The Bump Boutique summer edit: our fave summer maternity looks for 2022

Shopping for summer maternity clothes can be a challenge, so we’ve wrapped up five of the best looks and pieces to get you through hot days and balmy evenings. 

The classic tee and jeans

A classic t-shirt and jeans go together like coffee and cake. But finding a well-cut tee can be tricky: some are weirdly boxy, and some make you feel like you’re wearing a tent. Others are just waaaay too tight to be comfy in the later stages of your pregnancy. 

We recommend looking for a soft, high-quality jersey tee - something like our Liberty deep V maternity t-shirt. The Liberty has a relaxed drape without giving you the ‘circus tent’ effect, and a boyfriend cut means no side ruching, so you can avoid the clingy feel of some gathered t-shirts. 

Couple it with jeans or jeggings like the Ripe Maternity Rebel jegging: a dark indigo slim cut that fits like your favourite skinny jeans (but with loads more stretch!).

Find flowy tops that skim your bump

The last thing you want on a hot summer day is to be squished by cutting seams and unforgiving fabrics, so look for summer maternity tops featuring loose florals, wear-anywhere neutrals or bold patterns in polyester or rayon.

Loose and light, flowy tops and blouses aren’t restrictive and let your skin breathe on humid days. Our current fave is the boho-inspired Close to the Heart blouse: a stunning leopard-print number that’s fun, funky and comfortable. 

Plus, it doubles as a nursing top so you can get a whole lot of wear out of it even after bubs arrives.

Rock a shirt dress + sneakers

You might think shirt dresses are all stiff crunchy cotton, but styles designed specifically for pregnancy offer extra comfort detailing that will keep you cool, classic and comfy for summer events and get-togethers. 

The Elliot pinstripe maternity dress from Mama Muse is the perfect example of how the right dress can make you look effortlessly stylish, even when you’re feeling heavy and anything but put-together. This shirt dress rocks mother-of-pearl snap closures for easy nursing access, plus the sleeves feature ties so you can roll them up or down to suit your individual style. 

And it has pockets!

Pair your shirt dress with sneakers for laid-back cool, or dress it up with strappy flats and bright statement earrings. 

Maternity maxi dresses

Let’s face it, maxi dresses are pretty damn comfortable with or without a baby on board! 

Look for summer maternity maxi dresses that are long ‘n loose, or styles gather just under your bust line, allowing room for your bump to grow. 

One of our faves is the Ripe Maternity Kourtney halter dress; a strappy maxi style with side splits for easy movement and a flattering bodice. The tropical pastel print is perfect for lakeside lunches. 

Wrap dresses

Wraparound style maternity dresses are the perfect way to make a stylish statement without sacrificing comfort. They are flattering to almost all shapes and sizes, and are easily adjustable, meaning you can loosen the fit to suit how you feel or to accommodate your growing bump. 

For summer, remember to look after your skin when you’re out at the park or the beach: a wrap dress such as the Willow nursing and maternity dress has balloon sleeve detailing making it ideal to cover up sensitive skin during long days in the sun. 

And finally - pair everything with the most comfortable flats you can find! 

Shoes that let your feet breathe such as strappy flat sandals, Birkenstocks or Havaianas will feel like the Best. Thing. Ever. - especially if you’re starting to retain water and find yourself with swollen and puffy feet. 

Choose comfy maternity wear and shoes that are kind to your feet and you’ll always look and feel amazing!