent off two months, if you want to try it!

Cute Short Maternity Summer Dresses

You really can’t beat a shorter silhouette when the sun is shining. Look for short maternity dresses that flow away from the body, because things are bound to get a little sweaty. Don’t forget to invest in under-the-dress items (like breathable spanks, slip shorts or bandelettes) and friction-forgiving essentials (lotions, gels or non-talc-based anti-chafing powders) when you know you’ll be up on your feet most of the day.

Chambray maternity dress

Chambray Front Button Maternity Dress
Image: A Pea In the Pod

The “denim reimagined” trend is going to be huge this season, according to Teich. Chambray is a lightweight take on the denim look, but when you’re pregnant in high, muggy temps, it’s a lot more preferable. This classic style is made from breathable cotton and features a cinchable tie waist for the perfect fit. The WFH potential of this shirt dress is off the charts too, because you can look Zoom-ready on the top with comfy slippers on the bottom (no one needs to know!).

Material: Chambray fabric | Size range: XS-L | Washing instructions: Machine wash or dry clean

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Puff long sleeve maternity dress

Coral Square Neck Puff Long Sleeve Maternity Dress
Image: PinkBlush Maternity

Anyone else feel like they need a flower crown or some retro aviators to finish off this look? This solid-hued maternity dress features a square neckline, long puff sleeves, a smocked elastic back, a ruffle hem and a double-lined skirt that has movement for days. And when you have kaleidoscopic coral, light blue, mauve or olive green shades to choose from, you can’t go wrong!

Material: 100 percent polyester with 100 percent cotton lining | Size range: S-L | Washing instructions: Hand wash cold, lay flat to dry

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Striped maternity and nursing dress

Cotton Stripe Maternity and Nursing Dress
Image: Seraphine
Buying Options
Seraphine|$85

This cotton striped frock from Seraphine is one of our favorite casual maternity dresses, since it’s versatile enough for any summer outing. The cap sleeves, pockets and optional belt waist give this simple dress an upscale style. Once baby is on the scene, the dress will seamlessly transition into your postpartum wardrobe thanks to the invisible zippers at the side, which allow for easy nursing access.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size range: 2-14 | Washing instructions: Not specified

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Stretchy slim-fit dress

The Brigitte Dress
Image: Bumpsuit
Buying Options
Bumpsuit|$135

When it’s hot outside, getting as close to naked as possible is a pregnant mama’s MO. This moveable slip from Bumpsuit is made of a flexible four-way stretch fabric (in seven pretty shades) that skims the body, accentuates your assets and highlights your baby bump—taking you from day to night with a quick accessory or shoe swap. Our favorite part? It slips on overhead.

Material: 97 percent polyester, 3 percent spandex | Size range: XS-XL | Washing instructions: Not specified

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Floral maternity and nursing dress

Women's Micaela Black Royal Maternity and Nursing Dress
Image: Macy's

Incorporate some fun florals into your summer maternity outfits with this option from Everygly Grey. The fresh flower print with a feminine scalloped hem is the perfect way to make a seasonal statement. This faux wrap-style dress can be tied tighter during the early stages of pregnancy and looser as your bump grows. It even has a discreet hidden panel at the bust, making it a great nursing pick when your little peanut arrives.

Material: 96 percent polyester, 4 percent spandex | Size range: XS-XL | Washing instructions: Machine wash, line dry

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T-shirt dress

Maternity Pocket T-Shirt Dress
Image: pact
Buying Options
pact|$42

Of all the maternity summer dresses you buy, you’ll likely get the most use out of a basic T-shirt dress like this soft and simple option from pact. With a jeweled neckline and textured jersey fabric, this straight-cut dress can be easily layered and sits just above the knee for an uber-flattering, yet relaxed look (with pockets, no less). The only challenge? Which cool colorway to choose: mink gray, marsala or storm?

