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13 Best Petite Maternity Clothes: 2024 Picks

Updated
You can feel comfortable and confident in your pregnant body with these petite maternity clothes.

If you generally wear petite-sized clothing, pregnancy might be a frustrating time for you. It can be hard to find maternity clothing in petite sizes, and many regular maternity clothes look boxy, too long, or entirely unflattering on a petite figure.

We’ve been there. We get the ups and downs of pregnancy emotions, and we totally understand the struggle to find clothing that makes us feel comfortable in our ever-changing skin.

So we’ve spent hours searching for all the best petite maternity clothes. These items fit our criteria of being sized well, comfortable, affordable, and adaptable to your growing body.

Save your time, money, and tears. Treat yourself to some comfortable, well-fitting, petite maternity clothing.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Motherhood Overalls
Dashing Denim Overalls
Motherhood Overalls
  • Buckle closure
  • Stretchy, relaxed denim
  • Comfortable and flattering fit
Product Image of the Ruffle Off-Shoulder
Flattering Ruffle Dress
Ruffle Off-Shoulder
  • Stylish double-layered ruffle
  • Pull-on closure
  • Stretchy, lightweight fabric
Product Image of the Pleat Peplum Top
Stylish Peplum Top
Pleat Peplum Top
  • 3/4 sleeve and rounded neck
  • Elegant style
  • Can be worn even after pregnancy
Product Image of the Levi Strauss Mid-Rise Shorts
Sassy Skinny Shorts
Levi Strauss Mid-Rise Shorts
  • Zipper closure
  • Super stretchy denim
  • Smooth feminine knit tummy panel
Product Image of the Under-the-Bump Panties
Pretty Panties
Under-the-Bump Panties
  • Fits nicely without pressure
  • Free from harmful chemicals
  • Low-rise waistline
Product Image of the Hofish Seamless Bralettes
Cute Underthings
Hofish Seamless Bralettes
  • Hook-and-eye closure
  • Drop cups for convenient feeding
  • Seamless, side widening, super supportive
Product Image of the Side-Ruching Bodycon
Effortless Style
Side-Ruching Bodycon
  • Elegant ruched side
  • Versatile
  • Light and breathable
Product Image of the Maternity Palazzo Lounge
Favorite Stretchy Pants
Maternity Palazzo Lounge
  • Wide-leg classic black pants
  • Snug waistband
  • Perfect for everyday wear
Product Image of the Ekouaer Short-Sleeved Tee
Fitted T-Shirt
Ekouaer Short-Sleeved Tee
  • Figure flattering
  • Bright solid color
  • Soft material
Product Image of the Maternity Cotton Pajamas
Snug Sleep Wear
Maternity Cotton Pajamas
  • Ultra-soft and comfortable
  • With perfect elastic waistband
  • Adjustable drawstring


The Best Petite Maternity Clothing of 2024

Here are 13 great maternity clothes for petite ladies.

Motherhood Ankle Length Overalls

Dashing Denim Overalls

For a carefree, beautiful look, these skinny denim overalls are ideal. These will accentuate your baby bump so well, and they have enough room to grow. They’re not only comfortable but super cute too.

They feature a buckle enclosure in true overall fashion and a knit elastic side panel that provides adequate stretching. Since the buckles are adjustable, they’ll be suitable for petite ladies to alter the length. The relaxed fabric is a good choice for a flattering and comfy fit.

User Experience

My experience with these maternity overalls has been nothing short of fantastic. As my baby bump grew, I found them to be extremely comfortable and versatile, providing a perfect fit with just the right amount of stretch. The overalls are not only flattering, but the wider ankle design also offers additional comfort and style. I've received numerous compliments on them, and I believe they can be worn both pre and post-pregnancy. Although the overalls may be too tight for some expecting mothers with larger bumps, they have served me well throughout my pregnancy journey.

Hello Miz Ruffle Off-Shoulder Maternity Dress

Flattering Ruffle Dress

Brightly colored and sassy, this ruffle dress is great for beautiful summer days. It’s a stylish midi designed with stretchable materials that will complement any petite lady throughout her pregnancy.

Wear it for a casual event or formal party. It goes well with heels or sandals. It’s perfect for weddings, baby showers, and other special occasions. You can dress it up or down, making it great for everyday use as well. And there’s a slew of patterns and colors to choose from.

Personal Perspective

As a soon-to-be mom, I was thrilled to find this dress, which was not only soft and lightweight but also had the perfect length for my baby shower. The off-the-shoulder style didn't work well for me, as it was too tight and made the dress look smaller than it actually was, but the overall fit was comfortable and flattering. This dress was made of quality material that provided enough coverage without needing an additional slip, and the peachy-pink color with floral accents was eye-catching. I received numerous compliments on the dress, which made me feel confident and beautiful during my special event. However, I did experience some minor issues with the elastic around the shoulders, as it was a bit snug and tended to rise up when I lifted my arms.

