Best Maternity Sweaters

checked mark Fact-Checked by Haley Jena
Updated: August 30, 2022
Best maternity Sweaters - gray mock neck sweater, brown oversized cardigan, graphic "grow with the flow" sweatshirt

Come fall and winter, everyone craves the comfort of a good ol’ sweater. As your baby bump grows, though, you may find that some of your go-to staples may not fit as well. While you can probably find some oversized options from your closet, you may want to consider snagging a few new picks designed especially for pregnancy to keep you comfy, warm and stylish.

Whether you’re looking for a cardigan, zip up, pullover or dressier sweater, there are plenty of options when it comes to maternity sweaters. Here’s what to keep in mind before you buy.

What to look for in a maternity sweater

Here are a few things to keep in mind while you're shopping:

  • Versatility. When buying any item for your closet, maximizing the ways you can wear it is always key. That can mean a cardigan you can wear to work and to brunch, or a casual graphic sweatshirt that can be dressed up for certain occasions. Versatility is always the way to maximize cost-per-wear, and the same sentiment applies to maternity sweaters. Look for options that can be worn post-baby, and even ones that are nursing friendly (with features like deep necklines or plenty of stretch).
  • Material. Some sweaters can be itchy and completely uncomfortable. No one wants that. That's why finding a maternity sweater that feels great against your skin is crucial. Look for picks constructed with fabrics like cotton and polyester. Steer towards machine-washable materials; that way you can throw them in the washer and not worry about it shrinking or losing its shape over time.
  • Price. It’s always great to find a stylish yet wallet-friendly option. You may wonder if pregnancy-friendly styles are worth the cost, but it’s totally possible to find a maternity sweater that meets your style and budget requirements.

How we chose the best maternity sweaters

There are plenty of maternity sweaters, sweatshirts, cardigans and more to choose from. Here’s how we picked out the very best:

  • We turned to recommendations from other moms-to-be in the What to Expect community to find out which styles and brands worked best for the largest number of people.
  • We searched for highly rated options from tried-and-true, mom-approved retailers known for their quality maternity wear at a range of price points.
  • We made sure to highlight an array of different sweaters, as some moms-to-be may prefer more neutral colors while others appreciate a bold hue and prints. We also looked to feature sweaters available in a variety of sizes.
  • We selected sweaters that were not only fashionable, but practical. We aimed to select options that could work with existing items in your wardrobe, and included picks with nursing-friendly features for post-baby wear, from special nursing flaps to stretchy material that’s easy to pull aside.

As the temperatures drop, consider these maternity sweaters that’ll take you right through the cooler months with a baby on the way.

Why Trust Us?

Best Maternity Cardigan

24 Seven Comfort Apparel Women's Maternity Open-Front Cardigan

24 Seven Comfort Apparel Women's Maternity Open Front Cardigan in black
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$33
See Now Target
Target
$34
See Now Walmart
Walmart
$32
See Now Macy's
Macy's
$63
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Available in many colors, lightweight material
Cons: Can’t be worn by itself

Why We
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Community
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Why We Love It

You’ll love this open-front cardigan. Available in sizes small through 6X, this cardigan comes in eight (!) color options, from neutrals like lack and brown to colorful picks like teal and wine. (Translation: There’s a good option available for nearly every size and style.) The short sleeve has a slight flare, and there’s also some stretch to the material. This makes the long cardigan easy to layer when it’s a bit colder, or simply wear over a tank when the weather warms up.

Material: 100 percent rayon

Sizes available: S-6X

Community Reviews

“I love a few oversized sweaters I bought at target!”

- kathphilly

Most Versatile Sweater

Storq Mama + BB Nursing Cardigan

Best Maternity Sweaters - Storq Maternity Nursing Cardigan in brown
Buying Options:
Storq
Storq
$215
See Now
Pros: Can be worn during pregnancy or postpartum, front can be snapped up for discreet nursing option
Cons: Much more expensive than other sweaters

Why We Love It

Fall pregnancies call for cozy, soft, loose pieces that can easily be layered — and this cardigan from Storq not only fits the bill but also works wonders for the postpartum period. A snap-on front panel allows you to cover up your little one for babywearing once he arrives or to nurse in private. The extra-wide silhouette drapes beautifully and provides extra comfort. It’s one of those pieces that is so stylish and cozy, you’ll want to keep wearing it long after you’re able to wear your baby (a feature all great maternity clothing should have, right?).

