Pregnant in the summer months? Well, these ideas for summer maternity clothes will keep you cool and chic, and most will carry you through to your nursing days once baby arrives!
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Since I plan to have more kids, I'm always considering whether an item of clothing can be worn when I have a big baby bump or am breastfeeding.
I'm really into the 10-item capsule wardrobe concept, although I'm not strict about the number. I just try to have a very intentional wardrobe.
Last year, I explained how I made my summer capsule wardrobe and I go in-depth about how and why to do so if you'd like more information.
I was not pregnant at the time, but we were planning on having more kids, so you might notice that some of the pieces from my capsule wardrobe last summer are in my summer maternity/nursing wardrobe! That's the beauty of thinking ahead.
The purpose of this blog post is to offer you expectant mothers a guide on selecting cute maternity clothes for summer that are also nursing friendly. By highlighting the key features to look for, suggesting must-have essentials, and providing practical styling tips, I'm aiming to help you embrace comfort and still wear stylish maternity clothes throughout the summer season!
Good news! You CAN be comfortable, stylish and cool while pregnant in the warmer weather.
How to create a summer maternity wardrobe
Planning is key to creating a maternity wardrobe you love and will fully utilize. Here are some things to consider when planning:
- Where you live - Climate is a huge factor when choosing appropriate clothing, so consider the heat, likelihood of rain, etc during the summers where you live and choose clothing that works with that.
- Personal style - You do not have to go around in baggy t-shirts and sweatpants when you are pregnant. There are so many ways to maintain your unique style, even with a large belly and while nursing, so don't lower your standards!
- Lifestyle - Are you working outside the home, a stay-at-home mom, or a homesteading mom? These different kinds of lifestyle factors will influence the kind of maternity clothes you need. Regardless of your lifestyle, make sure the clothes you choose are comfortable and practical for your daily tasks.
- Outfit formulas - It's useful to determine a few of your favorite outfit formulas, so you can get different kinds of each piece that all work together. For example, my two favorites in the summer are (1) dresses and (2) light pants/jeans/shorts with a blouse or t-shirt. I can get a few dresses, 2-3 pairs of pants/shorts and 4-5 tops that all work together. And then I have a few light cardigans or jackets for layering in the evenings if I need some extra warmth.
- What you already have - Go through your whole closet and determine what can be used for maternity/nursing and separate it from the rest of your clothes. If you can, just put the other clothes into storage so you'll only be presented with what you can actually wear every time you look in your closet. Remember that many items with stretchy fabrics and elastic waistbands can work and for nursing, anything that's a wrap top/dress or has functioning buttons down the front will work.
- Favorite colors - It may be helpful to determine the colors you like to wear best before shopping, so you aren't tempted to buy something that would work for maternity/nursing but isn't the right color for you at all.
Comfortable fabrics
- Breathable and lightweight fabrics suitable for hot weather. When choosing summer maternity clothes, opting for breathable and lightweight fabrics is crucial. Fabrics like cotton, linen, and bamboo are ideal choices as they allow air to circulate, keeping the body cool and comfortable even in hot and humid conditions.
- Benefits of choosing natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and bamboo. Natural fabrics have several advantages for maternity wear during the summer. Cotton is soft, hypoallergenic, and highly breathable, making it perfect for sensitive skin. Linen is known for its excellent breathability and ability to wick away moisture, making it a great choice for staying cool. Bamboo is not only lightweight and breathable but also has antimicrobial properties, making it an excellent option for those with sensitive skin.
- Tips for selecting fabrics that offer stretch and flexibility for growing bellies. Alongside breathability, it's important to choose fabrics that offer stretch and flexibility to accommodate a growing belly. Look for materials that have a good amount of elasticity, such as jersey or spandex blends. These fabrics allow for a comfortable fit throughout pregnancy and provide room for the belly to expand without feeling restrictive.
Key features to look for
- Front-opening designs for easy breastfeeding access. Nursing-friendly maternity tops should have front-opening designs that allow for easy and discreet breastfeeding access. This can include features like buttons, snaps, or wrap-style tops or dresses. These designs make it convenient for nursing mothers to feed their babies without having to remove or adjust their clothing extensively and you can find plenty of these options outside the maternity section! You can also look for tops or dresses with shirring over the chest area, making it very easy to pull down for nursing access.
