18 Must-Have Maternity Work Clothes, According to Moms
Pregnant professionals have a lot to contend with, from navigating the daily commute with morning sickness to fighting off a bout of pregnancy fatigue during meetings. Going into the office daily can be hard enough, but coming up with work-appropriate outfits every morning is an added challenge.
To help you create a capsule wardrobe of maternity workwear, we put together a list of bump-friendly business attire, inspired by advice from Liz Teich, a New York-based fashion stylist and mom of two, as well as expectant moms in The Bump community. From basics and outerwear to everything in between, these pieces offer numerous styling options that you can mix and match for the next nine+ months.
To streamline your search for the best maternity work clothes, we conducted extensive market research so you don’t have to spend hours scrolling through online retailers. From there:
- We surveyed almost 350 members of The Bump community and asked about the maternity office wear they wore. We then asked parents to rate specific brands and styles based on their firsthand experience.
- We checked what was being said about maternity business clothes in The Bump forums to learn what moms-to-be liked (and disliked) about certain apparel.
- We interviewed a stylist about what silhouettes, materials and qualities pregnant people should look for when choosing maternity workwear.
- To understand how these pregnancy work clothes have worked for a wide range of women nationwide, we conducted exhaustive market research, scouring forums and message boards and reading user reviews.
- We looked at the most popular maternity work attire brands and styles on the market and considered several factors—like sizing, material and price point—when choosing which options to feature in our article.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read more about how The Bump develops our product reviews.
Budget-friendly maternity trousers
- Comfy wide-leg silhouette
- Budget-friendly price point
- Only one color option
A chic pair of black maternity trousers is a working mom’s best friend, and they don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Case in point: These wide-leg pants from H&M which ring in at under $35. They have a wide, over-the-belly waist panel and an elasticized waistband to ensure a supportive fit. Moreover, they’re made from a thick jersey material that will retain its comfort and flattering shape over time.
According to Taylor, an expectant mom and survey respondent, you can count on H&M’s sizes to be consistent and true to your pre-pregnancy sizing. Better yet, she reminds moms-to-be that you can often order their budget-friendly maternity office apparel at even greater discounts online during their can’t-miss sales events.
Size range: XS to XXL | Material: 95% polyester/5% spandex (shell); 50% cotton/45% rayon/5% spandex (waist) | Care instructions: Machine wash cold; line dry
Our community says:
H&M's clothing is comfortable, soft and of good quality. – Taylor, Expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent
I liked H&M maternity pants. They fit so good for me. – OceanLover26, The Bump forum member
Office-friendly maternity jeans
- Subtle elasticized side panels
- Wide range of sizes available
- May not suit petite women
- High price point
If your office’s dress code is more casual, opt for office-friendly maternity jeans that you can wear to work and beyond. One of our favorite pairs is this style from Paige. The wide-leg jeans offer a relaxed silhouette that can easily be dressed up or down. They also feature subtle elasticized side panels that stretch to accommodate growing bumps.
Paige takes pride in delivering vintage-style designs and colorways that feel perfectly live-in from the very first wear, and the Sasha jeans definitely fit the bill. “I borrowed a pair of Paige maternity jeans from a friend and I was obsessed,” says Stasi, a member of The Bump forums. “They don't have panels, they have elastic bands in the waist (that are hidden) that can be unbuttoned to varying lengths to accommodate your growing and shrinking belly.” The bottom line: You’re bound to get a lot of wear out of these jeans.
Size range: 23 to 34 | Material: 98% cotton/2% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold; hang dry
Our community says:
I also have a pair of Paige Maternity jeans that I love. If you are going to go designer, they are by far the best [in my opinion]. – tealio The Bump forum member
Low-rise maternity work pants
- Comfy wide-leg silhouette
- Hidden waistband elastic
- Don’t look like maternity trousers
- Mixed reviews about the low waistband
- Only one color option
Expectant moms who prefer under-the-belly styles can’t go wrong with these maternity work pants from Ingrid + Isabel. The modern silhouette features a wide-leg style, cropped leg and a low-rise fit for a totally effortless yet polished look. They’re also made from a high-quality blend of modal, nylon and spandex, so you can expect them to be equally breathable and stretchy. Best of all, moms-to-be love that these don’t look like maternity pants. The secret lies in the waistband which has a hidden elastic that’s been thoughtfully designed to provide discreet support where you need it the most.
