What Are the Best Maternity Dresses for Trimester 1, 2 and 3? Consider Them Found

What are the best maternity dresses? The ones that make you feel like yourself — comfortable, flattering and ready for whatever the trimester (or party season) throws at you. But, whether you’re hiding a bump or proudly showing off your current pregnant status, finding a maternity dress that fits right and feels right can be easier said than done.

One minute you’re trying to pull on an old favourite, the next you’re wondering if bodycon was ever a good idea — that’s where we come in. Our maternity dress collection brings together styles loved by mums and stylists alike, from polished daywear to Christmas maternity favourites — available to buy or rent at a fraction of the RRP.

Your search for the perfect maternity dress? Officially over.

What's the best maternity dress for hiding a bump?

During those awkward weeks when you don't quite look pregnant but, boy, do you feel it you probably don't want anything too tight touching your torso. Shop relaxed fits and avoid flouncy sleeves or light colours - a terrible combo with morning sickness.

When should you start wearing maternity dresses?

You can start wearing maternity dresses as early as you like and wear them for as long as you like– some c-section- and breastfeeding-friendly styles are hard to part with. Take the lead from what feels good for you and your growing bump. 

What makes the perfect maternity dress?

The best maternity dress really depends on your personal style – don't feel like two lines on a pregnancy test means you have to dress like Martha Stewart or pack away the fun stuff. But generally speaking, classic maternity dresses often are:

• Empire-line cuts
• Floaty, oversized shapes
• Natural fabrics
• Stretchy bump-hugging designs

What are the best maternity dresses for party season?

Party dresses should make you feel confident and comfortable — never squeezed in, even when pregnant. For easy go-to party options, try a maternity Bodycon dress in fabrics that stretch or A-line dresses that skim over your bump and have pockets for secret snacks. 

Party Tips for Your Stage

Trimester 1: Ruching, draping and darker tones are perfect pre-announcement.

Trimester 2: Hello shine and sparkle — satin, sequins and structured knits.

Trimester 3: You’ll want softness and stretch everywhere — especially around the ribs. Use statement handbags or festive hair ribbons to add the glam.

What are the best Maternity Dresses for Work?

The back-to-office directive has many of us in a tailspin, not least women in their third trimester living in black maternity leggings. But, effortlessly smart yet oh-so-comfy dresses do exist – perfect for when you’re waddling to meetings or running entirely on ginger gins.

Workwear Tips for Your Stage

Trimester 1: Shirt dresses and wrap silhouettes work with fluctuating bloating.

Trimester 2: The sweet spot — bias cuts, jersey midis and knit dresses look great with smart trainers or a chunky, block heel.

Trimester 3: Boxy shirt dresses, soft rib knits and anything with stretch panels make long days easier.

What are the best maternity dresses for a baby shower?

Your baby shower is a moment — and your dress should match it. Think romantic silhouettes, soft satins, pretty prints or elevated pinks or blues to match your gender reveal. Whether you want bump-hugging or bump-skimming, the best baby shower dresses feel special but still let you eat cake in comfort as you deal with third-trimester aches and fatigue.

Babyshower Style Tips for Your Stage

Trimester 1: If you’re not sharing the news yet, opt for floaty shapes, empire lines and steer clear of wrap dresses that make bumps pop.

Trimester 2: Peak bump definition. Satin, jersey, slips and soft sheens look glam and feel good.

Trimester 3: Choose comfort-first glamour: stretch knits, smocking, adjustable straps, soft fabrics that don’t rub.

What are the Best Everyday Maternity Dresses?

Everyday maternity dressing is all about softness, stretch and styles that are one-and-done outfits – you want pregnancy dressing to be as simple as possible. Ribbed midis, t-shirt dresses and shirt dresses are easy go-tos because they flex as your shape changes — without ever feeling frumpy.

Everyday Style Tips for Your Stage

Trimester 1: Choose dark colours and throw on a cardigan or blazer to distract from tiny baby bumps.

Trimester 2: This is your “try anything” trimester — ribbed dresses, knitted midis and bias-cut shapes all flatter.

Trimester 3: Comfort is everything. Think soft stretch, breathable cotton and no waist seams that dig.

What are the best maternity dresses for a wedding?

Call us biased, but we're pretty set on saying you don't need to buy a maternity dress for a wedding. Nuptials and celebrations are the perfect time to rent bump-friendly occassionwear. We love chiffon maxis, elegant midis and soft satins.

Style Tips for Your Stage

Trimester 1: A-line midis and prints cleverly disguise any bumps you're not ready to announce.

Trimester 2: Bias-cut satins, chiffon midis and anything with a subtle sheen will photograph beautifully.

Trimester 3: Prioritise ease — elasticated panels, flutter sleeves and soft draping.

What are the best maternity dresses for a photoshoot?

Dreamy, delicate and romantic, we love maternity dresses that drapes over your bump for ethereal vibes. Shop dresses with movement to help create softness and shapes that celebrate your bump.

Style Tips for Your Stage

Trimester 1: Opt for light fabrics and neutrals — beautiful for early pregnancy shoots.

Trimester 2: If your boobs are yet to balloon, thin strap maxis and midis are your friend. But if you're already wearing maternity bras and need some support, look for dresses with wider straps that will cover your new bra. 

Trimester 3: Go for comfort + drama: stretchy maxis, long sleeves, and dresses with sweeping movement that emphasise the bump without feeling heavy.

Been told a black dress or nightdress is a hospital bag essential? The ultra-soft ribbed fabric of this Hatch maternity dress feels gentle against sensitive skin and has an easy-access nursing design.

While plenty of maternity dresses softly flatter your bump, if you're feeling bold go for something a little more figure-hugging. Free. The. Bump. 

Feeling comfortable in what you're wearing is the most important thing when it comes to choosing maternity dresses. Check out our favourite brands for plus-size maternity dresses:

• Rixo
• Beyond Nine

What are the Best Maternity Dresses for Winter?

Cosy, stylish, and zero faff, soft cord fabrics in relaxed fits give your bump all the breathing room. Just pair with maternity tights and boots, and you're good to go.

What are the best summer maternity dresses for summer?

If you're jetting off on one final child-free holiday then pack flowy dresses and roomy kaftans– no one wants to feel like they're held hostage in their clothes while sweltering in the heat. 

What are the best pink maternity dresses?

Pink maternity dresses are a favourite for baby showers, gender reveals and spring or summer events. Soft blush tones feel romantic and photograph beautifully, while deeper rose or raspberry shades bring a bit more wow-factor.

What are the best white maternity dresses?

White maternity dresses are timeless for photoshoots, summer parties and baby showers. Look for clean silhouettes for a minimal style, or floaty maxis if you're trying to emulate all those Instagrams you've saved.

What are the best black maternity dresses?

Black maternity dresses are the ultimate styling shortcut — chic, easy and instantly flattering. Whether it’s a rib-knit midi or a long-sleeved evening dress, black works for everything from dinner dates to winter weddings.

TL;DR?

Pregnancy dressing = a wild ride. Wear what feels good. Stretch is queen. Satin is your second-trimester bestie, not your third. We’ve rounded up the best of them. All you need to do is choose… and either buy or rent. Your wardrobe, your rules.