Now that summer is officially here, we’re sharing our Summer Maternity Clothes Essentials Guide! This will be a brief look at what you can’t live without this season. A summer pregnancy can be challenging with the heat, but having maternity clothes to get you through those hot days can be a lifesaver!
Finding Maternity Clothes for the Summer
Online shopping is a blessing for pregnant women assembling their summer wardrobes. You can shop from the comfort (and hopefully coolness) of your own home! (Check out this list of the best places to shop for maternity clothes.) Search for items made from light, breathable materials, such as cotton and linen. This can keep you feeling fresh and cool in the summer sun. Consider getting thin outer garments to wear over dresses, such as denim vests and lightweight cardigans. You’ll also want oversized T-shirts and other loose tops for maximum comfort. (Tip: Even after pregnancy, you can keep those bigger shirts and tie a knot in the front to make them more fitted!)
The Best Summer Maternity Clothes
There are a few necessary summer maternity clothes that will help pregnant mamas remain comfortable and stylish. We’ve kept the list short and sweet, focusing on the “must-haves” for the season. Here’s what you need:
1. Comfortable Shoes
Shoes are one of the most crucial summer maternity essentials for a few reasons. First, your feet are your support, and now that you’re carrying a lovely bun in the oven, it means more strain on your feet! There’s also the dreaded edema that affects lots of expectant mommas. The water retention and swelling make it challenging to find shoes that fit but are still comfortable and cute. Supportive flip-flops or open strappy sandals are a great option. Some comfy flats and sneakers are also good to have. To keep swelling at bay, remember to exercise, not stand in one spot for too long, put your feet up at the end of the day, and stay hydrated! Here are some other great shoe options to wear during pregnancy.
2. Dresses
Dresses are your best friend if you’re pregnant in the summer. They fit your bump well and flatter your new, growing figure. Plus, they’re super breathable and look adorable! If you’re purchasing non-maternity dresses, we recommend buying them one size up. This way, you can wear them again and again, post-baby bump! Remember that your bump will hike up the hemline several inches, so don’t get any that are too short!
Bonus: A jumpsuit is a great dress alternative for a comfortable yet glam maternity style!
3. Shorts
Shorts are always a summer essential, but even more so when you’re pregnant! Invest in a belly band to extend the life of your regular shorts, or buy maternity shorts that are a little longer/looser and comfortably hug that snuggly baby in your belly. Belly bands are great because 1) they’re perfect for that in-between stage when your pre-pregnancy pants are too tight and maternity pants are too big, 2) they’re great for layering under maternity tops or for extra coverage while nursing, and 3) you can use them after baby as you transition back into your pre-pregnancy pants. But having shorts specifically for your pregnancy is a great way to go! Here are some that we like:
4. Flowy Tops and Tees
I find basic tops to be the most comfortable and versatile. Solid maternity tops and tees pair well with any bottoms and are very flattering! We love the styles that hug your belly and the flowy tops that give you room to grow. Invest in a few essential pieces to keep you cool and looking chic!
5. A Flattering Swimsuit
It’s hard to be excited about swimming with a growing belly in the summer. However, the upside is that people know you’re pregnant, and you don’t have to suck in your tummy or worry about bloat! And what expecting mama doesn’t want to cool down in the water and take some of the weight off her back? Plus, showing off that sweet belly is adorable by the pool or the sea. There are cute one-pieces and two-pieces, so pick the swimsuit you feel most beautiful and comfortable in. There are even more maternity swimsuits listed here.
And a cute coverup to go with it!
6. A Good Bra
Summer maternity clothes must include a good bra. More than likely, if you’re pregnant, your cup size has gone up — perhaps dramatically. This can be a blessing or a curse, but either way, you’ll need to accommodate your larger (and probably sore) chest with a supportive and comfortable bra! So, when your sleek and sexy undergarments no longer contain the girls, it’s time for a maternity bra. Specially constructed maternity and nursing bras afford a level of support that average lingerie can’t match. Here are some of our favorites.
There you have it, our summer maternity clothes essentials! Remember, you don’t have to spend a lot on maternity clothes. See what you already have in your closet, then look for regular clothing in bigger sizes so that you can wear them later with a bit of adjustment. Sticking to these maternity basics will make you comfortable and stylish and help you save money! If you’re expecting, what other maternity essentials would you add?