- Consideration of discreet nursing options like hidden zippers or snaps. In addition to front-opening designs, discreet nursing options like hidden zippers or snaps can provide added convenience and privacy. These features allow for easy access to the breast while maintaining the overall look of the garment.
- Adjustable and stretchy waistbands for accommodating changing body size. Maternity clothes with adjustable and stretchy waistbands are essential for accommodating the changing body size of a pregnant woman. These waistbands provide comfort and flexibility, allowing expectant mothers to adjust the fit according to their changing shape throughout pregnancy and you may find yourself wearing them after birth as well!
Summer maternity clothing essentials
- Flowy and breezy dresses for maximum comfort and style. Knee-length or maxi dresses with empire waistlines are flattering options for summer maternity wear for any body type. They provide ample room for the growing bump while still accentuating the waistline, creating a stylish and feminine look. Look for button-down or wrap styles that are nursing-friendly as well! And remember, some of the best maternity dresses aren't technically maternity dresses at all! If you're having a baby shower or another special occasion, a dress is a fun and feminine outfit option to have on hand as well.
- Lightweight and breathable tops for layering and versatility. Loose-fitting t-shirts or tank tops made from lightweight and breathable fabrics are perfect for summer maternity outfits. They provide comfort and can be easily layered with other pieces, such as cardigans or kimonos, for added style. Button-down shirts offer a casual yet polished look for pregnant women during the summer. Opt for styles made from breathable fabrics.
- Stylish bottoms that offer comfort and support. Maternity shorts with stretchy waistbands are a must-have for summer. They provide comfort and support while allowing the legs to breathe. Choose styles that sit comfortably below the belly or have a full belly band for more coverage and support. Wide-leg or straight-leg pants are on-trend and offer both style and comfort during pregnancy. Look for options with elastic waistbands or adjustable drawstrings to accommodate the growing belly. Another great option is maxi skirts, many of which are stretchy and can easily fit over the belly, even if they aren't technically "maternity".
Practical styling tips
- Embracing vibrant colors and prints to add a pop of summer flair. Summer is the perfect time to embrace vibrant colors and playful prints in maternity outfits. Incorporating these elements into clothing choices can add a pop of summer flair and elevate the overall look, helping you feel stylish and confident.
- Style a non-maternity t-shirt. A great way to wear any old (but still nice) t-shirt (as long as it's not too tight) and make it maternity is to tie a knot in it under your bump, either with the fabric itself or with a little elastic band. This will give it a perfect fit and not look frumpy hanging down under your belly.
- Accessorizing with hats, sunglasses, and comfortable footwear. Accessorizing is an excellent way to enhance summer maternity outfits. Hats and sunglasses not only provide sun protection but also add a touch of glamour. Comfortable footwear, such as sandals or supportive flats, are practical and stylish during warmer months.
- Layering with lightweight cardigans, jackets or kimonos. Layering lightweight cardigans or jackets can serve multiple purposes. They add style and visual interest to outfits while providing an extra layer for cooler mornings or evenings. Additionally, they offer sun protection when spending time outdoors.
My summer pregnancy wardrobe
Core Items
- Black maternity shorts (Old Navy)
- Blue maternity jeans (Old Navy)
- Black maternity pants (Thyme Maternity)
- Floral maternity shirt (H&M Mama)
- Pink maternity/nursing t-shirt (Thyme Maternity)
- Gray and white striped maternity/nursing t-shirt (Thyme Maternity)
- Black t-shirt (not maternity)
- Green maternity/nursing dress (Amazon)
- Maroon floral dress (not maternity)
- Multicolored floral dress (not maternity - Suzy Shier)
- White and blue floral dress (Gap Maternity)
Extras
- Denim jacket
- Light gray duster cardigan
- Light beige cardigan
- Nude loafers
- Neutral flat sandals
- White sneakers
- Hat
- Jewelry
- Sunglasses
- Brown leather bag
Outerwear
My main jacket is my denim jacket, but I also have a tan cardigan and a gray cardigan that both go well with all my blouses.
Having a light trench coat on hand for rainy days is a great idea too. Another idea is a leather jacket that coordinates with your chosen color palette and style.
Footwear
Choosing pieces that are comfortable and coordinate with all of your clothing is essential!
I found a pair of nude loafers at a second-hand store and bought a pair of classic white sneakers new (along with some products for protection against water and stains!). I also found a neutral sandal for everyday wear, especially on hot days, at a second hand store.
