Maternity clothing is known to be hit and miss. It’s easy to drown in a swamp of jersey when you’re growing a small human and comfort is your priority. But also, understandably, you don’t always want your bump to change your personal style during those nine months, and for those months after you’ve welcomed your little one to the world.
After Jennifer Lawrence's recent pregnancy reveal and the TDF outfits that have followed, maternity style inspiration is at an all time high. There are lots of great non-maternity wardrobe staples that work just as well with your new bump as they do without; floaty dresses, oversized knits and blazers, and chic mens shirts to name a few. But as your belly grows, working around the bump can become more of a challenge. Literally, your whole body can change whilst pregnant – erm, why does no one mention that your back can expand and your legs can change shape?
But, for all of these unexpected surprises, we'd like our wardrobe to be a reliable source of joy, rather than another new challenge to have to figure out. There are brands out there who specialise solely in maternity style, like Seraphine, whose chic maternity offerings are seemingly endless and a major hit with new mums-to-be, and then there's our favourite high street stores who have ventured into amazing maternity collections of their own, like H&M and ASOS. Check out our round up of go to brands for maternity clothing that is equal parts comfortable, practical, flattering and chic.
Best maternity clothing:
- Seraphine
- Beyond Nine
- H&M
- JoJo Maman Bebe
- Chelsea Peers
- ASOS
- New Look
- Skims
- Marks & Spencer
Best maternity brands
1. Seraphine
Seraphine is a one stop shop for all things maternity, with stylish designs that conceal clever hidden zippers and pouches that allow you to breastfeed freely and with ease once you've welcomed your little one into the world. Their sleek black puffer includes a zip-off kangaroo panel to fit over a baby carrier, which is just pure genius.
2. Beyond Nine
Founded by Naomi Raybould when she was 37 weeks pregnant, Beyond Nine is a brand that knows how to nail maternity style and comfort. Their gorgeous Lola denim jumpsuit will fit around your growing bump beautifully, and will also look just as flattering beyond your pregnancy because the brand isn’t only about maternity wear - the entire range puts comfy and flexible clothes right at its core.
3. H&M
H&M are just the best for cool, maternity wardrobe staples. Think great maternity denim, neutral separates and classic Breton tops. Their stylish nursing tops are real winners, with their wrapover front, as well as their easy seamless nursing bras.
4. JoJo Maman Bebe
Top of a pregnant woman's shopping list, JoJo Maman Bebe, has all the essentials for you and your new little sidekick. They have some gorgeous, laidback dresses ready in time for spring, plus a host of knockout swimwear that'll surround that bump nicely for your next swim-for-two.
5. Chelsea Peers
Loungewear professionals Chelsea Peers have luxe comfy co-ords nailed, and so we wholeheartedly trust them with all our relaxed maternity needs. From printed PJs to soft lounging sets you can cosy up on the sofa in, this comfortable get up is bound to become your best friend.
Maternity Organic Cotton Giraffe Print Long Pyjama Set - Navy
Maternity TENCEL™ Modal Long Button Up Pyjama Set - Grey Marl
Maternity TENCEL™ Modal Long Button Up Pyjama Set - Navy
6. ASOS
ASOS is always a reliable go-to for so many of our wardrobe needs. As well as stocking lots of cult brands along with their maternity pieces, ASOS' own maternity range is filled with so many stylish offerings and trend-led pieces, with nearly 1000 products to browse, you really can't go wrong.
Asos Maternity Maternity Denim Dungarees
7. New Look
You could create an entire capsule maternity wardrobe from New Look's cool, laidback maternity collection. With plenty of denim in wide leg, straight and skinny styles, as well as shorts and milkmaid dresses for the summer months, and oversized tailored shirts and jackets that you'll want to wear long after your pregnant days are over.
8. Skims
Skims' maternity shapewear changes with your body during and after your pregnancy, which is pretty darn great eh? The tights and bodysuits feature non-compressive cores to help you and your growing bump stay comfortable but supported. Plus, their nursing bras have thick stable straps and leak-proof fabric. Skims are seriously all about solution-wear.
9. Marks & Spencer
If you're looking for reliable staples, old faithful, M&S has you covered. As well as shirts and jeans, their quality maternity t-shirts, vests and leggings are what you'll always be grabbing for during your pregnancy. Not to mention, their nursing bras and underwear are second to none.
Sophie Leen is the Bookings Editor for Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK. She specialises in creating fashion and shopping content across both digital and print platforms, as well as producing all of our fashion editorial photoshoots, which have included our digital cover with Olly Alexander and our curve influencer’s letter to the high street story. Sophie also looks after our Try Before You Train franchise where our team have tested and reviewed over 100 gymwear items.
