Minimalist Maternity Clothes: How To Simplify Pregnancy Style

June 9, 2023

One of the most common misconceptions about pregnancy style is that there are no minimalist maternity clothes.

We’ve all seen it. That generic maternity section stuffed to the brim with frilly florals and horizontal stripes galore.

But if that wasn’t your taste before becoming pregnant, who says it has to be your style now?

If you’re looking for wearable, timeless outfits to wear while pregnant, this is the guide for you. Next Level Wardrobe specializes in dressing all our clients (pregnant or otherwise) in a versatile, timeless, minimalistic style.

Here, we’re sharing our top tips for minimalist maternity style, why it’s worth it, and essential outfit formulas.

What is Minimalist Pregnancy Style?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Mama Set (@the_mama_set)

https://www.instagram.com/p/CERKBzPlyLR/?utm_source=ig_embed&ut_campaign=loading

Minimalist pregnancy style focuses on having a core clothing collection made up of quality, versatile, and classic pieces. It’s similar to creating a capsule wardrobe, just while pregnant.

At NLW, we recommend following these three rules to build a closet of minimalist maternity clothes:

  1. Focus on core colors. Core colors are black, white, gray, and navy blue. This should make up the most significant section of your closet. Why? Because these are the easiest colors to mix and match with everything you own.
  2. Quality over quantity. This is especially important for pregnancy style because you won’t be pregnant forever. You don’t want to buy hundreds of maternity clothes that you’ll never wear again and that clutter up your wardrobe. Instead, focus on well-made items you love that you can wear throughout the different trimesters.
  3. Prioritize fit. We know it’s not always easy to find something that fits when you’re pregnant. After all, your body’s constantly changing and you’re constantly trying to keep up. But if you have clothes that flatter these changes, you’re more likely to wear them and feel good doing it.

These three guiding principles make up the Next Level Wardrobe Style System.

And guess what? We recommend this system to everyone because it works. No matter what stage of life you’re in—pregnant, trying to find your postpartum style, or child-free.

Refocus your style on these ideas and you’ll simplify getting dressed forever.

Is it Worth Investing in Minimalist Pregnancy Fashion?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Michael Simon (@michaelsimon64)

Yes, minimalist pregnancy fashion is worth the investment—up to a point. Here’s what we mean:

Regardless of what’s going on with your body, it’s always “worth it” to take care of your appearance. For one, the psychology of dressing well to feel good is real.

For another, how you present yourself to others is important, especially in the professional world.

However, does this mean you should invest a lot of money into your minimalist maternity clothes?

This is a question we get a lot from our pregnant clients. They wonder how much they should spend on clothing they’ll only wear during this brief window in their life. Or, if they should bother at all.

Our response?

When your body is changing (due to pregnancy or otherwise), we recommend shopping at a lower price point. However, you should still have a plan for what you’re going to buy so you purchase wisely.

How to Build a Minimalist Pregnancy Wardrobe

We’ve given you the foundation of how to build a minimalist pregnancy wardrobe. Now, let’s dig deeper into the specifics.

1. Only Buy the Minimalist Maternity Clothes You Need

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JANICE • VANCOUVER ♥ (@janiicew)

Looking for an outfit that can pull double duty for comfort and style? Try out this power casual combination of a dress, blazer, and sneakers.

Power casual ensembles work by combining classic work staples with more relaxed materials and silhouettes.

Start with a blazer like this navy blue option below.

Product by Majestic Filature, shop here.

It still offers the coverage you need in more traditional offices, while the soft knit style feels more contemporary.

Wear it over a simple, fitted knit dress like this gray sleeveless by Ingrid & Isabel.

Product by Ingrid & Isabel, shop here.

This dress is the perfect example of basic (yet essential) minimalist maternity clothes. It looks and feels good without unnecessary spending.

It’s stretchy, soft, and comfortable. You can wear it through every trimester and even postpartum. Adding a jacket or blazer instantly dresses it up without feeling stuffy or uncomfortable. (Which is especially helpful if you’re looking for summer maternity outfits.)

Product by Tory Birch, shop here.

Bring the look together with a pair of white sneakers. Try something like these low-profile trainers from Tory Birch. They’re modern but not too trendy that they distract from the rest of your outfit.

Wear this as corporate casual or as the perfect desk-to-dinner ensemble.

2. The Everyday Go-To Outfit With Minimalist Maternity Clothes

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by A Pea In The Pod Maternity & Nursing Clothes (@apeainthepodmaternity)

If you’re looking for an everyday outfit that you can throw on every morning without thinking, try this simple formula.

Tank + layering piece + jeans.

The best thing about this? There are a few subtle, bump-friendly details tailored to your pregnancy journey.

For example, check out this olive tank from A Pea in a Pod Maternity.

Product by A Pea in a Pod Maternity, shop here.

Looks like a basic tank, right?

