The ultimate guide to Maternity Clothes

Not your average basics.

Let’s talk tops. They might seem like the easiest part of your wardrobe, but once you’re navigating a changing bust, growing belly, and that fun “nothing fits the same” phase—having the right essentials is everything.

Think elevated basics: tanks, tees, and long sleeves that have just the right amount of stretch, are cut to flatter your shape (no clingy situations here), and that actually work through pregnancy and beyond. Look for soft, breathable fabric and nursing access if you want them to carry you into the fourth trimester.

Oh, and layering? A total game-changer. Throw on a blazer or oversized shirt, and boom—cute outfit with zero effort.

P.S. You may make-do early on with non-maternity basics but you'll want a cut that is more flattering come your second and third trimester so buy early to get your wear out of them because these basics will become your best friend.

Denim that loves your bump back.

Ah, jeans. The moment your regular pair won’t button anymore is a rite of passage. But don’t worry—you don’t have to give up denim. Maternity jeans have come a looong way (and no, they don’t slip down like some that you may have already tried on).

There are two main styles:
Over-bump: Comfy, stretchy panels that give you that held-in feeling.
Under-bump: Sit below the belly, with a stretchy waistband for everyday ease.

Pick what works for your body and your style. Skinny, straight-leg, wide-leg, Indigo, classic washed blue hues—there are options. And the best ones? They don’t look maternity. They just look like good jeans that happen to be incredibly comfortable (and fit your bump).

Wear them with everything: tees and trainers, dressy tops and heels, boots and coats. They’re the easiest way to feel put together, fast.

For when your out-of-office is still a while off.

Navigating workwear while pregnant can be a whole thing. You want to look polished, feel comfortable, and avoid the awkward “is that oversized or intentional?” vibe.

Here’s the secret: don’t reinvent your entire office wardrobe—just swap a few key pieces.

Start with a great pair of maternity work pants. High-waisted, stretchy, not too tight but still structured. Then add versatile tops that work with your existing blazers or cardigans. Shirts are also a total win—invest in cuts made for maternity as you'll have room to grow and they'll be way more flattering than just sizing up a regular shirt. 

Also key: layering pieces like a relaxed blazer, longline cardigan or a trench. They instantly elevate an outfit, and you can throw them over anything.

The goal? Pieces you can mix, match, and repeat (without anyone knowing you’re living in them).

Because you deserve better than a hospital gown.

When labour day hits, the last thing you want is to feel uncomfortable in scratchy fabric or awkward ties that don’t stay closed. Enter: the birthing gown.

It’s soft. It’s stretchy. It’s designed for skin-to-skin, medical access, and easy breastfeeding. But most importantly—it feels like you. Think of it like your go-to oversized tee or nightdress, but with clever features that actually make sense for birth.

Even if you’re not planning to pack it for the hospital, having a post-birth gown you feel good in (ie: not embarrassed to wear when visitors come) is a total game changer. And yes—you’ll wear it as pyjamas long after too.

Start slow and build as you go

You don’t need everything at once. Start with the core pieces—leggings, a few tops, and jeans. Then fill in the gaps as your body and life shift.

Choose pieces that go the distance

Look for maternity clothes that are designed to fit before, during and after. You’ll wear them more than you think (especially if you’re nursing or just want a little extra comfort while you settle into new-mum life).

Don’t forget the joy

Maternity dressing can feel like a chore—or it can be a moment to celebrate your changing body. Pick pieces that make you feel like yourself. Have fun with colour. Try a trend. Or don’t. This is your wardrobe, your way.

So here it is, your (can't live without) Maternity Wardrobe Checklist:

• Really good maternity leggings
• A rotation of soft, stretchy essential tops (tees, tanks, long sleeves)
• 1–2 pairs of maternity jeans in a cut you love
• A pair of maternity work pants + polished tops
• One great birthing gown (because you deserve it)

• Bonus: an oversized shirt or denim shacket for layering

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Final thoughts?

Your maternity wardrobe doesn’t have to be huge—it just has to work for you. Focus on comfort, versatility, and the pieces that make you feel confident. Whether you’re 12 weeks or 39, heading to work or nesting at home, you deserve clothes that feel as good as they look.

And when in doubt? Comfy always wins.