Maternity dresses: The Marie Claire edit
It's hot out there – these dresses will keep you (and your bump) cool, whatever the occasion...
It's hot out there – these dresses will keep you (and your bump) cool, whatever the occasion...
Finding maternity clothes which are flattering and fit well is hard at the best of times. Add in soaring temperatures and all the different events that happen in summer and it can seem like an impossible task. Fear not, armed with our round-up of pretty dresses for every occasion, it won't be. And you and the bump don't even need to hit the shops - all these beauties are available online, right now.
Head to Ganni for your super-stylish wedding guest outfit, Rosetta Getty for cute holiday numbers and Topshop is where it's at for day-to-evening workwear dresses.
Before you start your search, here's just a few things to consider:
Get the timing right - If it's your first pregancy, you usually won't start showing until your second trimester, so there's no need to splash out straight away.
Know where to go - If you're going to hit the shops, always check which ones have maternity departments before you head out. No one wants to waste valuable time (and energy) five months pregnant.
Be confident - Don't be afraid to embrace and accentuate your growing bump. Loose-fit dresses are ideal for concealing areas you're not feeling too great about, but generally a slim-fit option, especially around the arms and chest can be the most flattering option during pregnancy.
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Specialist maternity shops are not your only option - we say go further afield and try some of your favourite High Street stores. Just stick to fabrics that have some stretch in them, ruching detail that accommodates a growing bump, see Zara for a sporty style that will hug your bump or a floaty maxi dress from Magda Butrym. Also if you unsure of what size to go for it is wise to go a size up to make sure it fits all the way through your pregnancy.
Click through to shop our edit of the best styles to buy right now...
This is the perfect maxi dress for both during and after pregnancy as it is designed to skim over any bump.
A good stripy dress is a wardrobe essential and this one is the perfect pregnancy variation.
The empire line is the best cut for during pregnancy and this dress from Greek brand Zeus and Dione is super chic.
The perfect LBD for pregnancy party wear, you can wear with flats or heels depending on the occasion.
The ultimate shirt dress for those days when you just don't know what to wear.
The tie on this dress will sit perfectly above your bump and stretchy fabric is great for all stages of pregnancy.
This is the perfect holiday dress, and the red keeps it from being too safe.
The perfect LBD for pregnancy, the tie at the neck is a chic detail and the stretchy fabric makes it comfortable and practical.
Lisa Marie Fernandez makes dresses in the perfect shape for pregnancy.
The shirt dress is a must, and this khaki ones is one of the best we've seen.
Pair this dress with flats and a denim jacket for the perfect summer look.
Sucking in and expanding in all the right places this Whistles dress is great for a smart work function.
Magda Butrym is one of the coolest new brands around with high profile fans like Rosie Huntington Whitely and Jourdan Dunn. Get in on the action with this dress perfect for a growing baby bump.
Great for all occasions this dress can be dressed up with heels or down with trainers.
This dress is perfect for the office. Pair with a light weight trench to complete the look.
This the perfect wedding guest outfit for any mum-to-be. The pleats are chic and the elasticated waist is perfect to accommodate your bump.
The vertical stripes and tonal colours of this dress are a very flattering combination.
Embrace the sports luxe trend with this dress as the stretchy fabric with ensure a comfy fit whist still being fashion forward.
The Duchess of Cambridge wore Seraphine throughout both of her pregnancies so make like Kate with this spotty dress.
Light and summery, this dress is perfect for all stages of pregnancy as the chiffon will sit softly over your bump.
When buying a satrapy dress keep the straps thin for a modern and summery look.
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