From basics to those special pieces, we’ll help you build that mamma wardrobe.
We’ve had lots of requests from readers for a maternity clothing post. Honestly, it’s not the easiest type of post to do. Maternity clothing is not a one-size-fits-all (well, nothing is, but here even less). Everyone carries differently and it’s the type of thing we’d say to “head to your local Jewish store” and try things on. But, not everyone lives near a modest maternity store, especially our out-of-town readers, and many need to make the online options work.
Some people prefer non-maternity clothing. This will sometimes work, and sometimes not. When you size up on a top to get room in the belly, the sleeves/shoulders will likely be too big for you. When looking for non-maternity clothing to wear during pregnancy, it’s best to look for pieces which are naturally loose-fitting, where you can purchase your regular size (or just one size more). There are lots of loose-fitting styles of dresses nowadays that don’t have a waist.
One wardrobe staple during pregnancy is a plain black column dress/jumper. It’s great because you can throw on any non-maternity cardigan that you already have in your wardrobe and change it up every time. They’re also cute with a tee tied at the belly or even with those maternity wrap t-shirts. That being said, even if you’re not a “plain black dress” type, you might want a couple (weekday, Shabbos) during pregnancy because they’re just so easy and sometimes, you just don’t want to figure things out.
Everyone carries differently! Some of the picks below might be too form fitting and not flattering. One good rule of thumb is to pair a fitted piece with a looser piece, i.e. wear an oversized sweater with a straight skirt or a more fitted top with a looser fitting skirt. Baggy with baggy will make you look bigger than you are, and fitted with fitted is also unflattering and not classy.
Don’t be scared of over-the-bump styles. This is your chance to tuck-in! This is best for those pleated skirts.
Finally, the basics are where it’s at. You will need 2-4 Shabbos/special dresses/outfits that you love and are comfortable (even if you get sick of them, it’s not necessary to have more). A Shell Station velvet maxi dress is great for Friday nights. It’s ok to create your “uniform,” that looks good on you, even if you don’t change it up so much each day. Comfy tees. A few great skirts that go with any sweater you choose. You want pieces that will get a lot of mileage, not the types of things you’ll wear twice a season. More black things that you’d typically wear, especially in the wintertime. It’s perfectly fine if you wear all of your outfits weekly. This is the time to create a “capsule” type of wardrobe.
The picks below are organized by category. Items are listed from lowest to highest price within each category.
NOTE: Most of the prices below are actually much lower than the listed price! That’s because most of the sites have coupon codes (in most cases, we did not list the discounted prices because they often change).
Thanks for this post! I love the options. I noticed some of the links aren’t going through – can they please be fixed?
This knit pleated skirt from AliExpress is my go-to every day skirt.
Like the ones in Jewish stores, but at a third of the price:
Just found this amazing item on AliExpress. Check it out! €33.18 50％ Off | 2023 New Maternity Knit Skirts Pregnant's Knitted Skirts Women Classic Black Dress Elastic Waist Great Quality
https://a.aliexpress.com/_mPsugdK
just saw this great option for dressy occasions.
https://shopstyle.it/l/b3MPx
i love the simple slip dresses from fame. i wear them w a bunch of different cardis and sweatshirts over it and i just live in it! they also have a nice variety of colors and prints……
This is so fun! I have a great rec to share. This amazon sweater is comfortable, stretchy, yummy. The exposed seams are beautiful and the neckline is adjustable with the zipper. I’m in my 8th month now and very happy with the fit.
https://amzn.to/3FUlatH
Pretty picks but Links not working
Do you have any good links for some plain black column dress/jumpers?
I have a great basic black ribbed dress thats sleeveless that i can wear anything over it, its the alispecials dress that comes with matching short cardigan. the fabric is so comfortable and breathable
https://alispecials.com/collections/dresses/products/sleeveless-maxi-dress?variant=41298176475273
Thanks! Not endorsing shein but loving this really cheap but great looking dress. Got it early on and it’s taking me till the end. It didnt need any alterations!
https://fave.co/3MEPbkZ
Ladies please be aware of tznius in maternity wear. Tight fitting tops, that show your form is assur. This is a time when you need extra rachame shamyim. Bshaah Tovah, you should all be zoche to healthy children.
Well said. Was thinking the same but you wrote it so beautifully. A lot
of maternity clothes even in Jewish stores don’t work past the first bit and then become too revealing.
any1 have a link for a black maternity wedding gown?
just an idea that worked for me earlier on for a gown took regular gown and had it altered, just lifted the waistline an inch or two up, so its sitting above…
Take care of your nursing pump now while pregnant. Not to have that headace once the baby is born. I had great experience ordering one by texting 347 2868346. They offer a for pack clip, milk storage bags and post partum girdles. Good luck!!
anyone have a link for cheap good slip dress
DRAWSTRING SWEATSHIRT is not really drawstring just looks like cuz top of the pants.
soo nice!!!!
love this top. officially a sweatshirt but works well for a casual weekday top.
https://shopstyle.it/l/b7OpW
know that we’re inching towards the end of summer season, but gotta share this link.
It’s a simple yet stunning chch blouse (copy, of course!) on aliexpress that’s pennies and looks great on.
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256806822749546.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.order_list_main.9.11741802CekQfe&gatewayAdapt=glo2usa