Size range: XS to XL | Material: 69% modal/29% nylon/2% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold; tumble dry
Our community says:
Ingrid + Isabel has very cute pieces. You'll find plenty of sweet, feminine styles, but I personally gravitated toward the more chic, classic looks. – Ashlee N., Mom of two and content director at The Bump
Flared maternity capris
- On-trend capri length
- Can be sold later on, according to our expert
- Mixed reviews about sizing
“HATCH was my go-to for my work clothing,” says Teich, telling us that she always recommends the brand to her clients who are expecting and postpartum. “Their pieces are beautifully made [and] they're great even when not expecting,” she explains. These cropped maternity work pants are the perfect blend of style and comfort. Made from a stretchy bamboo-viscose blend, they feel like leggings but look like classic tailoring. Pair them with loafers and a button-down shirt for a polished pregnancy outfit.
Even though these cropped maternity work pants come at a high price point, Teich says that HATCH apparel retains its value if you ever want to sell them down the line. “If it's out of your budget, check for the brand pre-owned (I sold mine on The Real Real) and you can even rent from them,” the stylist shares.
Size range: XS to XL | Material: 80% bamboo viscose/20% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash
Flattering knit with side buttons
- True to pre-pregnancy size
- Can be worn after pregnancy
- Side nursing access
- Mixed reviews about the material
- No care instructions listed on site
LEGOE Heritage is known for its refined, modern maternity clothes—just like this chic sweater. The knit top comes in an array of earth tones and features elegant bell sleeves to elevate this simple look to the next level. The flattering crew neck is ideal on its own or paired with a collared shirt underneath. And thanks to the beautiful wide-ribbed crepe design, it's also super stretchy.
Perhaps best of all, the sweater’s contrast buttons along the side seams don’t just look pretty; they also function as side nursing access. During the second and third trimesters, as your bump grows, you can also unbutton them to customize the style and fit of the top to your liking. Parents from The Bump community say that the brand’s maternity clothes are well-made and durable, and that definitely rings true here.
Size range: S to L | Material: 50% viscose/50% acrylic | Care instructions: N/A
Bump-friendly cardigan for the office
- Midweight; ideal for year-round wear
- Reviewers love the high-quality material and fit
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified
- Not designed for maternity wear
When you’re expecting, you don’t have to avoid the non-maternity clothing section entirely. In fact, many styles are probably more bump-friendly than you think. That’s one of the reasons we’re fans of this oversized cardigan from Quince. While it isn’t specifically designed for pregnancy, it definitely can be worn through all three trimesters and beyond, thanks to the oversized fit. This is exactly what heytallmama, a member of The Bump forums, said they did when they were expecting. “I’m a pretty casual dresser anyhow, so my plan is to stick with my typical cardigan/button-ups (and wear them open) and then just get maternity base layers,” they shared.
Achieve a similar look by pairing this sweater with your go-to maternity work blouses for a cozy, coastal chic-inspired outfit. Perfect for year-round wear, this cable-knit cardigan is made from midweight organic cotton. It’s even OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified, so you can count on it to be gentle on your skin yet durable enough to be a closet staple for years to come.
Size range: XS to XL | Material: 100% cotton | Care instructions: Machine wash cool; tumble dry or lay flat to dry
Striped maternity blouse
- Hidden internal button to prevent gaping
- Relaxed, draped fit
- Timeless striped pattern
- Can’t go in the tumble dryer
- Some moms wish it was stretchier
Like this option from Ingrid + Isabel, the best maternity blouses for work can be worn any time of day—not just 9 to 5. This lightweight top is perfect for warm weather or it can be layered during chillier months. No matter when you wear it, you can expect the draped fit, billowy sleeves and peplum silhouette to complement your bump and keep you comfy throughout the day. This shirt even features a hidden internal button to ensure everything stays in place and to prevent gaping. Plus, thanks to the button-down style, this top will come in handy down the line if you’re nursing.
Size range: XS to XL | Material: 100% polyester | Care instructions: Machine wash cold; hang dry
Our community says:
I like that Ingrid + Isabel's clothing accommodates different phases of pregnancy, so that when I grow, the clothes fit me throughout. – Allie, Expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent
On-trend ruched maternity top
- Moms say it’s very flattering
- Moms also love the longer length
- Double-lined for extra coverage
- Some say it runs big
You may have frequented Abercrombie & Fitch in the mall when you were younger, but did you know that the brand now has an elevated maternity collection? Take the A&F Paloma Maternity Top, for instance. Moms can’t get over how flattering and practical it is. They especially love the side ruching details and the double-lined design for added opacity and coverage; in fact, some reviewers say it’s ideal for concealing full belly panels on maternity work pants.