In reality, this is a nursing-functional top. The straps clip down for easy-access feeding. So whether you have another child you’re currently breastfeeding or you want to wear this after delivery, you’re all set.

Product by Hudson, shop here.

For jeans, we love recommending high-quality denim brands like Hudson. They’re made to last, with a fit that flatters every body type.

While they offer styles with a full belly band, these with elastic inserts offer a more subtle, frame-fitting option.

Product by Ted Baker, shop here.

For the finishing touch, shrug on a lightweight layer like this tan coat from Ted Baker. It’ll frame your bump, keep your shoulders covered, and tie the whole outfit together.

3. Casual (Not Careless) Minimalist Maternity Clothes

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LÉGOE HERITAGE – Modern Maternity (@legoeheritage)

Last but not least, here’s a way to wear minimalist maternity clothes in a casual (but polished) way: matching sets.

Sets and monochrome outfits are trend-aware and a cinch to put together. They’re stylish in an effortless way.

So how do you make this work for pregnancy wear? Reach for knits. They’ll offer all the flexibility and comfort you need without looking sloppy.

For a weekend or work-from-home outfit, try a set like this tank and wide-leg pants from Emilia George below.

Product by Emilia George, shop here.

The oatmeal color is a versatile neutral that doesn’t feel as formal as black or even navy. You can always cover up with a cardigan, or keep it as is for a summer capsule wardrobe go-to.

Product by Emilia George, shop here.

You can always complete the look with sneakers (or slippers if you’re at home).

Product by Aqua, shop here.

Or for summer, we recommend sandals. Like these slide-on ones by Aqua. Slip-on shoes are especially handy during pregnancy.

For one, they offer more room if you’re experiencing swollen feet. For another, you can kick them off or put them on without having to bend down over your growing bump.

That wraps up our starter kit on minimalist maternity clothes and how to style them.

Want more expert advice on how to dress during pregnancy—or after? Apply for our women’s image consulting and styling services. Next Level Wardrobe has an expert team ready to change the way you approach fashion for good. Work with us to take the stress out of creating outfits and strengthen your personal brand through style.

We’ve all seen it. That generic maternity section stuffed to the brim with frilly florals and horizontal stripes galore.

But if that wasn’t your taste before becoming pregnant, who says it has to be your style now?

If you’re looking for wearable, timeless outfits to wear while pregnant, this is the guide for you. Next Level Wardrobe specializes in dressing all our clients (pregnant or otherwise) in a versatile, timeless, minimalistic style.

Here, we’re sharing our top tips for minimalist maternity style, why it’s worth it, and essential outfit formulas.

What is Minimalist Pregnancy Style?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Mama Set (@the_mama_set)

Minimalist pregnancy style focuses on having a core clothing collection made up of quality, versatile, and classic pieces. It’s similar to creating a capsule wardrobe, just while pregnant.

At NLW, we recommend following these three rules to build a closet of minimalist maternity clothes:

  1. Focus on core colors. Core colors are black, white, gray, and navy blue. This should make up the most significant section of your closet. Why? Because these are the easiest colors to mix and match with everything you own.
  2. Quality over quantity. This is especially important for pregnancy style because you won’t be pregnant forever. You don’t want to buy hundreds of maternity clothes that you’ll never wear again and that clutter up your wardrobe. Instead, focus on well-made items you love that you can wear throughout the different trimesters.
  3. Prioritize fit. We know it’s not always easy to find something that fits when you’re pregnant. After all, your body’s constantly changing and you’re constantly trying to keep up. But if you have clothes that flatter these changes, you’re more likely to wear them and feel good doing it.

These three guiding principles make up the Next Level Wardrobe Style System.

And guess what? We recommend this system to everyone because it works. No matter what stage of life you’re in—pregnant, trying to find your postpartum style, or child-free.

Refocus your style on these ideas and you’ll simplify getting dressed forever.

Is it Worth Investing in Minimalist Pregnancy Fashion?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Michael Simon (@michaelsimon64)

Yes, minimalist pregnancy fashion is worth the investment—up to a point. Here’s what we mean:

Regardless of what’s going on with your body, it’s always “worth it” to take care of your appearance. For one, the psychology of dressing well to feel good is real.

For another, how you present yourself to others is important, especially in the professional world.

However, does this mean you should invest a lot of money into your minimalist maternity clothes?

This is a question we get a lot from our pregnant clients. They wonder how much they should spend on clothing they’ll only wear during this brief window in their life. Or, if they should bother at all.

Our response?

When your body is changing (due to pregnancy or otherwise), we recommend shopping at a lower price point. However, you should still have a plan for what you’re going to buy so you purchase wisely.

How to Build a Minimalist Pregnancy Wardrobe

We’ve given you the foundation of how to build a minimalist pregnancy wardrobe. Now, let’s dig deeper into the specifics.

