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The best maternity workwear looks for 9-5
There’s nothing that makes you want to tear your hair out more than when you can’t find anything to wear to work. This rage is especially real when you’re hot, heavy and just need to get out the door. We have enough to worry about growing a human life inside us without having to worry about what to wear to work, so we’ve put together a guide to stress-free maternity work clothes for the 9-5.
Whether you’re in a more casual environment or corporate vibe, be inspired by these simple, comfortable and easy looks you don’t need to think about. We’ve also included a mix of regular brands as well as a few maternity-specific brands here depending on what trimester you’re in.
Best affordable maternity outfits for the office
There are some fabulous and affordable basics from H&M Mama that will stretch and grow with you. Black and white stripes are super versatile while their black pencil skirt is a steal. We’ve used this one in one of our famous outfits too! You can wear a button up shirt over the skirt without tucking it in.
Best pregnancy tops for work
Whether you’re still at that “I feel bloated” stage or starting to show, you can’t go wrong with a flowy or loose fitting top when it comes to maternity work clothes. You’ll be able to get away with regular shirts until the second trimester, after which you could opt for a boyfriend or oversized shirt designed to highlight your changing figure without making you feel constricted.
Most comfy and stylish work pants
You may very well feel larger toward the end of the day so choose pants that have drawstrings or elastic earlier in your pregnancy, then graduate to maternity pants when you need. The last thing you need is your waistband digging into you or the feel of an irritating fabric so choose cooler materials and opt for a size up just to be sure.
Most versatile pieces to wear pre- and post- pregnancy
Returning to work means finding your new groove. It can also be super daunting and a lot. To make sure you’re doing your best to limit your stress, choose pieces that are simple, comfortable and can be thrown on without needing to be ironed (Ha! Who has time for that.) We also highly rate nursing-specific dresses and tops for if you need to express during the day or feed as soon as you’re home, depending on your circumstances.
The nursing office dresses
Many women continue to pump and feed when they return to work. Luckily there are some super cute dresses that make it easy to quickly pump or nurse when you need to.
Best pregnancy formal outfits for work events
Work events can mean later nights and longer on your feet – ouch. Here’s where you want that perfect balance of sophistication and comfort. Choose a wrap or fitted dress, pack some low heels in your tote and accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. You’ll be amazed what some gold earrings, a statement necklace or blingy rings can do to your look.
Best plus size maternity work clothes
Plus size mamas can’t go wrong with vertical stripes and a super comfy black skirt. Not only will you stay cool and comfortable, but you’ll be on trend. That was easy!
Maternity work clothes for different seasons
Winter
Do: opt for layers when choosing maternity work clothes for winter case you get hot during the day.
Don’t: Skimp on the material quality of your maternity wear – you don’t want to get itchy during your work day.
Summer
Do: When dressing for summer while pregnant, you want cooling fabric and flowy designs that don’t feel restrictive.
Don’t: Force yourself into long sleeved or closed toed shoes if your feet are swelling and you’re running hot during pregnancy.
Fall
Do: Embrace low heels and your regular coat for an elevated look.
Don’t: Overlayer. You’ll still probably feel hotter than normal.
Spring
Do: Choose a timeless stone trench to elevate your spring outfit.
Don’t: Forget to enjoy the best time of year to be pregnant!
FAQS
How to incorporate maternity wear into a corporate dress code?
Choose darker colors, more conservative necklines and aim for dresses at or below the knee. It’s the perfect time for a fitted or wrap dress with a blazer and low heels, or black maternity pants with a crisp white shirt and blazer.
What to wear when returning to work after mat leave?
Whatever you buy during your pregnancy you’ll want to get some use out of afterwards too. Choose simple, stretchy and comfortable pieces to wear when returning to work after mat leave. Keep it simple, comfortable and in darker colors in case of spills or stains.