Your body changes drastically when you're pregnant and dressing it can be a bit of a minefield. And if you're petite, it can feel even harder to navigate.
We'll be honest, there is definitely an absence of petite maternity clothing out there. Other shorter mamas have taken to shopping at places such as ASOS and H&M whose sizes naturally come up a little smaller and/or shorter. Alternatively, one mum said: 'Talking to other petite pregnant women, it seems that our bellies grow absolutely massive because there isn't much other space to put a baby. As far as tops are concerned, normal maternity size has always done me just fine.'
Another mum added, 'I'm short and find normal maxi dresses fit better with the bump as it lifts the dress up higher. Everything else I have had to alter.'
While they may not be labelled as petite, we'd recommend keeping your eye out for maternity clothes that come in short, regular and long and obviously pick short. This was something we found Next did.
Typically, you'll notice that you can only find petite maternity clothes in trousers like jeans, leggings and dresses. This tends to be because the likes of t-shirts and tops are fairly standard whatever height you are, if not just a tad longer and that's no bad thing when you've got a bump.
It's also worth taking a look at shops that offer specific petite ranges and simply buying a larger size to accommodate your growing bump.
However, if you're determined for some petite maternity clothes, here's what we did find...
Petite maternity clothes
Best high waisted leggings
www.marksandspencer.com
Leggings are a staple, pregnant or otherwise but these soft jersey leggings from M&S are super-stretchy and have an extra high waist to go right over your growing bump. The short length styles are best suited to petite frames.
Review: "Great comfy leggings for anytime in Pregnancy. I started wearing these when I was 12 weeks and have loved wearing them ever since."
Pros
- Over-the-bump style provides extra support for the growing belly and helps smooth out waistline
- Soft and stretchy material gives you maximum comfort and to accommodate changes in size throughout your pregnancy
- Versatile leggings that can be worn casually or dressed up for special occasions
Cons
- Leggings are unlined so some may find it too thin and not be as durable
| Sizes: | Short/Petite: 6-20 UK<br>Regular: 6-22 UK<br>Long: 6-20 UK |
| Material: | 94% viscose, 6% elastane (exclusive of trimmings) |
| Care: | Wash at 40°C delicate (Do not tumble dry) |
- Elasticated waist
- High waisted
- Skinny fit
- Unlined
Best maternity dress
www2.hm.com
A classic white summer dress is a must for any wardrobe - maternity or otherwise! With an A-line skirt that softly drapes, the V-neck front flounces over the shoulders to the back for an elegant look.
Review: "Love this dress so much, wanted something for my birthday that I would feel pretty and nice in and this dress was perfect! I’m size 10/12 and got a medium it fits really well."
Pros
- Flounce trim adds a feminine touch to the dress
- A-line skirt provides you with comfort and freedom of movement
Cons
- Dress is unlined so care may be need when washing to keep the dress in shape
| Sizes: | XS-XL |
| Material: | 100% Polyester |
- Maxi length
- V-neck front and back
- Flounces at the front and shoulders
- Elasticated under bust
Best maternity dungarees
www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk
A pregnant bump always looks adorable in dungarees which is why this petite all-in-one style is a must. It's easy to style with just a T-shirt or jumper underneath and will last all the way through your pregnancy.
Review: "I love the cut of these. They are flattering and comfortable. The legs are a great length and not so short that they cut me in half. I was pleased with the sizing and bought a 10 which is my pre pregnancy size. A great pair of maternity dungaree shorts!"
Pros
- Adjustable button opening at side waist to provide a comfortable fit for growing bump
- Belt loops allows you to add a belt for a more fitted look and wear them after pregnancy
Cons
- Although made from stretch denim some may prefer a more looser fit on the leg for extra comfort
| Size: | UK 6-18 |
| Material: | 67% Cotton, 31% Polyester, 2% Elastane |
| Care: | Machine washable |
- Adjustable straps
- Pockets to front and back
- Adjustable button opening at side waist
- Turn-up hem
- Belt loops
Best maternity jeggings
loveleggings.com
Designed for comfort, these jeggings will be your go-to, with a 4-way stretch fabric and soft over the bump band. Offering gentle support to your growing bump, they function like your pre-pregnancy jeans, but with more comfort.
Review: "First maternity jeans I’ve bought … love them. Bought them in my usual size and they fit really well, feels like plenty of room as bump expands too."
