Our reviewers evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.
It's an exciting time! Are you feeling tempted to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe? That's perfectly okay: you want to be cute and comfortable for the next 8-9 months, and what better excuse to go shopping? Even if this isn't your first pregnancy, there's nothing wrong with refreshing what you have or getting something new - after all, the elastic on what you wore before is probably done for, and there might be a new style out there since the last time.
Still, when buying your wardrobe, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure that you are comfortable and well-dressed during (and after) your pregnancy. First, consider the fit of the clothing. Maternity clothing should be designed to accommodate your growing belly, so make sure to choose pieces that fit comfortably and don't feel too tight or restrictive. Look for clothing that is made with stretchy, breathable fabrics such as cotton or bamboo, which will help keep you cool and comfy.
Friday, January 17th
Despite being a large department store that doesn't exactly specialize in maternity clothing, Nordstrom's selection of apparel for expectant and nursing mamas might just surprise you. You'll find over 1,400 items that could be the perfect way to build out your wardrobe, whether you want the top designer brands or just some affordable foundation pieces - or a mix of both.
Everything from designer to dependable
In fact, you'll find many of the brands we've reviewed separately in Nordstrom's inventory, across a broad spectrum of clothing types. Whether you need a glam dress for a special occasion or some basic underwear to keep you comfortable, you'll have no trouble getting it here.
Free shipping and returns on all orders
You may even want to consider buying those brands from Nordstrom instead of directly from the retailer, because this store offers free shipping and returns on all purchases. And, because Nordstrom has retail locations nationwide, you may even be able to pick up your item at a store near you if you're in a hurry - just change the option on the product page from "free shipping” to "free pickup”, make sure the correct store is selected, and then you'll see pickup availability once you've chosen the size of the maternity wear you're looking at.
Get fancy if you like
For fun, we looked at the "All Maternity” option and sorted the results from most to least expensive. Curious what the most expensive items are at Nordstrom? Skipping the YSL Cowl Back Ruched Jersey top that definitely didn't seem to be modeled by an expectant mama (and priced at a jaw-dropping $1,990), we spotted two Tiffany Rose Maternity Gowns priced from $555-$630 and an Emilia George Faux Fur Maternity Coat for $545.
Use filters for easy shopping
Not what you need? No problem. Just click on the category you've got in mind, like Activewear or Jackets & Coats and go from there. Use the filters to narrow down the results by the specific type of maternity clothing you have in mind, such as Jumpsuits & Rompers, Shirts, or Bras. The thumbnail images and info in the resulting list will show you if there are any color or pattern options, the price, and if the item has any customer ratings.
Style ideas for complete fits
Once you've clicked on a piece of clothing, be sure to check out the Style Ideas towards the bottom of the page. For example, on a Ballet Neck Long Sleeve Maternity Tunic we really liked, there was one set of suggestions for a Ladies' Night theme (with leather-style Preggo Leggings, some cute shoes, even a cosmetics recommendation) and another for a more casual Relax Now vibe (with comfy maternity jeans, a jacket, ballet flats and some hoops to finish the look).
Something for every size
Size options at Nordstrom are decent, ranging from XXS to XXL+. You can find what's available in your size most quickly by using the filters. For example, in the Maternity 18+/XXL+ size for Shirts, there were 22 options at the time of this evaluation: not the broadest inventory we've ever seen, but still a good range of cute, comfortable, and stylish designs.
Customer service at the ready
Looking at the customer reviews is a great way to get insights on any maternity clothing you're considering here, but not every product has many to read. You can always click on the "Chat Now” button if you need Nordstrom's product recommendations, customer service help, or even free style advice. That's one of the advantages of shopping with a major department store.
#1 pick for maternity clothes
Nordstrom offers the best selection of maternity clothing we've found, from wardrobe essentials to special occasion stunners. And who doesn't like free shipping and returns? There's no need to visit a maternity specialty store when Nordstrom gives you everything you need in just a few clicks. This is our first choice when shopping for maternity clothes online.
Storq is an online maternity clothing store you can feel good about. Not only are they committed to sustainability in their manufacturing, but they place a high priority on thoughtful design and product lifestyle - so that you can buy a few essential pieces that will last your entire pregnancy and beyond.
The hugs are free
With their customers in mind, Storq puts it this way: "the truth is that you really don't need to replace everything in your wardrobe when you become pregnant. We're here to fill the gaps, solve acute problems, and just generally make the hard parts easier.” Doesn't that feel like the big hug you need right now?
Check out the Basics Bundle
Storq's most popular item is the Maternity Basics Bundle, described as "4 perfect, form-fitting wardrobe essentials that will become your go-to base layer for pregnancy and postpartum”. It includes the Everlasting Tank Dress in black, Signature Leggings in black, Pencil Skirt in black, and Daily Tank in white. Priced at $250, you'll save $32 over what you'd spend if you bought each piece individually. And, with Storq's sizing ranging from XS to 4X, this maternity capsule wardrobe is suitable for literally every expectant mom.
