Pregnancy style—did I really just type that? I had to look at the words a few times before it sank in. Dressing a growing bump has been its own kind of adventure, equal parts fun and challenging. But if I’m being honest, I’ve always loved a good fashion challenge.
The truth is, even before pregnancy, I wasn’t much of a pants person. If you scroll back through some of my older posts, you’ll notice pants rarely make an appearance. The reason? There’s really no delicate way to phrase it—pants simply aren’t comfortable for me. With chronic pelvic pain, a bladder condition, and a history of UTIs, anything that puts pressure in that area has never been a friend. And now, with pregnancy in the mix, my aversion to pants has only grown stronger.
So instead, I’ve leaned on an old favorite: the sweater dress.
Why Sweater Dresses Work
For me, sweater dresses are more than a style choice—they’re a lifeline. They’re forgiving, cozy, and versatile, making them the perfect foundation for maternity dressing. I loved them before pregnancy, and now they’ve become my ultimate go-to.
But here’s the thing: wearing sweater dresses on repeat can feel a little monotonous if I don’t get creative. So I’ve been challenging myself to style them in fresh ways—adding accessories, playing with color, and layering textures. That way, my outfits feel intentional and polished rather than just “defaulting to comfortable.”
The $35 Cardigan That Doubles as a Dress
One of my favorite finds lately is a cardigan sweater I’ve been wearing as a dress. It was under $35, but it looks and feels like so much more. What I love most is its mix of comfort and style: the drop shoulders give it a relaxed, effortless vibe, while the balloon sleeves add a touch of drama. It’s one of those rare pieces that feels as cozy as pajamas but looks completely put-together.
To give the look structure, I cinched it at the waist with a wrap belt—something that highlights the bump in a flattering way instead of trying to hide it. Paired with tall brown boots, the whole outfit came together as a chic yet practical fall look.
And can we talk about the boots for a moment? They’re not just stylish, they’re actually comfortable. With memory foam insoles, they make walking (something I underestimated until pregnancy) easy and pain-free. It’s amazing how much I now appreciate little design details like that.
Styling Knitwear with Color
Fall always makes me crave a rich, earthy color palette, and this outfit is no exception. The warm browns, soft neutrals, and cozy textures all come together to celebrate the season while still keeping things fresh. Adding a belt not only defines the bump but also breaks up the monotony of knitwear, while the tall boots give the look balance and polish.
I’m also finding that playing with color keeps sweater dresses from feeling too repetitive. Whether it’s layering with a patterned coat, adding a bold accessory, or simply leaning into fall’s classic tones, there are endless ways to make knitwear feel seasonally on-point.
Fashion That Lasts Beyond Pregnancy
The best part about this outfit—and why I’ve been gravitating toward knitwear in general—is that it doesn’t just work for right now. It’s something I can easily wear post-pregnancy, too. That’s been a huge part of my approach to maternity style: choosing pieces that aren’t confined to a specific stage of life.
I know this chapter is fleeting, and in many ways, that makes me want to savor it even more. I’m not sure I’ll get the opportunity to experience pregnancy again, so I’m embracing my bump wholeheartedly—documenting the changes, celebrating the small wins, and, yes, finding joy in the clothes I put on each day.
Finding Joy in the Everyday
Pregnancy hasn’t always been comfortable (pants, I’m looking at you), but I’m learning that comfort doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. Knitwear has become my happy medium: soft enough to support me physically, yet versatile enough to let me express my personality.
Every time I slip into a sweater dress, wrap a belt around my waist, or pull on those memory foam boots, I’m reminded that fashion can be a form of self-care. It’s not just about what looks good—it’s about what makes me feel good in this exact moment of life.
And right now? That means cozy knits, fall colors, and outfits that let me embrace my bump with confidence and ease.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy style doesn’t have to mean giving up on fashion. With a little creativity, it can be about reimagining what’s already in your wardrobe, leaning into fabrics that feel good, and finding silhouettes that celebrate your changing body.
For me, that looks like sweater dresses styled in new ways, comfortable boots that carry me through busy days, and outfits that make me feel both chic and at ease. Most importantly, it looks like embracing this chapter with gratitude and joy.
So here’s to all the colors of fall, the softest knitwear, and the beauty of embracing the bump—one cozy outfit at a time.
