Best cotton dresses for a cool and comfy pregnancy

When it comes to maternity fashion, comfort is always top of mind. Cotton is one of the most comfortable fabrics, which is what makes it perfect for pregnancy. The breathable fabric is perfect for the summer but is still warm enough for cooler weather. But not all cotton dresses are the same and it’s important to look for dresses that are 100% cotton for maximum comfort. 

The benefit of cotton for pregnancy isn’t just comfort, it’s also versatility. You can wear cotton dresses to most occasions. It can be dressed down for a casual outfit to the beach, for travel or for lounging at home, and dressed up for a night out or to wear to work. Picking the right style and accessories makes a difference!

The good news is there are endless cotton dresses available; the flip side is it can be overwhelming to sort through the options. Luckily, we’ve done the research and have rounded up the best cotton maternity dresses available by color, shape and style.

Best cotton maternity dresses (neutrals)

A dress in a neutral color is a key essential for any wardrobe. Here are a few picks for cotton dresses to wear throughout all trimesters.

This T-shirt style dress is an effortless style available in Khaki.

Although a  cotton poplin tunic isn’t technically a dress, the longer silhouette provides more coverage when paired with leggings, shorts or a skirt. It can be easily dressed up or down and it comes in black, white and a blue stripe.

You can’t go wrong with a simple t-shirt style, and this dress is no exception. Wear it with sandals for travel, with a stacked heel for an evening out or with sneakers for every day.

This jersey dress is simple in its design but provides maximum comfort thanks to the soft fabric, and also offers easy access for nursing. Plus, it’s available in both gray and black!

Best colored cotton maternity dress

This ribbed sleeveless dress from H&M is already one of our picks for most affordable, but it’s also worth mentioning for the wonderful colors it comes in. Yes, there’s black and a striped option, but if you want to inject some color into your maternity wear, we love the bold green and bright blue options.

You’ll be pretty in pink in this 100% cotton dress from Hatch. The fabric is a thicker cotton providing more durability with all the comfort.

Best plus size maternity dress

A shirt dress is an effortless staple and so is denim. This shirt dress combines the two!

What’s better than a denim mini dress with puff sleeves? This dress is so versatile; you can dress it up with heels or dress it down with sneakers. Throw a nice lightweight cardigan on top, and you’re ready to go. It’s also perfect to throw on when you have last-minute visitors.

Best maxi cotton maternity dress

This long body tank maxi dress isn’t a traditional maternity dress, but the loose fit from the hip to full-length will work beautifully with your baby bump. The fit is flattering, and the color is a chic choice for maternity (and postpartum) wear.

A simple, minimalist maxi is perfect for pregnancy. This dress offers slim straps and a V-neck shape that will flatter your new curves while giving room for your growing bump.

For a maternity take on a classic white summer dress, try this one from Hatch. The fit makes it easy to wear and provides extra room to grow with you.

If a midi dress is more your speed, try this spaghetti strap midi dress. The smocked bodice and flowy skirt will compliment you as a you grow, and it comes in so many pretty colors.

Most affordable cotton maternity dress

When it comes to affordability, It’s hard to beat H&M’s prices. Their MAMA collection offers many cotton maternity dresses under $50, like this strapless striped option.

Best boho cotton maternity dress

It doesn’t get more bohemian than a peasant sleeve dress, but this maternity version feels more minimalist than costumey. @ssarahtjulander is wearing this in the main image and looks incredible.

Not only is this dress 100% cotton, it’s an elegant spin on boho. The pointelle knit is breathable, providing comfort, and the silhouette is roomy enough for pregnancy and classic enough for postpartum.

The combination of a smocked bodice and off-the-shoulder detail makes this dress a flattering take on boho chic. The fabric is a textured cotton gauze which signals breathable comfort for particularly hot days.

Best minimal cotton maternity dress

When it comes to minimalist maternity style, a tank dress is the answer. Here are two of our favorites: 

Tank dress with stretch is perfect for days when you need ease and comfort.

This spaghetti straps dress offers lightweight cotton in a minimal, clean silhouette and also comes in a variety of colors.

Best printed cotton maternity dress

The classic stripes make this dress classic and chic and the added elastane offers more stretch

Not technically a maternity style, this shirt dress works for pregnancy thanks to its generous cut/silhouette while the stripes keep it chic and timeless

Best cotton dress for nursing and postpartum

Postpartum, you’ll need a dress that provides easy access for feeding, in addition to being comfortable. For quick feeding/nursing access, try this tie front babydoll dress.

The Kelsey Dress offers a chic silhouette while the front buttons provide easy access for nursing in a discreet way. We love the airy and easy design with pockets!