LaClef Pleat Peplum Maternity Top

Stylish Peplum Top

This maternity top from LaClef is not just simple; it’s also super comfortable. The design features three-quarter-length sleeves, a scoop neck, and a front pleated waist. It’ll make you look slimmer while still highlighting your belly.

It’ll complement you throughout your pregnancy. And the best part is you can pair it with almost anything — pants, jeans, shorts — you name it. It’s perfect with leggings for petite women, as it’s almost as long as a tunic.

Community Feedback

If you're looking for affordable maternity wear, this shirt may be a good option for you. The soft, stretchy fabric allows for a comfortable fit that accommodates a growing belly, and the higher neckline provides extra coverage. While the quality may not be top-notch, with some loose threads and visible stitching, it still offers a stylish and flattering look for expectant mothers. One downside, however, is that the shirt can reveal lines from undergarments and may not be as flattering from the back.

Levi Strauss Mid-Rise Shortie Shorts

Short 'n Sassy

If you love your short shorts and can’t imagine several months without them, here’s your solution. These mid-rise shorts from Levi Strauss are well-designed and made with cotton, polyester, and elastane.

They feature a smooth tummy knit panel that adapts to your changing figure. The denim is super stretchy and will hug your curves all day, and the zipper closure makes them easy to wear. Choose from several colors to find your perfect pair — or get a couple of pairs! At this price, they’re more than worth it.

First-Hand Impression

These maternity shorts are a game-changer for expectant moms, especially during the warmer months. As a 5'3'' woman, I found them to be the perfect length and not too short or frumpy. The belly coverage stays up, and the super stretchy jean material is fitted without being restrictive, making them dangerously comfortable. I've been wearing them all summer long in the southwest heat, and they have become a staple in my wardrobe. One minor issue is that the leg holes could be a bit bigger, as they can feel tight for those with larger thighs. The striped design might be unusual for some, but overall, these shorts are better than most maternity jean shorts in terms of comfort and fit.

Intimate Portal Under-the-Bump Maternity Panties

Pretty Panties

If this is your first pregnancy, you’ll soon realize how uncomfortable regular panties get with a large belly. We recommend wearing under-the-bump panties for ultimate comfort.

Made from cotton and spandex, this set of six panties is a good deal. They feature a classic crossover style that ensures they fit perfectly without any pressure.

Full rear coverage and a low front section also make them great for C-section recovery. You can also wear them as regular panties after delivery.

User Experience

As a pregnant woman, comfort is a top priority, and these maternity panties have exceeded my expectations. Initially, I was skeptical, but after trying them on, I was impressed by how soft the fabric is and how well they fit under my growing bump. The thigh openings are non-restrictive, and they don't dig into my skin or hurt my inner leg crevices like regular underwear does. I've even continued to wear them post-pregnancy, as they still provide excellent comfort. However, for women with a larger booty, it's worth noting that the cotton may not have as much stretch as desired.

Hofish Seamless Maternity Bralettes

Cute Underthings

We loooove these soft, cozy bralettes. When your body is changing, your boobs crave something soft and expandable too. Designed for maximum comfort, these bralettes are made from spandex and nylon. And you get three pairs for the price of (or less than) one maternity bra by many other brands.

One of the upsides is that they’re adjustable and feature a hook and eye closure. The other is that they double as nursing bras with easy-drop cups, so they’ll get many months of use. You’ll like how they’re seamless, with a side-widening feature for extra support.

Tens of thousands of moms vouch for these comfy bras. Whether you require a size small or XXL to support your growing chest, you’re sure to love these comfy bralettes.

Personal Perspective

Best nursing bras for a great price! I wore these bras all day and night for the first 9 months of my baby's life, and they were comfortable and easy to use. The removable padding wasn't the best shape, but the bras still worked well for me. I appreciated how easy it was to clip and unclip them for nursing, and they lasted longer than I expected. They may not be as soft and stretchy as other brands, but they provide good coverage and support. One downside is the weak clasp design, which caused one of the bras to break after 4 months, but overall, I'm happy with my purchase.

Liu and Qu Side-Ruching Bodycon Dress

Effortless Style

This simple, sleeveless dress is sexy yet effortless. Pull it on over your head, and you’re good to go. The side ruching allows enough room for your belly to grow.

