Embracing your bump: A guide to maternity dresses

Pregnancy brings a changing body and changing needs. Maternity dresses are specially designed to accommodate a growing bump, a fuller bust, and shifting hips, while providing comfort and confidence.

Unlike simply sizing up in regular clothes, maternity dresses use stretchy fabrics, adjustable seams, and clever cuts to adapt with you throughout pregnancy—and often beyond into postpartum life.

Evolution of maternity fashion

The history of maternity wear stretches back centuries—think flowing Empire-waist gowns in the 1600s or wrap styles in the Victorian era, all designed to accommodate growth. By the 1990s, tighter silhouettes became popular.

This shift coincided with changing cultural norms and legislation supporting expectant mothers in the workplace. Today, pregnancy fashion embraces both functional comfort and runway flair.

Trends in 2025: Bold, feminine, sustainable

Celebrate the Bump

Modern maternity dresses don’t hide your bump—they highlight it. Coquette styles with bows, frills, and feminine detailing are gaining attention, celebrating curves and embracing pregnancy as empowerment.

Flowing, Flared Fits

Relaxed silhouettes like peplum tops paired with wide-leg trousers are popular—they flatter a growing belly while remaining polished and versatile enough for work or social events.

Denim and Natural Fibers

Maternity looks now include structured fabrics like denim in various cuts—under-bump or over-bump styles—alongside breathable and eco-friendly fabrics like linen, cotton, Modal, Lyocell, and Tencel. These materials are gentle on sensitive skin and ideal for warmer weather.

Celebrity Influence

Red carpet moments from celebrities are redefining expectations for maternity style. Bold cut-outs, sheer gowns, and body-conscious designs are showing that pregnancy fashion can be both daring and elegant.

Types of maternity dresses (and when to wear them)

Maxi and Boho Dresses

Ideal for casual outings, maternity photo shoots, and babymoons, long, flowy maxi dresses drape over the bump with ease and create a timeless silhouette. Smocked and linen versions offer both comfort and style.

Wrap and Empire-Waist Dresses

With cinching below the bust and fabric that floats over the tummy, these styles are flattering and functional, suitable for work, events, or daily wear. Many offer easy nursing access for postpartum use.

Body-Con and Sheath Dresses

For expecting mothers who want to boldly showcase their bump, stretchy body-con styles hug curves while offering support. Shapewear pieces can provide added confidence and comfort.

Occasion and Photoshoot Dresses

For special events—baby showers, maternity shoots, weddings—many opt for more elaborate gowns with lace, tulle, or dramatic silhouettes. Some can also be rented, offering a sustainable and cost-effective way to dress up for one-time use.

Choosing the right fabrics

Selecting the right fabric can make a big difference:

Cotton and Linen: Lightweight, breathable, and ideal for tropical or warm climates.
Modal, Lyocell, Tencel: Soft, moisture-wicking, eco-friendly fibers chosen for comfort and sustainability.
Stretch Blends (Rayon-Spandex): Provides flexibility and shape; body-con styles benefit from this blend.

Avoid stiff synthetics prone to trapping heat or causing irritation, especially if you’re sensitive to humidity.

Timing your maternity dress shopping

Most women begin investing in maternity-specific clothing during the second trimester, when regular clothes start feeling tight, around weeks 13–18. That said, every pregnancy is unique—add pieces as you’re comfortable and adjust based on how your body evolves.

Styling tips for everyday feeling

Mix and Match: Pair a maternity dress with a denim jacket, oversized shirt, or accessory to refresh your look—another modern approach is borrowing looser pieces from your wardrobe (or partner’s!) that can be styled over your bump.
Layer with Support: Use discreet shapewear or supportive maternity straps beneath fitted dresses for comfort and confidence.
Rent for Occasion Wear: For events, renting a high-end maternity dress ensures you shine without the expense or clutter of single-use pieces.
Invest in Versatility: Choose dresses with ruching or shirring that grow with you, or double as nursing wear afterward.

Practical budget-friendly advice

Prioritize Essentials: Focus on versatile, core pieces—like one flowy maxi, one wrap dress, and a body-con knit—rather than a full new wardrobe.
Upsize Wisely: Some non-maternity garments in larger sizes can work just fine—oversized shirts, stretchy dresses, relaxed silhouettes.
Secondhand or Swap: Thrift shops, friends, and online communities often feature gently used maternity items.
Focus on Care and Return Policies: Choose machine-wash-friendly styles for daily wear and check return options—especially when shopping online—to avoid being stuck with ill-fitting items.

The bigger picture: Beyond trends

Maternity fashion today isn’t just about comfort—it’s about celebration. More women are embracing their pregnancy as a time to showcase individual style, challenge outdated norms, and redefine what it means to dress while expecting. Whether you lean toward soft pastel dresses, bold cut-outs, or timeless basics, the best maternity dresses are the ones that make you feel like yourself, only more radiant.

Pregnancy may be temporary, but the confidence and joy you’ll carry forward in well-chosen pieces can linger much longer. Whether you’re heading to a beach shoot, your next appointment, or a weekend brunch in a warm breeze, a thoughtful maternity dress wardrobe helps you move through this journey in comfort and style.