This pregnancy has been many things—emotional, exhausting, beautiful—but one surprise has been how it’s pushed me to rethink the way I get dressed. My usual summer uniform has always been built around denim: cutoffs, jeans, and the occasional skirt. But when you’re expecting in the heat of summer, denim shorts just don’t cut it. Yes, there are maternity versions out there, but I’ve tried them, and they just don’t feel right on me.
Instead, I’ve pretty much lived in dresses. They’ve been my saving grace—easy, comfortable, and surprisingly flattering. Over the past few months, I’ve picked up a handful of tricks that have made getting dressed not only easier but actually fun again. So if you’re navigating pregnancy style yourself, here are the tips that have worked best for me.
1. Lean into fitted dresses
Before pregnancy, I rarely reached for bodycon or form-fitting dresses. I always felt too self-conscious—bloated here, not toned enough there, constantly tugging at fabric. But pregnancy has completely changed my perspective. A fitted dress is now my go-to.
The beauty is, there’s nothing to “suck in” anymore. Instead of hiding, I get to highlight the bump and embrace the curves that come with it. It’s honestly liberating to show off what my body is doing right now, and fitted dresses have been the most flattering way to celebrate that.
2. Add a layered piece
That said, some days I’m just not in the mood for a fully body-hugging look—especially when I’m wearing lighter colors or feeling a little self-conscious about my back. (Pregnancy has a way of introducing new “fun” features, like those tiny back rolls near the bra line that no one tells you about!)
On those days, layering is my best friend. I’ll throw on a cropped tee or tie a longer one just above the bump, or if it’s cooler in the evening, I’ll roll a shorter sweater under itself to hit at the right spot. It gives shape, hides the bits I don’t love, and still lets the bump shine.
A little trick: choose sweaters made from pliable materials so they fold easily, or use a skinny belt underneath to keep them in place. Works like a charm.
3. Belt it up
Speaking of belts, I’ve found them to be such a game-changer during this pregnancy. Placing a belt just above the bump instantly changes the proportions of an outfit and makes it look more polished.
Most of my regular belts still work—I’ve just had to add a hole here and there (a quick fix any shoe repair shop can do in minutes). It’s such a simple way to elevate even the most basic dress.
4. Embrace Spanx (strategically)
I was never much of a Spanx girl before, but pregnancy has me singing their praises. With lighter-colored dresses or outfits where I want a seamless look, they’ve been lifesavers.
That said, wearing them on super hot days can feel like too much fabric, so I use them selectively. But when the weather cooperates, they smooth everything out and make me feel a little more put-together.
5. Sneakers with everything
One of the happiest discoveries of this pregnancy: sneakers and dresses are a perfect pair. I used to think dresses always had to feel polished or feminine, but sneakers instantly make them casual and cool.
Plus, let’s be real—comfort is non-negotiable right now. I’ve never worn so many sneakers in my life, and honestly, I’m not mad about it. They’ve become my go-to for balancing out softer, more feminine pieces with a bit of practicality.
The takeaway
Pregnancy has changed not just my body, but the way I think about style. Instead of squeezing into old favorites or forcing myself into silhouettes that don’t feel right, I’ve leaned into what works right now. And that’s been freeing in its own way.
If I had to sum up my maternity style philosophy, it would be this: highlight the bump, layer when you need a little extra coverage, and never underestimate the power of a good pair of sneakers.
So while my beloved denim may be taking a back seat this summer, I’m embracing this new chapter—one fitted dress at a time.