What’s more, the shirt’s longer length can easily be tucked into trousers or pulled down to lengthen your waistline. No matter how you wear it, the stylish top can take you from meetings to coffee breaks and everything in between. You’ll also appreciate that it’s made from a silky soft blend of cotton, modal and spandex for the perfect amount of stretch.
Size range: XXS to XL | Material: 46% cotton/46% modal/8% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold; tumble dry
Classic maternity dress for work
- Moms love the professional style
- Thick, high-quality material
- Mixed reviews about sizing
- Some moms wish it was stretchier
A favorite retailer among The Bump community, PinkBlush Maternity offers a wide range of pregnancy clothes, ranging from super casual outfits to elevated maternity business clothes. “My favorite place to order maternity clothes from was Pink Blush Maternity. Especially if you’re a working mom they have cute ‘boutique’ style clothing,” shared mamahosch, a member of The Bump forums, and we totally agree!
Take this pleated maternity work dress, for example. The simple silhouette falls just above the knee and has 3/4-length sleeves, so it’s great for sunny days and easy to layer when it gets cold out. Moms-to-be report that the comfortable material feels high-quality and that they love how professional it looks.
Size range: S to XL | Material: 68% viscose/27% nylon/5% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold; tumble dry
Our community says:
I like that the clothes from PinkBlush are trendy and reasonably priced. They’re comfortable and last through multiple pregnancies. – Courtney, Expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent
PinkBlush is stylish and affordable. – Kacie, Expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent
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, Expectant mom and The Bump survey respondent
Office-friendly maternity sweater dress
- Moms say it’s luxuriously soft
- Made from ethically sourced, Grade A cashmere
- Can also be worn postpartum
- Hand wash only
On office days when you want to feel ultra-cozy, opt for this premium maternity sweater dress from Quince. It’s made from 100 percent Grade-A Mongolian cashmere. As a result, it’s not only supremely soft, but it’s also extra-durable. Some reviewers say they bought this dress even though they’re not pregnant and that the stretchy, roomy silhouette fits well, so you can ensure this investment will last you many months to come. Thoughtful details like the classic fisherman rib-knit design, the chunky, warm turtleneck and the just-above-the-knee length work together to create a chic silhouette. All in all, moms-to-be can’t get over how luxurious it feels and how flattering it looks.
Size range: XS to XL | Material: 100% cashmere | Care instructions: Hand wash cold; lay flat to dry
Ruched pregnancy work dress
- Flattering, supportive side ruching
- Designed with large busts in mind
- Can also be worn postpartum
- Can’t go in the tumble dryer
Ruched detailing is a common feature of pregnancy clothing for good reason. Not only is it practical and adaptable to allow room for growth, but it’s also aesthetically pleasing. The Curve Dress from Nom Maternity checks both boxes and then some. The side ruching creates a flattering silhouette that stretches to support expectant moms in all the right places as their figure shifts from pregnancy to postpartum. To achieve your desired look, you can even move the ruching to be bunched up or more smoothed out. Moreover, you’ll also appreciate that this style has been designed with large busts in mind and that it’s super-soft, so you know it’ll gently adapt to your changing body.
Size range: XS to XL | Material: 95% rayon/5% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash; dry flat
Bump-friendly midi skirt for work
- Moms say it’s easy to style
- Thick, high-quality material
- Fabric may pill over time
- Can’t go in the tumble dryer
If you typically go for minimalist, 90s-inspired ensembles, a simple black maternity skirt is a must-have. Ingrid + Isabel’s Mix + Mingle Black Maternity Sweater Midi Skirt can be dressed up with a blazer and loafers or pared down with your favorite T-shirt and sneakers. No matter which way you style it, you can ensure the high-rise fit will keep you and your bump comfy from 9 to 5.
Details we know you’ll love include the buttery soft knit fabric, the elasticized waist and the side slits that allow for easy movement. Expectant moms say they’re big fans of the thick, high-quality material. Plus, they recommend pairing it with a black mock neck for an easy, reliable maternity work outfit.