Material: 100 percent organic cotton | Size range: S-XL | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold and tumble dry

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Boho lavender maternity dress

Lavender Lace Accent Tassel Tie Maternity Dress
Image: PinkBlush Maternity

PinkBlush Maternity Lavender Lace Accent Tassel Tie Maternity Dress When you’re pregnant, Coachella is probably not in the cards, but you can still have fun with festival fashion in this soft lavender maternity summer dress. The flirty ruffled hem, lace accents and tassel tie detailing at the straps give it a beautiful boho vibe—perfect for all of your summer events during pregnancy.

Material: 100 percent rayon, 100 percent polyester lining | Size range: S-L | Washing instructions: Hand wash cold, hang or line dry

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Two-tone maternity dress

Two-Tone Reversible Zig-Zag Maternity Dress
Image: Sexy Mama Maternity

This two-toned sleeveless maternity summer dress, courtesy of Sexy Mama Maternity, is an absolute beauty. The bold pattern is oh-so-flattering and the ultra-soft stretch material will hug your curves in all the right places. Pair it with open-toed wedges, a fedora and a chain-bearing crossbody bag for a casual yet put-together daytime look. (Because those days of leaving the house without a bulky diaper bag are numbered!).

Material: Not specified | Size range: 00-20 | Washing instructions: Not specified

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Linen-cotton maternity dress

Sakura Dress
Image: Nothing Fits But
Buying Options
Nothing Fits But|$129

If you’ve been dreaming of nothing but cottagecore maternity photos, then you’ll have to shop this blissful romantic linen-cotton dress from Nothing Fits But. The fabric is bio-washed, meaning it’s completely smooth and unfrayed. We love the garden motif and that off-the-shoulder, smocked elastic bodice has just the right kind of stretch to support your budding bump.

Material: 50 percent cotton, 50 percent linen | Size range: S-L | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, hang dry

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Eyelet-embroidered dress

MAMA Dress with Eyelet Embroidery
Image: H&M
Buying Options
H&M|$64.99

We love a good puff sleeve and eyelet look anyday, but it’s even more beautiful on someone who’s pregnant. Even with its airy, woven cotton fabric (amazing for pregnancy summer outfits), the chic scallop-edged hem and eyelet embroidery make this dress perfect for the office. Switch out your flat sandals for some cute ankle booties, and you’ve got a date-night vibe to rival them all.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size range: XS-XXL | Washing instructions: Not specified

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Cute Maxi Maternity Summer Dresses

Maternity maxi dresses are ideal for summertime. The pullover styles are a cinch to slip on no matter how much your baby bump has grown, and when the temperature dips at night, the length of the maternity maxi dress will keep you warm. While jersey dresses are the easiest and most versatile for day to day, there are also plenty of elegant night options too, accented with prints and a variety of necklines.

Lace maternity maxi dress

PinkBlush Magenta Lace Mesh Overlay Maternity Maxi Dress
Image: PinkBlush Maternity

Who doesn’t love a little lace and eyelet trim for summer? The boho design, scalloped hemline and bold color of this dress make it a sure-fire winner this season. It’s available in 20 colors and comes in plus-sizes too! We’ve seen this style make the rounds as a stunning wedding guest, maternity photoshoot and baby shower dress all over Instagram, so you know it’ll be a hit.

Material: 100 percent polyester | Size range: S-XL | Washing instructions: Hand wash cold, hang dry

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Ruched maxi dress

Hugo Maxi Dress
Image: Nom Maternity

Stay cool this season in this gorgeous maternity summer maxi dress that features bump-flattering side ruching and a tasteful side slit. This LBD (long black dress, this time) sports comfortable short sleeves, which is nice for a casual look with flats or gladiator sandals. But throw on some pointy-toe stilettos (if only for the first part of the night) and do a side-swept ponytail with some soft curls, and you’ve taken this already-elevated T-shirt dress to a whole other level.

