The best maternity shorts to keep it short and sweet

Looking for comfortable and stylish maternity shorts? We’re jealous that you’re in warm weather! Look no further – we’ve curated the best and most stylish selection of maternity shorts for every need throughout every trimester.  From workout shorts to jean shorts, bike shorts, to lounge shorts, we’ve got you covered.. We’ve also included a range of sustainable, affordable, and shapewear options as well as some options for the stylish plus size mama out there.  Check out our top picks and customer reviews to help you decide.

What to look for when choosing your summer maternity shorts?

Summer is the perfect time to show off your baby bump in style. When the temperature rises, it’s time to ditch the pants and switch to maternity shorts. Maternity shorts are a must-have for every pregnant woman’s wardrobe. They’re comfortable, breathable, and versatile. But with so many styles and options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair of maternity shorts. In this article, we’ll guide you through what to look for when choosing your summer maternity shorts and share our favorite picks for every occasion.

What to Look for When Choosing Your Summer Maternity Shorts?

1. Comfortable and Breathable Fabric: Look for shorts made of soft, stretchy, and breathable fabric, like cotton, spandex, or a combination of both. These fabrics will keep you cool and comfortable, even on the hottest summer days.
2. Elastic Waistband: Choose shorts with an elastic waistband that will provide a comfortable fit throughout your pregnancy. It’s also convenient for postpartum wear so you’re getting the most out of your purchase. 
3. Stretchable and Adjustable: Maternity shorts should have enough stretch to accommodate your growing belly and thighs. Adjustable features like drawstrings or buttons can help you customize the fit.
4. Convenient Pockets: Shorts with pockets are always a plus. Actually, anything with a pocket is a plus! They’re perfect for carrying your phone, keys, or small essentials when you’re on the go.
5. Versatility: Choose maternity shorts that can be dressed up or down. You want to be able to wear them to the beach, a BBQ, or even to work. Look at length and also what you’re most comfortable wearing. As usual, your style should extend during pregnancy, not alter to be something you’re not comfortable with. 
6. Affordable: Maternity clothes can be expensive, so look for shorts that are reasonably priced and offer good value for money. Alternatively, look for regular clothing brands shorts that have an elasticized waistband that can accommodate your changing shape. Size up if you need to.

Here’s our list of the the best maternity shorts for every occasion

Maternity bike shorts

We make no bones about the fact that maternity biker shorts and shirts are our go to in pregnancy. Effortless and flattering, these maternity bike shorts from Hatch are a perfect addition to your wardrobe. The comfortable and stretchy soft-feel never-sheer fabric moves with your body, and the fold-down waistband provides support and flexibility that you decide on.  

 “These shorts are so comfy and flattering! I love the fit and feel.”

Maternity jean shorts

The perfect  pair of denim shorts to wear all pregnancy does exist. Check out these Joe’s Ozzie Fray Hem Maternity Shorts from Nordstrom. With a super stylish frayed hem and a comfortable  bump cradling underbelly waistband, these shorts will keep you looking and feeling great. Pair with just about anything for a stylish and comfortable maternity look.

“These shorts are an actual lifesaver. I bought them in the normal denim color first and loved them so much I tracked down the black. I’ve been able to wear them comfortably as my belly has continued to grow. They are flattering and give a non-mat look while still being ultra stretchy and comfortable.”

Pregnancy athletic shorts with pockets

Nike’s Zenvy Biker Shorts are the perfect pregnancy athletic shorts with pockets. These shorts are incredibly soft and made with lightweight, squat-proof InfinaSoft fabric. We love the waistband design and the fact you can fold this down if you want.  Nike Dri-FIT technology keeps you cool and comfy and the thigh pockets fit your phone. Perfecto!

Overall best shorts for pregnant women

Mama Style votes for thePink Smocked Waist Maternity Shorts from PinkBlush. These shorts feature a comfortable over-the-bump waistband and a relaxed fit that’s perfect for summer. With a versatile look, these will take you from beach to beyond with ease. 

“Very well made and very comfortable. They are versatile and flattering, loved them!“

Black maternity shorts

The most stylish black shorts out there have got to be these from Boob Design. Firstly, the length. Short but not too short, and frayed for a bit of interest. Next: the waistband with their signature 93% TENCEL™ lyocell and 7% elastane blend and underbelly comfort. 10/10 from us.

