The Best Maternity Clothes to Buy, According to Moms

checked mark Fact-Checked by Erin Cavoto  | February 1, 2024
Best Maternity Clothes

Quick summary

The best maternity clothing is comfortable and supportive for your body as it changes over the trimesters, according to moms in the What to Expect community.

I shopped more during my two pregnancies than any other point in my life. Between feeding supplies, nursery decor and the oh-so-important car seat, I was constantly adding to my cart and registry. But shopping for those items was easy compared to shopping for maternity clothes. I had to find clothes that were comfortable (and appropriate) to wear to work, as well as a few items that could be worn lounging around the house or running errands. I also didn’t want to break the bank shopping for items that had a short lifespan. 

You can definitely try to extend wear of non-maternity clothes (I did!), but you will eventually get to a point where the jeans may not zip over your bump or the blouse doesn’t have room for your growing breast. When the time comes, you’ll be glad you had a few maternity-specific clothes in your closet. And, more often than not, those items can double as postpartum clothes, too. 

When putting together a maternity wardrobe, the most important feature to consider is comfort. This means finding tops that will stretch or flow around your bump as it grows, pants with belly panels that won’t feel tight and restricting, bras that are supportive of tender breasts, and much more. You don’t have to replace every item in your closet, but even getting just a pair of maternity leggings you can wear everywhere or a pair of maternity pajamas that make sleeping while pregnant slightly more comfortable can make a big difference.

How we chose the best maternity clothes

Between my two pregnancies, I bought a lot of maternity jeans, sweaters, dresses and more. Although I relied heavily on this experience to create this list, I can only speak to someone of my size and style preference. To ensure this list featured clothes for a range of sizes and styles, I looked at maternity clothing recommendations from hundreds of What to Expect community members. I not only looked at their brand and item recommendations, but I also looked at what they prioritize when shopping for maternity clothes. Based on their feedback, as well as my own experience, all of the maternity clothing on this list is: 

  • Soft and comfortable
  • Roomy enough to accommodate a growing bump
  • Versatile and can work during postpartum, too 

Why Trust Us?

What to Expect is the world’s most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand for a reason. Our product recommendations are based on expert parent insight, advice from medical professionals and feedback from the millions of parents and parents-to-be in our community. Our editors adhere to the highest research and reporting standards and our team of vetted OB/GYNs, pediatricians and other health professionals ensure our recommended products are safe and effective for you and your baby.

Best Maternity Leggings

Lululemon Align High-Rise Pants

Best Maternity Clothes -Lululemon Leggings
Buying Options
Pros
  • Soft and stretchy
  • Durable
  • Multiple lengths and colors available
Cons
  • Expensive

Material: 81% nylon, 19% lycra elastane

Size Range: 0-20

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Why We Love It

Though they’re not actually maternity leggings, Lululemon leggings are incredibly popular among pregnant moms because of their amazing stretch and buttery-soft feel. The high-waist panel is a particularly excellent feature as it provides plenty of support for your bump without feeling too tight. Though they’re more expensive than other leggings, moms rave about how Lululemon Aligns hold up for years, and many report wearing these well into the postpartum period, as well as through multiple pregnancies. 

Community Reviews
  • “I lived in Lululemon Align leggings my entire last pregnancy. I just ordered more.”

  • I second the aligns ... seriously AMAZING I wore them my entire first pregnancy right into the hospital haha Post partum too! I need to order another pair for this pregnancy!!”

  • I have a very long torso so I carry very close to my body and don’t have a huge bump so aligns from lululemon work fabulously for me. They are pricy but you can get on sale and then you can wear them postpartum too.