Material: 95 percent rayon (from bamboo), 5 percent spandex | Size range: XS-XL | Washing instructions: Machine wash and dry flat

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Floral wrap maternity maxi dress

Blue Pink Floral Wrap Maternity Maxi Dress
Image: PinkBlush Maternity

Being pregnant in the summer is bound to make you feel hot—like next-level hot. This beautiful, breezy tropical floral-print maxi wrap dress is the closest thing to your birthday suit when it comes to keeping things cool. Plus, the three-quarter length sleeves, sash tie at the waist and V-neck will make you feel like you’re rocking resort wear on vacation (even if it actually means you’re somewhere indoors, blasting the AC with a large, refreshing pitcher of ice water at arm’s reach).

Material: 95 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex | Size range: S-XL | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry

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Lightweight maternity maxi dress

The Katherine Maxi Dress
Image: HATCH Collection
Buying Options
HATCH Collection|$248

Searching for summer pregnancy outfits that walk the line between casual and formal attire? Take a look at this mesmerizing lightweight maxi dress from HATCH. The Aztec-inspired print keeps things fresh, while the elastic waistband lets you grow. And that ankle-length skirt? Pure sophistication. Pair it with a denim jacket for a family BBQ or statement accessories for something a bit more high-brow.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size range: 0-16 | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry

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Off-the-shoulder maxi dress

Off the Shoulder Maxi Dress
Image: Ingrid + Isabel

We’re smitten with this fun geometric, feather-print maternity sundress by ingrid + isabel. Made from lightweight and shape-shifting rayon (which mimics the soft feel of silk, cotton and wool), this dress can be worn with the flutter sleeves up or pulled down over the shoulders for two dynamic looks. It also features smocking along the bust and through the back to ensure a comfortable fit. So whether you want to slip on sandals or sneaks, or go with a more formal mule (and a light summer pashmina), it’s a bump-friendly choice.

Material: 93 percent rayon, 7 percent spandex | Size range: XS-XL | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low

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Tiered nursing and maternity maxi dress

Magnolia Tiered Nursing and Maternity Maxi Dress
Image: Kindred Bravely

Summer pastels are some of our favorites, and we can’t help but feel tickled pink with this secret garden-inspired maternity sundress. The sleeveless maxi design works for weddings, baby showers, birthday parties and even brunch, in case you’ve worn out all your pregnancy leggings and finally want to show a little leg when you’re out with the ladies! And since it’s constructed with slightly sheer chiffon and fully lined with stretchy fabric, it’s got that easy, breezy vibe you’ve been craving on the daily.

Material: 100 percent polyester | Size range: S-XXL/1X | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold

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Smocked maternity nap dress

Looking for a summer maternity look with nap dress-type styling? We’ve got your dream pick right here. Crafted from 100 percent cool cotton, this roomy maxi will keep pace with your progressing pregnancy. Pair it with your favorite sandals or laceless slip-ons, and be prepared to turn heads; or lay out a plush blanket in your backyard and make good on that third trimester nap-in-the-afternoon routine. It’s that cozy.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size range: XS-XL | Washing instructions: Machine wash on a gentle cycle

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Flowy linen maxi dress

Linen Mae Dress
Image: Rachel Pally
Buying Options
Rachel Pally|$160.80

Easy dresses are prime for summer, whether you’re pregnant or not! We especially love this one since it’s maternity-friendly instead of straight-up maternity. Crafted with a blend of breathable linen and rayon fabric, the oversized silhouette is sublime for any mama who wants to be comfy, but not at the expense of style. The puffy elbow-length sleeves and ruffle hem give the updated smock some feminine energy that we’re all about it.

