7 Must-Have Maternity Pieces for the Conscious Mama
I can’t believe I’m writing this post! This whole pregnancy has been such a whirlwind, sometimes it feels like it’s happening to someone else. Though challenging at times, pregnancy has thus far been an incredibly rewarding journey— and one that’s ever-evolving!
My belly is also ever-evolving and has officially become too big for the ol’ hairband-around-the-waistband-of-my-jeans trick…it was good while it lasted. I thought maternity clothes would be something I would never purchase, instead getting crafty with what I had in my closet. I must have mistakenly thought that tunics, dresses and oversized blouses made up the majority of my closet because the stark reality is, nothing I own fits. A few trips to my local thrift shop have added some valuable pieces for the rest of my journey, but caving & buying some maternity staples is now a reality I must accept. Luckily, there are some incredible ethically and/or sustainably-made pieces on the market right now that have made the search for fashionable yet mindful maternity clothes much less daunting than I anticipated. Say goodbye to tacky maternity wear and helloooo to tasteful, conscious pieces you will feel good about wearing.
1. tank dress
I desperately asked for maternity brand recommendation on Instagram the day I couldn’t button up my jeans anymore. The ethical company, Storq, was a name that repeatedly popped up from some very helpful mamas. Operating on a direct-to-consumer model, Storq delivers high quality goods for fair prices directly to your door (because who wants to walk around shopping with those swollen feet?!). Soft & breathable fibers make up the fabric used to create their classic pieces, which are designed to be mixed with your pre-pregnancy wardrobe. I love this ribbed tank dress for its’ versatility and comfortability.
Storq Tank Dress | $92
2. knit Lounge Pants
Pregnancy is a time when no one will question if you wear yoga pants for 9+ months. However, what if you could elevate your lounge pants to something a little more fashionable yet just as comfy? A good pair of lounge pants, whether cashmere or knit, will make you feel like you put in more effort when in fact you’re just wearing fancy sweatpants. This ribbed knit pair from maternity-favorite brand, Hatch (many of their items are USA-made!) are an investment piece that you will turn to long after baby is born.
Hatch Knit Irina Pant | $188
3. Nursing-Friendly Tank Top
Repeat after me: basics are your friends when it comes to your maternity wardrobe — especially when said basics will take you on both your pregnancy and nursing journeys. Being able to comfortably grow in a tank top for the duration of your pregnancy is a win. If the same tank top can also give you easy access when it’s time to feed your little one? Mega win. This one from the Swedish company, Boob, has a massive following due to the comfortability of the organic cotton material, as well as the discreetness it provides when nursing. Plus, it’s a fair price point and made responsibly.
Boob Classic Tank Top | $44.95
4. Denim Maternity Jeans
Look, maternity jeans are weird but I’m finding out very quickly that they are also completely necessary, especially if — like me, the majority of your outfits revolve around a good pair of denim. DL 1961’s commitment to sustainability is what initially drew me to them so I was psyched to find that they also stock maternity versions of their popular jeans. DL’s jeans use a significantly lower amount of water in their production than the traditional pair of jeans and also use cellulose fibers which are derived from renewable wood sources to make each pair. If you’re going to get just one pair, the Emma is a safe bet: the mid-rise and full-length skinny jean comes equipped with stretch paneled pockets so you can be comfortable and still on-trend.
Emma Maternity Skinny | $178
5. Maternity Leggings
As I said above, a more elevated lounge pant is definitely necessary but don’t think that’s the only lounge pant I would suggest. A good pair of maternity leggings is a MUST and this pair from my favorite activewear brand, Girlfriend, is practically perfect in every way. With an exaggerated high-rise fit for that expanding belly and a barely-there feel perfect for lounging, it’s truly the only pair you’ll need. I imagine it’s also something you will want on hand post-partum to stay comfortable. As is with all Girlfriend products, the leggings are made out of recycled fishing nets and feel oh, so good on.
6. Linen Lounge set
You may have seen these super-cute linen sets from Australian brand Deiji Studios around Instagram as of late. When I first saw them, I immediately thought about how great a set like this would be for a growing belly. With a soft elastic band and an oversized fit, it can be worn for your months of nesting or even out & about (yes, they are that cute). Made from 100% stone-washed french linen with a cute faux button fly, no one will question why you’re wearing your pajamas out. They may ask you where you got them, though.
7. Flowy Blouse
A flowy blouse that’s the perfect mix of femininity & comfort will be your go-to during this exciting time. The more billowy, the better in my opinion, so I turn to Dôen’s 60’s-inspired cotton blouses every time I meet my girlfriends for mocktails or just want to feel a little sexier. The ethical California brand is also women-operated so you can assure that these cute tops are also nursing-friendly. You won’t want just one, I assure you!
Doen Jane Blouse | $148
What are some other staples that you turned to during pregnancy? Let me know below!