Best Maternity Jeans

Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Maternity Skinny Jeans

Best Maternity Clothes - Levi Strauss Maternity Jeans
Buying Options
Pros
  • Stretchy
  • Affordable
  • Ideal for everyday wear
Cons
  • Under-the-bump style isn’t comfortable for everyone

Material: 78% cotton, 20% polyester, 2% elastane

Size Range: XS-XL

Why We
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Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

I invested in several pairs of maternity jeans when pregnant, and by far, I reached for my Levi’s skinny jeans most often because of their impressive stretch and super comfortable under-the-belly band. Even though some moms prefer an over-the-belly band, this low-rise one is surprisingly supportive, without adding all that extra fabric over your stomach. Pregnant moms also found that these jeans were more durable than they expected a pair of $35 would be, and they loved the stylish washes available. One thing to note is that several moms said these jeans stretched throughout the day and found that they had to frequently readjust them towards the end of the day.

Community Reviews
  • “I got maternity Levi's from Amazon and they are great”

  • “Someone in this group shared these pants and I bought some. I am obsessed!! They are so comfy!! I bought a 2nd pair.”

Best Maternity Bra

Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra

Best Maternity Clothes - Bravado Maternity Bra
Buying Options
Pros
  • Comfortable
  • Clip-down nursing cups
  • Multiple colors and sizes available
Cons
  • Removable foam inserts

Material: 70% recycled nylon, 20% virgin nylon, 10% spandex

Size Range: XS-1XPlus

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

When it comes to a maternity bra, What to Expect moms rave about the Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra. Made of a soft nylon-spandex blend fabric that doesn’t -irritate sensitive pregnancy skin, the bra easily stretches to accommodate your growing breasts while still providing plenty of support. The wireless design also ensures greater comfort, especially for tender breasts. The sizing options accommodate a wide range of breast sizes, with many moms with larger busts saying that it fit them well. Moms in the What to Expect community note that this bra is also extremely durable and held up for them throughout multiple pregnancies. 

Best of all, this can be used as a nursing bra, extending its value and use.

One drawback to keep in mind, however, is the foam inserts can come out when washing. If that bothers you, check out Bravado's bralette stylefor a similar feel without the inserts.

Community Reviews
  • I like the Bravado ones - you can get them at Target, Kohl's, Amazon, etc. I'm not sure how far up the sizing goes. I'm up to like a 36G and wear an XL.”

  • “I love this one! and the original bravado bra as well”

  • “i got bravado ones too. I love them!! I’m also very large chested”

Best Maternity Underwear

Motherhood Maternity Fold Over Panties

Best Maternity Clothes - Motherhood Maternity Underwear
Buying Options
Pros
  • Over or under bump fit
  • Multiple patterns available
  • Comfortable
  • Available in plus sizes
Cons
  • May run big

Material: 95% cotton, 5% spandex

Size Range: S-XXL, 1X-3X

Why We
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Why We Love It

Prioritize comfort with these full-coverage maternity undies from Motherhood Maternity. Made from cotton with a touch of spandex for stretch, these undies are soft and lightweight, so you won’t you feel sweaty even if pregnancy hormones are wreaking havoc on your body temperature. The soft fold-over waistband can be worn over or under your bump, so these maternity underwear work really well throughout all stages of pregnancy. They double as great postpartum underwear, too, as many moms who had C-sections say they wore these without irritating their incision.

Community Reviews
  • I got some undies from Motherhood my last pregnancy, and I thought they were more comfortable than my regular undies. I got the ones with a fold down waistband.”

  • “I got a bunch from Motherhood Maternity. Some under bump, some over. They were like 12 for $30 or something very reasonable.”

  • “I ordered motherhood ones on Amazon and they are amazing!!! I ordered like 12 pairs!”