Material: 70 percent rayon, 30 percent linen | Size range: XS-XL | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry

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Tiered maternity maxi dress

Maternity Tiered Maxi Dress
Image: Gap
Buying Options
Gap|$89.95

With floaty summer maternity clothes like this fiery coral look from GAP, you’ll never want the season to end. The tiered, smock style can easily accommodate your growing bump, the square neck flawlessly frames the decolletage and the spaghetti straps let your arms and neck breathe. Whether you’re headed to the park, the beach or an outdoor brunch with friends, this pregnancy summer dress is all you’ll need.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size range: XXS-XXL | Washing instructions: Machine wash

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Pointelle knit dress

MAMA Pointelle-knit Dress
Image: H&M
Buying Options
H&M|$39.99

This knit maternity dress with pointelle detailing in soft, grow-with-you cotton is easily one of the poshest on our list. With the low-cut, round neckline, long, seventies-style trumpet sleeves and unexpected side slit, the cozy silhouette is straight out of Rachel Zoe’s boho-chic playbook. Throw on some dark, oversized sunglasses and a great pair of black leather sandals and you’re set, mama!

Material: 59 percent cotton, 9 percent polyester and 2 percent spandex shell; 100 percent polyester lining | Size range: XS-XXL | Washing instructions: Not specified

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Cute Maternity Beach Dresses

Nothing says summer quite like a collection of beachcomber couture. Looking at the lightweight and lazy (yet still luxe) lineup on our list, these maternity beach dresses are crisp and clean—and yes, they’ll look amazing with your summer pregnancy glow. From boho maxis to caftan cover-ups, your options are endless, which is why we’ve narrowed it down for you. You’re welcome!

Flutter sleeve maternity dress

Striped Flutter Sleeve Dress
Image: Ingrid + Isabel

A summer pregnancy is no joke. Instead of letting the high summer temps bring you down, just imagine wearing this dress on a sailboat with the wind in your hair, the taste of saltwater on your lips and a sparkling, non-spirit something in your glass—no morning seasickness in sight. The smock detailing, whimsy flutter sleeves and preppy pink stripes will instantly transport you to Newport, Sag Harbor or Catalina.

Material: 100 percent rayon | Size range: XS-XL | Washing instructions: Dry clean only

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Tie-shoulder dress

The Easy Breezy Eco Voile Tie-Shoulder Dress Cover-Up
Image: Summersalt
Buying Options
Summersalt|$95

Beach ponchos aren’t the most flattering garments to begin with, but this easy, breezy eco voile tie-shoulder cover up is strikingly stylish. The maxi silhouette is always winning for a mama-to-be, and the adjustable spaghetti straps are ideal for adjusting the fit for your growing bump. This may not be officially maternity wear, but with the extended sizing and accommodating design, it’s a perfect pregnancy option. You’ll feel like you’re floating in the soft, sustainably-sourced voile fabric as you lounge poolside and then flock to dinner on a beautifully lit dock. To sum it up, this maxi is oh-so babymoon ready.

Material: 100 percent Livaeco Viscose | Size range: XS-2X | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry

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Woven sundress

Miranda Dress
Image: O’Neill

Not everything has to be from a maternity-specific line in order to qualify as an easy, breezy option for expectant moms. Case in point: this woven midi dress with a halter back and an all-over print design. The frothy sundress and dual bathing suit cover-up give us all the best summer vibes. How refreshing!

Material: 100 percent viscose | Size range: XS-XXL | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, line dry

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Breezy maxi dress

The Carolina Dress
Image: HATCH Collection

Breathable is the name of the game when you’re dressing the bump in months May through September. And according to a ton of new and pregnant mamas, this soft, double-gauze fabric frock helped them do just that—breathe!—when they were expecting. Consider this linen-mimicking, lighter-than-air dress your secret weapon for breezing in and out all summer long. It’s an amazing find for a beach wedding or for taking bump pics by the seashore.

