Being pregnant in the summer—especially during your third trimester—can be grueling. Although some might choose to spend the summer inside with the AC on and their swollen feet propped on the coffee table while watching Netflix, others might be brave enough to attend that work BBQ where everyone wants to touch your bump and give you unsolicited advice. With either option, you’ll need maternity shorts to make it through the summer.

If you’re tired of cycling through the same summer dresses, then maybe it’s time to try maternity shorts. Buying shorts even when you’re not pregnant can be hard, and when you are pregnant, it often feels like picking between shapeless, boxy shorts that have you asking, “Why don’t I just wear a dress?” Well, mama, you’re in luck.

We’ve rounded up some of our favorite maternity shorts—from loungewear to dressy twill—that will help you bridge the gap between cute and comfortable during the summer heat.

Best maternity shorts

PinkBlush Maternity Ruched Side Maternity Lounge Shorts

PinkBlush Maternity

Ruched Side Maternity Lounge Shorts

$43

For at home lounging or beach days these super comfy, ultra stretchy shorts from PinkBlush are the pair you’ll reach for over and over. Yes, they come in neutrals but there’s also pink, olive, and mauve to add pops of color to your summer wardrobe–and best of all, they’re great for postpartum as well.

Pact Maternity Pureactive Bike Short

Pact

Maternity On the Go-To Bike Short

$35

The best thing about bike shorts is that they’re versatile. Yes, the name implies a certain sportiness, but these plain shorts can also be worn with tees or beneath dresses to help with the inevitable thigh-rubbing so rampant in summer pregnancies. Is there a more bump-friendly style out there? We think not. And since these are made from organic cotton they’re perfectly breathable as well!

Hatch The Cut Off Maternity Short

Hatch

The Cut Off Maternity Short

$158

If you live in a warmer climate, maternity shorts might be more than just a summer thing for you. These Hatch cut-offs run a little more, but they’re designed to stay with you through every trimester.

Ingrid and Isabel Relaxed Maternity Shorts

Ingrid + Isabel

Relaxed Maternity Shorts

$29.99 $64

The soft and sustainable Relaxed Maternity Shorts from Ingrid + Isabel are made from breathable lyocell fabric with a comfy under the belly elastic waist and convenient pockets. They’re available in three go-with-everything colors including gingerbread, black and chambray.

Seraphine Stretch Denim Under Bump Maternity Shorts

Seraphine

Stretch Denim Under Bump Maternity Shorts

$45 $69

If you’re craving shorts that feel more like your “normal” summer wardrobe, this classic white denim pair from Seraphine checks all the boxes. The below-the-belly waistband features stretchy panels at both sides to accommodate a growing bump as well as a real working button and actual pockets. They’re the ideal base for all your summer looks, from flowy tops and sandals to sneakers and tees.

Old Navy Maternity Rollover-Waist OGC Chino Shorts

Old Navy

Maternity Rollover-Waist OGC Chino Shorts

$16.49 $32.99

The maternity version of their best-selling OGC Chino Shorts swap in a bump-friendly rollover waist but keep the same seamed hip pockets and five inch inseam we already know and love. They come in four colors including camel, black, navy and dark green.

Maacie Maacie Women Maternity Layered Fast Drying Yoga Shorts with Liner Inner Pocket

Maacie

Maternity Layered Fast Drying Yoga Shorts with Liner Inner Pocket

$25.99

From workouts to hang outs, these lightweight shorts are an all around Amazon favorite. The double-layer design features a spandex short lining which is clutch for protecting against thigh chafe and a handy pocket for stashing your phone. The over-the-belly panel isn’t too squeezy and can be worn pulled up or folded down.

Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel Under Belly Midi Maternity Jean Shorts

Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel

Under Belly Midi Maternity Jean Shorts

$25

If you can’t imagine a summer without jean shorts, we feel you. The wallet-friendly Under Belly Midi Maternity Jean Shorts from the Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel line at Target get rave reviews for their comfort and fit through pregnancy and postpartum. We also appreciate the under-the-belly design which we personally prefer to over-the-belly styles on super hot days.

Cache Coeur Nubie Smocked Twill Maternity Shorts

Cache Coeur

Nubie Smocked Twill Maternity Shorts

$95

From the adorable smocked tie waistband to the luxe cupro and viscose fabric, Cache Coeur’s Nubie Smocked Twill Maternity Shorts are a dreamy blend of sophistication and comfort. Dress them up with a fresh bump-hugging tank and some strappy sandals for a date night or throw them on with a tee and sneakers for a backyard barbecue. They’re a great way to add a pop of color to your summer maternity wardrobe too!

Quince 100% European Linen Maternity Shorts

Quince

100% European Linen Maternity Shorts

$34.90

Breezy, 100% European linen that’s OEKO-TEX certified, ethically produced and reasonably priced? Must be Quince! Their vacation-ready style features a wide, smocked waistband and both side and back pockets. Pair them with the matching button down for an effortless look that can simply go anywhere.

Angel Maternity Wide Leg Knit Maternity Shorts

Angel Maternity

Wide Leg Knit Maternity Shorts

$34.95

We’re loving the laid back vibe of this longer, wide leg style. Not only will you not have to dislodge fabric from places it doesn’t belong, they’re also made from a super soft bamboo blend which is perfect for yoga or lounging around the house. The waistband can be worn up or down too!

A version of this story was published June 29, 2021. It has been updated.