Quality over quantity
There's plenty more to choose from here, from intimates and loungewear to traditional tops, bottoms and dresses. Just don't expect to find hundreds and hundreds of pieces to consider: Storq specializes in foundational clothing in several different colors and patterns, with the idea that quality is more important than quantity. For example, in the Tops category, there are only 13 options; Bottoms consists of just 11, and you get the idea. But, each of those usually comes in multiple designs: signature bike shorts give you some solids and some patterns, and ditto that for the signature leggings, classic pencil skirt, and so on.
Store credit > refund
Shipping here is free if your order total is over $75. And returns? Storq's policy has some ins-and-outs you should be aware of. You've got 30 days from your order date, not your package delivery date, to return your items. You'll pay a $7.95 shipping and return fee if you mail it back, or a $4.95 return fee if you take it to an in-person Happy Returns location (which, at least in most areas, will typically be at a well-known retailer like Ulta or Cost Plus World Market). However, if you are exchanging your maternity wear or you're willing to take a store credit, your return will be free - and you'll get an extra $10 in store credit if you choose that over a refund. That's a lot to remember.
Soft and comfortable as promised
For the most part, moms-to-be love what they get from Storq. Over 1,250+ shopper reviews, the maternity clothing here averages 4.6 stars out of 5, and the most commonly-used adjectives to describe it are "soft” and "comfortable” - just as advertised. People also say that it lives up to expectations for longevity, with lots of mamas wearing their Storq pieces well into the postpartum period and saying that they held up perfectly for use the next time they're pregnant. A few people report sizing issues, but fortunately Storq's customer support team is right there to process returns and exchanges or to offer suggestions for a better fit.
Definitely a winner
What do you really need for your maternity clothing? A few foundational pieces may be all that's necessary to bridge the gap between your current wardrobe and your new mama self, and Storq's got you well-covered there. Is this the place to shop for your babymoon swimsuit or your bridesmaid's dress? Maybe not, but for everything else, Storq should be at the top of your list. This is one of our absolute favorite online maternity clothing stores.
Motherhood has been one of the most recognizable brands in maternity wear since 1982. Although they discontinued their brick-and-mortar presence in 2019, you can still find their expansive selection via their online store, with options for everything from the first trimester of pregnancy to the postpartum transition.
Smooth shopping experience
It doesn't get much easier than this to find what you need. Use the dropdowns at the top of the site to shop by Bras & Intimates, Clothing, Baby, Beauty & Wellness, Brands We Love, or see what's on offer in the Sale category. One of our favorite options is to start with the Shop By Need section. Want to build out your hospital bag? Struggling to manage sweating and swelling? Trying to anticipate what you'll need for feeding and pumping? Those are just a few of the areas Motherhood can help you with under that dropdown.
Filters make it fast to find what you need
Within each category, it's really quick to sort the options. Choose from belly style (like under belly, over belly, fold overs), size, or product type - or click the filter button to get even more specific about the price, color, designer, and more.
Best for casualwear
Most of what Motherhood has to offer for clothing tends to be on the casual side: lots of knit tops, cute bottoms, you get the idea. There are about 150 options for tops, the same number for bottoms, and so on. But, if you're looking to build out a work wardrobe that needs to be more business formal, you might not find as many options here.
Ample product info
We like that many of the options carried by Motherhood come with customer reviews. What better way to find out how something fits in real life? One of their most popular items is the Essential Stretch Secret Fit Belly Maternity Leggings, available in both black and navy in sizes ranging from XS to XL. Across more than 1,100 ratings, these leggings average a respectable 4.1 out of 5 stars. There's plenty of information on the product page, from the inseam length to washing instructions, plus a fun Build Your Look section with recommended tops, intimates, and even a jacket to go along with the leggings.
Lots of ways to save
When we visited the Motherhood site most recently, there was a pop-up offering a 15% discount if we signed up with our email address and due date. If you don't spot that as you browse, just look for the little "Want 15% Off?” that also seems to float around the site too. And, don't forget to look at the top of the site for any discounts that might be live during your online shopping trip: at the time of this review, there was a code for 20% off on all orders, big sales on leggings and panties, and 80% off on the Outlet section of the store.
Check out the perks
Another feature of Motherhood that you'll love is the Preggie Perks program (say THAT ten times fast). You'll get unique offers from the top maternity brands, big discounts on products and services, a chance to win a gift bag with product samples, and so on. It's not a rewards program - you won't earn points on purchases or anything like that - but it's free to join and could get you some nice discounts on items you're already planning to buy. And who doesn't like free samples?
Free shipping on $99+, free 30-day returns
Motherhood will give you free shipping on all orders of $99+, and you won't pay any fees to return orders within the given 30-day timeframe. That's an improvement since the last time we evaluated this maternity clothing retailer: they used to make you pay a whopping $11.95 for return shipping fees. Just be aware that your returns need to be unworn and have the original tags or tickets attached, in order to be eligible for a refund.
A maternity store you can rely on
Despite closing down its retail shops, Motherhood is still a great place to shop for maternity clothes online (and even offers some benefits that its sister brand, A Pea in the Pod, doesn't). There are a couple of stores we prefer over this one, but overall Motherhood has you covered for your maternity wardrobe needs.
Kohl's opened its first department store in Brookfield, Wisconsin back in 1962. Although this retailer definitely has its biggest presence in the Midwest, the company now has over 1100 brick-and-mortar stores from coast to coast. And, of course, you can always take advantage of Kohl's best selection by shopping through the online store.