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size range: 0-16 | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, lay flat to dry

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Low-back tropical dress

MAMA Low-backed Dress
Image: H&M
Buying Options
H&M|$17.99

What says beachy chic more than a short, airy viscose dress decked in palm fronds and ferns (in a tropical green or sunny orange)? This low-key, plunge-back dress is the perfect ensemble for a mama-to-be to dip her toes in the water and relax in the sand. It features a gathered neckline for added volume and a narrow tie belt at the waist for additional tailoring. Complete the look with a canvas tote and your favorite sandals, and get ready to step out in style.

Material: 100 percent rayon | Size range: XS-XXL | Washing instructions: Not specified

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Cute Maternity Summer Dresses Under $50

Just because you’re bumpin’ from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend doesn’t mean you have to blow your budget. These affordable dresses are both cute and less than $50.

Square-neck midi maternity dress

Maternity Fitted Sleeveless Square-Neck Midi Dress
Image: Old Navy

Barbie is inspiring everything this summer (so perfectly timed, too, with magenta being Pantone’s color of the year); if you’re a fan, then you’ll need something like this lotus blossom fitted midi dress in your closet. The shirred sides are a great complement to your proudest accessory—that bump, of course—and the stretchy rib-knit cotton flexes and moves seamlessly as you stride. And since it’s available in black and olive green iterations (and brighter vibes via these summer-ready colorways) as well, stocking up definitely wouldn’t be a bad thing!

Material: 96 percent cotton, 4 percent spandex | Size range: XS-XXL | Washing instructions: Machine wash cold, hang dry

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Maternity satin mini dress

ASOS DESIGN Maternity satin angel sleeve mini tea dress in duck egg
Image: ASOS
Buying Options
ASOS|$37

Is your baby shower theme garden-inspired? This gorgeous mint green mini tea dress might be just the look you need. The angel sleeves are sassy and flattering, and the satin style itself has a glossy, silky, drapey smooth feel that’s full of polish.

Material: 100 percent polyester | Size range: 2-16 | Washing instructions: Machine wash

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Short sleeve maternity dress

Flutter Short Sleeve Woven Maternity Dress
Image: Target
Buying Options
Target|$34

Prints can be done when you’re pregnant—especially if you can find a dress like this. The bold swirl of colors and abstract tropical leaf motifs make it right on target for the summer season. We just don’t know what we love more: the flutter sleeves, the flowy skirt or the fun tie on the back? This is definitely a dress you’ll want to come back to every summer from here on out—pregnant or not!

Material: 100 percent rayon | Size range: XS-XXL | Washing instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry

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Denim nursing dress

MAMA Denim Nursing Dress
Image: H&M
Buying Options
H&M|$49.99

To round out our list, we thought it would only be fitting to incorporate all of Teich’s insights into one incredibly versatile pick. You’ll find it in this loose-fit, knee-length dress in thick cotton denim. While you’re still pregnant, the collar, buttons at the front and wraparound ties at the waist all work to create a fashionable crossover effect. And if you end up breastfeeding, the functional inner top allows for easy nursing access. We absolutely love this look!

Material: 100 percent cotton | Size range: XS-XXL | Washing instructions: Not specified

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How We Chose the Cutest Maternity Summer Dresses

We get it—dressing for the summer is not a walk in the park, and it can be hard to find the best fit for your growing bump and raging hormones. To streamline your decision-making process, our goal is to do the bulk of the research for you, so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through online retailers. We considered a list of criteria when sourcing these dresses, including quality and durability, comfort, value and style. That way you can count on getting the best bang for your buck, while also having some cute and comfy looks to get you through the season.

To find the standout maternity summer dresses, we leveraged our familiarity with leading maternity brands to make sure items are from reliable manufacturers. We read user reviews to get the low-down on how these dresses fit expectant moms, and didn’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating. We also spoke with a New York City-based stylist who’s a pro at styling pregnant and postpartum mamas and has a ton of real-life experience making these kinds of recommendations on the regular.

Interested in learning more about our editorial process? Read about how our team develops and reviews all articles here.

About the experts:

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.

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