Material: 60 percent alpaca, 35 percent nylon, 5 percent wool.

Sizes available: XS-XXL

Best Maternity Sweatshirt

Isabel Maternity Nursing Hooded Swing Maternity Sweatshirt

Isabel Maternity sweatshirt in black with nursing access
Buying Options:
Target
Target
$25
See Now
Pros: Comfortable loose fit, makes nursing easy
Cons: Fabric may pill

Why We
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Why We Love It

Neutrals are great because they can be worn with pretty much anything. But neutral certainly doesn’t have to equate to boring, and this Isabel Maternity sweatshirt is proof of that. It has a swing panel that’s both functional (you use it for nursing after baby arrives) and fashionable, adding a breezy vibe. The pullover style has that classic sweatshirt look, and it has a relaxed feel while still maintaining shape. The neutral colors (black and gray) make it the perfect foundation to dress up or down; a pale purple color is also available.

Material: 67 percent rayon, 30 percent polyester, 3 percent spandex

Sizes available: XS-XXL

Community Reviews

"The Isabel Maternity brand from target has been pretty great."

- brooke217

Best Non-Maternity Maternity Sweater

Zeisca Women's Long Sleeve Cardigan

Zeisca Women's Long Sleeve Cardigan
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$26
See Now
Pros: Amazing color selection, great for postpartum wear, machine washable
Cons: Can pill quickly

Why We
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Why We Love It

While there are plenty of sweaters specifically designed for maternity wear, don’t overlook the non-maternity sweaters, either. These can be great to wear both during and after pregnancy, and this cardigan is the perfect example. It looks great unbuttoned, making it a perfect companion for an expanding belly. Pair it with your favorite fitted tank top and leggings for a casual chic vibe. Of course, it can be buttoned up as well, which would perfectly show off a fitted turtleneck.

Material: 100 percent acrylic

Sizes available: S-XXL

Community Reviews

“I've made it a goal to try getting as many things I'm able to continue wearing post pregnancy as possible. … I like the tight stretchy dresses I already owned pre pregnancy with the open faced cardigans over top...”

- wmp

“I got some cheap maternity tanks on amazon and wear them under my long open sweaters/cardigans that I already had so no need to size up. If it’s really cold where you live you could do this same look with long sleeve maternity tees under the sweaters.”

- ODM16

Best Maternity Hoodie

Seraphine 3-in-1 Maternity Hoodie

Best Maternity Sweaters - Seraphine 3 in 1 Hoodie
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$99
See Now Seraphine_Maternity
Seraphine Maternity
$99
See Now
Registry List:
Pros: Zip-off panel fits over carrier or sling, side pockets
Cons: Less versatile style due to casual look

Why We
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Why We Love It

Hoodie lovers will swear by this zip-up with a soft fleecy inside (ahh!) and built-in thumb holes. It’s built with stretchy side panels, meaning it’ll fit as your bump grows. Once baby arrives, the front of the hoodie easily fits over a carrier or baby sling, making colder weather walks so much cozier. You don’t have to toss it when your baby starts to grow, either — it doesn’t scream “maternity,” so you can get plenty of post-baby seasons out of it. Mom and baby will appreciate the cotton exterior and fleece-like lining.

Material: 78 percent cotton, 22 percent polyester outer; 100 percent cotton hood lining; 95 percent cotton, 5 percent elastane rib

Sizes available: XS-XXL

Community Reviews

“I have kept everything I bought from [Seraphine], fabric, fit and comfort are really great.”

- GreyhoundMom83

Best Graphic Sweatshirt

Motherhood Maternity Grow with the Flow Graphic Maternity Sweatshirt

Motherhood Maternity Grow with the Flow Graphic Maternity Sweatshirt. The sweatshirt has "grow with the flow" written several times in a white groovy font against a blue indigo sweatshirt
Buying Options:
Motherhood_Maternity
Motherhood Maternity
$40
See Now
Pros: Fun message, easily machine washable
Cons: Not great for postpartum nursing

Why We
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Community
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Why We Love It

Sometimes you want a classic, neutral look, and other times you want a more funky graphic style — like this one. Motherhood's “Grow with the Flow” sweatshirt makes a chill statement in a fun way. The silhouette here is decidedly classic, letting the message, groovy font and pretty periwinkle color take center stage.