Best Maternity Pants

PinkBlush Cropped Maternity Pant

Best Maternity Clothes - PinkBlush Dress Pants
Buying Options
PinkBlush_Maternity
PinkBlush Maternity
$68
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • High-quality material
  • Machine washable
  • Functional front pockets
Cons
  • Limited sizing

Material: 97% polyester, 3% spandex

Size Range: S-L

Why We
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Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

The Pink Blush cropped maternity pants were my go-to for work my second pregnancy when I had to dress business casual. The material was breathable enough for the warm Texas spring, and I loved the versatile cropped look that I could pair with a flowy top and a variety of shoes like flats or sandals. They don’t wrinkle easily and have large front pockets, so they’re perfect for a day at the office as they won’t look frumpy by the end of the day and can hold your phone or keycard. If you’re unsure of what size to order, Pink Blush has a great return policy, so it’s easy to swap sizes if you need to.

Community Reviews
  • “Pink blush!! I LOVE their maternity pants, super cute and comfortable”

  • Love PinkBlush! Size charts have been spot on and generous sizing. A return/exchange I had to make went smoothly as well!

  • “I’ve been wearing the maternity pants from there to work every single day. Very comfortable”

Best Maternity Shorts

Lululemon Align High-Rise Shorts

Best Maternity Clothes - Lululemon High Rise Shorts
Buying Options
Pros
  • Multiple lengths available
  • Can be worn postpartum
  • Convenient waistband pocket
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Not maternity-specific

Material: 81% nylon, 19% lycra elastane

Size Range: 0-20

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Another favorite among What to Expect Moms, Lulemon’s Align High-Rise Shorts are a comfortable option that can be worn long after pregnancy. These shorts share the same luxurious buttery-soft material as Lululemon’s renowned leggings, earning high praise from moms who say they basically live in them throughout pregnancies, especially those who are in their later trimesters during the summer. The supportive, non-restrictive waistband can accommodate a growing bump and provide a bit of support thanks to the light compression. These maternity shorts are also pretty versatile and great for lounging, working out, running errands and more. 

Community Reviews
  • “Lululemon Align 8” biker shorts, pricey but SO comfy. I actually had them pre preggo belly and they fit very nicely. They expanded so well. I just got my usual size and they fit perfectly.”

  • I lived in the Lulu Align and TNA butter shorts. I still wear them postpartum!

  • I just bought a pair because so many moms recommended them on forums. They are AMAZING. I want the Align joggers too! And honestly I want to wear nothing but Align shorts now.

  • Highly recommend the Lululemon Align shorts. I’m living in mine. Comfy on my bump, and not “maternity”. I did size up. Usually wear a 10 in Aligns, but bought a 12 in the shorts.

  • Just bought some lululemon align bike shorts.. a little pricey but so worth it. Their leggings are the only ones I’ve found that fit perfect before pregnancy and during. They don’t lose their shape but are still soft and comfy.

Best Maternity Pajamas

Stars Above Pajamas

Best Maternity Clothes - Stars Above Pajamas
Buying Options
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Soft
  • Comfy loose-fit
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Not maternity-specific
  • Pants run long

Material: 95% modal, 5% spandex

Size Range: XS-XXL

Why We
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Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

The extremely soft Stars Above pajama set is truly unmatched, according to What to Expect staff and community members. Though they’re not technically maternity pajamas, the loose-fit style and adjustable waistband makes them a perfect option for your changing body. Moms also rave about the incredibly soft modal fabric, which will feel especially great against sensitive pregnancy skin. Plus, the button-up top makes for easy breast access, should you decide to nurse your baby once they arrive. 

It's worth noting, however, that some find the pants to be slightly longer than they’d hoped, which shorter parents may want to keep in mind. If you prefer to sleep in shorts, there’s a pajama set available with that option.

Community Reviews
  • “I love the pajama sets from target! They are so light weight and comfy I wear them every day while at home lol”

  • “Stars Above from target is my FAVORITEEEE  so unbelievably soft!!”

  • “I’ve really been liking the Stars Above brand from target, they are super soft and stretchy!”

  • “The stars above are for sure the best IMO… I am pretty picky about pjs and I buy only them.”

