11 items for the ultimate maternity capsule wardrobe

As your belly grows (and your closet seems to shrink), it can be tempting to load up on a bundle of cheap, oversize items because, well, you need to wear something . But if we might make a suggestion: What if you… didn’t?

Instead, take that new, beautiful belly as an opportunity to create the perfect maternity capsule wardrobe of quality pieces you can use now and for any other pregnancies to come.

Here are the 11 pieces that we can’t get enough of:

An essential tank

Whether you layer it under everything or wear it on its own, a bump-hugging tank is like a maternity wardrobe security blanket. With super-flattering side ruching that grows along with your belly, this versatile tank from Belly Bandit also works through the fourth trimester to keep you covered while breastfeeding with pull-down access.

$50

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A versatile T-shirt that goes with everything

Dressed up, dressed down, dressed anywhere in between, a simple t-shirt is a must-have. This one is a little on the pricey side, but hear us out. First of all, it will last . Not only does it withstand all the washings, but the oversize, flowy cut works through pregnancy and postpartum (and even includes a concealed side zip for easy breastfeeding access). Not to mention, the super soft and stretchy Italian fabric keeps you cool while looking even cooler.

$70

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Super soft lounge pants

These lounge pants are going to be the only thing you want to live in. They are so soft and comfortable. I took them to the hospital with me when I went to deliver my twins and lived in them through my recovery. Bonus: They’re ideal lounge pants to binge-watch your favorite show while your SO gives you that foot-rub you deserve mama.

$45

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A cool button down you can also wear to nurse

The best maternity wear is the kind you can keep rotating post-baby. A button-down shirt is perfect for pregnancy and beyond for when you need accessible boobs post-pregnancy. (Just keeping it real, mamas.) I love the effortless drape and oversize fit of this shirt from Oriane , but it’s the dolman sleeves and subtle detail of the contrast stitching that make it feel truly chic.

$38

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A chic and effortless LBD

There is no time in your life when you won’t benefit from having an LBD handy. Treat your pregnant self to a classic dress that will stand the test of time and look great everywhere from the office to date night—like this versatile number from Stowaway Collection Maternity . With side pleats that hug your bump and a flattering ballet neckline, this is one timeless dress you’ll definitely hang onto for next time.

$48

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A trendy jumpsuit

This super-soft jumpsuit is an excellent piece for your wardrobe as you can wear it while pregnant and also postpartum. It has two discrete zippers for easy access to your breasts if you choose to breastfeed, making outings for everyone so much easier. You can wear it with or without the belt, depending on what stage of pregnancy you are at. And most importantly, it has pockets

$182

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A fun pair of slip ons

Eventually, bending down isn’t going to be an option. And maybe going full-on Crocs just isn’t in the cards for you. Keep yourself fashion forward and comfortable with these oh-so-trendy leopard slip ons from OSAY the label. The supple leather molds to your feet and the clever design allows you to wear them as a loafer if you prefer.

$138

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A sassy pencil skirt

This skirt is everything. So easy to pair with and ready to be worn at any stage of your journey. I wore it while super duper pregnant with my twins, during my first weeks recovering from my C-section and now, during postpartum. The length also makes it super elegant and easy to wear in the office or to events.

$225

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Jeans that feel like leggings

Sure, you might not be feeling exactly, well, skinny right now, but the right pair of jeans will make you feel like your old self and pair perfectly with a flow maternity top. And since no mama has time for stiff, uncomfortable jeans, these legit feel like butter. Perfect for the days you want to look pulled together, but would rather be wearing leggings.

$59

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A supportive pair of leggings (because, obviously)

You didn’t think we’d create the perfect maternity closet without including a great pair of black leggings, did you? Embrace this #momlife staple in style. We love the Belly Bandit support leggings for their chic shape and compression panels in all the places you want them.

$60

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A swimsuit that celebrates your belly

Don’t let a fear of swimsuit shopping keep you from enjoy some sunshine! (Also trust us, that belly looks amazing in a swimsuit). May we suggest a stunningly classic suit like this cute and functional one from Hatch . The sides allow for your belly to grow, the material is SPF 50 and you can wear the straps different ways depending on your preference. The ruffles in the neckline make it a little more fun than a basic one piece.

$218

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