Material: 95 percent cotton, 5 percent spandex

Sizes available: XS-XL

Community Reviews

"I am only 5’1” and have loved their stuff. Reasonable prices and quality plus they always run sales."

- jules12836

Best Animal Print Sweater

The Nines by Hatch French Terry Maternity Sweatshirt

Best Maternity Sweaters - The Nines by Hatch French Terry Maternity Sweatshirt
Buying Options:
Target
Target
$18
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Pros: Matching sweatpants available, offered in a variety of prints
Cons: Not as easy to dress up as other sweaters

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Why We Love It

For a subdued look that also shows off your personality, there's no better option than this leopard print sweatshirt from Target. The high/low seam means it'll be comfortable throughout the trimesters, and the dolman sleeves make the sweatshirt even more stylish. To top it all off, you can buy matching sweatpants for a full, cozy set. In addition to the leopard print, it’s also available in black or lilac floral prints.

Material: 88 percent cotton, 12 percent polyester

Sizes available: XS-XXL

Community Reviews

“For nicer looking clothes, I’ve been buying from Target’s Nines by Hatch line - they’re very roomy compared to other maternity clothes.”

- atwinmama

Best Quarter-Zip Sweater

Pink Blush Mocha Half Zipper Knit Maternity Sweater

Pink Blush maternity quarter-zip sweater in a beige waffle knit
Buying Options:
PinkBlush_Maternity
PinkBlush Maternity
$48
See Now
Pros: Attractive neutral hues, matches with anything
Cons: Must be hand-washed, not many sizes available

Why We
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Community
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Why We Love It

A quarter zip never goes out of style. This Pink Blush waffle knit maternity sweater, with fun details like pockets and a rounded hemline, is a great closet staple to add to your maternity wardrobe. The sweater has a classic neutral look that you can pair with just about anything, whether that's jeans or leggings. Some say it runs large, so consider sizing down if you want a more fitted look.

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

Sizes available: S-L

Community Reviews

"I have several things from pink blush already. Im picky so it’s been hard to find cute maternity clothes but they’re the cutest I’ve found most places."

- Me777

Best Plus-Size Sweater

Motherhood Maternity Balloon Sleeve Maternity Top

Motherhood Maternity gray sweater with balloon sleeves
Buying Options:
Motherhood_Maternity
Motherhood Maternity
$62
See Now
Pros: Cute balloon sleeves, can be dressed up or down
Cons: Only available in one color

Why We
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Why We Love It

It’s hard to find one thing not to love about this Motherhood Maternity sweater. In addition to the effortlessly chic crewneck, the sleeves have a slight balloon-style just above the cuff. The design is subtle, which is great, because that means it’s easily wearable with items already in your closet. While this is technically a shirt, the material and design gives it the classic look of a sweater, making it a good pick as the seasons change. It can easily be worn as a cozy lounge set with leggings or dressed up with a few accessories like statement earrings or layered necklaces.

Material: 82 percent rayon, 15 percent polyester, 3 percent spandex

Sizes available: 1X-3X

Community Reviews

“I love [Motherhood Maternity]! They have the most comfortable clothing out of all the other places that sell maternity clothing in my opinion.”

- twixtwinsplus1otw

“I LOVE that place! It is the only store I can ever find somewhat ‘cool’ maternity clothes. I always look other places but I ALWAYS end up there! Their sales are amazing.”

- Supajenn

Best Mock Neck Sweater

Motherhood Maternity Button Mock Neck Maternity Sweater

Motherhood Maternity mock neck sweater in gray
Buying Options:
Motherhood_Maternity
Motherhood Maternity
$58
See Now Macy's
Macy's
$58
See Now
Pros: Curved hem, range of sizes, great return policy
Cons: Can run oversized

Why We
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Why We Love It

Motherhood Maternity’s mock neck sweater is high on details without an exorbitant price. The mock neck style is flattering for all figures and one side of the neckline has buttons that contrast perfectly against the sweater’s hue. The flattering cut continues with the length that hits right at the hip. Whether choosing classic gray or the “arabian spice,” this is a sweater that’s sure to get tons of wear. It’s available in sizes XS through XL and 1X through 3X.