1. Only Buy the Minimalist Maternity Clothes You Need

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JANICE • VANCOUVER ♥ (@janiicew)

Looking for an outfit that can pull double duty for comfort and style? Try out this power casual combination of a dress, blazer, and sneakers.

Power casual ensembles work by combining classic work staples with more relaxed materials and silhouettes.

Start with a blazer like this navy blue option below.

Product by Majestic Filature, shop here.

It still offers the coverage you need in more traditional offices, while the soft knit style feels more contemporary.

Wear it over a simple, fitted knit dress like this gray sleeveless by Ingrid & Isabel.

Product by Ingrid & Isabel, shop here.

This dress is the perfect example of basic (yet essential) minimalist maternity clothes. It looks and feels good without unnecessary spending.

It’s stretchy, soft, and comfortable. You can wear it through every trimester and even postpartum. Adding a jacket or blazer instantly dresses it up without feeling stuffy or uncomfortable. (Which is especially helpful if you’re looking for summer maternity outfits.)

Product by Tory Birch, shop here.

Bring the look together with a pair of white sneakers. Try something like these low-profile trainers from Tory Birch. They’re modern but not too trendy that they distract from the rest of your outfit.

Wear this as corporate casual or as the perfect desk-to-dinner ensemble.

2. The Everyday Go-To Outfit With Minimalist Maternity Clothes

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by A Pea In The Pod Maternity & Nursing Clothes (@apeainthepodmaternity)

If you’re looking for an everyday outfit that you can throw on every morning without thinking, try this simple formula.

Tank + layering piece + jeans.

The best thing about this? There are a few subtle, bump-friendly details tailored to your pregnancy journey.

For example, check out this olive tank from A Pea in a Pod Maternity.

Product by A Pea in a Pod Maternity, shop here.

Looks like a basic tank, right?

In reality, this is a nursing-functional top. The straps clip down for easy-access feeding. So whether you have another child you’re currently breastfeeding or you want to wear this after delivery, you’re all set.

Product by Hudson, shop here.

For jeans, we love recommending high-quality denim brands like Hudson. They’re made to last, with a fit that flatters every body type.

While they offer styles with a full belly band, these with elastic inserts offer a more subtle, frame-fitting option.

Product by Ted Baker, shop here.

For the finishing touch, shrug on a lightweight layer like this tan coat from Ted Baker. It’ll frame your bump, keep your shoulders covered, and tie the whole outfit together.

3. Casual (Not Careless) Minimalist Maternity Clothes

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LÉGOE HERITAGE – Modern Maternity (@legoeheritage)

Last but not least, here’s a way to wear minimalist maternity clothes in a casual (but polished) way: matching sets.

Sets and monochrome outfits are trend-aware and a cinch to put together. They’re stylish in an effortless way.

So how do you make this work for pregnancy wear? Reach for knits. They’ll offer all the flexibility and comfort you need without looking sloppy.

For a weekend or work-from-home outfit, try a set like this tank and wide-leg pants from Emilia George below.

Product by Emilia George, shop here.

The oatmeal color is a versatile neutral that doesn’t feel as formal as black or even navy. You can always cover up with a cardigan, or keep it as is for a summer capsule wardrobe go-to.

Product by Emilia George, shop here.

You can always complete the look with sneakers (or slippers if you’re at home).

Product by Aqua, shop here.

Or for summer, we recommend sandals. Like these slide-on ones by Aqua. Slip-on shoes are especially handy during pregnancy.

For one, they offer more room if you’re experiencing swollen feet. For another, you can kick them off or put them on without having to bend down over your growing bump.

That wraps up our starter kit on minimalist maternity clothes and how to style them.

Want more expert advice on how to dress during pregnancy—or after? Apply for our women’s image consulting and styling services. Next Level Wardrobe has an expert team ready to change the way you approach fashion for good. Work with us to take the stress out of creating outfits and strengthen your personal brand through style.

About the Author - Cassandra Sethi
About the Author - Cassandra Sethi

Personal Stylist & Image Consultant

Cassandra Sethi is a Personal Stylist and Founder of Next Level Wardrobe, a luxury Personal Styling and Shopping Service that helps successful professionals of all ages and sizes. After working in the fashion industry for over 25 years, she used her expert knowledge to create a proprietary styling system called ‘The Next Level Wardrobe Style System' which guarantees clients more outfits with less items in their closet. NLW has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The Tamron Hall Show, NY Mag, Huffington Post and more.

*Disclosure: Next Level Wardrobe only recommends products that we’d suggest to our clients or personally wear ourselves. All opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, Next Level Wardrobe may earn a small commission. Read the full privacy policy here.

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Cassandra Sethi

is a NYC Personal Stylist and Image Consultant. She is the Founder of Next Level Wardrobe and 'The NLW Style System' that guarantees clients more outfits with less items.

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