The 5 Best Maternity Dresses

Selecting the right dress can be tricky no matter your size, but when you’re pregnant? That adds another layer to finding a piece that’s just right. Luckily, the market has a ton of maternity dresses that are far from frumpy. The cuts don’t just cradle your baby bump, but they’re actually figure flattering. Also, the colors and prints can help your true sense of style shine through every trimester.

Mother Bee Maternity Wrapped Ruched Maternity Dress

Casual to chic

Whether you dress it up or down, this dress is a winner for any day.

Best Overall

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A dress that can be more formal and equally casual is always a win-win and gets tons of wear. This frock from Mother Bee Maternity is just that. The length makes it appropriate for dressier occasions, but it’s just as appropriate for a casual, breezy day when worn with sandals. The 3/4 length sleeve also provides a bit of coverage if you want to keep your arms covered or if the day or night is too chilly. This is one of those dresses that will grow with your bump and can be worn for months to come.

Pros:

Fits true to size
Available in a variety of colors and prints

Cons:

May be too long for shorter frames

Liu & Qu Bodycon Ruched Side Dress

Day to night

The little details, like stripes and ruching, make this bodycon dress a top pick for any expanding belly.

Best Casual

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For days when you want to keep it pretty casual, but still be cute, Liu & Qu’s striped bodycon dress is a clear cut winner. Don’t be afraid of the stripes, which most women feel can be unflattering. These thin stripes are actually a great way to incorporate a print. Also, the side ruching is a fun detail that cradles any bump perfectly. This is an absolutely adorable dress with your favorite sneakers and a jean jacket or strappy sandals.

Pros:

Available in short or long sleeve design
A lot of stretch

Cons:

Some people may need to go up one size
The material is slightly sheer

Ecavus Off Shoulder V-Neck Gown

Pose-worthy

Dress to the nines in a frock that’s ideal for any maternity photo shoot.

Best Formal

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While everyday isn’t a photo shoot or worthy of a formal gown, sometimes it’s best to have at least one dress in your closet that works for those super stylish occasions. The dress from Ecavus is bodycon and has a v-neck, but the floor grazing length and long sleeves make it perfect for a formal event or for the ever important maternity shoot. It’s a nice combination of showing off that baby bump in a timeless style.

Pros:

Great for taller women
Bright, heavily saturated colors

Cons:

May need to wear a slip underneath to conceal underwear

Hello Miz Maternity High Low Dress

Wear this for months

The classic wrap dress meets a trendier cut that’s wearable throughout your pregnancy.

Best Wrap

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A great wrap dress should be in every woman’s closet, whether she’s pregnant or not. This High Low dress actually combines the classic style of a wrap with the trendy cut of a high low dress. The high, empire waist shows off every cute bump and the floral print is equally adorable. But don’t think this is a dress you have to get rid of once baby arrives. It’s great post-pregnancy and is nursing friendly.

Pros:

The length works for a variety of heights
Wearable during and after pregnancy

Cons:

Not ideal for larger breasts
May be too low cut if you prefer a modest style

Floral Lace Maternity Dress

Chic and comfy

It’s the little details that make this lace number stand out and will make you the center of attention.

Best Lace

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A lace dress doesn’t have to be super sexy. It can be equally cute, fun and chic at the same time. This blush pink maternity dress would look amazing at a baby shower, for a photo shoot or any occasion where you want to be a bit more glam. It’s the ladylike details like the satin belt and bow in the back, elbow length sleeves and hem that hits just above the knees, that make this really stand out. With 10 percent spandex, this dress can grow with you along your journey.

Pros:

Great for a variety of shapes and heights
Comfortable, stretchy material

Cons:

The belt isn’t removable
The back zipper may be hard to get in and out of without assistance

Frequently Asked Questions

When should you start wearing maternity clothes?

Every woman is different and every pregnancy is different, so there’s no specific time that someone has to purchase maternity clothes. If or when you feel the need to buy more clothes with stretch or room for your stomach to grow, then that might be the time to buy maternity gear.

How much stretch should be in a maternity dress?

A good maternity dress will have some stretch so it’s comfortable, but also wearable as your belly grows. Most dresses have about 5 to 10 percent spandex.

What size maternity dress should I buy?

Determining the right size for a maternity dress can be tricky, but generally, you can select the size of your pre-pregnancy body. For example, if you were a size small before pregnancy, you can buy a small maternity dress. However, you want to take into account if you plan to wear the dress throughout your pregnancy and the amount of stretch. It’s always best to consult the size guide for individual brands.