Best Maternity Dresses for Summer

checked mark Fact-Checked by Jessie Van Amburg
Updated: April 7, 2023
best summer maternity dresses

Being pregnant in the summer can be rough, no matter where you live. You’re likely already tired, sweaty and uncomfortable — and the summer heat just makes all of that so much worse. Thankfully, there are ways to dress for the weather to stay comfortable and cool without resorting to unflattering muumuus. Enter the summer maternity dress, which is an easy way to stay covered up and cute without too much restriction on your sweaty skin. 

Whether your style leans towards long, flowy sundresses or effortlessly-chic midis, there are a number of maternity dresses that will keep you cool on the hottest days but can easily be paired with a jacket or sweater on cooler ones (should such a thing exist in your typical summer climate). 

How we chose the best maternity summer dresses

  • We turned to the What to Expect community to gather a consensus on brands and specific maternity dresses that moms-to-be have worn and loved.
  • We also used the What to Expect community to determine what features matter most in a summer maternity dress. Per their guidance, all of the dresses on our list are:
    • Reasonably priced ($50 or less, with a few exceptions for special occasion dresses)
    • Available in a range of sizes, colors and patterns
    • Made of breathable material to keep cool on warmer days
    • Machine washable
  • We selected dresses that had overwhelmingly positive reviews regarding fit, comfort and style. 

Other features to look for in summer maternity dresses

In the past, fashionable maternity dresses may have been harder to come by. Today, there’s no shortage of sundresses, T-shirt-dresses and even cocktail dresses that accommodate a growing bump. But when you’re pregnant, it’s not always enough for a dress to look cute — it should be comfortable and functional, too.

Here are a few features to keep an eye out for when looking for a summer maternity dress:

  • Lightweight fabric: When you’re pregnant, the slightest bump in temperature can feel like you’re sitting on the equator, so try opting for breathable fabrics like cotton, rayon or linen.
  • Stretchy material: The best maternity dresses will grow with you, so look for ones that include a bit of spandex or other accommodating materials like cotton. Smocked bodices also allow room for your expanding bump.
  • Double lining: Yes, maternity dresses need to stretch — but you don’t want them to stretch to the point where they’re completely see-through. Double lining is a nice extra feature to have.
  • Nursing-friendly features: If you plan on breastfeeding, look for dresses with v-necks, removable straps, buttons and zippers. This will allow you to wear the dress postpartum and make nursing easier.

Here, the summer maternity dresses to wear that will get you through the hottest months of the year.

Why Trust Us?

Best Plus-Size Maternity Dress

Nemidor Casual Short Sleeve Maxi Dress

nemidor casual loose plus size maxi dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$40
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Has pockets, comes in lots of colors and patterns
Cons: Some people didn't love the fabric, slits might be too high for a shorter person

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Plus-sized maternity wear often looks baggy and shapeless, but this boho dress really hits the mark. It’s available in a wide range of plus sizes, and the maxi-length skirt is balanced out by short sleeves and slits in the skirt to keep you cool. It’s affordable enough where you could buy a few in different colors to rotate throughout the summer. Moms love how flattering and comfortable it is, and how it can be dressed down or up depending on the weather or the occasion. Just note that polyester, while super stretchy, is not particularly breathable, so if you live in a very humid climate, this might not be the dress for you. 

Material: 100 percent polyester

Sizes: 14 Plus - 26 Plus

Community Reviews

“I also found some amazing dresses from Amazon that give me that sexy momma look while being perfect for summer. The store is called Nemidor.” 

- MetalRxe

Best Casual Maternity Dress

Kindred Bravely Eleanora Bamboo Maternity and Nursing Lounge Dress

kindred bravely eleanora dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$45
See Now Nordstrom
Nordstrom
$45
See Now Kindred_Bravely
Kindred Bravely
$46
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Comfortable, has pockets, works for breastfeeding and postpartum wear
Cons: A little pricey for a casual dress

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

WTE moms love Kindred Bravely’s nursing bras and maternity underwear, and the same goes for the brand’s super comfy lounge dress. “Kindred Bravely has really nice stuff. It’s pricey, but they have sales,” shares one WTE mom. The casual T-shirt dress is made from bamboo, which is soft and breathable, and a nursing panel for easy access if you’re breastfeeding. The hemline hits just above the knees, which will help keep you cool even on the hottest days. 

While some of the brand’s products are more expensive than others you’ll find on this list, the quality — plus how seamlessly they transition to postpartum life — make the investment well worth it to many moms. “Kindred Bravely is more expensive but has great maternity to nursing options, and great nursing rompers,” says one mom

Material: 95 percent viscose, 5 percent spandex

Sizes: X-Small - XXL / 1X 

Community Reviews

“I have 2 of these. Comfortable, easy to nurse in, casual.” 

