Bump Up Your Style With the Best Maternity Dresses
As an expecting mother, finding the perfect maternity dress can be tricky. Not only do you have to consider which styles and colors will flatter your body, but you also want to get something that is comfortable throughout your pregnancy. Fortunately, we’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the most sought-after maternity dresses of 2023.
From classic silhouettes to playful prints, our selection of maternity dresses will make you look and feel incredible during your nine-month journey. With options to fit every budget, occasion, and taste, you're sure to find the perfect dress for your momentous event.
Finding the Perfect Maternity Dress: A Buyer’s Guide
Pregnancy is a special and exciting time in a woman’s life, but finding the right maternity dress can be a challenge. With so many styles, materials, and brands to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve put together a comprehensive buying guide that’ll make your shopping experience a breeze.
What To Look For While Buying a Maternity Dress
Fabric
Your maternity dress’s fabric is one of the most important elements to consider when making your purchase. You want to ensure that the materials used are both comfortable and breathable so you can move freely without discomfort. Natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, or bamboo are all great options for a maternity dress.
Elastane-based fabrics and spandex are good choices as well because they provide a bit more stretch and flexibility than other materials. You can also opt for silk or chiffon if you want something with a little more drape!
Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to finding that perfect maternity dress. Make sure it fits properly across your chest and waist, with enough room in the stomach to comfortably accommodate a growing baby bump. Look for features such as adjustable straps, wide belts, or elastic waistbands that can offer greater support if needed. Also, avoid straps or sleeves that are too tight, as this may cause discomfort.
Style
When selecting a style of dress, it’s important to take into account how often you’ll be wearing it and the occasions it will be worn for. A classic wrap dress, for example, is a great choice if you want something simple but chic that works for both day and night occasions.
If you are looking for something more casual, there are plenty of tunic-style dresses or maxi dresses that work well with leggings or jeans and are perfect for running errands. But remember, when buying a maxi dress, make sure it has a slit in the skirt to prevent tripping.
Size
When it comes to maternity dresses, there is no one-size-fits-all approach! Since many women’s bodies tend to change during pregnancy, it’s important to take measurements of your bust, waist, and hips first before shopping. This will help you find the correct size that fits your curves just right.
Maternity clothing typically comes in extra-small, small, medium, large, or extra-large, rather than traditional numbered sizes. Make sure that you are familiar with the sizing chart of the brand you choose to ensure a proper fit.
Nursing accessibility
If you plan on breastfeeding after birth, look for a maternity dress with nursing access points built into the garment’s design. Before buying, ensure that the material is flexible yet supportive, with enough give to make it easier for you to nurse when needed. Some dresses even come with built-in nursing panels or front zippers that make it easy for you to pull aside your top without removing the whole thing.
Pattern
Your maternity dress’s pattern depends upon the occasion it’s meant for. If you plan on wearing it for multiple occasions over time, consider choosing one with a more timeless look so that you can wear it year after year without worrying about being out of style.
For example, polka dots or stripes are both classic choices that will stand the test of time, no matter what fashion trends may come and go. On the other hand, if you are looking to make more of a statement, there are plenty of dresses with bold prints that will let your personality shine through while still flattering your baby bump.
Comparing the Most Stylish Maternity Dress of 2023
Maacie Maternity Dress – Best Overall
Step up your maternity style with the stunning Maacie Maternity Dress! Made with an optimal blend of polyester and viscose, this dress is extremely breathable and comfortable. The tie front bow knot gives it a unique look, while the smocked back and A-line silhouette keep it classy yet feminine. Even better, this pick features spaghetti straps, allowing you to adjust it for better support.
Available in a range of flattering designs and mesmerizing hues, this versatile maternity dress is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re running errands with your family or attending a formal event. Unlike other dresses that must be dry cleaned or washed, this one is machine washable, making upkeep a breeze. And, thanks to its size variety, you can easily find the perfect fit for your changing body. Because of high-quality stitching, comfortable material, and versatile design, this maternity dress stands at the top of our list!
Pros
- Soft, flowy material
- Adjustable straps for coverage
- Comfortable, fashion-forward design
- Can be dressed up and down
Cons
- Material is too thin for some
Mother Bee Maternity Dress – Most Comfortable Material
Stay stylish and comfortable throughout your pregnancy with the Mother Bee Maternity Dress. It features a V-neck, short sleeves, and an empire waistline that provides a supportive fit for your growing belly. Designed using polyester and spandex, this dress is extremely soft and stretchy, keeping you comfortable all day long. With a pull-on closure and a flattering A-line silhouette, this dress is also very easy to wear and will flatter your curves.
This maternity dress is not only comfortable but also versatile. The sleek design and classic silhouette make it perfect for a range of occasions, whether you’re attending a wedding or celebrating with friends. It is also an excellent choice for nursing, keeping mothers comfortable and confident while feeding their little ones. Best of all, this dress is available in various solid colors and beautiful patterns, making it easy to express your personal style.
