So far I’ve been wearing comfortable, casual clothes—mostly low-rise pants and very stretchy fabrics that adapt as my body changes. I haven’t invested in a full maternity wardrobe yet; instead I’ve opted to size up from my usual pieces so they remain wearable throughout pregnancy. Below I’ve listed the items I’ve reached for the most over the past few months: pieces that are maternity-friendly now and easy to wear again after baby arrives. You can follow me on LTK for daily outfits and maternity must-haves.
Before pregnancy my usual size is Small, but lately I’ve been ordering Mediums for most items and sizing up about three sizes in denim so they feel comfortable and accommodate my growing bump.
I’ve prioritized versatile, comfortable staples that can transition across trimesters and beyond—soft leggings, roomy tops, and support-minded undergarments. Fabrics with good stretch and forgiving waistlines have been lifesavers, and simple silhouettes allow these pieces to pair with shoes and outerwear you already own. Choosing slightly larger sizes means I don’t need a separate maternity wardrobe right away, and many of these items will remain useful during postpartum recovery.
When shopping, I focus on a few practical details: elastic or adjustable waistbands, longer tunic lengths for coverage, breathable materials, and pieces that layer well. Dresses with empire or wrap styles offer room for the bump while still feeling put-together for errands or appointments. High-rise leggings made with soft, supportive fabric can be pulled over the bump for comfort, or worn under the belly if you prefer less compression. Button-down shirts and cardigans are also helpful for easy dressing and nursing later on.
For denim, I’ve chosen styles with either a full-panel band or a soft, flexible waist so I get the look of jeans without pinching. Maternity jeans and jeggings with a higher rise and plenty of stretch are worth considering if you want structured bottoms while staying comfortable. Otherwise, relaxed-fit jeans in a larger size can work well when paired with longer tops that cover the waistband.
Shoes have stayed simple: slip-ons, supportive sneakers, and low-heel boots. Swelling and balance can change during pregnancy, so I’ve leaned toward footwear that’s easy to put on and provides steady support. Comfortable flats and sneakers are versatile for both casual days and walking around town.
Accessories like lightweight scarves, layered necklaces, and minimal earrings help elevate a simple outfit without adding bulk. A roomy crossbody or tote is useful for carrying essentials and anything baby-related you might want to have on hand.
Below are the key categories I’ve prioritized while building a pared-down, practical wardrobe for pregnancy:
- Soft, high-stretch leggings and jeggings
- Roomy, longer tops and tunics
- Supportive, comfortable bras and underwear
- Adjustable or elastic-waist skirts and pants
- Wrap and empire-waist dresses
- Relaxed-fit denim with stretch or a maternity panel
- Supportive sneakers and slip-on shoes
- Layering pieces like cardigans and light jackets
- Simple accessories and a spacious bag
This approach keeps dressing simple and adaptable: buy a few key pieces in slightly larger sizes, choose comfortable fabrics, and prioritize items that mix and match. Many of these pieces will remain useful during postpartum, making them practical investments rather than single-use purchases.
If you’re curious about specific items I’ve been wearing most, follow me on LTK for daily outfit posts and updates on maternity essentials. I’ll continue to share what works best as my pregnancy progresses and after baby arrives.