It’s made from a breathable elastic fabric, and if navy isn’t your favorite color, it also comes in more than 20 other solid and patterned options. While it’s more suitable for summer, you could wear it with a cardigan and tights in the transition months. We appreciate the practicality and versatility here: dress it up or down; it’s up to you.

Community Feedback

If you're searching for a comfortable and flattering maternity dress, this dress is a great option. I've bought several of these dresses in different colors and patterns, and they've all been incredibly soft and stretchy. The material is lightweight, but not too thin, so it doesn't show every line on your body. I've gotten numerous compliments while wearing the sunflower one and paired it with a jean jacket and sandals for a stylish summer look. The only downside is that the fabric might become thin after a few washes, but for the price and versatility, it's definitely worth it.

Ecavus Maternity Palazzo Lounge Pants

Favorite Stretchy Pants

Palazzo pants are great for lounging at home on those lazy days. These are the ultimate comfort pants for any pregnant woman. They’re wide-legged, making them a perfect choice when you seem to be swollen all over.

They feature a snug waistband that you can pull up above the belly. The waistband is also foldable, making it convenient for petite women. These stretchy pants will be your go-to pants during all stages of pregnancy.

First-Hand Impression

In my search for comfortable maternity lounge pants, I stumbled upon these and decided to give them a try. I was thrilled to find that they are incredibly soft and cozy, providing the perfect balance of comfort and stretch to accommodate my growing belly. However, I did notice that the material and fit varied slightly between the different colors I ordered. While this was not a deal-breaker for me, it's worth noting that some colors may have a snugger waistband or longer length than others.

Ekouaer Short-Sleeved Tee

Best Fitted T-Shirt

Not all maternity clothes need to be extra wide and flowy. Show off your bump with this cute and cozy tee. This short sleeve top is great for pairing with shorts, pants, leggings, or a cardigan. It’s well designed and made from stretchable materials that are ultra-soft, skin-friendly, and comfortable.

It comes in many colors and prints, or you can purchase a set of three for a great price. It’s a great piece for spring, summer, and fall, and you can wear it informally, while traveling, or going shopping.

The snug fit of the soft fabric makes this a great choice for petite women. And it doubles as a nursing shirt with discreet side panels for easy access, so you’ll get twice the wear out of it.

User Experience

These tie-dye patterned tops boast vibrant colors of blue, turquoise, and lime green, making them visually appealing and unique. The fabric is soft and of high-quality, ensuring a comfortable and mostly flattering fit, although the length may be too long for some, resembling a dress. The short sleeves make it suitable for the warmer seasons, but the fabric may not be as breathable on extremely hot days. The tops are versatile, allowing them to be dressed up with accessories or worn casually, and they hold up well after multiple washes. However, be aware that some colors may be slightly see-through, so plan your outfit accordingly.

Maxmoda Maternity Nursing Cotton Pajamas

Snug Sleep Wear

Pregnancy comes with several challenges, and sleeping well is one of them. While you never know what sleep position will work from day to day, cozy pajamas are always a big help.

The best part is that you’ll still use this set while nursing your baby and possibly long after. The double-layered T-shirt has a round neck, and the pants feature an adjustable elastic waistband. They come in several sizes, so there’ll be one that fits you.

Personal Perspective

From personal experience, these postpartum pajamas are incredibly soft, comfortable, and perfect for new moms. The nursing access is great and the pants are roomy enough for all the postpartum essentials. The material is soft and stretchy, making it perfect for growing baby bumps and post-delivery use.

Hello Miz Front-Tie Wrap Maternity Dress

Graceful Wrap Dress

Wrap dresses are the holy grail for petite pregnant women, and for good reasons. They aren’t just comfortable; they also feature a tie belt that makes you look slimmer and cuter. How awesome is that?

This wrap maternity dress is soft and stretchy. It’s designed to take you through every stage of your pregnancy, so you won’t outgrow it after a few months.

It features a beautiful floral design, making it ideal for everyday use, date nights, or outings. But it comes in over 40 different designs, so you can choose several and have the cutest maternity wardrobe ever. Even better, it has nursing features too.

Community Feedback

I'm quite impressed with the comfort and style of this maternity dress. The soft and stretchable fabric ensures a perfect fit that adapts to my growing belly, making it a great choice for my baby shower and summer parties. Although the neckline isn't hemmed and the tan color is slightly see-through, I appreciate how it is machine washable and reasonably priced. The front tie adds a stylish touch, and it's true to the size chart. However, I did find the dress a bit short, but overall, I am satisfied with my purchase.

Motherhood Maternity Leggings

Leggings for Days

If you’re looking for some support without pressure, these leggings might be a good choice. They’re made from spandex and cotton, so they’ll stretch with your growing baby bump. Leggings make some of the best petite maternity clothes; you can never go wrong with them.