Pros
- Soft, 4-way stretch fabric gives flexibility and comfort
- Comes in three different lengths - regular, tall and petite
- Figure-enhancing seam design and 5-pocket style give you a stylish and classic look
Cons
- Skinny fit may not suit all body types, especially for those looking for a looser fit
| Sizes: | Regular: 6-28 UK<br>Tall: 6-28 UK<br>Petite: 6-28 UK |
| Material | 71% Cotton, 27% Polyester, 5% Elastane |
| Care: | Machine wash 30° |
- 5 pockets (2 functional)
- Pocket rivets
- Skinny fit
- Figure enhancing seam
- Soft knit over-the-bump band
Best shirt-jacket
www.pinkblushmaternity.com
Made from a thick material, the jacket will keep you and bump cosy. It an be buttoned up or worn open, and also has two pockets on the front.
Review: "Great feel and very warm. More of a jacket than a shirt. If you are pregnant do not size down I’m only 14weeks and wear a size large and I won’t be able to button it in a few weeks. I would even size up if you are pregnant and want to button it."
Pros
- Knit fabric provides softness and comfort, perfect for layering and staying cosy
- Trendy, fashionable piece that can be worn for casual or smi-casual occasions
Cons
- May not be warm enough for colder weather without additional layering
| Sizes: | S-M |
| Material: | 100% Polyester |
| Care: | Machine wash cold |
- Collared neckline
- Button front closure
- Two front pockets
Best maternity jumper
www.pinkblushmaternity.com
A great option that looks effortlessly when you chuck it on, this solid waffle knit maternity top has buttons along the neckline along with raw seam accents.
Review: "Very soft very comfy and perfect for fall"
Pros
- Waffle knit fabric provides a soft, textured feel for all day comfort
- This top can easily be dressed up or down. Pair with jeans, leggings, or maternity skirts for different looks
- Button details add a chic touch, making it look stylish
Cons
- Not machine washable may be inconvienent to some
| Sizes: | S-L |
| Material: | 60% Polyester 35% Rayon 5% Spandex |
| Care: | Hand wash cold (Line dry) |
- Waffle knit
- Long sleeve
- Buttons and raw seam accents on neckline
Best for maternity and beyond
www.seraphine.com
Soft and feminine, the soft woven fabric drapes over your bump beautifully, allowing plenty of room to grow while a sash ties crosses over at the front and secures at the empire waist, highlighting your slimmest point. Then once your baby is born, the wrap ties open up to reveal fuss-free nursing access.
Review: "I love this dress and have worn it all summer. It can be dressed up with some heels but is casual enough for daily wear. The fabric is a light viscose and gets softer with each wear."
Pros
- This dress features a discreet zip fastening, making it suitable for nursing after pregnancy
- Made from 100% viscose, so it’s soft, breathable, and comfortable for all-day wear
- Tiered style with delicate ruffle sleeves give the dress a chic and feminine vibe, making it perfect for variety of occasions, from casual to slightly more formal events
Cons
- Limited colour option, as sage may not suit everyone's preference
| Material: | 100% viscose |
| Care: | Machine washable |
- Short sleeve
- All over floral print
- V-neck
- Tiered dress
- Discreet, zip fastening for nursing
Recommended
www.asos.com
These high rise leggings are designed to fit you from bump to baby so you won't need to throw them out after you've given birth. The plain design means you'll be able to wear them with anything.
Review: "Bought these as i am 3 months pregnant absolute great fit will highly recommend and will be buying more."
Pros
- Over-the-bump design provides gentle support for your growing belly
- Made with soft, stretchy jersey fabric that moves with your body, providing comfort for all-day wear
- Bodycon style hugs your curves and creates a sleek, flattering silhouette
Cons
- Fabric may become a little see-through when stretched
| Sizes: | 2-16 UK |
| Care: | Machine wash according to the care label |
- High-rise waist with over-the-bump insert
- Elasticated waistband
Recommended
www.pinkblushmaternity.com
Featuring short ruffle sleeves and ruffle V-neckline, this cute top is very flattering for you and bump. It can even be worn after pregnancy.
Review: "Cute top! Looked huge but surprisingly fit."
Pros
- Chambray fabric is lightweight and breathable, perfect for warmer months
- Comfortable fit with extra room for your growing belly
Cons
- Tie back fastening may be a bit difficult for some to manage
| Sizes: | S-L |
| Material: | 100% Tencel |
| Care: | Hand wash cold |
- Short ruffle sleeves
- Ruffle v-neckline
- Self-tie back
Petite Maternity Clothes FAQs
Do I need to buy maternity clothes?
Maternity clothes, especially petite maternity clothes can seem expensive for how long you will wear them. There are a lot of affordable clothes on the market and as pregnancy isn't always comfortable, maternity clothes are suited to you and you bump, making you more comfortable.