How to Choose the Perfect Maternity Dress

Your Guide to buying the best maternity dresses

Overview

This maternity dresses buying guide will provide an overview of the different types of maternity dresses available, as well as helpful tips for finding the right fit and style. It will also cover important considerations such as price, comfort, and material, as well as how to choose the right dress for any occasion. With this guide, you will have all the information you need to make an informed and wise purchasing decision when it comes to maternity dresses.

Key features

  1. Size: Make sure to pick the right size of the dress, as maternity clothing will usually be one size larger than usual. Check the size chart for reference.
  2. Style: Choose the right style of maternity dress that fits your occasion. Are you looking for something casual, formal, or a combination?
  3. Fabric: Look for light and breathable fabrics such as cotton, jersey, and linen. Avoid materials like polyester and spandex as they may be too hot.
  4. Comfort: Choose a dress that is comfortable, especially for a growing bump. Look for dresses with adjustable straps and supportive fabric.
  5. Fit: Make sure the dress fits your body. Try the dress on and check if it is loose on the bump but tight enough on the body.
  6. Pattern: Consider the color and pattern of the dress. Choose one that works for your body type and goes with any occasion.
  7. Price: Choose a dress that is within your budget. Don't overspend on a dress that won't last you the entire pregnancy.

See the most popular maternity dresses on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Comfort and support: Maternity dresses are designed to provide extra support to accommodate the changes to a woman's body during pregnancy, as well as providing comfort.
  • Flexibility: Maternity dresses can easily be adjusted to fit the growing belly and to ensure a comfortable fit. They are also available in a range of styles so that you can choose the one that fits your personal style.
  • Versatility: Maternity dresses can be worn during and after pregnancy, providing a versatile and practical option for the modern mom.
  • Affordability: Maternity dresses are typically less expensive than regular clothing, making them a budget-friendly option for expectant mothers.
  • Nursing Friendly: Many maternity dresses feature discreet openings or clips for easy and discreet nursing access, offering convenience and comfort.

Cons

  • Fit: Maternity dresses are designed to accommodate a growing baby bump and can be ill-fitting if the size is not chosen correctly.
  • Cost: Maternity dresses can be expensive if bought from a specialty store.
  • Durability: Since maternity dresses are only worn for a short period of time, they may not be as durable as other clothing items.
  • Style: It may be difficult to find a maternity dress that suits one's personal style.
  • Fabric: It is important to consider the fabric that the dress is made out of as it should be comfortable to wear for long periods of time and be easily washable.
  • Accessories: It is important to consider what accessories are needed to complete the outfit, such as jewelry, shoes, and cardigans.

Best alternatives

    Maternity Leggings - Form-fitting bottoms usually made from spandex and/or cotton blends for extra support and comfort. Maternity Jeans - Jeans that have a higher waistline and more room in the leg and hip area for added comfort. Maternity Tops - Blouses, shirts, and tunics that are designed to accommodate a growing belly. Maternity Shapewear - Specialty shapewear made to provide extra support and comfort around the midsection. Maternity Swimsuits - Swimsuits that are designed to provide more coverage and support while also accommodating a growing belly. Maternity Outerwear - Coats, jackets, and other outerwear pieces that are designed to accommodate a growing belly.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Nursing bras - Undergarments designed to provide support and make breastfeeding easier.
  • Maternity underpants - Specialized underwear designed for extra support and comfort.
  • Maternity swimsuits - Typically have extra fabric for extra coverage and are designed to flatter a pregnant figure.
  • Maternity leggings - Stretchy pants that provide extra coverage and support.
  • Maternity support belts - Wraps around the waist to provide extra support and reduce back pain.
  • Maternity pillows - U-shaped pillows designed to provide support while sleeping or sitting.
  • Nursing covers - A covering for privacy while breastfeeding.

Common questions

  1. What size should I buy for a maternity dress?
    Maternity dresses usually come in sizes ranging from extra small to extra-large. It’s best to know your measurements before deciding on a size. Some brands also offer special sizes for petite and plus-sized women.
  2. What fabrics are commonly used for maternity dresses?
    Maternity dresses are typically made from stretchy fabrics, such as jersey, spandex, and cotton. Other materials may include chiffon, silk, and even wool.
  3. What type of styles are available?
    Maternity dresses come in a variety of styles, from casual to formal, and short to long. You can find dresses with ruffles, lace, and other details.
  4. Can I wear maternity dresses after pregnancy?
    Yes, many maternity dresses are designed to be worn post-pregnancy. This is especially true for more fitted dresses that are made from stretchy fabrics.

Trivia

An interesting fact about maternity dresses is that Queen Victoria was credited with popularising the concept of maternity wear in the mid-1800s. Up until that point, pregnant women had been wearing high-waisted gowns to conceal their baby bumps. However, Queen Victoria changed the trend by wearing a dress that featured a close-fitting bodice and a full skirt to better showcase her pregnancy. This style soon became popular among women of all classes, and eventually evolved into the range of maternity dresses that are available today. [Source: The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2018/oct/02/queen-victoria-proclaimed-fashion-for-maternity-dresses-200-years-ago)

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.