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Best maternity shirt dresses for the perfect pregnancy style

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Maternity shirt dresses are the go-to for easy but elevated maternity dressing, especially in those uncomfortable last few months where you need all the breeze you can get. Gone are the days of sacrificing style for comfort, however, Whether you’re in your first trimester or nearing your due date, shirt dresses are here to make you look fabulous and feel comfortable — and can be dressed up or down! Read on to discover the most amazing types of shirt dresses that will elevate your pregnancy style.

What are maternity shirt dresses?

Maternity shirt dresses are basically a blend of a shirt and a dress. These dresses offer ample room for your growing belly, ensuring that you’re not just looking good but also feeling good. The free-flowing design makes it a go-to choice for many pregnant women, while the button up situation is perfect for nursing and feeding post baby.

Why do you need them? Well, pregnancy brings with it a plethora of changes, including a growing baby bump that demands a wardrobe shift. Maternity shirt dresses adapt to your changing body, providing comfort without compromising on style. Whether you’re attending a casual outing or a formal event, there’s a shirt dress for every occasion.

Our top chic picks for every expecting mama

Beautiful button-down maternity shirt dresses

Button-down shirt dresses are the epitome of casual elegance. They are incredibly easy to put on and offer hassle-free nursing post-pregnancy. Plus, they come in an array of fabrics and patterns, making them a versatile choice for any wardrobe.

Belted Gathered Poplin Gown White
Credit: Norma Kamali

Belted Gathered Poplin Gown White

Best shirt dress for work

For a stylish look that you can literally just slip on, this Seraphine dress is perfect. Better still it’s got nursing access. Perfect!

Grey 2 In 1 Maternity & Nursing Shirt Dress Grey   In   Maternity   Nursing Shirt Dress
Credit: Seraphine

Grey 2 In 1 Maternity & Nursing Shirt Dress Grey In Maternity Nursing Shirt Dress

Perfect maternity shirt dress for spring and summer

For those hot summer days or tropical getaways, this longer sleeved shirt dresses is a wonderful choice. Airy, fresh and breathable with sun protection on your arms, this is the perfect option.

Pure linen maternity shirt dresses

Linen is a go-to fabric when it comes to maternity wear, and for good reason. Linen dresses are breathable, kind on the skin and easy to care for, making them a practical choice for everyday wear.

Linen Shirt Dress Pink
Credit: Arket

Linen Shirt Dress Pink

Belted maternity shirt dresses

Belted shirt dresses offer a tailored look by cinching at the waist, which can be adjusted as your belly grows. These dresses are particularly flattering and can easily transition from casual to formal with the right accessories.

Mama Tie-Belt Shirt Dress Light Green
Credit: H&M

Mama Tie-Belt Shirt Dress Light Green

Short-sleeved maternity shirt dresses

If you’re looking for something between sleeveless and long-sleeved, short-sleeved shirt dresses are a great option. They offer a bit more coverage while still being ideal for warmer weather or indoor events.

The Daytripper Shirtdress Kalamata / Canvas Tan
Credit: Everlane

The Daytripper Shirtdress Kalamata / Canvas Tan

Comfy long-sleeved pregnancy shirt dresses

For those chilly days or evening events, long-sleeved maternity shirt dresses offer both style and warmth. They can be paired with tights and boots for a cozy winter look, or dressed up with elegant jewelry for a night out.

Mama Before & After Nursing Shirt Dress Blue/Striped
Credit: H&M

Mama Before & After Nursing Shirt Dress Blue/Striped

Oversize maternity shirt dresses

An oversize denim maternity shirt dress is casual yet exceptionally stylish, especially paired with an IT sneaker like the New Balance or Adidas Sambas.

Asos design maternity oversized shirt dress in light blue
Credit: Asos

Asos design maternity oversized shirt dress in light blue

The shirt jacket dress

A fun take on the shirt dress and perfect for a grungier city look, the shirt jacket dress offers a bit of extra style in corduroy.

The Corduroy Long Shirt Jacket Sandstone
Credit: Everlane

The Corduroy Long Shirt Jacket Sandstone

Stylish maxi maternity dresses

Maxi shirt dresses offer a more formal vibe without compromising on comfort. With minimal effort you can easily elevate your everyday while still staying super comfy.