Best Maternity Tights

H&M MAMA Tights

Best Maternity Clothes - H&M Maternity Tights
Buying Options
Pros
  • Comes in a 2-pack
  • Stretchy belly panel
  • Available in multiple colors
Cons
  • Runs small

Material: 87% polyamide, 13% spandex

Size Range: XS-XL

Why We
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Why We Love It

For maternity tights that you can easily pull on underneath a dress or skirt, H&M’s MAMA tights are a top choice. Moms in our What to Expect community find the over-the-belly panel to be supportive and large enough to cover their bumps well into the third trimester. These soft, stretchy tights are available in multiple neutral shades, so you can match them to your skin tone or go with a basic black pair. They’re affordable and come in a two-pack, so you don’t have to worry if one pair happens to get a run. 

Some reviewers note that these tights run small, so you may want to size up. Also, they can be machine washed, but line drying is recommended.

Community Reviews
  • H&M had the best ones I found. Lovely big waistband that actually covered the bump right up to the end.

  • I got H&M ones and found them comfy

  • I'm another vote for H&M, strong fabric which never ladders and a nice big high waist and front panel. Also easy for up and down at the Dr's for scans etc.

  • H&M are great, I ordered a few bits from H&M for me and baby so chucked the tights in with the order

Best Maternity Dress

Bearsland Maternity Nursing Dress With Pockets

Best maternity clothes - bearsland maternity dress
Buying Options
Pros
  • Soft
  • Has pockets
  • Multiple colors and patterns
Cons
  • May wrinkle when washed

Material: 93% modal rayon, 7% spandex

Size Range: S-XL

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

The best maternity dresses are the perfect mix of comfortable and versatile, and this Bearsland dress offers exactly that with its soft modal fabric and maternity-to-postpartum design. You can easily dress this simple wardrobe staple up or down — pair it with tights and boots for a casual look or flats and accessories for a nicer outfit — and wear it through all three trimesters and well into the postpartum period with its nursing panel. Plus, the touch of spandex in the fabric means that it has great stretch to fit you as you grow.

Bearsland makes several versions of this maternity dress including one with long sleeves, a sleeveless design, and one with patchwork stripes.

Community Reviews
  • The Amazon bears land company has great stuff for a fraction of the price of latched mama”

  • I love these nursing dresses and they're pretty reasonably priced.” 

  • I ordered one to see if I liked it and I am in love so I ordered 3 more!

  • I have like 8 of these and love them. I have used them with my last 2 babies and they are still in good enough shape to use with this one. I think they run true to size, personally. I'm 5'11" and 180 lbs not pregnant, 36B/C when not nursing and wear an XL in these, but have a couple that are L and still fit fine. I literally wear them every day April-October, sometimes with a cardigan and/or leggings. To church. For casual wear. All the time.

Best Maternity Jumpsuit

Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel Short Sleeve Maternity And Beyond Jumpsuit

Best Maternity Clothes - Ingrid Isabel Jumpsuit
Buying Options
Pros
  • Soft and stretchy
  • Has pockets
  • Can be used for nursing
Cons
  • Must pull top down completely to use the bathroom

Material: 94% rayon, 6% spandex

Size Range: XS-XXL

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

A jumpsuit can be a great option during pregnancy because it can be worn for a variety of occasions. This Isabel Maternity jumpsuit is made of soft, stretchy lightweight jersey material, and has a belted empire waist so it won’t feel restrictive or put pressure on your bump. Moms like that it’s versatile enough to be worn alone or paired with a cardigan or jacket. And, you can go ahead and wear this jumpsuit well beyond pregnancy because of its comfortable, stretchy material. 

When you’re using the bathroom frequently (and you will be!) it can be cumbersome to have to completely take the top off and pull the romper down to use the toilet, but if you’re comfortable with that, this jumpsuit is a fantastic choice.

Community Reviews
  • I have two of these l, I'm obsessed. I'm in LA so no cold weather really. With sneakers and a sweater I'm ok. Has pockets!!

