Clothes
Maternity clothes – the complete guide
What to buy, when and in what size. A wardrobe for three trimesters, fabrics, cuts that last beyond the birth, and things that aren’t worth it.
In-depth guide 6 min read
Maternity dresses, trousers and tops
Leggings won’t do for everything. For work, for visits or in summer you also need trousers, dresses and tops. Here is what to look out for.
Maternity trousers and jeans
The waistband on maternity trousers is usually the same as on leggings: an over-bump panel, an under-bump waistband or a fold-over waistband. You will find a diagram of the types in the article How to choose maternity leggings. With trousers in a firmer fabric, a few more things apply:
- Jeans with a panel look like ordinary jeans; the panel should be high enough not to roll down when you sit.
- Trousers with an elasticated waist are comfortable, but the elastic must not dig in under the bump.
- A firm fabric doesn’t stretch, so if in doubt, go for the larger size.
- A straight or wider leg is often more comfortable than a slim one in the third trimester, especially if your legs swell in the evening.
Maternity dresses
Dresses are practical in pregnancy: one piece, no waistband. When choosing, look at:
| Cut | Why it works | What to bear in mind |
|---|---|---|
| A-line (flaring from the bust) | grows with the bump without any adjustment | a drapey fabric in summer, a firmer one in winter |
| Wrap | adjustable at the waist, suitable for breastfeeding | may fall open as you move; a clasp or hook helps |
| Jersey with side ruching | hugs the bump while still growing | watch out for see-through fabric |
| Shirt dress with buttons | breastfeeding without undressing | must be long enough with a bigger bump |
A dress that opens for breastfeeding is one of the few “smarter” pieces you will still use after the birth.
Maternity tops
- Ruching at the sides lets the top grow.
- A longer front panel stops the top riding up over the bump.
- Breastfeeding access extends a top’s life by the whole time you breastfeed. You will find an overview in the article Nursing tops and vests.
- Cotton with elastane holds its shape through many washes.
For work
If you go to an office, it is worth having one pair of bottoms in a neutral colour, two tops or blouses that open, a cardigan or blazer you wear open, and one dress. Mixing and matching gives you more than a week of outfits.
What often isn’t worth it
- maternity skirts with a narrow, firm waistband,
- dresses with a firm waistband at the waist, which fit for only a few weeks,
- trendy pieces “just for the third trimester”.
Next
You will find an overall wardrobe plan in the complete guide to maternity clothes. For winter, carry on with the article Winter maternity clothes.
Where this comes from
This article is a practical overview of cuts, fabrics and what clothes are like to wear. It makes no health or safety claims, so it does not cite specialist sources. Where the topic touches on health, we link to an article that lists its sources.
We last went through this text on 13 October 2026.
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