A capsule maternity wardrobe is the perfect way to save money on pregnancy clothes without sacrificing style.
As my belly grew, I began planning pregnancy outfits and shopping for maternity clothes.
Since I love experimenting with fashion and trying new brands, I was excited to challenge myself by finding cute maternity pieces.
However, I didn’t want to splurge on a whole new wardrobe—I wanted to be stylish and comfortable, but I knew I’d only be wearing these clothes for a few months.
Click the images below to shop for maternity wardrobe capsule items:
I was hooked once I saw the idea of creating a capsule maternity wardrobe with new and existing closet items.
If you want to try a pregnancy capsule wardrobe but aren’t sure where to start, I’m sharing must-have maternity clothing pieces.
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How to Create the Perfect Capsule Maternity Wardrobe
What Is a Capsule Wardrobe?
Capsule wardrobes have been all the rage recently, and I love their emphasis on prioritizing quality over quantity.
A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of clothes that can be mixed and matched to style many outfit combinations.
Less is more when it comes to capsule wardrobes—they’re a fantastic option for those with minimal closet space.
Since a capsule wardrobe encourages you to invest in high-quality, versatile pieces and accessories, it also saves money in the long run.
Items in your capsule closet should be complementary so you can mix and match them for any occasion.
Are you interested in creating a capsule maternity wardrobe? Check out my top recommendations for pregnancy closet essentials.
Create your capsule maternity wardrobe by clicking below:
Capsule Maternity Wardrobe Essentials
Maternity Tops
T-shirts
Shopping for a few versatile shirts to accommodate your changing body can significantly impact your style and confidence.
There’s nothing worse than feeling uncomfortable about your appearance—you deserve to feel fabulous at every stage of pregnancy!
I could wear many non-maternity tops through the first weeks of pregnancy, though they started becoming tight as I entered the second trimester.
A basic t-shirt is essential in any closet, maternity or otherwise. Experiment with scoop and v-neck maternity tops to find the silhouette that best flatters your figure.
I typically use a neutral color palette for my wardrobe to easily mix and match pieces, so I’d go for this black Maternity Crew Neck T-Shirt from Old Navy.
This pregnancy tee is less than $15 and has a stretchy, ribbed fit. You can pair it with accessories to elevate the minimalist style, depending on the occasion.
Tank tops
Tank tops are also a good option if you live somewhere with warm weather. Bearsland sells an adorable pack of three for under $30.
I love the colors in the tank top set, and the side ruching is a nice detail that flatters your bump.
Sweaters
If you’re pregnant during winter or spending time somewhere cold, pick up a long-sleeved top and sweater you can layer for warmth.
Gap is an excellent place to shop for high-quality basics, and its long-sleeve maternity shirts are the perfect starting point for a chic winter outfit.
An oversized sweater with a skirt and boots is my go-to when temperatures dip and is ultra-flattering on my bump.
Thanks to its relaxed fit, this Lucky Brand Cable Knit Sweater is a fabulous and versatile piece you can style during and after pregnancy.
Maternity Pants
Finding stylish and practical bottoms to flatter your pregnant body can be challenging, especially if your belly is sensitive to pressure, like mine.
Maternity Jeans
Maternity jeans have a reputation for being a bit frumpy, but the pregnancy denim game has come a long way.
The H&M MAMA Skinny Jeans are considered some of the best jeans for pregnancy that won’t break the bank.
They have a flattering, skinny fit and elastic front panel to fit your baby bump—the $60 price tag is the best part.
I think every pregnant woman needs at least one pair of stretchy yet supportive maternity leggings for exercising, working from home, or running errands.
Leggings
BLANQI’s Everyday Maternity Belly Support Leggings are my top pick since they can be worn from your first trimester to your third.
BLANQI is a famous maternity brand because its leggings feature an innovative belly band that minimizes pressure on your hips and lower back.
Opt for stretchy joggers if you prefer normal clothes you can wear during pregnancy and after birth.
Athletic joggers are game-changers when you’re expecting, and I’m obsessed with the Lululemon Scuba Mid-Rise Oversized Jogger.
Tailored Maternity Pants
One of my favorite pregnancy wardrobe pieces is the Maternity Sloane Tailored Pant by Abercrombie & Fitch.
These are the maternity versions of their famous Sloane Pants, and they’re incredibly comfortable and flattering on my growing bump!
Outwear
Jackets / Shackets
Jackets are essential in any maternity wardrobe because they help you transition your summer clothes to fall and winter.
A fashionable jacket is the perfect finishing touch for any outfit, and it’s fun to experiment with different styles and aesthetics.