Board shorts to wear during pregnancy

It can be super tough to find a good pair of maternity board shorts. These maternity board shorts are perfect for maternity and postpartum. These are truly the perfect swim shorts for pregnant women​!

“These shorts are so cute and comfortable! I love the stretch and the cut.”

Maternity knit shorts

We love a good knit short for at home or out and about. These maternity knit shorts also work well as maternity workout shorts. In a beautiful dark grey shade, these shorts are made from soft, breathable fabric that will keep you comfortable all day long. With an elastic waistband designed to sit comfortably over your growing bump these shorts are perfect for post bebe too. 

Maternity work shorts

Shorts at work can be a great summer staple. We like these casual yet slightly formal maternity work shorts from H&M. The comfortable elastic waistband that sits under the bump with a belly band over the bump. Pair with a blazer and high quality tee, or a black shirt like the pic.

“Fitted perfectly but I feel like it might get smaller in the dryer or when I grow. I got this at 32 weeks, weighing at 156-160 pounds, 5’5.”

Maternity bermuda shorts

Bermuda length maternity shorts by Joe’s made out of 99% cotton. These go with everything and are super flattering if you prefer the longer length. 

Plus size maternity shorts

PinkBlush Maternity offers a great selection of maternity shorts for plus size mamas, including the Blue Chambray Frayed Hem Drawstring Maternity Plus Shorts. Made from 100% cotton these shorts feature a comfortable elastic waistband and a cute fringe hem. 

“These shorts are cute. I love the drawstring waistband and the fringe hem adds a fun touch. Love the colors.”

Under belly maternity shorts

For shorts you will absolutely live in day in day out, check out the Heaven Underbelly Denim Shorts from Soon Maternity. Made from a cotton blend and with the perfect amount of stretch, these are the easiest item in your wardrobe. 

Over the bump maternity shorts

We love these over tummy jean shorts from Soon. In a go-to hue and great length with a belly band that will keep you feeling secure, these are perfect for your third trimester in summer! 

Maternity lounge shorts

A pair of amazingly comfortable and adjustable bamboo black shorts are your maternity lounge shorts go to. Wear these for ultimate under belly comfort or for postpartum wear. Soft bamboo fabric and an affordable price tag make these maternity shorts some of our favourite.

Sustainable option

Sustainable mamas, check out our fave activewear brand dk Active. Made from organic cotton, these shorts are both stylish and eco-friendly.

Shapewear shorts for pregnancy

We definitely don’t recommend regular shapewear during when you’re looking for maternity support shorts. That’s why we’re happy to recommend the Maternity Sculpting Short from SKIMS, which is specially made from a stretchy and sculpting fabric to provide gentle support to your belly and back. This is the perfect seamless support short for pregnancy, offering maternity support short benefits without the constriction. 

“These shorts are amazing! They smooth out my bumps and lumps and provide gentle support. I love wearing them under my dresses and skirts.”

Perfect sleep shorts for your pregnancy

For the ultimate comfort, try the Goodnight Sleep Shorts from Boody. Made from a soft and stretchy bamboo fabric, these shorts feature a comfortable waistband and a relaxed fit that’s perfect for lounging or sleeping. Not technically maternity so check your sizing. But this one will see you through hospital and beyond in style.

“These shorts are so soft and comfortable! I love that they are made from bamboo, which is a sustainable and eco-friendly fabric.”

Check out the best rated maternity pajamas for ultimate comfort and style. 

Maternity yoga shorts

Stay flexible with these Maternity Yoga Shorts from Emamaco. Made with premium-quality fabric, these shorts feature a supportive belly band and a stretchy material that is especially designed by the team at Emamaco for growing bellies.  Perfect for yoga, Pilates, or for just lounging at home, these shorts provide comfort and support throughout your pregnancy. Available in a range of colors, they are the perfect addition to your maternity wardrobe.

Affordable maternity shorts

H&M Mama deliver the goods with these go-to affordabke maternity shorts and matching oversize cotton top. Get in quick – these prices are amazingly affordable and the quality is fabulous.