- CafPow

Best Work Maternity Dress

ASOS Closet London Maternity Kimono Wrap Dress

asos closet london kimono maternity shirt dress
Buying Options:
ASOS
ASOS
$114
See Now
Pros: Adjustable tie waist
Cons: Hand wash only, limited color options

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

For a work setting, you might want a dress that sits between casual and formal. This shirt dress hits just below the knees — perfect for any office environment — while structured short sleeves and slim fit give it a bit of style. Moms-to-be particularly like the tie waist; not only does it add extra detail, but it makes it easier to adjust the size of the dress as your belly grows. The beautiful deep navy looks gorgeous on everyone, but it’s also available in black for more formal office environments. The only downside: It’s hand wash only, but that’s common for professional wear.

Material: 100 percent polyester

Sizes: 2-14

Community Reviews

"I am a huge asos fan pregnant or not because they have tall sizes and I am 5’10”. They have free shipping and free return shipping so doesn’t hurt to try."

- chludeman

Best Formal Maternity Dress

Hello MIZ Women's Off Shoulder Maternity Dress

Best Maternity Dresses - Best Formal Maternity Dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$30
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Comes in a range of colors, side ruching accommodates expanding belly
Cons: Shoulder hem can rise up when you move your arms

Why We Love It

Whether you’re attending a wedding or just need a show-stopping dress for an evening event, this Amazon number is an affordable option. While many formal dresses are made of stiffer fabric, moms-to-be praise the dress’s soft, jersey fabric, saying they wore it comfortably for hours. Not to mention the material is stretchy which, when paired with the side ruching, allows the dress to fit to your body at any stage of pregnancy. The off-shoulder design adds a bit of elegance, and the wide color range makes it easy to find a dress that suits your personal style.  

Material: 95 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex

Sizes: S-XL

Best Maternity Maxi Dress

Xpenyo Women’s Casual Maternity Maxi Dress

Best Maternity Dresses -Best Maternity Maxi Dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$37
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Lots of patterns and sizes available, v-neck accommodates growing breasts, plus-size options available
Cons: Taller moms-to-be may find the dress a little too short

Why We Love It

This pullover-style, v-neck maternity maxi dress is as flattering as it is comfy. Some maxis can have a bit of a shapeless style, but this one has an elastic gathering right under the bust. Not only does this provide a bit of shape for the dress, but it also gives your bump room to comfortably grow. The long flared skirt provides some coverage on cooler days, but isn’t so constricting that you’ll be how when the temperature shoots up. Available in dozens of colors and prints, as well as sizes, this dress is perfect for pregnancy and even postpartum. This is due in part to the v-neck, which will make nursing easier for breastfeeding moms. 

Material 95 percent rayon, 5 percent spandex

Sizes: S-5XL

Best Shirt Dress

Amazon Essentials Maternity Short-Sleeve Dress

Best Maternity Dresses - Best Shirt Dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$26
See Now
Pros: Comfortable, snug-fitting
Cons: May be too long for shorter women

Why We Love It

On days you just want to practically live in a t-shirt, this dress is a stylish way to do sos. Though this isn’t specifically a maternity dress, reviewers love the stretch the dress has, whether it’s to accommodate a bump or for those post- pregnancy days when comfort is key. The dress comes in a few print options, but the real magic lies in the neutrals (black, charcoal gray, olive and more) that can be paired with pretty much anything, from a colorful sandal to a shawl or scarf on a chilly summer night.

Material: 95 percent rayon, 5 percent elastane

Sizes: XS-XXL

Best Bodycon Maternity Dress

Rnxrbb Women Summer Sleeveless Maternity Dress

musidora bodycon floral maternity dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$22
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: More than a dozen colors or prints, budget-friendly, breathable
Cons: Some found the material a little thin

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

This stretchy bodycon dress has a flattering ruched style to accommodate your bump while short sleeves and a midi-length skirt will keep you cool throughout the day. The rayon fabric is super soft and breathable, although some moms report that it’s a little thin. But for a fairly low price point, it’s a great, flattering option for many different sized mamas. 

Material: 95 percent rayon, 5 percent spandex 

Sizes: Small - XX-Large (fitting up to size 24)

Community Reviews

"I bought this one from Amazon. The material is a little thin (it was less than $40) but it is soft and looks nice. I'm short so I didn't want a maxi dress (which seems like what most shower/picture dresses are in my search)."