Size range: XS to XL | Material: 50% rayon, 28% polyester, 22% nylon | Care instructions: Machine wash cold; dry flat
Bump-friendly trench coat
- Wrinkle-resistant material
- Can also be worn postpartum and beyond
- Removable self-tie belt
- Dry clean only
A trench coat is an investment piece you’ll have for years to come, so we suggest going with a non-maternity option that’s bump-friendly to get the most bang for your buck. Luckily, most trenches are slightly oversized, so you can rely on them to accommodate any and all fluctuations from the first to the third trimester. Plus, many have adjustable waist belts to loosen or tighten the fit as needed.
We’re impressed by the Quince Stretch Crepe Trench Coat, which ticks all of these boxes and then some. As its name implies, it’s made from a stretchy, wrinkle-resistant crepe material. This way, you can rest assured it will keep you looking polished and sleek, even if you’re throwing it on as you rush out the door. This timeless outerwear is the cherry on top of a maternity business wear ensemble.
Size range: XS to XL | Material: 97% recycled polyester/3% spandex (shell); 95% polyester/5% spandex (lining) | Care instructions: Dry clean only
According to Teich, comfort is key when picking out maternity professional attire. Here are a few qualities to consider as you browse to keep comfort top of mind:
- Stretchy, adaptable designs. What may work early on in your pregnancy may not be comfortable in a few months’ time. To get the most out of your budget, look for pieces that will stretch with you or that can be modified to meet your changing needs. “Nothing is worse than pants that dig into your belly when you sit down, so look for pieces that move and stretch with you. When you’re early in the pregnancy, you may want to opt for lower bands or a lower rise that hits below the belly, but likely by the second or third trimester, you’ll want to opt for a band that goes over your belly, so it doesn’t fall down on you,” explains Teich.
- Form-fitting silhouettes. While snug-fit clothing may not be your go-to for business apparel, Teich suggests that it can help instill confidence and comfort. “This is the one time that I would say form-fitting clothing is okay for the office,” Teich told us. “Dresses that hug your belly are a great way to show it off without feeling like excess fabric is making you even bigger.”
- Breathable, natural fabrics. Another tip from Teich: Avoid synthetic fabrics when choosing maternity business clothes. “Your hormones can do a number on you and make you quite hot, so it’s important to check your fabric labels and opt for more natural fabrics like cotton, cashmere [and] viscose,” she says. These options will keep you more comfortable throughout the day.
- Renting vs. buying clothes. Lastly, if you don’t want to invest a lot in maternity business apparel, consider renting pieces. Teich says this is a great option to try out top-notch pregnancy brands at a lower price point. “\ Rent The Runway saved me during both of my pregnancies, as I gained 60 pounds over the course of 9 months,” she told us. “What fit early on didn’t fit later on, so it’s something to be conscious of when you’re investing in maternity clothing.”
Tips for creating a capsule wardrobe of maternity business clothes
Picking out maternity business wear can be tricky. Our advice? Create a bump-friendly capsule wardrobe made up of maternity work attire that you can mix and match with pieces you may already have. This approach to pregnancy style is smart, practical and cost-effective.
The key is to select a few signature pieces versatile enough to take you from executive conferences to casual Fridays. Before shopping, take a moment to assess the pregnancy-friendly items you already own (think: an oversized blazer or an open-front cardigan) and figure out which items you’ll need to add in. We suggest starting with basics like comfortable work shirts, maternity work pants in neutral colors and a few versatile maternity work dresses that can be dressed up or down. We also like the idea of adding a few statement pieces, such as a bold patterned blouse, to inject some personality into your maternity wardrobe. Ultimately, well-curated maternity workwear can simplify your daily routine and feel confident and stylish throughout your pregnancy.
About the writer:
Emma O’Regan-Reidy is an editor for The Bump. She specializes in writing e-commerce content and has spent years researching the best pregnancy brands, including maternity clothes for all budgets and occasions. With that in mind, she knows exactly what to look for (and what to avoid) when picking out maternity work clothes. Based on her extensive market knowledge, she aims to create engaging articles that expectant parents can enjoy and learn from during this special time in their lives.
Plus, more from The Bump:
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.
The Bump March 2024 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of almost 350 parents from The Bump community and asked what brand and style of maternity clothes they wore while pregnant.
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