Solid range of maternity apparel types
With respect to maternity clothing, the selection at Kohl's is decent. At the time of our most recent shopping trip to the site, there were just over 250 pieces to choose from, ranging from tops and bottoms to intimates and nursing wear. You could easily browse everything if you've got some time, or use the filters to shop by size or size range, belly fit, brand, price, category, and so on. Kohl's maternity clothing is mostly casual-style, but you can find a few dressier pieces (like blouses and skirts) if you need them.
Stock up on what fits
An advantage to shopping at Kohl's is the range of colors for popular staple pieces in your maternity wardrobe. It can be hard finding things that fit you just the way you want, so when you find something that keeps you cute and comfortable, why not get it in several different shades? As you browse Kohl's inventory, it's easy to see the range of hues on offer right in the image previews - and click the plus sign to see even more choices.
Frequent sales and promos
It's also a breeze to see any available savings, listed right below the price. As with any purchase at Kohl's, you might want to wait until there's a sale in place because retail prices tend to be on the high side. Fortunately, it seems like this retailer almost always has a promo going, from frequent sales to Buy-One-Get-One deals. And don't forget the Kohl's Cash, where you can earn $10 in merchandise credit for every $50 you spend: that tends to be offered during the holidays and other big shopping seasons.
Plenty of info to help you decide
When you've found some maternity clothing you like, click on it to see everything there is to know. Is it available for purchase online for free delivery to a store near you? Interested in the care instructions? Have a question? You'll get all of that and then some. We also really appreciate how Kohl's offers multiple photo angles of their maternity wear, using a range of models that represent what women actually look like during and after pregnancy (hello, stretch marks and linea nigra! You're beautiful and worth it!).
Rely on other shoppers' reviews
Don't forget to take a look at the shopper reviews on the various maternity pieces sold here. This is a popular store, so many items have plenty of customer commentary. For example, Kohl's most highly-rated product in the maternity category is actually the Bravado Designs Body Silk Seamless Nursing Bra, with over 2,300 ratings averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars. For every product, Kohl's lets people indicate if it runs small or large (or just right), rate the quality from poor to excellent, and evaluate the overall comfort.
Generous shipping and return policies
Shipping at Kohl's is usually free if your order is at least $49. You can also get free ship-to-store on most items, regardless of your order total. Kohl's has a generous return policy: you have 180 days from the original date of purchase to get a refund, with or without the original receipt. If you've got a Kohl's near you, that's your best bet for returning an online order, since they won't pay for the shipping fees to send it back.
Fabulous for your maternity basics
Overall, Kohl's isn't a bad place to look for your maternity wardrobe basics. If you're able to shop during a good sale, you could really build out everything you need for your whole pregnancy and even after, with lots of color choices for your favorite fits. And, with convenient in-store returns for online purchases if you prefer, you'll definitely want to consider Kohl's if you've got one near you. You might not find absolutely everything you want for your maternity clothes here, but it's a good way to get started.
PinkBlush offers affordable and trendy maternity clothes for just about every possible need and occasion. Going on a "babymoon”? Need something super-cute for your gender reveal photo shoot? A dress perfect for that wedding you're attending? You'll find all of that and more here.
Super-easy to shop here
This maternity clothing store couldn't be easier to shop. You can use the dropdowns at the top of the site to quickly go to the category you're looking for, or go to the New section to see collections (like vacation/resortwear or wedding guest dresses), seasonal suggestions (like Valentine-themed shirts or Christmas party outfits), or check out As Seen On to see what PinkBlush fits people are posting to their social media accounts.
No problem finding out all the details
It's also easy to see what color options are available for each piece of clothing as you browse a category, and to click the little heart to mark anything you love as a favorite. When you select something to see in detail, you can see how it tends to fit (whether it runs large, small, or true to size), the model stats for comparison, and a section for similar styles to consider. PinkBlush allows for customer reviews on their maternity clothing, but most of the items we looked at didn't have many (or any at all).
Hooray for petite, tall, and plus sizing
One thing we really love about PinkBlush is their attention to customers who may not fit into the traditional small-medium-large sizes. This retailer offers "petite-friendly”, "tall-friendly”, and plus sizes, all in the same cute-and-trendy designs featured in the standard sizes. And, it's not just a handful of options: there are hundreds of choices for dresses, tops, bottoms, even swimsuits. Kudos to PinkBlush for acknowledging that women come in all shapes and sizes, and every one of them deserves to feel comfortable and beautiful as she waits for her baby to arrive.
Even more affordable with codes and sales
You won't spend a ton to get your maternity clothing from this retailer, but it's not the least expensive either. For example, most tops run anywhere from $30 to $50, dresses from $40 to $100+, and so on. Want to save a little money? Visiting the PinkBlush site recently, we got a 25% discount offer if we entered our email address. There was also a coupon code at the top of the site, no email required, if we wanted to save 30% on dresses or 20% on all tops and bottoms. The next day, that coupon code changed to offer 40% off on one item or 20% off sitewide - so it seems like there's always some kind of deal happening here.