- babyo2022

Best Sleeveless Maternity Dress

AUSELILY Women's Sleeveless Dress

Best Maternity Dresses - Best Sleeveless Maternity Dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$38
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Tons of colors available, super comfortable, comes with pockets
Cons: Short moms-to-be may find the dress a little long

Why We Love It

One problem some people may have with sleeveless dresses is that the arm hole is either so small that the fabric is right under your armpit, or so big that you worry about side boob exposure. But the arm hole on this loose maxi dress is the perfect size. Of course, that’s not the only nice feature. Thanks to the five percent spandex, this dress has enough stretch to accommodate the body changes you’ll experience during and after pregnancy. And another perk: the dress has two deep pockets, perfect for storing car keys and a phone if you’re running a quick errand.  

Material: 95 percent rayon, 5 percent spandex

Sizes: XS-3XL

Best Off the Shoulder Maternity Dress

My Bump Double Layer Maternity Dress

Best Maternity Dresses - Best Off the Shoulder Maternity Dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$36
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Elegant design, four-way stretchy
Cons: Some wish it was a bit longer

Why We Love It

Some off the shoulder tops and dresses are great in theory, but can be lacking when it comes to actual functionality. This budget-friendly Amazon dress has the right amount of elastic to stay securely in place. Also, the eye-catching double-ruffle detail would really pop in maternity photos, and it would be an ideal baby-shower dress as well. Although the dress is designed to be fitted, the four-way stretch makes it comfortable to move in. 

Material: Polyester blend

Sizes: S-XXL

Best Adjustable Maternity Dress

Macie Maternity Dress

Best Maternity Dresses - Best Adjustable Maternity Dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$37
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Several pattern options, bow can be adjusted
Cons: Not lined, some found fabric too stiff

Why We Love It

Some spaghetti straps don’t allow for any adjustments, which can be less than ideal. However, the straps on this maternity dress can be shortened or lengthened depending on your preference. This truly gives you the option to make it a comfortable fit for your desired look and bust size. Also, the tie front can be done as tightly or loosely as you like. One thing to note: don’t be turned off by the buttons in the front. They’re strictly decorative and you don’t have to actually worry about them. Just slip the dress on (there’s a stretch panel in the back) and you’re good to go. 

Material: 98 percent polyester, 2 percent viscose

Sizes : S-XXL 

Best Maternity Jumpsuit

Old Navy Maternity Cropped Halter Wide-Leg Jumpsuit

old navy maternity cropped wide leg jumpsuit
Buying Options:
Old_Navy
Old Navy
$45
See Now
Pros: Light material, tie waist for easy size adjusting
Cons: Limited colors

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Sometimes you want the loose feeling of a dress but the coverage of pants. Enter Old Navy’s jumpsuit. Made of soft, stretchy rayon, the jumpsuit provides plenty of coverage thanks to the cropped wide legs. The halter neckline and sleeveless design will help keep you cool and comfortable, and the ties under the bustline help you adjust the fit for your bump. Although it only comes in two colors — classic black and a bright pink — you can easily add some colorful shoes, jackets and jewelry to liven it up. It doesn’t hurt that WTE moms tend to love all of Old Navy’s maternity clothing, so you know this is a safe bet. 

Material: 93 percent rayon, 7 percent spandex

Sizes: XS-XXL

Community Reviews

“I kept almost every piece of [maternity] clothing I ordered from old navy. Comfortable and flattering.” 



- scs1078

Best Maternity to Nursing Dress

Smallshow Nursing Dress

Best Maternity Dresses - Best Maternity to Nursing Dress
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$25
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Has pockets, longer hem for taller women
Cons: Can run slightly large

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Although v-neck style maternity dresses can be worn as nursing dresses, this Smallshow dress was designed specifically for breastfeeding. The bodice of the dress opens up for easy breastfeeding; no need to pull down on the actual neckline of the dress and risk stretching it out. Instead, the panels make it easy to breastfeed whether you’re on the go or in the comfort of your own home. The dress comes in more than a dozen color options from a solid or printed bodice to a colorful hem that truly adds a bit of flair. 

Material: 93 percent rayon, 7 percent spandex

Sizes: S-XXL

Community Reviews

"I got these dresses. Ordered one and liked it so I bought a few more colors."