They’re versatile, so you can wear them folded or above your tummy. The fabric is stretchy enough for a wide range of motion, and the contoured panel has enough room for growth. Choose from crop length or full length to suit your preferences, and there are several color options to fit any wardrobe.

First-Hand Impression

In my experience, these maternity leggings have been incredibly comfortable and fit perfectly for my growing baby bump. The fabric is soft, stretchy, and feels more like athletic material than traditional sweats, which has been great for walks and lounging around the house. However, they can be a bit sheer in certain areas, so be mindful of sizing up if needed. While I do wish they had pockets and were made of a more dry-wicking material, the overall comfort and fit make them a valuable addition to my maternity wardrobe. It's important to note that if you prefer tight leggings, these may not be the best choice as they tend to loosen slightly in certain areas like the ankles.

Maternity Nursing Top Sweatshirt

Warm Wear

With a ribbed neckline, this sweatshirt is a good choice for keeping you and your little one warm. The polyester material is soft, and the concealed zip design makes it an excellent choice for nursing.

It features a hidden cut-out for ultimate discretion while breastfeeding, so it’ll still be useful even after delivery. The monochromatic color of this sweatshirt is perfect for casual wear. But several other color choices are available.

User Experience

I'm delighted with the comfort and style of this nursing sweater, as it feels soft and well-made. Although the zippers are a bit stiff and placed at a tricky angle, making one-handed zipping difficult, I've adjusted by rotating the shirt slightly for easier nursing access. This sweater is cozy and warm without causing overheating, but I'd recommend going a size up for a better fit.

How to Choose Petite Maternity Clothing

Shopping for maternity clothes should be fun. Your body can change every day, but if you get it right, maternity clothes can be appealing and accommodating throughout your pregnancy. Given that you’re petite, maternity clothes shopping might seem daunting, but we have some really cool stuff for you.

Sizing

Even though you’re petite, sizing during pregnancy can be confusing. Different parts of your body are growing at different rates. You might find that you go up several bra cup sizes, for example.

You may grow “all around,” or your belly might grow while the rest of you remains the same. We suggest that you wear what feels comfortable for your body.

The standard rule is to choose your regular size, but ensure it has that “maternity” label attached. If your heart’s set on a non-maternity style that is loose or stretchy, go for one or two sizes up.

Try to choose pants and dresses that are not floor length to avoid making a run to the tailor.

Stretch

Stretching is important because you have no idea how much you’ll grow. Stretchy fabrics will be more flexible, which is what you need. These will accommodate any changes as you progress through the trimesters.

While shopping, check for sheerness. Some fabrics tend to be too revealing when stretched too far. If the clothes become sheer when stretched, steer clear.

Pregnancy and Beyond

Some of the best petite maternity clothing comes with nursing features. These features allow you to wear them long after delivery. Plus, you won’t need to pack away all your maternity clothes when the baby arrives or start shopping for new nursing wear.


FAQs

How Far Into Pregnancy Do You Need Maternity Clothes?

Many women start needing maternity clothes around the end of the first trimester or early second trimester, but it varies. Some might need them earlier, especially with subsequent pregnancies, or later if they prefer looser clothing styles.

How Many Sizes Should I Size Up When Pregnant?

When buying maternity clothes, you typically don’t need to size up as they’re designed to accommodate your growing belly. Choose your pre-pregnancy size unless you experience significant weight changes elsewhere.

What is the Difference Between Maternity Jeans and Regular Jeans?

Maternity jeans are designed with stretchy, supportive panels or waistbands to accommodate a growing belly and provide extra comfort. Regular jeans lack these features and might not fit comfortably throughout pregnancy.

How Much Does the Average Person Spend On Maternity Clothing During Pregnancy?

The amount spent on maternity clothing can vary widely depending on personal style, the need for different attire due to seasons or work, and whether items are new or second-hand. Budgeting several hundred dollars is not uncommon, but many find ways to spend less.

What are the Best Alternatives to Maternity Clothes?

Alternatives to maternity clothes include wearing larger or more flexible pieces you already own, borrowing from friends or family, utilizing belly bands to extend the life of regular pants, and choosing clothing styles like empire waists or stretchy materials.

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Headshot of Jennifer Schlette, MSN, RN

Reviewed by

Jennifer Schlette, MSN, RN

Jennifer Schlette MSN, RN, is a pediatric intensive care nurse at Children's Hospital of New York for the past 14 years. Jennifer also has extensive experience teaching Maternity and Obstetric Nursing, as well as Pediatrics Nursing.