Shipping and returns are just average
How about shipping and returns? You'll get free shipping if your order is over $100; otherwise, expect fees of $6.95. On the returns side, you'll pay a $5 postage fee for sending back your order by mail. However, PinkBlush has the option of taking your items to a "Return Bar”: you can only see that list of locations once you've made your purchase, but as long as you don't live in a super-rural area, there should be one near you. Returns can be made within 30 days of purchase.
Expectant mamas mostly love what they get here
Shopper feedback for PinkBlush is mixed. It seems like you'll either love what you get or hate it. While some shoppers talk about how perfectly their maternity clothing fits and feels, others complain that the material can be see-through and it feels like you're wearing sandpaper. It's hard to reconcile such wildly-different reviews for PinkBlush maternity wear. Still, across more than 1400 customer ratings, this maternity clothing store averages a respectable 4.3 stars out of 5.
A solid place to shop for maternity wear
You'll really like the on-trend, ample inventory at PinkBlush, especially if you're in a harder-to-find size and can't find anything comfortable at other stores. Because of the comments about fabric quality and sizing, we'd recommend avoiding any of PinkBlush's "final sale” items (usually in the Clearance section) so that you can take advantage of the return policy if needed. While there are some maternity clothing stores we like a bit more, PinkBlush is still worth a look - especially if you want outfits that aren't outdated and ugly.
Old Navy is a staple retailer found in many strip malls and shopping centers. Their maternity clothing is best described as "cute and comfortable”, with plenty of options for casualwear and some selections that could be suitable for a relaxed work environment (no power suits for a courtroom here). The company is part of the brand family that includes Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta.
Better for maternity than its sister store, Gap
Compared with sister brand Gap, Old Navy offers a wider selection of maternity clothing. For example, Old Navy carries both nursing and maternity bras, underwear, and more options like blouses and slacks that would be suitable for a business casual work environment. If you're really committed to the brand family - maybe you're already a Rewards member and want to use your benefits across stores - you'd probably want to start with Old Navy and then shop Gap for anything you didn't spot at the first retailer.
Well-rounded for maternity basics
In general, Old Navy's maternity clothing gives you everything you need for your day-to-day essentials. Categories include Nursing, Dresses, Tops, Pajamas & Loungewear, Jeans, Bras & Underwear, Leggings, and Activewear. You can also shop by trimester or browse what's on sale. As you shop, make sure to toggle the setting for in-store pickup if there's an Old Navy near you, so that you can order online and then get your purchase at your local store. You can also apply filters to narrow down your results by size, color, price, or any other applicable criteria (like neckline or sleeve lengths when you're shopping for tops).
Find your "match” here
Especially when it comes to tops, Old Navy is where you'll find the really matchy-matchy or cutesy stuff. For example, you can buy a nursing shirt that says "Full of Love” and get a matching baby bodysuit that says "Made with Love”, plus plenty of maternity shirts with all the sayings (like "Oh Boy!”, "Yeah Baby”, you get the idea). It's not all they have - you can always get the solids and patterns here - but it's a good place to look if that's your vibe.
Lots to consider info-wise
When you click on an image of a piece of clothing you like, you'll be taken to the product page that has a lot more information: reviews from customers, available sizes and colors, and so forth. We wish more of that were displayed on the results list, so that shoppers could tell at a glance which items come in more color options, which ones have good ratings from customers, and so on. We do like that, under the Fit & Sizing section, it tells you the size of the model in the photo so you can better gauge how it might fit you or which size you should consider.
Click to save with codes
Be sure to take advantage of Old Navy's ways to save. We spotted several coupon codes at the bottom of the page, like 30% off our total order. Best of all, we only had to click to apply the code to our cart: no email sign-up or anything else required. That discount was also reflected in the item pricing as we browsed the online store.
Shipping and returns are fairly standard
All of the stores in the Old Navy family have the same just-average return policy of 30 days from the shipping date. They'll provide the return label at no cost, or you can return your order to a retail store if there's one convenient to you. You'll also have to be a part of the Rewards program if you want your shipping to be free, and even at that you'll need to spend at least $50 to be eligible. Shopping online and then picking up in store is one way to get your item with no shipping fees, though, especially if you're not in the Rewards program or you're not going to hit the minimum spend.
Not bad for your basic maternity wardrobe
Old Navy is no specialist in maternity clothing, but it's a solid way to start getting some of your essentials or to get ready for your next stage (and size) of pregnancy or nursing. There are a few rival stores whose selection we like a little better, but don't hesitate to make your purchase here if you find something you like.
The slogan "Clean, confident, modern, and essential aesthetic” is how Gap describes its selection of maternity clothes. From t-shirts and jeans to dresses and outerwear, you'll find something here that works for you. In business since 1969 and with hundreds of retail locations worldwide, Gap remains one of the most well-known retail clothing brands around. Gap is also partnered with Old Navy, Athleta, and Banana Republic.
Don't miss the savings opportunities
When we visited the Gap store, we got an offer to save 25% if we provided our email address. But, the fine print said that it would only apply to regular-price items, so keep that in mind if you get the same pop-up when you shop. We also got a pop-up at the bottom of the page letting us know what offers were in place, and those were pretty compelling: 40% off regular price styles and several other coupon codes, and all we had to do was click on them to apply. Be sure to watch for those if you want to save.