Accessories
This is the fun part- gathering items to round out your outfits!
A straw hat and straw tote are summer staples and very functional too.
Sunglasses- obviously a MUST in summer!
A simple handbag or shoulder bag is essential for carrying your everyday needs (don't forget a water bottle!).
Having a few scarves for cooler days is a fun way to add a little warmth!
A fun belt or headband can really add life to an outfit as well!
Some dainty jewellery can really elevate any of these looks as well.
Where to shop
Thrift stores - Because women are only pregnant for a short time, their maternity clothes don't get worn very much. You can often find really affordable maternity clothes at thrift stores in new or like new condition!
Online thrift stores - Just like physical thrift stores, online thrift stores are a great place to find maternity/nursing clothes. Try ThredUp or Poshmark.
Facebook marketplace - Many women sell their maternity and nursing clothing on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or Kijiji, so it's worth having a look there as well. You can negotiate the price and ask for specifics on the fit, quality, etc.
Maternity stores - Of course, you can search online and in your local area at stores that sell maternity clothes. Some of my favorites have been Thyme Maternity, Pink Blush and Old Navy (mainly because I've found these maternity brands while thrifting). However, there is a great variety of brands out there besides these well-known stores.
Online shopping tips
- Research and read reviews to ensure quality and fit. When shopping for maternity clothes online, it's important to research and read reviews to ensure the quality and fit of the garments. Other customers' experiences can provide valuable insights and help in making informed purchasing decisions.
- Utilize size charts and consider size fluctuations during pregnancy. Utilize size charts provided by online retailers to determine the best size for your changing body. Keep in mind that sizes may fluctuate during pregnancy, so it's wise to choose clothes with some room for growth. Additionally, consider purchasing stretchy or adjustable items that can accommodate different stages of pregnancy.
- Check return and exchange policies. Before making a purchase, it's essential to check the return and exchange policies of the online store. This ensures a hassle-free shopping experience in case the clothing doesn't meet expectations or requires a different size.
- Look through everything. Many maternity websites can be a one-stop shop for your all of your pregnancy clothes as they have pretty much everything. It's likely that if you get many items from one website you'll get free shipping as well!
FAQ
The timing of when to start wearing maternity clothes varies for each woman. Generally, most women begin to feel the need for maternity clothes around the second trimester, which is around 14-16 weeks into pregnancy.
However, this can differ depending on factors such as individual body changes, multiple pregnancies, and personal comfort. My bump definitely became bigger faster with my second compared to my first pregnancy. Pay attention to your body and switch to maternity clothes when your regular clothes start feeling tight or uncomfortable.
When shopping for maternity clothes, it's recommended to stick with your pre-pregnancy size as maternity clothes are designed to accommodate your changing body shape.
Most maternity brands offer size charts that provide measurements for their garments. Take your measurements and compare them to the size chart to determine the best fit. Keep in mind that maternity clothes often have extra room for growth, so it's generally safe to choose your pre-pregnancy size or one size up.
In the early stages of pregnancy, you may be able to continue wearing your regular clothes, especially loose-fitting or stretchy items. However, as your belly grows, you'll likely find that regular clothes become too tight and uncomfortable.
Maternity clothes are specifically designed to provide the necessary comfort and room for your expanding belly and changing body shape. It's advisable to invest in maternity clothes to ensure optimal comfort throughout your pregnancy. Wearing regular clothes in a bigger size can sometimes work, depending on the design, but it can also look baggy and frumpy.
While some maternity clothes are designed specifically for pregnancy and may not be as suitable for postpartum wear, many items can still be worn after giving birth. Maternity leggings, stretchy tops, and nursing-friendly dresses can continue to be comfortable and functional during the postpartum period. Additionally, breastfeeding-friendly tops and dresses can be useful for nursing moms. Look for versatile pieces that can adapt to your changing needs as you transition from pregnancy to postpartum.
I hope these ideas and tips will be helpful as you curate your maternity/nursing wardrobe. My advice is to start looking early, so you don't feel rushed into buying clothes once your regular ones start to feel tight and uncomfortable.
Remember that you don't have to spend a lot of money on maternity clothes and you don't need a lot of them! Check out your closet first and then fill in the gaps.
At the end of the day, it comes down to what clothes you feel your best in. Have fun curating your wardrobe!
Let me know your tips and tricks for dressing cute while pregnant in the summer! Tell us all in the comments below. Thanks!
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