Maternity Event Wear That’s Actually Pretty

With stretch lace and a full lining, this long-sleeve bodycon dress highlights your bump without necessarily screaming “maternity.” It has a midi length and can be gently machine-washed and air-dried. ($135, Seraphine)

If you anticipate a full social schedule both during pregnancy and afterward (and plan to breastfeed), look for dresses like this one that allow for easy nursing access. With a zipper at the neckline, this stretchy red viscose maxi dress is breastfeeding-friendly without any unnatural-looking flaps or folds. ($205, Seraphine)

Wear this if you really want to draw all the eyes in the room. Like some others on this list, this dress isn’t designed specifically for maternity, but the loose cut should offer plenty of space as your body’s shape changes. Available in sizes 14–32, it’s fully lined and can be hand-washed, too. ($279.95, Eloquii)

This maxi dress has a pretty surplice neck and long leg slit, plus a pattern that’s more or less apparent depending on the color combination you choose. According to Baltic Born’s site, it’s “bump friendly up to 20 weeks,” although of course, the actual fit will depend on your own body (you can always size up to try to get more time out of it, too). Plus, it’s nursing-friendly, so even if you can’t wear it all the way into the hospital for delivery, you’ll get good use out of it postpartum as well. ($112, Baltic Born)

Good news: If you try this one and like it, there are enough patterns and colors available that you can make it your entire pregnancy event wardrobe. With a crossover neckline, elastic waist, and removable belt, it can be dressed up or down, and you have design options ranging from basic black to a pretty sage floral. ($70, Baltic Born)

This drapey silk dress, which comes in four colors, can be worn with or without its matching belt, so it’s up to you how much you want to accentuate your bump. Best of all? When it’s dirty, just machine wash cold and line dry (you can also dry clean if you’d rather leave it to the professionals). ($99.90, Quince)

There’s a decent chance you already own one Ellie Nap Dress, but if you want to change it up a little, try this luxe tulle version that’s basically your inner toddler’s ultimate twirly ballet dress. Like the regular Ellie, it’s flattering whether you’re pregnant or not, but note that this version has no lining, so you can either get a matching slip or wear it with another under-layer. ($278, Hill House Home)

Here’s another, newer favorite from the same brand, with a triple-tiered skirt and ribbon sleeves. It’s currently available in five different variations, from hyacinth organza to a pretty yellow basketweave pattern, and sizes XXXS–XXL. ($248+, Hill House Home)

Also available in sizes 14–32, this sleek, simple maxi dress has three color options and a more defined shape than the gown above. Pair it with a denim jacket for casual events, or heels and statement jewelry for fancier occasions. Reviewers note it’s stretchy, comfy, and breathable. ($109.95, Eloquii)

With sequins on top and a long skirt that shows off your bump, this floor-length gown works for seriously special occasions. So take a pregnancy-friendly outfit for your work wife’s black-tie wedding off your list of things to worry about. ($385, Neiman Marcus)

If you’re comfortable spending a little more, or have multiple very formal events to attend while pregnant, this is a simple, sophisticated option that still has a bit of flair thanks to its asymmetrical top. This particular style has low stock right now, so check out the brand’s page on Nordstrom for more options. ($555, Nordstrom)

The cut on this dress ensures it works well for pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, and postpartum, since there’s plenty of room for a growing belly under the more fitted bust. Whether you pick magenta, royal blue, emerald, silver, or gold, it’s great for weddings, baby showers, or other special events. ($79, Nordstrom)

This lightweight, pleated dress with a V-neck and long skirt is a better option for those who don’t love strapless bras. This version is specifically designed for maternity wear, but the non-maternity version (which comes in more colors) would likely work well with a bump, too. ($70, ASOS)

If your social calendar is packed and you want a wide variety of options—or if you just want the freedom to try a couple pieces without owning any of them forever—Rent the Runway offers an ideal setup. You can borrow individual pieces, or pick one of several monthly plans for full access to their maternity collection. This is also an especially good option if you need a more formal pregnancy work wardrobe but don’t want to make a permanent investment. ($30+, with monthly plans from $94, Rent the Runway)