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Best maternity dresses: Top must-have pregnancy dresses

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Dresses are the backbone of every stylish wardrobe. Nothing to wear during the day? Throw on a dress and sneakers to pop down to the shops. Got dinner plans with friends? The same dress with gold hoop earrings and a nice heel will suit you perfectly. Pregnancy is… a little different. It can be difficult to find dresses that fit comfortably and flatter your new shape, especially when you’re used to wearing dresses that zip up at the back. So, we’ve reviewed the best maternity dresses to wear during pregnancy for every occasion – so you don’t have to!

Check out our top picks for the most stunning maternity dresses

Maternity maxi dress

Nothing makes a glowing mama feel better than a flowing, flattering maternity maxi dress. Maxi dresses are probably the easiest piece to come across in your pregnancy style journey, too. And there are plenty that don’t rely on zips or constraints around the rib. Focus on styles you’ll be able to wear post-baby, and stick to great fabrics to keep you cool. We adore this timeless piece from NomMaternity for pregnancy and beyond. It’s ultra versatile – you’ll wear it endlessly.

Emma During + After Maxi Tank Dress Sky Stripe
Credit: Nom Maternity

Emma During + After Maxi Tank Dress Sky Stripe

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Formal maternity dress

There’s no doubt you’ll have a few events to look forward to that take place during your pregnancy. Unfortunately, maternity evening dresses are often an overlooked part of maternity dressing. Look for a formal maternity dress that makeyour curves stand out. Don’t be afraid to try something a little dazzling, whether it be sequins, silk or sheen. 

Soft lounge long sleeve dress onyx
Credit: Skims

Soft lounge long sleeve dress onyx

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Luxe babymoon dress

We’re in love with bright colors and halternecks. This Faithfull the Brand dress has us thinking of mocktails in Italy and big sunglasses. Dopamine dressing at its finest. 

Sleeveless Mock Neck Dress Neon Orchid
Credit: Skims

Sleeveless Mock Neck Dress Neon Orchid

Summer maternity dress

One of our most highly rated bestsellers is this gorgeous 100% cottonnmidi dress. Perfect for pregnancy as well as postpartum fashion. Not only beautiful quality, this dress is also timeless and will see you through a summer pregnancy in style and ease. 

Cutest dress to wear at your own babyshower

For your own baby shower, it’s important to feel beautiful and comfortable in what you wear. Opt for a maternity dress you’ll feel amazing in. Today is all about having fun and showing off that beautiful bump! You might want to go for something a little wild, like a bright pink, or keep tones more subdued and pastel. This high neck sleeveless maternity maxi is available in a range of colors. 

Best plus size maternity dresses

Embrace your curves and dress in style with our plus size brands. Pinkblush has a curve range for maternity dresses that we really like! You can also find plus sizes in Skims, Good American and Madewell.

Black Bubble Sleeve Maternity Plus Midi Dress
Credit: PinkBlush Maternity

Black Bubble Sleeve Maternity Plus Midi Dress

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Best maternity work dress

The trick to dressing for work is a balance of timeless style and effortless comfort. You can’t go wrong with black! Pair with a smart blazer or keep it casual in loafers or slip ons. 

Knife Pleat Dress Black
Credit: Ripe Maternity

Knife Pleat Dress Black

Black Light Weight Collared Tiered Maternity Midi Dress
Credit: PinkBlush Maternity

Black Light Weight Collared Tiered Maternity Midi Dress

Pink maternity dress

What better time to flaunt your femininity than right now? Even better, pink is very much here to stay. You can’t go wrong with a knit rib dress for your pink maternity dress choice. Subdued tones, comfortable fabric and a super flattering fit makes this piece one for day or night.

Chicago long dress in roma lipstick
Credit: Sundress

Chicago long dress in roma lipstick

Pregnancy photoshoot dress

If you’re planning on a pregnancy photoshoot and looking for a dress, why not consider a tight fitting dress that accentuates your bump? This one from Pinkblush is available in other colors.

PinkBlush Beige Long Sleeve Photoshoot Maternity Gown/Dress
Credit: PinkBlush Maternity

PinkBlush Beige Long Sleeve Photoshoot Maternity Gown/Dress

Cutest strapless maternity dress

Wear this dress to your next event or for a date night! The ruching on the sides makes this dress perfect to accommodate your growing belly and wear throughout your entire pregnancy and beyond. It is recommended to buy your pre-pregnancy size.

Lana Strapless Dress White
Credit: Soon Maternity

Lana Strapless Dress White

Best maternity dress for feeding

You want something great to wear out to lunch but you don’t want to have to take your top off to feed? We’ve got you covered. Check out matching nursing bras to find your perfect fit. Nursing has never been easier or more comfortable.

Red ribbed maternity & nursing midi dress
Credit: Seraphine

Red ribbed maternity & nursing midi dress

Best long sleeve maternity dress

For cooler weather, a long sleeve pregnancy dress is a great option for coverage and comfort. Look for a dress made out of stretchy material and something you can layer with a gorgeous wool coat.

Marie maxi dress in winter white
Credit: Callahan

Marie maxi dress in winter white

Long maternity dress

Simple and form fitted. You absolutely need the Long Sleeve Rib Maternity Dress in your capsule wardrobe right now!

Long Sleeve Rib Maternity Dress Brown
Credit: BUMPSUIT

Long Sleeve Rib Maternity Dress Brown

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Affordable maternity dress

Lastly, if you’re looking for an affordable but adorable maternity dress, there are plenty of options available. Don’t sacrifice style for price, as there are plenty of affordable options that will make you feel stylish and comfortable throughout your pregnancy. We love H&M MAMA for affordable style made out of great material.

Mama ribbed cotton dress Black/striped
Credit: H&M

Mama ribbed cotton dress Black/striped

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FAQs

What month should you start wearing maternity clothes?

When it comes to maternity clothes, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Every pregnancy is different and every woman’s comfort level is different too. You don’t have to do this alone, we’re here to guide you through it! Some mamas-to-be may start wearing maternity clothes as early as their first trimester. If it’s your second baby, you will probably show during this time. Others may wait until later in their pregnancy. It’s all about what makes you feel comfortable and confident. It’s up to you.

Which type of dress is best in pregnancy?

When it comes to maternity dresses, I always recommend finding a dress that is comfortable and accommodates your growing bump. I love how dresses are made wth smocking and ribbed knitting. These styles will help you to accentuate your bump in a flattering way while staying stylish. You can wear regular dresses in a size or two up until they no longer fit you.

How many dress sizes should you go up when pregnant?

When it comes to dress sizes, every woman’s body changes differently during pregnancy. It’s important to focus on finding clothing that fits well rather than the number on the label. This is not a time for judgement of yourself or others. Worst case scenario? You have something extra comfortable in your wardrobe for later. Or you can pass it on to a friend.

What is the difference between maternity dresses and normal dresses?

Maternity dresses by definition are specifically designed for pregnant women. They are also sold in maternity specific shops. They are made to accommodate a growing bump and provide comfort throughout pregnancy. However, as we’ve shown in the list above there are plenty of stylish options around in normal dresses that will allow you to buy things you’ll be very happy to wear again, and at a reasonable price point

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Style Editor. Minimalist mama writing about capsule wardrobes. Inspired by French women yet also unafraid to leave the house with food on me.