10 maternity clothing essentials every pregnant woman needs

Don’t underestimate these basic tank tops as you’ll likely live in them all pregnancy long. The extra-long length is ideal for when you’re still transitioning from classic sizes to maternity (and perhaps doing the hair-elastic trick around the top button of your jeans) keeping everything tucked away and concealed. In your third trimester, they’re also useful as they layer under knits and blouses that might be a tad too short.

Sure, your regular leggings will work for a while, but once you find that the pesky waistband keeps rolling down every time you move a maternity style is needed. To avoid any knicker issues, make sure you go with a pair that’s completely opaque or has a thick double-knit.

Whether you go with a solid white shirt, denim or a print, the oversize button-up offers endless options. Try it tucked into a midi-length skirt that showcases the tummy or worn untucked or tied over skinny jeans.

A denim style with a maternity panel with plenty of stretch (look for spandex or elastane on the label) is an essential in your closet. Stick to a classic indigo, dark grey or black to get maximum wear.

When it comes to cozy knits, purchase a size up or opt for a slouchier cut that will allow this basic to easily blend into every outfit you own. Pair with a high-waisted jersey (read: stretchy) pencil skirt or a pair of distressed jeans and sneakers.

Don’t feel like your wardrobe needs to slump just because you’re pregnant—a printed bomber, blazer or loose kimono-style jacket adds major style cred to any basics you’ve got kicking around. Pair with a white tee and jeans or a comfy black dress.

If you feel like wearing nothing but jogging pants, a sweater dress is the next best thing—but miles more stylish. Team with a pair of ankle boots or sneakers with leggings or boyfriend jeans.

This will be your go-to one piece both during and after your pregnancy. Made from a comfy, stretch bamboo and cotton blend, this romper will stylishly stretch over your growing bump, and once you’ve had baby, works great for breastfeeding. Simply style with a scarf, blazer, denim or leather jacket and you’re good to go!

A dress that will grow with you is essential to your wardrobe. A swing, A-line or trapeze silhouette can be belted in your first or second trimester and then worn without a belt as your bump gets bigger. Try layering a turtleneck or fitted blouse underneath or simply add a necklace to switch things up from week to week.

Even if you’re not one to attend a lot of fancy events, the minute you get pregnant something will pop up—who doesn’t want an adorable pregnant lady at their wedding? Invest in one formal dress that has versatility—like this Hatch dress, which has a clasp at the neck that converts it into a v-neck gown. Ideally you can at least change the look with accessories or it can be dressed down with sneakers. Even if you don’t get that invite, you can wear this for those maternity shots you said you’d never do.