Pick a category to start shopping
To get started on the Gap store, you'll need to choose a maternity clothing category. These include:
If you've just barely found out you're expecting and have no idea what you're going to need, we recommend beginning with the Starter Styles section. With 75 items to consider, broken down into categories like The Modern T-Shirt and The Knit Dress, it's a super-easy way to create a wardrobe full of stylish-yet-comfy basics (although we could definitely live without the Maternity Button-Front Terry Jumpsuit we found at the bottom of this section. Talk about making it hard to use the bathroom quickly!).
Could be a little more upfront
Otherwise, click on the type of maternity clothes you're looking for and go from there. We wish that Gap made it easier to see product details on the results pages, like options for different colors or average customer rating. You can find that once you click on an individual piece you like, but it would be more helpful to see that upfront.
Clean and classic styles for home or office
There's a good selection of maternity wear, mostly in solids or stripes and no obnoxious floral patterns that you wouldn't want to be seen wearing in public. Gap's style range stays true to its goals of being clean and modern. One plus is that there are some options here if you still have to dress professionally; specifically in the Dresses category, we found quite a few pieces that would be suitable for the office (though we're not sure why a one-piece and overalls were included in that category).
No undies
One "gap” we found in the inventory here: underwear. Although you can find a good selection of nursing bras and tops, there's absolutely nothing for your lower half in the intimates department. That keeps this retailer from being the one-stop shop for your maternity basics you might have been hoping for.
Free rewards program = free shipping on $50+
You may want to sign up for the free Rewards program here. It gets you free shipping if your order is at least $50, and it applies across the whole brand family (Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Athleta). It's free to join, and depending on how much you spend each year (or if you have one of the stores' branded credit cards), you'll earn different rewards.
Nothing noteworthy in shipping and returns
The return policy at Gap isn't particularly generous: you'll have 30 days from the ship date of your online order to send back your items (but at least they'll provide a free return label). You can also return your purchase to a Gap retail store, as long as it wasn't marked as "Mail Only” at the time of your order, or purchased from a third-party seller.
Good but not great
Gap is good but not great when it comes to buying maternity clothing. They've got a decent selection of staple pieces (minus underwear), and you could get some shopping done for the baby or the rest of the family while you're at it. But, there's room for improvement: maybe this is being a little picky, but Gap could do a better job of showing models of all body types. Many of their competitors show pregnant and postpartum women in all their glory, stretch marks and all, while the Gap models just left us feeling a little bit insecure about ourselves by comparison. If you find clothing you love here, go for it. But, you might want to see what some of Gap's rivals have too, before you click that "submit my order” button.
Ingrid + Isabel invented the first belly band, letting you "shop what's in your closet” by using the stretchy fabric to extend the time you can wear your regular jeans (holding them up while keeping them unbuttoned/unzipped). They incorporate that versatility into most of their maternity clothing, so that you've got pieces that can be worn before, during, and after your pregnancy. Plus, besides being a mom-founded company, 70% of the brands Ingrid + Isabel carries are female-founded too.
Lots of styles, not lots of sizes
The styles here are definitely appealing, with options for both classic looks and on-trend fits. Still, we'd say that the selection at Ingrid + Isabel is good but not great. There are a lot of clothing categories to choose from, which we love: you can get your intimates, pajamas, work- and workout-wear, and everything else you could need all in one place... in theory. But, as you start to look at individual pieces you like, you'll soon see that sizing doesn't go beyond the XS-XL range - and even then, many of those sizes were out of stock on basic items. For example, if you need that Adjustable Waist Ponte Blazer for the office, you'd better be an XS and want it in black only.
Some brands don't qualify for discounts
You can save 15% on your order if you sign up for Ingrid + Isabel's emailing list. Just look for the pop-up when you first visit the site, or go to the "Let's Be Friends” section at the bottom of any page. Be aware that your discount may only apply to Ingrid + Isabel branded items; many of the other labels featured on this site are excluded from all promotions and discounts (but you'll see that clearly labeled, even when you're just browsing a clothing category). At least there was a promo offering a pair of free leggings with any purchase during our last visit.
Stick with the Bellaband if you're on a budget
You're going to want that savings, because Ingrid + Isabel's maternity clothing isn't cheap. Expect to pay about $78 for a classic button-up shirt, $90+ for a dress or jumpsuit, even $50 for a pair of shorts. Fortunately, the Bellaband is available for just $28 and might help you hold out just a little longer before you shell out the big bucks for maternity-specific pieces here.
Not very generous when it comes to shipping/returns
Maybe it's nitpicky, but we don't love the shipping and returns here. It doesn't matter how much or how little you order, you'll be paying $10 for shipping. You've got 30 days from your package's delivery date to postmark your return, but unless you take it as a store credit or e-gift card, you'll pay a $10 restocking fee when the refund posts to your original form of payment. You also cover the return shipping costs if you're not getting store credit or exchanging the item for a different size/color. Fine, then.
