If you’ve ever spoken to a woman about what she wore during her pregnancy, it’s pretty likely you’ll have heard her say something like “I wanted to burn it all afterwards”.

It’s often due to 3 reasons:
1. Her maternity wear choices were too limited, and so she had to wear them day-in and day-out,

2. Her clothes were uncomfortable, or

3. She never really loved the garments in the first place.

We’ve compiled a list of 8 items that’ll not only get you through your pregnancy in style, but will happily remain in your wardrobe for years to come.

So whether you’re already pregnant, planning on getting pregnant, or have the world waiting for you to get pregnant – “Hi Kate Middleton, no pressure!” – it’s worth stocking up on these garments now.

 1. A draped dress

Fabric which folds and flows across your body will flatter every shape. Look for a style with an uneven hem to accommodate your growing belly, and with generous swathes of fabric.  Shop: ASOS Maternity Draped Maxi $58.

 2. Drawstring pants

An essential for every woman’s wardrobe, look for a pair that are so comfortable you could happily sleep in them. But to ensure they won’t get confused with your pyjama bottoms, invest in a luxe fabric like silk crepe. You’ll never want to take these off. Shop: HATCH silk pant $178.

3.  A-line or swing dress

An A-line shape will flatter any figure. Aim for it to fall a couple of inches above the knee, then team with ballet flats for a classic look, or boots for something slightly more mod.  As an added bonus, this style will look equally chic belted, either over your bump when pregnant, or cinched-in at the waist after.  A thicker ponte (polyester blend) fabric will provide a more tailored silhouette. Shop: ASOS Maternity Swing Dress $65, ASOS Colour Block Dress $45. 

4. The Cardigan

Classic, and perfect for layering, look for a style that ends mid-thigh. Invest in the best quality you can afford, handle it with care, and it’ll last a lifetime. Shop: Isabella Oliver Luxe Drape cardigan $110. 

 5. A draped T

Top your jeans or leggings with a roomy draped t-shirt. Grecian style drapes will fall in lovely folds over your curves. Keep it modern with slim-fit sleeves and a crisp crew neck. Shop: ASOS Top with Draped Detail $48, WILT Long sleeved T $107.

6. A handkerchief hemmed dress

Slipped under a cardigan, belted, or teamed with your favourite pumps, this dress can easily take you from day to night. The uneven hem will ensure a flattering finish regardless of how far along you are in your pregnancy, but will be a beautiful piece to wear as the years go on. Shop: HATCH Dinner Party Dress $348.

7. A gorgeous wrap

Timeless, and perfect for layering, a wrap in a soft, breathable fabric is a perfect Tran seasonal item during your pregnancy – and oh so easy to take on and off as your temperature fluctuates. When you’re breastfeeding, your wrap can provide extra discretion, should you need it.

8. Empire line maxi

Fitted, and falling softly from under the bust, an empire line maxi allows you to show off your décolletage and shoulders, while skimming over your growing (or deflating!) body. Shop: Rachel Pally Grecian Maxi $230, ASOS Twist & Tango Maxi $154.

Top tips:

• Look for items that graciously drape or skim across your body. They’ll look great on you no matter what shape your figure is in.
• Seek out garments in basic, neutral colours like black, grey, beige, white and navy, and add colour through your accessories.
• Look for fabrics like ponte, jersey or a fine rib knit, which will all mould to your body, but retain their shape.

If you’ve been pregnant, what items do you still wear? And if you’re planning to be, have you already started to think about what you’ll wear?

 Image: Jill Thomas Photography

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