11 Different Maternity Dress Styles To Try

Pregnancy brings many changes, and your wardrobe shouldn't be a source of stress during this exciting time. Finding dresses that accommodate your growing bump while keeping you comfortable and stylish can feel like a challenge. The good news is that today's maternity fashion offers countless options that celebrate your changing body without sacrificing elegance or personal style.

From classic silhouettes that have stood the test of time to modern cuts designed specifically for expectant mothers, there's a perfect style waiting for every mama-to-be. Let's explore the world of maternity dress styles and discover which one might become your new favorite.

Empire Waist Dresses

Empire waist dresses feature a high waistline that sits just below the bust, creating a flowing silhouette that gracefully drapes over your growing belly. This classic style originated in early 19th-century fashion and remains one of the most flattering options for pregnant women. The design naturally accommodates your changing shape while providing plenty of room for growth throughout your pregnancy. These dresses work beautifully for casual and formal occasions, making them a smart investment for your maternity wardrobe.

Shirt Dresses

Shirt dresses bring a crisp, polished look to maternity fashion with their button-front design and collar detail. These dresses typically feature a relaxed fit through the body with the option to cinch at the waist with a tie or belt. The shirt dress style offers a sophisticated alternative to casual maternity wear while remaining incredibly comfortable. Many shirt dresses also feature breast-friendly button closures, making them practical choices that can transition into your postpartum wardrobe.

Wrap Dresses

Wrap dresses have earned their place as a maternity wardrobe staple thanks to their adjustable fit and universally flattering design. The wrap style creates a V-neckline that's both elegant and nursing-friendly, while the tie closure allows you to customize the fit as your body changes. You can loosen or tighten the tie as needed, ensuring a comfortable fit from early pregnancy through your final trimester. The flowing fabric and strategic draping create a beautiful silhouette that enhances your pregnant figure.

Smocked Dresses

Smocked dresses feature gathered fabric with elastic threading that creates a stretchy, textured panel across the bust area. This construction technique allows the dress to expand and contract with your body, providing a custom fit that adapts to your changing shape. The stretchy nature of smocked construction makes these dresses incredibly comfortable for expectant mothers. Smocked dresses embody effortless elegance and work particularly well for spring and summer occasions when you want to feel breezy and comfortable.

Nursing Dresses

Nursing dresses combine pregnancy comfort with postpartum functionality, featuring discreet openings for easy breastfeeding access. These thoughtfully designed pieces often include hidden zippers, snap closures, or wrap details that make nursing convenient without compromising style. Investing in quality nursing dresses extends the life of your maternity clothing well beyond pregnancy, making them smart wardrobe choices. Look for styles with stretchy fabrics and adjustable features that accommodate your growing bump and postpartum body changes.

Maternity Dresses By Silhouette

The silhouette of your maternity dress can dramatically impact how you look and feel, so understanding different shapes helps you make the best choices for your body and lifestyle.

A-Line Dresses

A-line dresses feature a fitted bodice that gradually flares out from the waist, creating a triangular silhouette that resembles the letter "A." This classic shape works beautifully during pregnancy because it provides room for your growing belly without appearing oversized elsewhere. The structured top provides support where you need it most, while the flowing skirt portion moves gracefully with you throughout your day.

Shift Dresses

Shift dresses hang straight down from the shoulders without a defined waist, creating a relaxed, comfortable silhouette that's perfect for pregnancy. The unfitted nature of shift dresses makes them particularly comfortable during the later stages of pregnancy when fitted clothing becomes restrictive. By creating clean lines with their streamlined shape, these dresses offer an effortlessly sophisticated look without relying on complicated fits or fussy details. The simple silhouette serves as a perfect canvas for accessories, allowing you to change your look with different shoes, jewelry, or jackets.

Kaftan-Style Dresses

Kaftan-style dresses feature loose, flowing fabric that drapes beautifully over your pregnant figure without any restrictive seams or fitted areas. These dresses often include decorative elements that add visual interest to the relaxed silhouette and bohemian aesthetic. The generous cut of kaftan-style dresses provides unparalleled comfort during pregnancy, making them ideal for warm weather or lounging at home. The flowing fabric moves with you naturally and accommodates your changing shape without any adjustments or alterations needed.

Maternity Dresses By Length

The length of your maternity dress affects both your comfort level and the occasions where you can wear it, so consider these options carefully.

Knee-Length Dresses

Knee-length dresses hit at or just below the kneecap, creating a classic, versatile length that works well for most occasions. This length provides modest coverage while allowing for easy movement and comfortable sitting. The practical length of knee-length dresses makes them ideal for active pregnant women who need to move comfortably throughout their day. During the cooler months, pair knee-length dresses with tights or leggings for extra warmth and coverage.

Midi Dresses

Midi dresses fall between the knee and ankle, typically hitting at mid-calf length. This modern length has gained popularity for its sophisticated, contemporary appeal and comfortable fit. Midi-length maternity dresses offer excellent coverage while maintaining an elegant silhouette that flatters most body types. The longer length provides extra coverage for your legs while still allowing you to showcase your favorite shoes.

Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses extend to the ankles or floor, creating a dramatic, flowing silhouette that's both comfortable and elegant. These full-length dresses offer maximum coverage and comfort, making them perfect for pregnancy when you want to feel covered and confident. The long lines create a streamlined look that many pregnant women find particularly flattering. Maternity maxi dress styles range from casual to formal, catering to everything from relaxed weekends to special occasions.

Embrace Your Pregnancy Style Journey

Finding the perfect maternity dress styles transforms how you experience pregnancy fashion, allowing you to feel confident and beautiful throughout this special time. The right maternity dress can boost your mood, support your body, and help you embrace motherhood with style and grace. Mix and match different lengths and silhouettes to create a well-rounded maternity wardrobe that keeps you feeling confident and comfortable throughout your pregnancy journey. Start your maternity clothes shopping journey at Beachwood and invest in sustainable garments that are meant to last throughout your motherhood journey.