Limited reviews for the store itself
There's not a ton of shopper feedback to take into account for Ingrid + Isabel. You can go to the RTWX link at the top of the site to see customer reviews on specific items (over 2,200 of them), but many individual pieces don't have any ratings to go by. We also couldn't find much commentary about Ingrid + Isabel's customer service. Are they quick with those returns and refunds we mentioned? We'd like to think so, and we appreciate that they offer both email and toll-free phone support, but there just wasn't a lot of buzz about the overall shopping experience.
Just average in many ways
Ingrid + Isabel comes in "just average” among retailers of maternity clothing. The Bellaband is a fantastic way to get more use out of what you already own, and we can get behind a brand that supports women-owned business (especially in a woman-centric product category like this one). However, the selection and pricing probably won't impress you, and the shipping and returns aren't as customer-friendly as most of this retailer's rivals. Keep Ingrid + Isabel as an option to consider but shop our higher-ranked maternity clothing stores first.
Seraphine was founded in 2002 to provide "innovative maternity and nursing designs that empower you to feel comfortable and confident in your changing body”. This UK-based brand is beloved of celebrities and civilians alike, and offers styles you might not easily find elsewhere.
Maternity wear for royalty?!
One fun way to shop at Seraphine is by Celebrity Style. We found that under the "Why Shop With Us?” link. After all this is the preferred maternity brand of the Duchess of Cambridge. They don't necessarily come out and tell you which famous expecting mama wore the pieces you'll find in the Celebrity Style section, but if it was a British A-lister, you might find it here.
Fantastic inventory
Otherwise, you can shop Seraphine in the usual way: by clothing category, such as outerwear, essentials, and so on. This is also one of the only maternity clothing stores we've found that has formal dresses, if you've got a special occasion like a wedding coming up. Across all categories, there's a lot to choose from here: almost 500 different pieces.
Even dads get love here
We were almost giddy with excitement seeing some of Seraphine's more novel maternity options - because they even include dads. Experts say it's important for them to participate in the skin-to-skin contact for bonding in the early days, and there are several apparel possibilities here that make that happen for either parent. There are also some fantastic convertible jackets that can be used for babywearing in colder weather: some for the non-pregnant partner, and some that can accommodate an expanding belly and then be used to keep mama and baby warm later. Love!
You could spend a little or a lot
Pricing is all over the place at this retailer. On the one hand, you could pay a really reasonable $59 for a short-sleeved maternity and nursing dress - or $125 for a pair of navy blue maternity pants that don't seem to have any reason for being so expensive (other than the fact that they're suitable for partnering with a blazer). Even the staples can be spendy here, like $85 for a twin pack of maternity/nursing tank tops.
Can you spot the discount?
When you first browse over to the Seraphine site, you might get a pop-up offer. We were asked to indicate if we're expecting, already had our baby, gifting, or interested in everything - then, if we entered our email address and first name, we would get a 10% discount on our first order. There was also a discount code for 10% at the top of the site during our visit, so watch for a promo like that if you'd rather not get on the retailer's mailing list.
Returns are free but shipping isn't
There's no free shipping here: you'll pay a delivery charge of $6.95 on every order. On the other hand, we were glad to see that Seraphine offers free returns on US orders, even though they're based in the UK. Just click on the Returns page and click the link to start the process. You've got 30 days from the date of delivery to send your maternity clothing back.
Shopper feedback is love/hate
Customer sentiment towards Seraphine is mixed. If your order gets to you on time and your clothing lasts as long as you expect it to, you'll probably love this retailer. On the other hand, if your order arrives late (or doesn't come at all), a seam splits or a jacket toggle falls off after just a wear or two, or you have any other issue requiring help from the Seraphine team, you might wind up disappointed. Across 6,600+ customer ratings, the store earned an average of just 3.3 stars out of 5.
Not taking any calls
At the time of this evaluation, the site had removed the customer service phone number with this disclaimer: "we are currently experiencing a high volume of customer service queries due to problems with our delivery partners”. Hmmm. Not that most US shoppers would be making an international phone call anyway, but it's telling that it's not an option either way.
Customer service needs some work
We really wanted to give Seraphine a high ranking. There's a ton of variety in the maternity clothing they carry, and it's remarkably forward-thinking to include options for dads in the mix. However, some shoppers wind up really unhappy here, and if you're paying higher-than-average prices for your maternity wear, it's reasonable to expect better-than-average service - which Seraphine seems to fail to deliver. That keeps this retailer from earning a better spot among its rivals.
A Pea in the Pod used to be one of the most well-known brick-and-mortar maternity retailers, with cute and classy styles for most moms-to-be. You'll still see plenty of maternity clothing just like that in their online store. And, don't be surprised if you see some features in common with Motherhood here: the two brands are owned by the same parent company, after all. But, one advantage is that this store went back to offering a small number of retail locations (in Chicago and NYC) in 2021 -though most shoppers will still use the online shop instead.
Everything from workwear to night-out fits
A Pea in the Pod offers a wider range of maternity clothing types than many of its rivals in the industry. For example, you have your choice of regular or designer maternity jeans, dresses ranging from casual to wear-to-work and designer, and so on. Just for laughs, we clicked on "Show All Maternity” and found a fun-to-browse inventory of over 350 options, all sortable by clothing type, designer/brand, size, fabric, and more.
You choose: bargain or luxury?
