Want to channel the maternity street fashion trend without overhauling your entire wardrobe? I’ve pinned down the staples every cool mama needs to build the ultimate maternity wardrobe without blowing the budget. It only took me three pregnancies to whittle down this list!
Worth mentioning is that, while I talk about a maternity wardrobe, this is not exclusive to pregnancy or nursing. ‘Non maternity maternity wear’ is my kinda trend and I’m all for anything that eases pressure on new mums to pack away their maternity clothing postpartum.
And so here it is - my take on the key pieces every modern mama should be investing in to create a capsule closet of coveted basics that will mean you always have something stylish to wear.
A figure-hugging number that’ll see you straight through pregnancy to playdates is a must-have and will be in constant rotation. Throw on a denim or leather jacket and oversized hoops for date night, too.
MAMA MUSE Margo Nursing Tank Dress; $USD120
2. Essential black leggings
The foundation of every maternity wardrobe – no question! I mean, are you even a mother if you’ve never worn the same pair for three days straight? Quality counts here, as does length – a classic black pair that hits at the ankle gets my vote. Team with everything from shirts and tailoring, to graphic tees and oversized sweaters.
MAMA MUSE Allegra Brushed Premium Jersey Maternity Leggings; USD$120
3. Live-in t-shirt
Talk about an off-duty staple: a classic ‘boyfriend’ tee is the ultimate wardrobe essential. Choose one with a relaxed drape in a smooth and stretchy fabric and it’ll get priority in the laundry queue. Joggers, jeans, shorts or leggings - what do you wear yours with?
MAMA MUSE Liberty Deep V Maternity Tee in Dark Heather Grey; USD$65
4. Statement shirt dress
For a polished and professional look, choose well-cut tailoring that will accentuate your bump in all the right places. Pair yours with sneakers for a contemporary look or comfortable heels for the office.
MAMA MUSE Elliot Pinstripe Maternity Shirt Dress; USD$160
5. Timeless tank
This’ll be sitting right up against your growing belly so you don’t want to be scrimping on quality here. Choose one that’s longline (because flattering ✓), is supportive enough to smooth a soft post-baby belly and allows for easy nursing. Layer up with a leather jacket or wear on its own with printed pants - and repeat for nine months and more!
MAMA MUSE Ines Double-Layer Ruched Nursing Tank; USD$70
6. Long-sleeve option
Will a Breton-style top ever go out of fashion? The perfect striped top has the power to pull any look together. Wear yours with leggings, an edgy jacket and white sneakers. We’ve given our Breton extra cred’ with an ultra-flattering longline body, extra-length sleeves and a deep scoop neckline that’ll have nursing mums fawning over their flat whites.
MAMA MUSE Cameron Long-Sleeved Striped Nursing Top; USD$95
7. Go-to jacket
Just one example of how you can make your pre-pregnancy wardrobe work with your growing belly. Leather or denim, blazer or parka, pull out your favourites and team with sandals or booties to give any outfit effortless edge.
8. Versatile scarf
White & Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap Scarf, I’ve only got eyes for you! Used as a scarf, a blanket for bub’ or even as a breastfeeding cover, this wardrobe staple is worth its weight in cashmere during pregnancy and beyond!
White & Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap Scarf, $USD298, Shopbop
Motherhood - new era, still you.
Steph x
The festive season is fast approaching (how?!) and with everything happening around you, the last thing you want to worry about is ‘how to dress your bump’. So Mama, I’m here to tell you, we’ve got you covered - literally.
Our styling tips are broken down into trimesters so you can jump straight to the one that’s appropriate for you this season. Be sure to read our final MAMA MUSE tips at the end, your stylish-self will thank you for it.