Pros
- Soft and stretchy
- Elastic waistband for a better fit
- Adjustable top for breastfeeding
- Conveniently machine washable
Cons
- Colors may vary slightly from the picture
Xpenyo Maternity Dress – Vibrant Prints
The Xpenyo Maternity Dress is a comfortable and stylish dress that you can wear throughout your pregnancy and beyond. Made from a blend of rayon and spandex, it is soft, comfortable, and stretchy, providing the perfect fit for expectant mothers at any stage of pregnancy. This pick is also exceptionally breathable, so you won’t feel hot and sweaty throughout the day.
The simple short sleeves and wrap V-neckline create a flattering silhouette, while the elastic cinching under the bust offers additional support to keep you comfortable. Available in gorgeous floral prints and vibrant colors, this maternity dress is perfect for any occasion, from casual daily wear to special events like baby showers, weddings, and maternity photoshoots.
Pros
- Skin-friendly and breathable
- Flattering neckline and drape
- Fits true to size
- Available in multiple patterns
Cons
- May be too long for some
- Must be ironed after washing
Smallshow Maternity Dress – Most Stretchable
The Smallshow Maternity Dress offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and flexibility. It boasts a wide scooped neckline, short sleeves, and side ruching, offering a relaxed and flexible fit to accommodate a growing belly. And, because it’s crafted with rayon and spandex, this dress will hug your curves and grow with you as your pregnancy progresses
This maternity dress is extremely breathable, so you can wear it during summer with a coat or cardigan for winter. Available in various eye-catching colors, this stylish piece of clothing is both comfortable and fashionable, allowing for easy dressing up or down no matter the occasion. Best of all, it can be machine washed with cold water and tumble-dried on low heat for quick cleanup!
Pros
- Stretchy, comfortable material
- Long enough to cover the knees
- Ideal for casual and formal occasions
- Available in various colors
Cons
- Material can be see-through when stretched
Dance Fairy Maternity Dress – Most Flattering Fit
The Dance Fairy Maternity Dress is an excellent choice for pregnant women who want to keep up with the latest trends. Made from polyester and spandex, this dress is super soft and stretchy, ensuring that it will fit like a glove. The material is also breathable, so you won’t get overheated or feel uncomfortable while wearing this pick.
This maternity dress features a form-fitting design that flatters and accentuates the waist while also being forgiving enough to accommodate a growing belly. Whether it’s a party, cocktail, casual event, brunch, picnic, or date, you won’t go wrong when wearing this off-shoulder ruffle dress. You can even layer it with a coat on cool days and feel cozy while still looking chic!
Pros
- Accentuates your baby bump
- Comfortable and soft
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Ideal for various occasions
Cons
- May not fit as expected
People Also Asked
A: Yes, you can wear a maternity dress post-pregnancy. Many maternity clothes are designed to be comfortable and stylish during and after pregnancy, so you don't have to worry about not being able to wear your favorite pieces. Look for styles that feature adjustable waistbands, wrap closures, and stretchy fabrics that can be easily adjusted over time to accommodate your changing body. Also, depending on the style of maternity dress you choose, you may be able to wear it in a way that doesn't necessarily make it look like a “maternity” dress, such as pairing it with a scarf or cardigan.
A: Absolutely not! Most people think that, because maternity dresses are specifically made for pregnant women, they are expensive. While there are certainly some fancy and high-end designers out there who charge a pretty penny for their maternity clothes, you can find some chic maternity dresses for under $50.
A: Maternity dresses are designed specifically with a pregnant body in mind. They tend to be longer than normal dresses and often have an empire waistline or elasticized panels that allow room for your growing bump. Some even come with an extra fabric in the bust area that helps camouflage any lumps or bumps caused by nursing or pregnancy weight gain. Regular dresses, on the other hand, are often shorter than maternity dresses and feature more fitted silhouettes and narrow waistlines that line up with a woman's natural curves.
A: No. While many women do invest in a maternity wardrobe, there’s no need to go overboard. Maternity clothes are designed to grow with you throughout your pregnancy. That said, you may want to buy a few basics in different styles so that you can mix and match them as your body changes.
A: Maternity dresses are typically worn from the second trimester and beyond. Some women wear them even earlier than that, but it’s best to start wearing maternity clothing once you’re showing.
A: A maxi or midi-length dress is suitable for casual occasions like baby showers and brunches. For formal events like weddings or receptions, opt for an ankle-length or floor-length gown instead.
A: Most maternity dresses are machine washable, but you should still double-check any care labels before washing them so that they’re not damaged in the process. You should air dry your maternity dress instead of tumble drying it to preserve the garment's shape and prevent shrinking over time. Also, avoid rough surfaces like wire hangers as they could snag delicate fabrics like lace or chiffon while hanging your dress up.