  • Just sharing for those who get hot and uncomfy while pregnant in the summer like me! Bought these Isabel maternity jumpsuits at target today and they are the comfiest EVER. I’m going to be living in these this summer.

Best Maternity Tank Top

Kindred Bravely Maternity and Nursing Organic Cotton Tank Top

Best Maternity Clothes - Kindred Bravely Maternity Tank Top
Buying Options
Pros
  • Made of organic cotton
  • Has built-in bra with nursing access
  • Comes in a 2-pack
Cons
  • Only available in black and white

Material: 95% organic cotton, 5% spandex

Size Range: S-XXL

Why We
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Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Like many moms in the What to Expect community, I’m a huge fan of everything Kindred Bravely has to offer. (Their clothing is so popular that it consistently earns a win in our Mom Must-Have Awards). The versatile Kindred Bravely maternity and nursing tank is the perfect pregnancy staple for layering or going braless on days when your breasts are too tender — or you just don’t want to put on a bra! Moms say that the built-in shelf bra is plenty supportive, although that might not be the case for those with larger busts.

Made of organic cotton, these tanks are comfortable and lightweight, and the bit of spandex provides plenty of stretch for your bump and breasts. And once baby arrives, you can keep wearing these tops for nursing, thanks to the handy clip-down cups.

Community Reviews
  • Kindred bravely. They’re pricey but so worth it

  • I had big boobs before pregnancy (36I) and now with baby #2 and breastfeeding/pumping I am closer to 38J. Kindred Bravely has the only tanks that i have tried that fit me well! I get the XL Busty size and love them! Kind of pricey but I have now worn my tanks and bras through 2 pregnancies and postpartum and they hold up great!

Best Maternity Shirt

Smallshow V-Neck Maternity Side Ruched Pregnancy T-Shirt

Best Maternity Clothes - Smallshow maternity t shirts
Buying Options
Pros
  • Comes in a 3-pack
  • Multiple colors and designs
  • Long length
Cons
  • Some don’t like wearing the ruched design postpartum

Material: 93% rayon, 7% spandex

Size Range: S-XXL

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

A basic t-shirt is a staple of any pregnancy wardrobe, and when something fits well over your bump, it’s nice to have more than one version of it. Between the fit, feel and affordability, it’s no wonder that moms-to-be love stocking up on these Amazon V-necks. Designed with side ruching, this top adapts to your changing belly and provide plenty of space without being too baggy. Moms like that it’s a longer design to fully cover the belly, even on tall moms. Plus, it’s machine washable and comes in a ton of colors and patterns. For even more versatility, this shirt is also available with three-quarter sleeves or long sleeves.

Community Reviews
  • Im 5’10 and have loved the 3pk of shirts from Smallshow on Amazon so soft and stretchy and definitely long enough!

  • I’ve really liked the shirts from Smallshow on Amazon. I’m short, but the shirts are long on me. Maybe they would work! Bonus, they come in 3 packs.

Best Maternity Blouse

Old Navy Maternity Boyfriend Popover Shirt

Best Maternity Clothes - Old Navy Popover Shirt
Buying Options
Pros
  • Versatile
  • Roomy
  • Can be used for nursing
Cons
  • Some felt it looked boxy

Material: 100% cotton

Size Range: XS-XXL

Why We
Love it
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Reviews
Why We Love It

A blouse that’s soft and comfy on your belly but versatile enough to wear just about anywhere, this Old Navy boyfriend shirt checks all the boxes. The design is relaxed and flowy, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a blouse that will work early on in your pregnancy and still fit through the third trimester. The buttons extend to right under your bust, giving it a more fitted look on tip. The buttons also make this a great nursing top once baby arrives. bIt’s also available in Oxford Blue, Neutral Stripe or Pink Stripe, perfect for mixing up your look whether you’re running errands or meeting up with friends during pregnancy and postpartum. 

