How many items in each clothing category you opt to buy will probably depend on the season you’re pregnant and your everyday lifestyle. However, this list is a good starting point that covers all the basics.
- 2—3 pairs of maternity leggings — including options suitable for exercise
- 1—2 pairs of jeans/pants
- 4—6 everyday tops that are either flowy or stretchy enough to accommodate the bump (tanks and tees in the summer, long-sleeve shirts, blouses, and sweaters in the winter)
- 2—3 dresses that are versatile enough for casual as well as dressy events
- 1 more formal special occasion dress or jumpsuit for showers, weddings, etc.
- 2-3 nursing bras (depending on how often you do laundry)
- 2 comfy loungewear or PJ sets
- 1 bump-friendly coat or jacket for winter pregnancies
- 2 swimsuits for spring/summer pregnancies (these come in handy post-partum, too)
- Nursing gown/robe (particularly helpful for recovery immediately after delivery)
Certainly, not all maternity clothing is created equal. By shopping with the right brands and choosing thoughtfully designed items, though, dressing during pregnancy doesn’t have to entail compromising on comfort or style. As a general rule, the best maternity clothes are made with breathable fabrics, feature a touch of stretch, and offer generous room to grow.
The key to smart maternity shopping is to focus on investing in a few well-fitting pieces you know you’ll wear on repeat during your pregnancy — like, say, a supportive pair of leggings, a versatile day-to-night dress, and a comfy loungewear set. Better yet, to get more bang for your buck, look for items that will continue to fit in postpartum and beyond.
FAQs and buying tips
When should I start wearing maternity clothes?
The rate at which pregnant bodies change can vary quite a bit — for those who “pop” early, it might be necessary to start switching to maternity clothes as early as 12 weeks. Others might find that they’re able to mostly get by with their pre-pregnancy clothes until about halfway through the second trimester, around weeks 20-24.
The bottom line? The right time to start wearing maternity clothes is when your current wardrobe no longer makes you feel comfortable and confident.
Can I size up instead of buying maternity-specific styles?
If you’re looking to avoid investing in maternity-specific pieces — which may not fit right any longer after childbirth — buying a size up from your normal size is a great alternative. Note that this method doesn’t always work, though. For example, in the case of jeans, I’ve found that they still feel too tight even when sizing up, unless it’s a low-rise style that sits under the bump.
However, when it comes to more forgiving items with stretch like T-shirts, jersey dresses, and drawstring shorts or pants, opting for a size up usually works during pregnancy.
Do maternity clothes run true to size?
The majority of maternity brands recommend buying your pre-pregnancy size. So, if you normally wear a medium, start there when shopping for maternity clothes. That said, it’s always best to check the brand’s size chart for exact guidance on whether you need to size up or down.
It can also be helpful to read customer reviews — which may offer helpful insight as to whether a particular pair of maternity denim shorts runs small in the waist, or a maternity swimsuit top runs more roomy in the bust.
Are maternity clothes worth it if I’m only pregnant once?
Ultimately, this all comes down to your budget and preferences. Certainly, maternity clothes can provide a more comfortable, supportive, and flattering fit, helping you to embrace the physical changes you’re undergoing. That said, if you’re able to find cute, comfy pieces that still fit well simply by sizing up, you may decide that maternity clothes aren’t worth shelling out for.
It also depends on your lifestyle. Pregnant people who live in leggings and dresses are more likely to find non-maternity clothes that work. Conversely, those who love to wear jeans, or work out very frequently, might find that they need to invest in some maternity-specific items that accommodate their growing bellies.
