Julie Holobinko, a personal shopper and stylist based in New Jersey, says that pregnant people should opt for quality over quantity when it comes to maternity clothes and dresses. “Invest in some staple maternity pieces early on in your pregnancy," she says. “That way, you can ensure you’re getting your money’s worth and will wear them for longer.” Before adding to your cart, consider your lifestyle, social calendar, and budget before making any maternity clothing investments. Since the nine months of pregnancy last through the bulk of the seasons, it’s a good idea to opt for pieces that you can mix and match with non-maternity pieces. “For everyday wear, invest in a simple, black knee-length tank dress. That way, you can layer it with any non-maternity pieces you already have in your wardrobes, such as a cardigan or denim jacket,” says Holobinko. Use this guide to find the best maternity dresses for your needs. Since your body temperature can run warm during pregnancy, it’s convenient to be able to wear this all-season with cardigans, blazers, and jackets. Free shipping and returns from Nordstrom make it an easy shopping experience, especially if you’re in-between sizes. Price at time of publication: $90 Price at time of publication: $85 Price at time of publication: $40 Price at time of publication: $88 Price at time of publication: $76 The snap-front placket buttons make this a nursing-friendly dress, while the above-the-bump seam creates a beautiful A-line silhouette. While it is a long-sleeve maxi dress, the nylon/elastane blend isn’t hot, and the snaps run down the dress so you can open it up to allow some air to flow. Price at time of publication: $198 Price at time of publication: $35 Price at time of publication: $58 Price at time of publication: $30 4.5 to 4.7 stars: These maternity dresses are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them. 4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great maternity dresses, but others are better. 3.5 to 3.9 stars: These maternity dresses are just average. 3.4 and below: We don’t recommend maternity dresses with this rating; you won’t find any on our list.
What to Look For in a Maternity Dress
Style
Wear what makes you feel good and is comfortable for your needs. “Fitted styles are always going to be more flattering,” Holobinko says. Show off your legs, chest, arms, or any other areas that’ll give you a confidence boost.
Fabric
Look for fabric with a spandex blend for a stretchy, form-accentuating dress to show off your bump. This is ideal for layering underneath jackets and sweaters. For a cooler, flowy look, opt for lightweight cotton that will allow a breeze to blow through during the hotter season. “Thicker stretchy fabric in a dark color is going to be the most flattering and will grow with you as your belly gets bigger," Holobinko adds.
Sizing
While it may be tempting just to buy bigger clothes in non-maternity styles, Holobinko warns against it in most cases. “These items will be bigger all over and will not be flattering,” she says. Use your pre-pregnancy size or a brand size chart to determine the best maternity size. Avoid anything too tight; this is the time to embrace comfort.
Formal Occasions
Finding the right fit for a formal occasion can be tricky. For an evening event, “simply switching the fabric of a basic dress to satin or lace can take a dress from casual to formal,” advises Holobinko.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of an 11-year-old son, 8-year-old son, and 4-year old daughter. Maya’s maternity wardrobe was a mix of work staples during the week and more comfy clothes on the weekend. She lived in a favorite maternity LBD and stretchy tank tops. She always ran hot during her pregnancies and had to dress in layers so she could take something off when she was hot at work (and no one else was).
