Finding something cute to wear while pregnant is difficult enough; now that the temperatures are on the rise, it can make it that much tougher to find cute options that will also keep you feeling cool. (See what I did there. 😉 ) This is why I’ve created a fashion formula for your Spring/Summer maternity capsule wardrobe with key pieces that’ll see you all the way through your pregnancy.
These are my top ten Spring & Summer maternity must-haves items and I’ve included lots of options for you to look at within each category. This guide will help you build your perfect maternity capsule wardrobe!
1. Tops
I feel like you can never have enough tops, but when you’re building a capsule wardrobe, you only really need a few basic/classic pieces. (This also helps if you’re on a budget.) Select between 4-6 classic tops/tees that you can dress up and down and mix and match. I’m all about neutrals and stripes because they can go with everything, and stripes always look so cute on expecting mamas. At least I think so! With the summer heat around the corner, the best styles to opt for are tank tops and breathable short sleeved shirts.
A. Casual
B. Dressy
It’s also nice to have a couple of dressy tops that you can wear to dress up some leggings or jeans. They’re perfect for your working wardrobe or a date night out.
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C. Denim
I always love a chambray top and think that every mama should have one.
2. Light Layering
Sometimes it’s not just our bellies that grow during pregnancy–it’s also our boobs, our butts and our hips. Adding an additional layer is great to give you a little extra coverage, but layering can be difficult with the rising heat. I’ve including some items that I think will add some much desired coverage but also keep you cool. And you can always re-wear these post-bump!
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3. Shorts
Sometimes it’s just too hot to wear leggings or jeans, especially when you’re outside in the summer heat. Getting two cute pairs of maternity shorts will see you through the whole summer. A definite summer maternity capsule wardrobe must-have. And they will seriously make you the happiest preggo mama ever!
4. Flip-flops
Shoes are a favorite since (hopefully) you should be able to fit in your shoes before and after pregnancy. It’s common for women’s feet to swell during their pregnancy–especially at the end–so, in the summer, flip flops will be your best friend. They have plenty of room if your feet grow a bit and they are always comfortable. If you’re needing extra comfort, be sure to get a sturdy pair with cushioning. Here are some options that are casual and fancy!
5. Flats
Sometimes flip flops just won’t do depending on what you’re doing and where you are going. I’m all about a good heel, but flats are definitely the way to go since you don’t want to cause additional strain on your feet and legs. I’ve selected several options that will work for every situation; from work to church to shopping at the mall and more. These flats are perfect!
6. Leggings
Seriously, no mom should live without a great pair of leggings. You want to get a good pair that offers stability and a good amount of stretch for your growing bump. (Maternity leggings are honestly the best things ever and awesome for postpartum too.)
Maternity leggings aren’t just for lounging around at home or for workouts, you can dress them up too! There’s so many cute looks you can pull together with leggings. I recommend getting two or three pairs of your favorites. Here are some options below!
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7. Jeans
Jeans are a everyone’s closet since they are a comfortable and easy option. Something to remember is that you won’t be wearing your maternity jeans for long so if you can, try to avoid spending too much on this item, but that being said, if you find a pair of maternity jeans that fit perfectly that you love, go for it! The majority of maternity jeans and pants have enough growing room so they will last you throughout your pregnancy, making them well worth the money. And if they are a pretty penny, you can always reuse them if you decided to get pregnant again!
8. Skirts
Skirts are such a fun and easy option that can dress up any outfit. They also look great with a bump. You only really need one basic skirt in your capsule wardrobe, but could also get a fun pattern, too!
9. A Bathing Suit
There is nothing better than taking a dip in the pool during the summertime when you’re pregnant. Not only does is relax tightened muscles, it also lifts the baby’s weight off of your already aching hips, legs, shoulders and belly. So nice! This is why having a swimsuit is a must. A good suit should last you the entire pregnancy, so get a suit that has a decent amount of coverage for all parts (bottom and breasts especially!) and sport that gorgeous bump of yours! (If you’re not wanting to sport your bikini, here are some options below and even more options here.)
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10. Summer Dresses
Breezy dresses are prefect for summer and are a true maternity capsule wardrobe must-have. The empire waist (or no waistline) gives your growing bump the freedom it needs. Dresses are great because they are right for every occasion. I would recommend picking out four options that have different patterns, colors and fabrics.
I’ve included some cute short summer dresses that are great for every occasion, then some maxi dresses, a few options for you to wear at a bridal shower or baby shower or even a wedding (it is wedding season after all!), and then some stripe options that I love.
A. Short Summer Dresses
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B. Maxi Dresses
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C. Dressier Options (for a Shower or a Wedding)
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D. Comfy Stripe Dresses
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E. Jumpsuits, Rompers, One-Pieces
Okay, not technically dresses, but these are so in for pregnant mamas right now!
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There you have it! These are the staples that every pregnant mama needs in her Spring/Summer Maternity Capsule Wardrobe. Something that I always like to tell my mama clients and friends is that whatever you decide to wear, you can always add a pop to your look with fun accessories. Use what you have or get a few more to add a burst of color or a touch of glam to your looks. Everyone has to find their own sense of style during pregnancy, but the beauty is a few key pieces can make a wonderful capsule wardrobe for those hotter months!