I love a good shacket during colder months—they’re warm but light enough that I won’t overheat on sunny days.
Instead of buying a maternity shacket, I suggest sizing up in a non-pregnancy option so you can continue wearing it postpartum.
I choose options made with soft, cozy, yet breathable fabrics for ultimate comfort, like this under $20 Fantaslook Plaid Shacket.
Cardigans
A lightweight cardigan is a must-have for layering and creating cute outfit combinations throughout pregnancy.
Cardigans are another item you can usually get away with ordering non-maternity, as most these days have a trendy, oversized fit.
This button-front Everlane Organic Cotton Relaxed Cardigan is a splurge, but its versatility and quality make it worth the investment.
Blazers
Blazers will instantly elevate your maternity outfits for days at the office or romantic date nights.
Seraphine’s Corporate Maternity Blazer is a fabulous pick with an elastic waist and tailored fit to keep you comfortable without compromising style.
Hoodie
Every pregnancy capsule wardrobe needs a warm, bulky hoodie that feels like a big hug from someone you love.
Hoodies are my favorite when I’m lounging around the house, and many options are available for all budgets.
The SKIMS Oversized Hoodie is a bit pricey, but the material is unbelievably soft, and the brand offers an impressive size range.
Click below to browse my top capsule maternity wardrobe items:
Skirts and Dresses
I reach for a skirt or dress to feel chic and put-together—plus, they’re super comfy for baby bumps.
There are many cute skirt and dress styles you can add to your maternity closet to look effortlessly stylish with minimal effort.
Quince’s Tencel Jersey Maternity Ruched Dress has been a lifesaver when I want to feel cute but don’t have time to plan an outfit.
I wore this maternity dress on my Santa Barbara baby moon, and it was perfect for shopping and sightseeing days.
The Quince Maternity and Nursing Wrap Dress is also on my wishlist because it has a figure-hugging fit and is designed for convenient breastfeeding.
Check out my Quince clothing review for honest thoughts on its affordable cashmere, silk pieces, and cute maternity clothes.
Another go-to in my third trimester has been the PinkBlush Ribbed Sleeveless Dress Cardigan Maternity Set.
The dress’s ribbed material flatters my bump in the best way possible, and the matching cardigan ties the outfit together for an elevated look.
I also consider skirts maternity essentials because they can instantly transform an otherwise simple outfit.
A flowy skirt with a basic tee is my favorite for weekend brunch, and a satin or bodycon option is perfect for a romantic dinner with hubby.
Depending on the style and material, you might get away with a non-maternity skirt if it’s stretchy.
Shoes
Comfortable shoes are essential in any maternity capsule wardrobe to prevent aches and pain.
Dressing in high heels is always fun, but I’ve been sticking to flats, boots, or low heels since my feet quickly swell.
Sneakers
Sneakers have been some of my favorite pregnancy purchases because there are many cute and versatile options.
I try to go on a daily neighborhood walk, and the Allbirds Tree Runners are my favorite trainers. I’m also a fan of Kizik’s slip-on Lima sneakers.
Shoes that don’t require laces or straps are a must when your belly gets so big it’s uncomfortable to bend over!
Flats
Flats are also essential during pregnancy since they easily slip on and off. I love the look of Rothy’s classic Flat shoes, which are unbelievably comfy.
Browse clothing pieces for your capsule maternity wardrobe by clicking the images below:
Maternity Bras
Supportive yet stretchy maternity bras have been a must since my cup size has doubled while pregnant.
Bodily’s Everything Bra is a fantastic option that transforms into a nursing bra once your baby arrives.
This Everything Bra is soft and comfortable but keeps everything in place, so it’s my daily go-to.
The custom back closure and straps let you adjust the bra as your body changes throughout pregnancy and postpartum, so the fit is always perfect.
I’m glad I don’t have to purchase many different maternity and nursing bras since the Bodily one can do it all!
I’ve had so much fun putting together the perfect capsule maternity wardrobe, and I hope you do, too.
Click below to shop for your capsule maternity wardrobe:
Check out my style content for fashion guides and recommendations.
Quince Clothing Review: Affordable Cashmere and Silk Company
7 Best Celine Dupe Sunglasses to Add to Your Collection
Khaite Cardigan Dupe: Luxury Loungewear On a Budget
FAQs
The Isabella Oliver Maternity Essentials Capsule collection has many cute pregnancy outfit ideas.
Using a belly band is a personal preference. I find it helpful for getting dressed during the third trimester, but it may be uncomfortable for some.
While you may want to splurge on some high-quality clothes for your capsule wardrobe, you can create one with affordable maternity clothes.
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