If you choose this store's branded maternity wear, you'll find prices to be on par with most retailers'. We found a bunch of Luxe Side Ruched tees for just $14.99-$22 (on sale), tanks for $15 (also on sale), blouses from sister brand Maternity for under $40, and so on. But, if you're going for designer brands like Pietro Brunelli, Frame, or Paige, expect to pay over $200 per item.
Disappointing inventory for larger sizes
One area where A Pea in the Pod comes up most obviously short is sizing. On that comprehensive results list, there were 240 options in XS, about the same for S-M-L sizes, but just 114 for XL. Beyond that, the options plummet: if you think you might wear something in 2X-4X sizes, you'll have just one or two pieces that fit here (it's kind of giving a "you can be cute and stylish, but not if you need larger clothes” vibe).
Savings and samples
When you first visit A Pea in the Pod's online store, you can click on "I'm pregnant”, "I just had a baby”, "Shopping for a Gift”, or "Taking a Peek” - and after that, if you provide your email address and mobile number, you'll get a 15% discount on your order. Don't want to subject yourself to emails and texts? Look at the top of the site for a promo code; at the time of this review, there was one for (lo and behold) 15% off, no spammy emails or texts required. You can also take part in the Preggie Perks program, which gives you offers from many of today's most popular maternity brands, the chance to get a gift bag full of product samples, and other surprises. It won't cost you anything to join, but it's not quite like most retailer's rewards programs (you won't earn points when you place an order or anything like that).
Shipping and returns won't impress you
A Pea in the Pod isn't going to do you any favors when it comes to shipping and returns. Unless your order is over $169, you'll pay a $12.95 shipping fee. You'll have the standard 30-day return window offered by most online maternity clothing stores, but this retailer charges you a $11.95 return shipping fee - and you won't get a refund for the shipping fee you paid to get your order delivered. That will apply no matter what, because A Pea in the Pod doesn't do exchanges: you'll have to place an entirely new order if you get something and it's not the right size or fit. Given that that's much more likely for pregnant women who may not know exactly which size to order or how it's going to feel once it's on, that's a big downside here.
Clothes are good, customer service not as much
And customer sentiment? It's decent overall: most women say that the clothing is comfortable and fits true to size, and that it's a great blend of fashion and durability that works well into the postpartum period (and even on to the next pregnancy if and when that happens). The two most commonly-referenced pain points with A Pea in the Pod are shipping delays and customer service (or lack of it). This isn't a store you should order from if you need your maternity clothing to arrive on time; many people said that the promised 3-5 business day timeframe usually winds up being more like two calendar weeks, and that the support team isn't great about providing updates or resolving issues.
Not our favorite
A Pea in the Pod is the right choice if having designer maternity clothing can make your 9-month journey more bearable and budget isn't a concern. However, it's not the best option for building a big wardrobe affordably, shipping and returns are subpar, and women who wear larger sizes might not find what they need here.
London-based Isabella Oliver is a maternity clothing brand that focuses on "environmental, ethical, and sustainable style”. The company is a "Best for the World " B Corp, so if you're looking for clothes you can feel good about, this is where you'll find them.
Get ready to spend a lot
That's probably going to be the only expectant mom demographic that falls in love with Isabella Oliver, because for everyone else the selection is going to seem really narrow - and extremely spendy. At the time of our most recent shopping visit to the site, there were just under 80 pieces to choose from. Some of the items weren't even maternity specific (like a lambswool winter beanie or cashmere socks). Isabella Oliver had a few items on sale for decent prices, such as a scoop top for $33, but even some of the most basic maternity staples were double the price you'd pay at one of the other retailers we evaluated. For example, a basic set of leggings and a layering top would cost nearly $120 here; multiply that out across a week's worth of outfits and see your budget go out the window. When you first visit the Isabella Oliver site, you might get a pop-up offering a 10% discount if you subscribe to their mailing list, which could make your order a little less expensive.
Some cute options
Don't get us wrong: there are a few really cute maternity items here, and if money is no object you might love shopping at Isabella Oliver for a few wardrobe pieces. We really liked the Aisha and Kelsy maternity dresses, and the Josefina Maternity Blazer was on sale for just $104 when we were browsing recently. It's also helpful that when you look at an individual item, you can see how far along in the pregnancy the model is - but let's be real, these are models and their size at 23 weeks is not necessarily representative of the average expectant mama in the UK or anywhere else.
Sizing could be an issue
And, even on staple items, sizing can be limited at this retailer: maternity skinny jeans only went up to a US size 12-14, some items were only in stock in sizes up to US 8, and keep in mind that those US equivalents are only that: the closest guess or match to the UK sizing for each item.
Some perks for US customers
We also found some interesting bits of information under the "Info for US Shoppers” link at the bottom of the site. Isabella Oliver wants those customers to know that there are no sales taxes or duties on purchases from their store, express shipping is available (1-2 business days), and "all orders are lovingly gift wrapped”. You'll still have to pay for shipping unless your order is over $149.
Returns go back to the UK
If you decide to return your purchase from Isabella Oliver, you have 21 days from the date your package arrives to let them know you're going to send it back. You then have 7 days to send it back to them - and yes, you'll be paying all of the return costs to get it to the UK.
