Before you even look at styles, check your labels. You might not realise this but what you wear can matter beyond your style— that's because when you're pregnant, overheating isn’t just uncomfortable, it can be risky.

Look for

• Breathable and natural fabrics: cotton, linen, silk, and chambray help you stay cool and reduce irritation
• Loose silhouettes and bump-accommodating fits: allow space for your bump and prevent overheating
• Armpit-free styles e.g. sleeveless, short-sleeved and cling-free, loose sleeves
• Easy-access necklines for those breastfeeding or popping a pump in your nursing bra

“With your core temperature rising in pregnancy, you may feel the need to wear the lightest, least constricting clothes possible,” says Sarah Murray, Cambridge Independent Midwife.

And it might not be a bad thing: “Overheating stresses your body, which can impact the baby’s neural development in the first trimester and trigger early contractions in the third. Stay cool — literally.”

While most pregnancies go smoothly even in warm weather, NCT guidance notes that a core body temperature above 39.2 °C during the first trimester can slightly increase the risk of birth defects.

Overheating can also lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, fainting or heatstroke, which may stress both you and your baby. Severe overheating could potentially trigger early contractions in the third trimester. To keep safe, avoid lengthy stints in the sunshine, sip water frequently and dress for the hot weather. 

A linen shirt can work really hard for you all summer long. Be it with linen trousers on holiday, some straight leg trousers at work or, our favourite, layered over a nursing bra that you won’t want to hide - a linen shirt will keep you feeling and looking cool.

Maxi dresses aren’t all about loud colours and bold prints (though, we do love those). Pair it back with a simple maxi that you can dress up or down with accessories to be fuss free this summer. 

Take coordination out of the equation with an all-in-one jumpsuit. This one is 100% cotton and both bump and breastfeeding friendly. Consider your maternity jumpsuit found. 

Pregnancy in summer = maximum sweat, minimum patience. So skip the fussy accessories and try these instead:

• Leave tight strappy sandals behind and opt for comfy slider-style sandals instead
• Sunglasses can hide a multitude of sins and give even the most tired Mama a glamorous bump
• Don’t sequester natural fabrics to your clothes, consider cotton totes and woven bags as accessories.
• Protecting heads from the sun isn’t just recommended for children, consider a sunhat or, this year’s mum go-to: a branded cap 

Now you have your outfit sorted, you may want some slightly more permanent items to see you through the warmer months during pregnancy, breastfeeding (if you choose to do so) and beyond. From ice rollers to calming cold drinks here are our hot weather saviours.