Maternity Clothes: What You Actually Need
Tajinebanane Shirt Dress
Pregnancy is one of life’s most exciting chapters — but shopping for maternity clothes can feel overwhelming. With changing body shapes and so many brands to choose from, it’s easy to overbuy or overspend. The good news? You don’t need to buy everything labelled “maternity.” By investing in a few mid-range staples that grow with your bump and can be worn postpartum, you can stay stylish and comfortable without blowing the budget.
Here’s what you actually need, plus our favourite mid-range brands that combine quality, comfort, and value.
What Maternity Clothes Do You Actually Need?
Before you shop, consider:
The season and due date
Your lifestyle (working from home vs. office)
Postpartum use — Can you wear it after the baby arrives?
1. Everyday Stretchy Trousers or Leggings
A comfortable pair of leggings or wide-leg trousers is worth the investment. Choose breathable fabrics and over-the-bump support.
Beyond Nine – Remi Washed Black Denim Jeans £125
H&M – MAMA Before & After Leggings – from £12.99
M&S - Maternity Leggings – £12.50
2. Two or Three Quality Tops or Vests
Stretchy basics or breastfeeding-friendly designs will last you from bump to baby.
Beyond Nine – Boat Neck Top – from £27.50
TajineBanane – La p’allaite tee– from €49
Seraphine – Maternity & Nursing Vest Top – from £15
3. A Versatile Maternity Dress
Perfect for baby showers, brunches or everyday wear. Look for styles you can breastfeed in too.
Beyond Nine – Winnie Linen Dress– from £145
H&M - MAMA Linen-blend Shirt Dress – from £44.99
Tajinebanane – Mom’made Shirt Dress – from €or 129
4. Maternity/Nursing Bras
Your body changes quickly — opt for soft, wire-free bras with room to grow.
Bravado Designs – Cotton Pullover Maternity & Nursing Bra– from $38
Hotmilk –Heroine Plunge Bra– from £39.99
JoJo Maman Bébé – Natural Nude Emma-Jane Lace Trim Nursing Bra - £25
5. One Smart/Casual Outfit
Whether you’re attending a wedding or just want to feel polished, it’s handy to have one go-to outfit.
Seraphine – Clara Dress – from £89
Isabella Oliver – Cassie Maternity Dress – from £95
Beyond Nine – Ottie Denim Jumpsuit - £139
Smart Shopping Tips (Mid-Range Maternity Wardrobe)
Go for dual-purpose: Choose nursing-friendly tops and dresses so you’re not shopping again postpartum.
Build a capsule wardrobe: Stick to neutral colours, breathable fabrics, and pieces that mix and match.
Buy fewer, better: Investing in a few high-quality items can actually save you money over time.
Try before you buy: Mid-range pieces are usually stocked online only — check return policies for peace of mind.
Best Mid-Range Maternity Brands (That Aren’t Fast Fashion)
UK Mid-Range Maternity Brands Comparison
1. Beyond Nine
Style: Elevated everyday essentials
Price Range: £38–£120
Sustainable? Yes – small-batch, organic cotton
2. Seraphine
Style: Classic & occasionwear
Price Range: £29–£129
Sustainable? Some sustainable fabrics
3. JoJo Maman Bébé
Style: Functional + feminine basics
Price Range: £20–£65
Sustainable? B Corp, charity partner
4. Isabella Oliver
Style: Timeless, sustainable fashion
Price Range: £39–£99
Sustainable? Yes – carbon-neutral, B Corp
5. Tajinebanane
Style: Fun, colourful organic wear
Price Range: £35–£105
Sustainable? Yes – GOTS-certified, ethical
What You Don’t Need (Even at Mid-Range)
Dozens of maternity-specific items
Expensive maternity coats – use a coat extender instead
High heels or structured trousers (save your money for comfort!)
Maternity pyjamas – just size up in soft cotton basics
Final Thought: Invest Where It Counts
Pregnancy isn’t the time for fast fashion fads. Mid-range maternity brands like Beyond Nine, Isabella Oliver, and Tajinebanane offer well-made clothes that will last beyond the bump. By mixing these investment pieces with a few budget basics and second-hand finds, you can create a stylish, sustainable maternity wardrobe that feels like you.
