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
Foucome
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$19.99
Maybe you’re looking for an outdoor concert outfit, or maybe you’re just grunge. Either way, Foucome’s distressed denim shorts come in a variety of colors that beg to be paired with your favorite oversized band tee.
H&M
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$24.99
Made of 100% cotton, H&M’s MAMA twill shorts will keep you cool in breathable fabric. They come in both beige and dark blue and would be the perfect piece for a patio dinner.
PinkBlush Maternity
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$42
Unlike most maternity clothes, PinkBlush offers their lounge shorts in more than just neutrals. Lavender, mint, and mauve will add pops of color to your summer wardrobe and best of all, they’re great for postpartum as well.
Pact
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$40
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
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$148
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.
Old Navy
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$40
Is there anything more adorable than a mama rocking an overall-covered bump? This wallet-friendly pair from Old Navy can easily become your wardrobe in the home stretch.
Gap
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$49.95
For those of us not looking for the latest fit but instead searching for sensible workout clothes, GAP offers a line of activewear exclusively for pregnant people–including these comfy running shorts.
A Pea in the Pod
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$77
For a sophisticated but still casual vibe, we love this soft linen/viscose blend style from Ripe. The wide shirred waistband sits comfortably under your belly and works great for postpartum as well. Pair them with everything from button downs and slides to tees and sneakers!
Ingrid + Isabel
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$64
Between the super soft TENCEL fabric and the go-with-everything style, these Ingrid + Isabel shorts won’t see much time off. They come in chambray, black and gingerbread which are all equally versatile!
Maacie
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$15.99
With a soft, adjustable waistband, real pockets and a wallet-friendly price tag these casual shorts check all the boxes.
Old Navy
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$39.99
For team “over the belly panel”, this versatile short from Old Navy is an easy to love staple. They’ve got just enough stretch to stay comfy without getting baggy and saggy halfway through the day.
A version of this story was published June 29, 2021. It has been updated.
