Several readers have asked about my “maternity style,” which makes me laugh because I don’t consider myself a stylish pregnant woman. My priorities are simple: affordable, durable, and comfortable. I’m one of those moms who constantly has dog hair on my shirt and the occasional sandwich remnant on my leg, whether I’m pregnant or not. That quirk makes me popular with both Burger and Clara.
Still, I’ll humoringly share how I survive pregnancy without breaking the bank. I rely on practical pieces—Old Navy maternity jeans, stretchy tops, a couple of dresses for events, and accessories that distract from a puffy, tired face. Below is a concise list of my maternity clothing must-haves that keep me comfortable and relatively pulled together.
1. Old Navy maternity jeans. I prefer the full belly-panel styles because they support the bump and feel comfortable. In my pregnancy with Clara I wore one pair from about 14 weeks until delivery—the fabric stretched but held up. This pregnancy I bought a fresh pair and they’ve been dependable again. They’re my favorite budget-friendly option because they’re durable and comfortable for everyday wear.
2. A bra extender. This little accessory is a game changer. Target sells simple bra extenders near the hosiery and shoe inserts—small tabs with two or three eye hooks that clip onto your bra. My ribcage expands dramatically during pregnancy, and extenders make existing bras wearable longer. When my body returns to normal, I remove the extender and keep using the bra. It’s an inexpensive fix that delays buying a whole new bra wardrobe.
3. Various stretchy shirts. Stretchy cotton tops are a staple for comfort. I favor v-necks because they visually elongate a short neck, and I own several in neutral colors—black being my go-to. Some are from maternity sections at Target or Old Navy, but many are larger sizes from regular departments or clearance racks at stores like Gap and Banana Republic. Buying non-maternity pieces in a larger size is an economical way to expand a pregnancy wardrobe.
4. Big ol’ earrings. Statement earrings are a favorite whether I’m pregnant or not, but they’re especially useful in late pregnancy when my face can look puffy. A bold, colorful earring draws attention away from tired eyes and puffiness—think of them as a cheerful visual diversion: “Don’t look there, LOOK HERE! SHINY EARRINGS!” They’re an easy accessory that lifts an outfit and boosts confidence.
5. A simple pair of slip-on flats. This pregnancy I lived in leopard flats by Sam Edelman I scored at DSW. With Clara, I favored black patent flats. Flats feel more polished than flip-flops, and they’re practical for short outings. For days that require more walking or when I’m on my feet all day, I switch to supportive sneakers (Puma, for example) to keep my feet comfortable and avoid discomfort later in the day.
I’ve included a few old bump photos from when I was carrying Clara. Most of those outfits feature the same Old Navy jeans I mentioned. Many of the tops were regular non-maternity pieces from Old Navy or Target in larger sizes; the dotted top came from Banana Outlet’s regular section. I also like to have one or two maternity dresses from Target for events when jeans aren’t appropriate—maternity dresses can be incredibly comfortable, almost like wearing a roomy muumuu.
I’m likely forgetting a few small items, but these basics keep me comfortable and save money on clothes I’ll only need for a few months. Pregnancy comes with inconveniences—the frequent bathroom trips, swelling, and fatigue—but a few reliable, affordable pieces make those months easier and more enjoyable. What do you reach for during pregnancy? Any favorite low-budget hacks, like bra extenders or buying larger non-maternity tops, that have worked for you?