Community Reviews
  • “I wasn't a fan of Target's maternity clothes at all. But I have actually had great luck with Old Navy. You just buy your prepregnancy size and so far I've liked everything I've ordered from them.” 

  • I just size up on most of my clothes. I got clothes from Amazon, Shein, and Old Navy. I’ve been wearing a lot of sweaters and cardigans too!” 

Best Maternity Sweatshirt

Seraphine 3-in-1 Maternity Hoodie

Best Maternity Clothes - Seraphine 3 in 1 Maternity Hoodie
Buying Options
Seraphine_Maternity
Seraphine Maternity
$95
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Pros
  • Side pockets
  • Zip-off panel allows you to use it for babywearing
Cons
  • Runs large

Material: Outer: 78% cotton, 22% polyester; Hood: 100% cotton; Lining: 95% cotton, 5% elastane rib

Size Range: XS-XXL

Why We
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Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Who doesn’t love a cozy sweatshirt, especially when the pregnancy symptoms become quite uncomfortable. This hoodie from Seraphine is the perfect pick for a sweatshirt that’ll stretch around your bump — and still be flattering after baby is here. 

Featuring a plush fleece interior, this super cozy maternity sweatshirt is crafted with stretchy side panels so it adapts seamlessly to your growing bump. Then, for postpartum wear, attach an extra panel on the front so you have enough space for babywearing with a wrap or carrier. Although it’s on the pricey side, you’ll get so much wear out of this sweatshirt — and feel comfortable both during pregnancy and postpartum.

Community Reviews
  • I got the 3 in 1. Based on recommendations here and I LOVE it.

  • yes!!! its awesome. I got the medium. b4 pregnancy I was a 10/12. I'm only 2 weeks pp and have 2 stone to lose but the medium is a nice fit for now.

Best Maternity Socks

Comrad Knee High Compression Socks

Best Maternity Clothes - Comrad Compression Socks
Pros
  • Variety of sock heights and compression levels offered
  • Breathable
  • Not too thick
Cons
  • Some say they’re not ideal for those with wide calves

Material: 91% nylon, 9% spandex

Size Range: S-XL, M and L wide calf

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Your healthcare provider may recommend compression socks to reduce swelling in the legs. throughout your pregnancy. If that’s the case, this pair of Comrad knee high compression socks are a popular choice with moms in our What to Expect community. Crafted from spandex and nylon, they offer plenty of stretch and a cushioned heel and toe for enhanced comfort. The graduated, moderate compression of 15 to 20mmHG suits those seeking medium support for all-day wear and really works to help reduce swelling, according to satisfied wearers. Though some reviews do mention that these aren’t ideal for people with wide calves, there are wide-calf fit options available, too.

Community Reviews
  • I have a few pair of knee high Comrad brand compression socks - they are great and offer multiple levels of compression and have multiple calf size options. I’m on my feet a lot for my job and they have made me feel great at the end of the day!

  • I tried a few and my favorites were Comrad brand ones - they sell multipacks to help make them more affordable

FAQs

Many retailers offer maternity clothes in a wide variety of styles. You can buy maternity clothes online from pregnancy- and postpartum-specific brands like Kindred Bravely, Motherhood Maternity, Seraphine and others. Major retailers like Target, Walmart and Costco, as well as department stores like Old Navy, also carry maternity clothing. When shopping online or in-person at these stores — and most stores — you can also find regular clothes that work for pregnancy if you simply size up.

The ideal time to purchase maternity clothes is whenever you feel that you need them. For many women, the second trimester is when changes in body shape are most noticeable, and maternity wear becomes necessary for comfort and support. It ultimately depends on your individual preferences and your needs, however. Everyone’s body changes in different ways, so one person may need to shop earlier while another can wait longer. Plus, you might only want a couple items versus overhauling your wardrobe — such as getting a good maternity bra and pair of jeans instead of dresses, sweaters and tops.