What to Wear to a Wedding When You’re Pregnant: Maternity Guest Dress Ideas
Attending a wedding while pregnant is a beautiful way to celebrate love and new beginnings, but finding the perfect maternity dress for weddings can feel challenging. Every expectant mum deserves to look and feel fabulous, no matter her stage of pregnancy.
With the right style, fit, and fabric, you can enjoy the festivities in comfort and elegance, making memories that last a lifetime.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Maternity Wedding Guest Dress
Comfort and Fit
Prioritise dresses made from stretchy, breathable fabrics such as jersey, cotton, silk, and linen. These materials allow for movement and adapt to your changing shape, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the celebration.
Look for features like adjustable waistbands, soft linings, and gentle seams that won’t irritate sensitive skin.
Embrace the Bump
Celebrate your pregnancy with bump-friendly dresses. Empire waist, wrap, ruched, and A-line silhouettes are especially flattering, offering support and style for every trimester. These designs also transition beautifully into postpartum wear, making them a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
Dress Code
Weddings come in all styles, from casual garden parties to black-tie affairs. Adapt your look by choosing a dress that matches the event’s formality. For casual or daytime weddings, opt for lighter fabrics and playful prints. For formal or black-tie events, select luxe materials and elegant details.
Seasonality
Consider the wedding season and location of the wedding. For summer wedding celebrations, choose lightweight, breathable fabrics such as chiffon and sleeveless or short-sleeved styles. In winter, layer with a chic shawl or tailored jacket and opt for richer fabrics like velvet or heavier silk.
For destination weddings, pack versatile pieces that travel well and suit the climate.
Footwear and Accessories
Supportive shoes are a must, think block heels, wedges, or stylish flats, sandals may be a summer option. Layering options like wraps or boleros add comfort and style, while statement jewellery can elevate your look. Choose accessories that reflect your personality and complement your dress.
Bump-Friendly Dress Styles for Every Wedding
Flowy Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses are a favourite for maternity occasionwear, offering comfort, movement, and effortless elegance. Their flowing silhouettes flatter every stage of pregnancy and can be dressed up or down for different events. Many styles are designed to be re-worn, making them a sustainable choice for your wardrobe.
Empire Waist & Wrap Dresses
Empire waist and wrap dresses are timeless options that provide an adjustable fit and flatter all body types. These styles are perfect for accommodating a growing bump and are equally suitable for postpartum wear. The wrap design also allows for easy nursing access after your baby arrives.
Bodycon & Ruched Dresses
For those who want to showcase their silhouette, bodycon and ruched dresses in stretchy fabrics offer a chic, modern look. These styles hug your curves while providing comfort and support, making them ideal for confident mums-to-be.
Plus Size & Inclusive Options
Every body is beautiful, and inclusive pregnancy wedding gowns ensure all mums feel celebrated. At White Runway, we offer a wide range of sizes and styles, including plus size dresses designed for both comfort and sophistication.
Dress Ideas by Dress Code
Casual & Daytime Weddings
- Sundresses in soft, breathable fabrics
- Midi dresses with floral prints or pastel colours
- Flowy skirts paired with bump-friendly tops
Semi-Formal & Cocktail Weddings
- Midi or maxi dresses in bold colours or statement sleeves
- Elegant wrap or empire waist styles
- Subtle shimmer or lace details for added glamour
Formal & Black-Tie Weddings
- Floor-length gowns in luxe fabrics like silk or velvet
- Dresses with elegant embellishments or draping
- Sophisticated necklines and tailored fits
Sustainable & Re-Wearable Maternity Dresses
Choose maternity dresses that can be worn again for other special occasions or even everyday outings. Look for classic colours, timeless silhouettes, and high-quality fabrics that stand the test of time. Tailoring non-maternity dresses or choosing adjustable styles can also extend the life of your dress. Many brands now offer sustainable maternity dresses made from eco-friendly materials, supporting both style and the environment.
Top Picks: Where to Shop for Maternity Wedding Guest Dresses
White Runway’s curated collection features elegant, versatile, and sustainable
Final Tips for Expectant Wedding Guests
- Confidence and comfort are your best accessories, choose a dress that makes you feel beautiful.
- Don’t shy away from colour or bold prints; celebrate your style.
- Plan ahead for sizing and possible alterations, as your body may change in the weeks leading up to the event.
- Consider postpartum needs if you’ll be nursing or want to re-wear your dress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right size for a
Check the brand’s sizing guide and consider sizing up if you’re in your second or third trimester. Adjustable styles like wrap or empire waist dresses offer flexibility.
Can I wear a non-maternity dress to a wedding when pregnant?
Yes, many non-maternity dresses with stretchy fabrics or loose silhouettes can accommodate a growing bump. Look for A-line, slip dress, wrap, or empire waist styles for the best fit.
Are there plus size
Absolutely. White Runway offers inclusive sizing and stylish options for plus size mums-to-be.
What are the best fabrics for comfortable maternity dresses?
Jersey, cotton, silk, and linen are breathable and stretchy, making them ideal for comfort and movement.
Can I re-wear my
Many maternity dresses are designed for versatility and can be worn postpartum or for other special occasions, especially wrap and empire waist styles.
Ready to find your perfect