I’m currently in my third trimester of pregnancy and as a first-time expecting mother, it’s an understatement to say there has been a lot to learn and prepare for. As far as eco-friendly maternity clothes, I’ve purchased a few essentials that are affordable and still a bit more sustainable in terms of buying less, and of good, lasting quality that I will also wear past my pregnancy.
I’ve been shopping online due to the pandemic, and as a result have been trying to reduce my use of Amazon as much as I can. Weaning myself off of the “need it, get it now” mindset to two-day shipping has been a welcome challenge.
I do not think it’s worth it to completely change out your wardrobe and purchase solely “maternity clothes”. Much of your normal clothing can be worn throughout pregnancy and postpartum. Here are the few maternity essentials I thoughtfully added to my current wardrobe:
Pact Maternity Ruched V-Neck Tee*: I’m usually complaining that I’m freezing cold no matter the time of the year. During pregnancy (and through an abnormally warm winter), some days all I can manage is wearing a t-shirt because I’m overheating. These maternity t-shirts from Pact are lightweight, soft and stretchy, made from 100% organic cotton jersey. The shirts are long, providing full coverage over the belly and butt area. I find it to be a bit too long for me sometimes, but I am also very short (I’m just about 5 ft).
I like that these t-shirts are ruched at the sides to easily fit my burgeoning bump and adds a bit of flair too. I have these tees in colors Cabernet and Thistle, both in size small (the smallest size offered). I find them to be a bit loose on me, especially in the shoulders, chest, and neck. While I don’t find myself wearing particularly tight clothing during pregnancy, I wish these tees were just a bit more fitted for petite frames. However, these tees will be great to wear as I transition into handling a messy newborn
Pact always has great essentials and constant promotions, and I think their maternity collection really has some nice pregnancy staples that are affordable especially being made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and manufactured at a Fair Trade certified factory. $25, Pact.
Kindred Bravely Bamboo Maternity & Postpartum Lounge Pants: A lot of women I know enjoy wearing more compressive, traditional leggings especially while pregnant, but in all honesty, if I’m not exercising I tend to prefer soft, loose-fitting sweatpants. While I already have a collection of favorite sweatpants that I still wear with my bump, I did decide to purchase this pair of pants due to the wide, high waistband that easily and comfortably supports my growing belly. The waistband also can easily be worn down at your waist for postpartum wear.
These lounge pants are made from 95% bamboo and 5% spandex, and they are buttery soft, stretchy, lightweight, and incredibly comfortable. These pants feature a loose, straight-leg style and deep pockets, which are also convenient. I wear these pants all the time now and think they are a great addition to my wardrobe, whether for pregnancy or normal wear. I have these in a size small and they fit perfectly especially as a loose-fit garment. They are a teeny bit long on me, but if I just pull these higher up on my waist, I actually don’t find the length to be too bothersome. $44.99, Kindred Bravely.
Kindred Bravely Organic Cotton Nursing & Sleeping Bra: I have been wearing wireless bras and bralettes since we transitioned to working remotely, but I knew I would need something that would fit better throughout my pregnancy as well as provide more support. Not only is this Kindred Bravely bra extremely soft, lightweight, and comfortable to wear during the day and at night, it is made from 90% organic cotton and 10% spandex. This bra also has pull-aside nursing access, that will definitely come in handy for breastfeeding. It does not have underwire but the bottom seam, wide straps and full back, feels secure and supportive without feeling restrictive. Sometimes I forget I’m wearing this bra!
Wearing the Organic Cotton Nursing & Sleeping Bra, Maternity & Postpartum Lounge Pants.
I have this bra in a size small in the grey color. While my chest has grown through pregnancy, I am a bit on the smaller size. I find this size to be a bit loose around my shoulders, yet everywhere else feels fitting enough where the bra does not fall off me and provides enough support. I wish they offered this bra in an extra-small. The brand also sells on Amazon in case you really do need their products in a rush, however I ordered directly through the Kindred Bravely website and had a pleasant experience (you’ll get discounts as well). $32.99, Kindred Bravely.
Kindred Bravely Under-the-Bump Bikini Underwear: It became clear to me as my bump grew that I needed more supportive and substantial underwear. These “under-the-bump” underwear intrigued me when I first saw them. They naturally conform with a growing body, provide great coverage around the bum, and comfortable, wide support around the waist. The signature feature is the stretchy, notched front design that seamlessly and comfortably fits right “under-the-bump”. I love how soft and supportive these panties are, they are super comfortable and just fit my growing body nicely. I have these in a size small and they fit snug, but comfortably.
Substantial, reinforced lining of the “under-the-bump” underwear.
I also appreciate the thick, reinforced linings, especially nice for any leakage or other accidents. The fabric is soft, stretchy, yet substantial. Many other underwear brands I use (yes, even more sustainable brands) are easily prone to rips and tears and quickly, these underwear have been through a lot already and no sign of such wear at all. I bought a convenient pack of 5 for $30 to start with, and I think I’ll be purchasing more because I’ve been gravitating to these underwear over all others I have. The brand also offers a version of these made from bamboo, and I’m also interested in the high-waisted postpartum panties. $32.99 for 5, $21.95 for 3, Kindred Bravely.
What are your suggestions for simple, eco-friendly maternity clothing? Stay tuned as I share more tips along my pregnancy journey.
*Indicates a product sent to me for consideration, however all words and opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links, if you purchase through the links I will receive a small commission for referring you. Please see my disclosure policy for more details.