Still gets good shopper feedback
All that being said, most customers have good things to report about their experience with Isabella Oliver. Over more than 1100 reviews from shoppers across the globe, the retailer averages a respectable 4.1-star average out of 5. Most complaints are, as you'd expect, related to international shipping snafus: an order might arrive later than promised or there's an issue with customs as the package crosses a border. But, by and large, the customer service team here handles those issues appropriately and the maternity wear lives up to expectations.
Not the best maternity store for a lot of moms
Is it worth it to spend the money on Isabella Oliver maternity wear? That depends on you and how much of a priority you place on buying eco-friendly clothing. Even if that's your top requirement, you'll still wind up having to shop at other maternity retailers for a lot of items (like underwear). The reality is that many women will look to stores with a wider selection (and lower prices), which keeps Isabella Oliver from ranking very high among the competition.
HATCH was created in 2011 to provide maternity clothing that's "chic and timeless, meant to be worn for every stage” of pregnancy and afterward. The company wants to offer expectant moms a "breather” with clothing that makes their lives more enjoyable, fun, and beautiful.
Appealing variety of maternity clothing types
HATCH will impress you with its range of maternity clothing styles. If you need a formal dress for an event, check out the nine options in the Eveningwear section. Going somewhere tropical? You've got one- and two-piece swimsuit choices here. But, if you're just starting to build your maternity wardrobe, be sure to look in HATCH's Bundles section. Our favorite is the Layers Set that comes with a white long-sleeved shirt, white tank, black leggings, and a black t-shirt dress, priced at just $79.20 during our most recent HATCH shopping trip.
Your size may be out of stock - or simply not available
However, finding Bundles (or even individual pieces) in your size may prove problematic. For example, that Layers Set was only offered in XS-S-M sizes when we last looked. HATCH sizing only goes up to a pre-pregnancy size of 14-16, which is disappointing for larger women. Given how much HATCH says they want to help make pregnancy less stressful for expectant mothers, it's unfortunate that they haven't taken into account how not having sizes to fit more people could very well add to the tension.
Expensive even for the basics
Be prepared to spend more than usual if you buy your maternity basics here. HATCH's Ultimate Before/During/After Legging costs $98 per pair, although you can save if you buy a two-pack for $176. Copy that for tops: you'll pay $88 for a fairly standard v-neck t-shirt, $178 for a denim maternity shirt, $118 for a long-sleeved crew two-pack, and so on. But, if you want to save 10% on your first order, you can give HATCH your email address (after you click on the button to indicate if you're expecting, "just hatched”, or "not preggo”).
No free shipping or returns
We were surprised by HATCH's less-than-friendly return policy. You've got 30 days from the date you placed your order to make a return, and unless you're exchanging your item for something else, you'll have a $10 fee deducted from your refund. We also don't love the fact that your shipping fees won't be disclosed until you get to the checkout; even on a spendier-than-anticipated order over $200, we were still paying a "discounted shipping” fee of $6, marked down from $12.
Not as many happy shoppers as you'd expect
Customer comments about the quality of HATCH maternity clothing leave us wondering if it's even worth it to shop here. While some reviews say that it's comfortable and stylish, others had issues with the clothing fit not even coming close to matching the size guides - and with that not-awesome return policy, some people wound up feeling stuck with clothes they hated, especially when there was nothing available for an exchange (they needed a larger size).
Choose a different store for your maternity clothes
On the surface, HATCH seems like it would be an awesome maternity clothing store. Offering moms-to-be a way to feel chic and comfortable, reducing their stress, what's not to love? Unfortunately, our shopping experience here didn't line up with those promises: spend more and get less? Hassle over returns for clothing that doesn't fit? Struggle to find core maternity pieces in larger sizes? No thanks. HATCH winds up at the bottom of our rankings among online maternity clothing shops.
Next, think about your wardrobe needs. While you may need to invest in a few key maternity pieces, such as pants and dresses, you can also get away with buying larger sizes of your favorite non-maternity clothing. Consider what items you will wear most often and make sure to have those on hand. It's also a good idea to have a mix of casual and dressy pieces, so you have options for different occasions.
You'll also want to consider the style of the clothing. Maternity clothing has come a long way in recent years, and there are now many fashionable options available. While you may be tempted to buy only clothes that are specifically designed for pregnant women, you can also mix and match with some regular clothes that look great and are also comfortable to wear.
In addition, think about how long you will be pregnant and what season it is. If you are pregnant during the summer, you may want to invest in lightweight, breathable clothing that will keep you cool. If you are pregnant during the winter, consider warm, cozy clothing that will help you stay warm. Of course, being pregnant typically spans at least three seasons, so it's okay if you're struggling to figure out which one to focus on in your wardrobe.
Lastly, don't forget about nursing-friendly clothing. After giving birth, you might choose to breastfeed your baby, so consider buying clothing that has a nursing-friendly design, such as tops and dresses with hidden zippers or snaps.
Now that you know what you're looking for, which store should you visit to order what you need? There are a lot to choose from, and here are some criteria that can help you decide:
To help you look your best and feel comfortable while awaiting the arrival of your little one, Top Consumer Reviews has evaluated and ranked today's most popular online maternity clothing stores. Congratulations!
Select any 2 Maternity Clothes Stores to compare them head to head