When it comes to pregnancy style, it can be nice to buy some pieces like this made specially for a baby belly, but you absolutely don’t have to limit yourself to maternity clothing. While I usually buy some key maternity basics like tees, leggings and jeans, for the most part I try to find non-maternity clothing that will work both pre-and post baby. The following are four key types of non-maternity clothing I’ve found that work great for a growing baby bump!
Non-Maternity Pieces that Work for a Baby Bump
Bodycon Dresses
Bodycon and other fitted dresses are great for a growing belly because the fabric usually has lots of stretch. Personally, I’ve found that buying one size up from my pre-pregnancy size best accommodates the baby bump. If you’re like me and sometimes feel self-conscious in a fitted dress, add a long jacket or cardigan over top.
Shop Bodycon Dresses
Empire & Elastic Waist Dresses
Another type of dress that works well for a baby bump is one that has a flowy fit, with an empire or elastic waist (shop lots of options here). An empire waist will sit nicely above your baby bump and an elastic waist is obviously accommodating due to the stretch factor. In these dresses, I can typically take my normal pre-pregnancy size.
Shop Empire & Elastic Waist Dresses
Elastic Waist Pants & Skirts
Pants and skirts with an elastic waist are always a pregnant lady’s friend. You can pull the waist up over or down under the belly depending on your preference. The knit pants and pleated skirt I’m wearing in these photos are non-maternity (I just sized up one from my usual).
Shop Elastic Waist Pants & Skirts
Oversized Shirts & Sweaters
Oversized shirts and sweaters are the key kinds of tops to shop for during pregnancy because you can wear them just as easily before and after baby is born (and if the fit is already roomy enough, sometimes you won’t even need to size up). Tops with a longer tunic length are perfect to pair with your favorite maternity leggings.
Shop Oversized Shirts & Sweaters