Material: 55 percent cotton, 45 percent acrylic

Sizes available: XS-XL, 1X-3X

Community Reviews

“Motherhood maternity is fairly true to size. Order what ever you are pre preg. I end up buying the longer tops so they will still look ok further along.”

- jenlheart

“I have a lot of shirts from there and never had any problems. I love their clothes!!!”

- staycb01

Best Sweater with Built-In Nursing Access

Gap Maternity Side-Zip Nursing Sweatshirt

Gap Maternity Side-Zip Nursing Sweatshirt in white
Buying Options:
Gap
Gap
$55
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Pros: Available in four colors, side zippers for easy nursing
Cons: Largest size is XL

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Why We Love It

This chic yet simple sweater pulls double duty. The athleisure-style crewneck is designed for wear throughout the trimesters, but the side zippers and versatile design will make it perfect for postpartum wear, too. You can unzip the zippers as much as you need as your baby bump grows, as well as for convenient nursing access after baby is born. The cuffed long sleeves elevate the sweater, which would look just as good with bike shorts as it would with jeans. Also nice? It’s available in four understated neutrals: white, fawn beige, saddle brown and black.

Material: 87 percent cotton, 13 percent polyester

Sizes available: XS-XL

Community Reviews

"I’ve had good luck with gap maternity."

- bvv2018

Best Sweater with Lace

Seraphine Pink Layered Maternity to Nursing Knit Jumper with Lace Undershirt

Seraphine Pink Layered Maternity to Nursing Knit Jumper with Lace Undershirt
Buying Options:
Seraphine_Maternity
Seraphine Maternity
$95
See Now
Pros: Great for nursing, a side slit for easier movement
Cons: More expensive than others

Why We
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Community
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Why We Love It

A fun detail here or there can make the difference between a simple sweater and one you love slipping into. That’s certainly true for Seraphine’s sweater that has an adorable lace-like hem on the attached undershirt. (Basically, the shirt does the layering for you.) But don’t think of this extra layer as a burden; it has a fold-down feature for discreet nursing access. The waffle knit adds a bit of fun texture to the look.

Material: 60 percent viscose, 40 percent cotton knit; 100 percent cotton woven; 96 percent viscose, 4 percent elastane interior bodice

Sizes available: XS-XXL

Community Reviews

“I have ordered several items from [Seraphine], I’m buying them on medium which is my pre-pregnancy size and they fit perfectly! Definitely true to size!”

- GreyhoundMom83

Best Colorful Sweater

Asos Maternity Oversized Crew Neck Sweater

Asos Design Maternity Oversized Crew Neck Sweater in lilac
Buying Options:
ASOS
ASOS
$40
See Now
Pros: Soft material, pretty color, machine washable
Cons: Some sizes can sell out

Why We
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Why We Love It

For a truly standout style, this lilac knit sweater from Asos is a winner. The color is distinctive and has a luxe look, even though the price tag is easier on the wallet compared to picks at some other retailers. The sweater is made from a chunky knit, with drop shoulders that give it some flair.

Material: 65 percent acrylic, 21 percent polyamide, 14 percent polyester

Sizes available: 2-16

Community Reviews

“Quality is always great. Their return policy is amaaaaazing and so easy!”

- pizzapizza18

Best Maternity Tunic

LaClef Long Sleeve Sweater Knit Maternity Tunic

Best Maternity Sweaters - LaClef Long Sleeve Maternity Tunic in black
Buying Options:
Amazon
Amazon
$25
See Now
Pros: Super soft, can be easily dressed up or down
Cons: May be too long for some moms-to-be, only available in S-XL

Why We Love It

There’s something about winter white that gives your outfit added style points. This elegant maternity tunic is a perfect blend of trendy and comfy. The cashmere-like knit fabric and side ruching give it an effotlessly chic feel that’ll jazz up any excursion. Lots of reviewers love that the sweater extends to the upper thigh, which they say make it a great choice to wear wiith leggings (hellow, comfort and style!).

Material: 82 percent rayon, 13 percent polyester, 6 percent spandex

Sizes available: S-XL

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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.