How to Dress a Baby Bump on a Budget
Updated: Mar 24, 2023
Congratulations! You're expecting a baby, and that means it's time to start thinking about your maternity wardrobe. I usually love to shop for clothes, but I have a hard time spending my money on maternity clothes. This is for three reasons: maternity clothes are expensive, you can only wear them for a short period of time and it's hard to find stylish options. All of this is why I've decided to share my tips on how to dress a baby bump on a budget.
How to Dress a Baby Bump on a Budget
Only Buy a Few New Basics
If you have a few basic pieces, you can use them to mix and match for different outfits.
I wear these basic tees and tank tops from Target the most! Another good basic is a pair of black leggings that you can just throw on. I really like this pair from Motherhood Maternity. I bought these things new because I knew I would get a lot of wears out of them and they'd be worth investing in.
Shop Local Consignment Stores
I'm always so surprised that more people don't shop consignment. Especially in the case of maternity clothes when there's a high probability most of the clothes were only worn a few times and are likely still in excellent condition.
To find a local shop near you just do a quick Google search for "Maternity Consignment Stores Near Me". If you don't have any local consignment stores near you, you should check out Motherhood Closet. It's an online boutique-style consignment store.
The best part of finding a consignment store you like is that when you're finished with your maternity clothes you can take them back to be sold and get some money right back into your pocket!
Use Non-Maternity Pieces You Already Have
Don't put away all your non-maternity clothes too fast! It's definitely possible to get creative with pieces from your current closet to style your baby bump on a budget. One of the most comfortable dresses I've been wearing. A stretchy body-con dress from Forever 21.
Loose swing dresses, stretchy bodycon dresses, or dresses with empire waistline usually work really well with baby bumps. Even skirts, shorts, and pants with elastic waistbands should work for you. And don't forget about the cardigans and kimonos you already have to throw on over your basic tees and tanks!
Obviously some of your clothes won't fit like they use to, but that just gives you the opportunity to get creative! For example, if my regular tops are too short to wear now, I will throw them on top of a skirt or dress and tie them up for a new look. It's a cute and flattering way to show off the bump, too!
Shop Your Friends Closets
Know anyone who just had a baby? Chances are they have some maternity clothes in their closet that they no longer have a use for. Ask to borrow them or offer to pay for the things they don't want back. It's an excellent way to find some new styles on a budget.
Shop Resell Apps
My favorite resell app is Poshmark. I buy and sell on this app all the time! They have a whole category for maternity clothes. I've found a great pair of maternity jeans and two dresses all in like-new condition for under $30. That's about the price of ONE pair of new jeans from a big name maternity brand.
For a limited time, use my code LESSTRUNK when you create an account to save $10 on your first purchase. Create a Poshmark account & start shopping!
If you enjoyed How to Dress a Baby Bump on a Budget, check out My Top Maternity Picks From Amazon!