Camille Maternity/Nursing Shirtdress White
Credit: Angel Maternity

Camille Maternity/Nursing Shirtdress White

Button up maternity shirt dresses

Nursing access is a practical feature that every mom-to-be will appreciate. Easy access maternity t-shirt dresses provide the convenience of being able to feed on the go, while still enjoying full coverage.

Topshop Oversized Topstitch Midi Shirtdress In Khaki
Credit: Asos

Topshop Oversized Topstitch Midi Shirtdress In Khaki

Plus size bump-friendly shirt dresses

The button up design adds ease to comfort. These maternity shirt dresses are perfect for curvy mamas looking for max comfort with their maxi style.

Plus lightestspun cover-up maxi shirtdress True Black
Credit: Madewell

Plus lightestspun cover-up maxi shirtdress True Black

Chic stripe maternity shirt dresses

For a timeless look, striped maternity shirt dresses are a must-have. They offer a fun and playful vibe while remaining classy, making them suitable for both casual outings and formal events.

The daytripper shirtdress White, Navy
Credit: Everlane

The daytripper shirtdress White, Navy

Inspiring knit maternity shirt dresses

Knit fabric offers a blend of stretch and comfort that is perfect for a growing belly. Knit maternity shirt dresses are ideal for casual wear and can easily be dressed up with the right accessories for a night out.

Knitted Polo Dress Light Brown Melange
Credit: & Other Stories

Knitted Polo Dress Light Brown Melange

Maxi linen shirt dresses for expecting moms

Linen is a breathable fabric that’s perfect for hot weather or layered for cooler climates. Linen maternity shirt dresses offer a relaxed yet refined look, making them a staple for any maternity wardrobe.

Linen-blend shirt dress Medium Brown
Credit: Mango

Linen-blend shirt dress Medium Brown

What week do you start showing in pregnancy?

While every pregnancy is unique, many women start showing between 12 to 16 weeks. However, if it’s not your first pregnancy, you might start showing a little earlier. The timing can also be influenced by your body type and whether you’re carrying multiples.

Maternity shirt dresses are a great wardrobe addition from the moment you start showing. They offer room for growth and can be worn throughout all trimesters, making them a versatile and cost-effective choice.

Is it OK to wear leggings while pregnant?

Yes, leggings can be a comfortable option for pregnant women. They offer stretch and support, particularly if you opt for maternity-specific leggings that have a belly panel. However, it’s essential to choose leggings that are not too tight or restrictive.

Pairing leggings with a maternity shirt dress can create a comfortable yet stylish outfit, ideal for casual outings or even a day at the office. The combination allows for maximum comfort while keeping you fashion-forward.

How much does the average woman spend on maternity clothes?

The amount spent on maternity clothes can vary widely based on individual preferences, needs, and budget. On average, women might spend anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars on maternity wear, depending on the brand and types of clothing purchased.

Investing in versatile pieces like maternity shirt dresses can be a cost-effective strategy. These dresses can be styled in multiple ways and are suitable for various occasions, reducing the need for a vast maternity wardrobe.

Can you wear high waisted leggings when pregnant?

High-waisted leggings can be worn during the early stages of pregnancy but might become uncomfortable as your belly grows. Some maternity leggings come with a high waistband that can be folded down for extra support, offering a more comfortable alternative.

Pairing high-waisted leggings with a shorter maternity shirt dress can offer a balanced and stylish look. However, as your pregnancy progresses, you may prefer to switch to low-rise maternity leggings or opt for a longer shirt dress for added comfort.

What is the difference between a maternity dress and regular dress?

While both maternity and regular dresses may appear similar, maternity dresses are specifically designed to accommodate a growing belly. They often feature stretchy fabrics, elasticized waists, and extra room in the belly area. Some also have features that make breastfeeding easier.

Maternity shirt dresses, for example, often include convenient buttons or wrap designs for easier nursing. They also offer a more generous fit around the waist, ensuring comfort throughout your pregnancy. While some women do manage with regular dresses, maternity dresses offer specialized features that make them worth the investment.

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Author

Maternity Editor and first time mama with lots of experience and tips. Lives life to the fullest! South American by nature, based in Melbourne Australia. Mum to Mila, my life and soul.