Maternity Clothes: 9 Of The Best Shopping Destinations

Styling out your baby bump can be uncharted territory for the best of us. From where to shop for your weekend denim to where should you splurge on a designer frock, we've got your maternity wardrobe sorted. Get ready to put your feet up and read on...

maternitydonna.jpg
maternitydonna.jpg
(Image credit: Donna Ida)

Styling out your baby bump can be uncharted territory for the best of us. From where to shop for your weekend denim to where should you splurge on a designer frock, we've got your maternity wardrobe sorted. Get ready to put your feet up and read on...

Shopping enters a totally different ball game when you are buying for two - and it can be a huge struggle. For some, it's the last thing on their mind while pregnant, but for others, looking the yummy mummy part is essential. As we all know with buying clothes, one destination just isn't enough - and every store has its own unique qualities.

So from where to shop for your weekend denim, to the best place to splurge on a designer frock, we've got your maternity wardrobe sorted...

Because You Can Find The Perfect Hero Denim...

It's hard to find a pair of jeans to fit at the best of times, let alone when you have a growing bump - but denim specialist Donna Ida has it covered. Every store has its very own denim clinic where you have your jeans altered into a maternity fit as your bump starts to grow. These can be new jeans, or you even take in your favourite pair and let the experts measure you in store. The process can even be reversed post pregnancy: UH-MAZING. Plus it's only £40 each way. Absolutely genius. 

Donna Ida Alteration Service

Your Workwear Wardrobe Sorted...

When it comes to workwear, comfort and ease should be your top priority. But where do you find such pieces? Isabella Oliver, the online mathernity clothes destination is your answer for all things workwear - it's full of classic staples designed to go with your existing wardrobe. All their clothing is designed to grow with you and your bump with fabrics that will stretch to last all the way up until your nine-month stage, so it's well worth spending a little extra on your work wardrobe since they are pieces you will be wearing on rotation five days a week. (That's what we told ourselves anyway!) If you're not up for buying everything new, the one piece we would go for is this great tailored tunic shirt for £89. Easily elevated to boardroom status by pairing with a statement pointy flat.

Isabella Oliver SS15

There Ain't No Party Without A Frock... 

When you are pregnant and a wedding invitation comes in the post, the last thing you want to do is traipse around the busy shops. Despite your best efforts of hours spent trying on your entire wardrobe you (a) must accept there is no squeezing into that sassy little number you wore to Aunty Sue's birthday party, and (b) you don't want to spend big bucks on something you will most likely only wear once.

But worry not - ASOS.com has it sorted. We really rate its amazing range of occasionwear dresses that won't compromise your style, or break the bank! It has lots of new drops coming up for SS15 that are super-on trend. Not only that, it also stocks lots of your favourite brands who you wouldn't even think do maternity, including New Look, Mama.licious, Paper Dolls and its own collection. You can shop in the comfort of your own home, with next-day delivery up until 9pm. Emergency over. Phew!

ASOS.com 

For Your Designer Fix...

When nothing less then designer will do. For all you chic-mums-to-be Blossom Mother & Child is about to be your number-one shopping destination. It's our go-to for chic maternity brands such as Paulina and Mother's-en-Vogue as well as some of our favourite designers such as M Missioni and See by Chloé. Dreamy.

'Imagine the perfect hybrid of your very own personal shopper and a trusted girlfriend who’s been there, tells it like it is and knows your discerning tastes. That’s Blossom.' Point us in the right direction, even without a bump we want in!

Visit Harrods to see their exclusive Maternity Store or shop from home at their online store at BlossomMotherAndChild.com

Blossom Mother And Child, Harrods

Yes, Swimwear Can Still Be Sexy...

You probably don't want to splash out on maternity swimwear while you are pregnant, we hear ya. But the skimpy strapless bikini you flaunted on the beach last summer just isn't going to cut it this time around. If, like us, you are also SO not ready to take on the frumpy-mumsy one pieces, then look no further then Topshop. It has a great maternity section in stores and online all year round, in case you are heading on a sunny winter vacation (we're not jealous much!). Why not try this floral-print two-piece; who would think tankinis could look this good? Teamed with a black fringe kimono, you're all set for a day of poolside posing.

Topshop SS15 Maternity Swim

Your Everyday Staples Sorted...

Yes it might only be online, but we're sold. Gap.co.uk exclusive online maternity shop is easy to navigate with every occasion covered. From what to wear to your baby shower to the easy-to-wear nursing tee in every shade going, we are obsessed. They even have it sorted right down to their 'Babymoon' collection which has all your holiday needs sorted.

Why we love them? Just like their mainline collection, you can't beat Gap for its everyday basics. Its 'Pure Body Essentials' with tees and vests in every style and colour you need; all for around £12 in great breathable soft fabrics. Ticking off the normcore trend while preggers, done.

Gap.co.uk

For Underwear That Fits Like A Glove...

Because every mum-to-be deserves beautiful maternity lingerie too. Who knew that maternity bras could look so good? We were mightily impressed with the selection at Stella McCartney - which is both functional and feminine and will see you all the way through from maternity to nursing. The gorgeous designs below have fuss-free fastenings and offer great support and coverage. Prices range from £35 for the brief and £65 for the bra; so if there's one investment you make during pregnancy, this MUST be it.

The maternity capsule collection is available widely both online at stellamccartney.com, in Stella McCartney stores and selected department stores worldwide; so it's really accessible wherever you are. Need a cheaper option? We were also very impressed with what a great selection Next has; consisting of real comfortable designs at great prices. Don't neglect your undergarments! Get shoppping...

Stella McCartney

For Those Swelling Tootsies...

Sorry gals but you may have to give the gladiator sandal trend a miss this summer - you don't want to make the same mistake as Kimmy K. Let's be honest, swollen tootsies in a multi-strap Valentino number don't look good on anyone. But fear not - as sliders are the second go-to shoe for the season. So if your feet do start to swell further into your pregnancy; switch your strappy sandals or too tight trainers for a super-cool slider.

The clever people at FitFlop have developed smart technology with super cushioning that literally takes the pressure off. Go for a fuss free design in a plain block colour. On the high street we can't wait to get our hands on the sleek black sliders from Bershka and Office. Beat the swell, ladies!

FitFlop SS15

Where The Fash-Pack Go...

If the idea of 'maternity clothes' scream a fashion no-no and veer too far away from your signature style, worry not. It's a fashion insider secret to give it a miss altogether and stock up on basics in bigger sizes. We've even heard of fashion editors hitting the menswear section in their favourite high street store (hello M&S!). Our failsafe brand is Uniqlo, which is great for oversized tailored shirts, sophisticated 'trouser looking' leggings and cashmere. We're all over it.

The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.