What to wear to work if you’re pregnant (but hate maternity clothes)


by Adejumoke Ilori |
Updated on

Trying to find comfortable clothes when you're pregnant can be difficult, especially if you don't like the selection of maternity clothes that are out there.

But just because you're pregnant it doesn't mean you can't look and feel good in what you wear, and being in the office 9 to 5 as well you need to be comfortable.

Best at a glance:

  • Best overall maternity clothes for work: Stretch tweed maternity pinafore dress, £59

  • Best maternity work clothes for: Tapered black post maternity shaping trousers, £59

  • Best maternity work clothes for: Maternity shirt dress, £39

  • Best maternity work clothes for: Tailored maternity pencil skirt, £25

From smart maternity dresses to flattering tops, we've found some maternity outfits that you will love to wear for a day at work.

Maternity clothes that are perfect for work

Best maternity work clothes for comfort

Pinafore dresses and tops are typically designed to be loose-fitting and made from stretchy, comfortable fabrics. This allows them to accommodate a growing belly without feeling restrictive, and this is why this Stretch Tweed Maternity Pinafore Dress is a multi-season and a must-have maternity workwear staple. Made for pregnancy, it gives a stretchy feel to it, while giving your waist the comfort that it needs.

Pros

  • Soft A-line shape with flattering darts
  • Round neckline
  • Centre back zip

Cons

  • Not many pinafore designs to choose from
  • Blouse is not included

Best maternity work clothes for shaping

Tapered maternity trousers are designed with a stretchy, supportive waistband that accommodates a growing belly. These cute pair of trousers are made to look just like your regular and everyday work trousers. It also offer 360° mid-level compression to smooth & support your post-baby body. So, you can take your time & ease back into shape at your own pace.

Pros

  • Optimised for postpartum
  • High-waisted compression band
  • Slim, tapered fit

Cons

  • Matching blazer sold separately

Maternity work clothes for shaping

Maternity shirt dresses are typically designed with soft, breathable fabrics that provide comfort throughout the day. The loose and relaxed fit allows for easy movement and accommodates a growing belly. And, If you love a classic and stunning shirt dress, this easy to put on outfit is super-soft and a great addition to your wardrobe. Withs it bright pink colour, it will add a pop of vibrancy to the coming season, and enhance your everyday look.

Pros

  • Maternity shirt dress
  • Comfortable and breathable fabric
  • Drawstring tie-waist for a flexible fit

Cons

  • Size 20 is out of stock

Best maternity work clothes for print

Wrap tops are inherently adjustable, allowing you to customize the fit as your body changes throughout pregnancy. You can loosen or tighten the wrap to accommodate your growing belly comfortab, and this pretty print black floral top, will have you feeling snug, paired with any bottoms of your your choice. You’ll be able to match it with a bright clutch bag or a long pleated skirt, to keep your days in the office a breeze.

Pros

  • Floral print
  • Lightweight woven fabric
  • Fit-and-flare design

Cons

  • Only sizes 12 and 18 are left in stock

Best maternity work clothes for style

Pencil skirts provide a sleek and polished look, making them ideal for a professional or formal setting. They help maintain a stylish and sophisticated appearance throughout pregnancy. This classy black tailored maternity pencil skirt will give your work outfit an extra special look, particularly if you have to look sophisticated look. With its fitted style, you are bound to step out in confidence.

Pros

  • Designed to fit throughout pregnancy
  • Ideal for work wear
  • Machine washable

Cons

  • Sizes 14 and 18 are out of stock

Best maternity work clothes for its stretch

Made with stretch twill suiting fabric, this chic looking maternity blazer, wraps beautifully, washes well & doesn’t crease easily during those important days – perfect for office life. It also comes with a hidden internal drawstrings around the waist, to help allow you to adjust the fit as your beautiful baby bump grows. It also features hidden internal toggles at the front and clever tabs to keep the excess strings tucked neatly tucked in.

Pros

  • Soft stretch twill suiting fabric
  • Easy care – perfect for the office

Cons

  • Sizes 4 is not available

Best maternity work clothes for strecth

Maternity jumpsuits are typically designed with stretchy, soft fabrics that accommodate a growing belly, providing comfort throughout pregnancy. The one-piece design eliminates the need for tight waistbands, which can be uncomfortable as the body changes. This maternity cowl neck jumpsuit comes in three different colours: khaki, black and brown and is great for those work days. Made to fit comfortably around you and your baby, the elasticated waistband will ensure a snug look and feel. You will also be able to pair these with sandals, converses or blocks.

Pros

  • Style: wide leg jumpsuit
  • Fabric: slinky
  • Length, regular

Cons

  • Only sizes 12 and 16 are available

What should I wear to work when pregnant?

When dressing for work during pregnancy, the goal is to balance professionalism, comfort, and the changing needs of your body. Here are some suggestions on what to wear:

Choose well-fitting maternity blouses and shirts with stretchy fabrics or adjustable features. Look for styles that offer room to grow and can be dressed up or down.

Tips on what to look out for when choosing maternity clothes:

When choosing maternity clothes, there are several key factors to consider to ensure comfort, functionality, and style throughout pregnancy:

  1. Look for soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, or jersey that will not irritate sensitive skin. Stretchy materials can accommodate a growing belly and changing body shape.

  2. Ensure the clothes have a good fit but still allow room for growth. Many maternity clothes come with adjustable features like drawstrings, elastic waistbands, and side ruching to accommodate a growing bump.

  3. Consider garments that provide support, such as maternity bras with wide straps and supportive bands, and maternity pants with built-in belly support panels.

  4. Choose pieces that can be mixed and matched and worn in different settings. Versatile items like maternity leggings, stretchy tops, and dresses that can transition from casual to more formal occasions are practical choices.

  5. Pregnancy can be a busy time, so opt for easy-to-care-for materials that are machine washable and durable.

  6. For the later stages of pregnancy and postpartum, consider clothes with nursing features, like tops with discreet nursing panels or dresses with easy access for breastfeeding.

  7. Depending on the time of year, choose appropriate clothing for the weather. Layering pieces are great for fluctuating temperatures, and items like maternity coats or swimsuits may be necessary depending on the season.

  8. Maternity clothes are often worn for a limited period, so it’s wise to consider budget-friendly options or look for sales, second-hand stores, and maternity clothing rental services.

  9. Maintaining a sense of personal style can boost your confidence. Look for maternity clothes that reflect your usual fashion preferences, so you feel more like yourself during pregnancy.

  10. Maternity clothes are typically designed to fit your pre-pregnancy size, so start with that size and adjust as needed. Many brands offer size guides to help with choosing the right fit.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can select maternity clothes that provide comfort, support, and style throughout your pregnancy.

Remember, maternity clothes are important for several reasons, focusing on comfort, health, and emotional well-being of the expectant mother:

As the body undergoes significant changes during pregnancy, including weight gain and a growing belly, maternity clothes are designed to accommodate these changes. They provide a better fit, reducing discomfort that might be caused by regular clothing.

Proper maternity clothing helps in supporting the changing body. For example, maternity bras offer better support for growing breasts, reducing back pain and discomfort. Maternity pants and skirts often feature stretchy panels that support the belly without applying pressure.

Mummy to a little girl, Adejumoke Ilori is Commercial Content Writer for Mother&Baby. With a BA hon in Creative Writing, she has worked for digital platforms, where she has empowered women from the inside and out, by sharing real life stories based on relationships, loving yourself and mummyhood.

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