- febmarchaprilmay

Best Maternity Dress for Photo Shoots

PinkBlush Lace Mesh Overlay Maxi Dress

Best Maternity Dresses - Best Maternity Dress for Photoshoots
Buying Options:
PinkBlush_Maternity
PinkBlush Maternity
$98
See Now
Pros: High-quality fabric, gorgeous lace detail
Cons: Not as many colors available in plus size

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

PinkBlush is a go-to brand for many in the What to Expect community, and this elegant number is a favorite for maternity photoshoots. Aside from the gorgeous lace detailing, moms-to-be love that the bust and skirt are double-lined, so you don’t have to worry about it being see-through. We particularly love the generous skirt, which leaves plenty of room for your growing bump. The light pink is a particularly flattering color, but the dress also comes in more than 20 other shades.

Material: 100 percent polyester

Sizes: S-XL

Community Reviews

"I love pink blush! If you watch for sales it’s not nearly as expensive, and it’s delivered within like 3 days so you don’t have to wait forever! Every single thing I’ve gotten has been beautiful, and will last me for a long time."

- kristalowe

Best White Maternity Dress

Seraphine White Cotton Embroidered Maternity Sundress

Best Maternity Dresses - Best White Maternity Dress
Buying Options:
Seraphine_Maternity
Seraphine Maternity
$95
See Now
Pros: Stretch-back panel to accommodate your bump, buttons for easier nursing
Cons: More expensive side, limited sizes

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Seraphine is a much loved brand among the WTE community, especially when it comes to their stylish dresses. The cost can be a bit expensive depending on your budget, but commenters have frequently remarked the pieces are so classic, they can be worn through multiple pregnancies. This 100 percent cotton dress is sure to keep you cool on the days you need it the most. It can easily be worn to everything from a fancy dinner to a casual backyard gathering. The colorful embroidery at the hem perfectly compliments the all white look. 

Material: 100 percent cotton

Sizes: 2-14

Community Reviews

"I got a bunch of things from Seraphine. They’re not cheap but most of what I bought is both maternity- and nursing-friendly, so I hope to get a good year, year and a half out of them. I’m so much more comfortable in maternity clothes than I was getting by in just my loosest loungewear. Worth every penny."

- SWC

"I lived in Seraphine maternity clothes during my pregnancy. It’s a UK brand, a bit pricey but great quality, good even after delivery."

- unicorn2607

Best Affordable Maternity Dress

SHEIN Maternity Twist Front Solid Bodycon Dress

Best Maternity Dresses - Best Cheap Maternity Dress
Buying Options:
Shein
Shein
$11
See Now
Pros: Fits true to size, range of colors
Cons: Some customers don’t like the seam that partially runs down the middle

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

While you might think of Shein as the destination for affordable trendy gear, and it is, the retailer also has an entire collection of maternity wear. You’ll find anything from office wear to date night outfits and everything in between. Shopping some budget-friendly sites can be tricky because you’re just not sure of the quality, but the website has tons of in-depth reviews and even customer photos so you can actually see what the pieces look like on a range of bodies and bumps. This twist-front bodycon dress is a fan favorite for the stretch, which makes it wearable throughout trimesters. Though there’s great stretch and the dress is easy on the wallet, the material isn’t sheer. 

Material:95 percent cotton, 5 percent elastane

Sizes: S-XXL

Community Reviews

"if any other mama’s are looking for maternity dresses/clothes, especially cheaper ones - I’d recommend."

- braedynl

"I really enjoy the things I got from Shein! I'm even wearing the maternity dress I got! It took a week or two to get to me, but I didn't mind. They all fit really well and are pretty cute and comfortable."

- ThatRiverStyx

Best Maternity Romper

Coolmee Maternity Scoop Neck Sleeveless Short Jumpsuit

coolmee maternity romper short sleeveless
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$24
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Affordable, comfortable, lots of color options
Cons: Sizing a little confusing, not the most flattering

Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

If you’re looking for something you can just throw on without a lot of effort, you can’t go wrong with a romper. This super casual option is soft and comfy, with lots of room for your bump, and can work well for hanging around the house or even as pajamas. It’s sleeveless and has a drawstring waist to help you adjust the fit to accommodate your bump. Moms just wish it had pockets, and some found the sizing strange. 

Material: 60 percent rayon, 35 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex

Sizes: Small - X-Large

Community Reviews

“I got the cutest maternity romper off Amazon. I loved it! I felt super cute in it even at 9 months pregnant lol.” 

- SLPmomOFthree
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Written by Patrice Williams

Patrice J. Williams is a fashion and travel writer. Her work has appeared in Food & Wine, Travel + Leisure, Essence, CondeNast Traveler, TripSavvy, Essence, and more. Also, she's the creator of Looking Fly on a Dime, a site that encourages women to develop their individual sense of style regardless of their budget. When she’s not busy writing, you can usually find her at a thrift shop or watching DIY videos.