How do I estimate the correct dress size?

When shopping for her maternity bridesmaid dress, your pregnant bridesmaid can consult with a bridal stylist about picking the right size. Depending on the dress, she’ll want to go at least two sizes bigger than her current dress size.

What should I do if the bridesmaid dress has already been ordered?

Your bridesmaid should contact the dress designer or boutique right away. Some shops will allow exchanges for another dress style or size. “If the dresses were ordered far enough in advance, there may be enough time to order a new dress or the designer can check to see if there is a larger size in their inventory,” Turner says. Your bridesmaid should also ask if the designer offers the option to purchase additional fabric. Usually, you can order an extra yard or two in the same fabric of the dress for alterations.

What happens if I need to alter the dress?

Your bridesmaid should have the dress tailored by the boutique’s in-house seamstress or go to one recommended by the designer, as they’ll be familiar with the designer’s dresses and know creative fixes to make the dress fit. For example, the seamstress can add a shawl across the back and shoulders if the dress can't be zipped up or cut a too-long hem to add panels to the side seams of the bodice. Other adjustments like adding tulle straps to a strapless dress can help provide support for an expanding bust.

19 Best Maternity Bridesmaid Dresses of 2022

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Outfitting your bridesmaids for the big day could be a little daunting, especially if one of your girls is pregnant. Don't stress! You are not the first bride to have a pregnant bridesmaid in the wedding party and you definitely will not be the last. Whether the dresses have already been ordered or you’re still deciding on what your squad will wear, your mom-to-be ‘maid has lots of choices for her perfect maternity bridesmaid dress. We've covered all possible scenarios, along with expert tips and a few recommendations, to make the process of helping your expecting bestie find the right frock and maintain the cohesive look of your bridal pack as smooth as can be.

Talk to your bridesmaids about dresses that will suit all of them. Empire-waist dresses and A-line silhouettes with a full skirt flatter almost every figure and are especially accommodating for a growing baby bump. Also consider having your girls wear coordinating, instead of matching, dresses. “This is one reason why the mix-and-match ‘maid trend is so popular,” says Caroline Dilsheimer, former BHLDN styling manager. “If you allow each bridesmaid to wear a different dress in the same color or palette, the mom-to-be can select one in a silhouette and fabric that lets her feel and look her best.”

Meet the Expert

• Caroline Dilsheimer is the former styling manager for BHLDN.

• Chelsea Turner is the retail sales and brand experience manager for Jenny Yoo.

Some designers, such as Hayley Paige and Jenny Yoo, offer their popular dress styles in a maternity version, making it easier for all of the bridesmaids to match. “Typically, a bridesmaid should go for a maternity dress if she’ll be five months pregnant or more by the wedding date,” says Chelsea Turner of Jenny Yoo retail sales. For a smaller bump, she can choose any style that allows room for her belly and hips and fits well around her bust. And just because she’s pregnant doesn’t mean she’s limited to certain styles.

Check out some of our favorite maternity-friendly bridesmaids dresses, below, for all the bump-flattering inspo you need.

For a Casual Wedding: ASOS TFNC Maternity Bridesmaid Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress

This soft pink dress is simply breathtaking. With flutter sleeves, a subtle neck-plunging front, and side slits, this maxi is great for bridesmaids that are just starting to show.

Most Comfortable: Birdy Grey Ryan Sage Dress

We're swooning over this sage gown that's fit for a princess. Equal parts comfortable and flattering, it's made of a polyester chiffon material that will inspire you to flaunt your growing bump.

For a Black-Tie Wedding: Tiffany Rose Galaxy One-Shoulder Maternity Gown

Gear up for a wedding under the stars with this sparkly one-shoulder gown that calls to mind a fancy gala. Pleated details and a column skirt allow you to comfortably show off your bump.

Most Dramatic Back: David's Bridal Long Mesh Dress with Cowl Back Detail

Keep cool and comfortable in the hot summer heat with this sophisticated maxi featuring a cowl back detail. The v-neckline directs the eye downward, while a flowy skirt elegantly drapes the figure.

Most Regal: Amsale Autumn Maternity Dress

Pull out all the stops with this royalty-approved maternity dress that deserves its own moment in the spotlight. With a streamlined off-the-shoulder silhouette and artful pleats, this gorgeous gown is roomy enough for a growing bump.

Best Wrap Dress: Show Me Your Mumu Samantha Ruffle Wrap Dress

Fit for the entire bridal party, this glamorous rose gold wrap dress is ready for its close-up. With romantic ruffles and a satiny finish, what's there's not to love?

Best Maternity Dress: The Dessy Group Sleeveless Notch Maternity Dress

This flowy midnight blue chiffon gown is not only incredibly elegant, but it's flattering in all the right places.

Most Versatile: Jenny Yoo Delphine Convertible Dress

Calling all blushing bridesmaids! This adorable convertible dress can be styled a multitude of ways thanks to interchangeable strap and neckline options. Whether you go strapless or opt for a one-shoulder look, the ethereal chiffon material feels incredibly romantic.

Best Empire Waist: Amsale Janan Maternity Dress

To accommodate a growing bump, we recommend sizing up and opting for a dress with an empire waist. This streamlined evening gown is characterized by a crossover bodice and chiffon skirt that flatters the figure.

For a Fall Wedding: Jenny Yoo Sullivan Dress

As the weather gets cooler, this body-skimming crushed velvet bridesmaid dress will be a fan favorite. We love the dark berry hue and flattering cowl halter neckline, which highlights your shoulders and décolletage.

Best Cold-Shoulder Neckline: Amsale Bizzy Maternity Dress

Turn heads with this cold-shoulder number featuring a sweetheart neckline and ruched detailing along the bodice. The gorgeous teal hue is beyond perfect for a summer wedding by the ocean.

Most Romantic: Show Me Your Mumu Jess Ruffle Midi Dress

Flouncy ruffles and a high-low hemline come together to create a look of heightened drama. We recommend this playful emerald chiffon midi for the expectant mama looking to hit the dancefloor in style. Bonus: The mock wrap dress silhouette featuring an elastic waist will keep wardrobe malfunctions at bay.

For a Seaside Ceremony: Jenny Yoo Cerise Convertible Print

Whether for an enchanting estate ceremony or Montauk nuptials, this blue and white floral print is utterly dreamy. If you're looking to show off your growing bump, then the empire waist on this floor-length strapless gown will make you feel like a queen.

For an Evening Wedding: Tiffany Rose Isabella Gown

Be prepared to make a showstopping entrance with this shimmering black gown featuring a faux-wrap skirt and long sleeves. The material drapes exquisitely so that you can flaunt your bump from the aisle to the afterparty.

Best Jewel Tone: Isabella Oliver Brunswick Maternity Dress

Accentuate your curves with this seasonless dark fig jersey dress that can be dressed up or down. Flattering details—ruching at the sides and a sultry one-shoulder detail—make this a perfect 10 in our book.

For a Destination Wedding: Show Me Your Mumu Hacienda Maxi Dress

Cue the tropics: This maternity-friendly palm leaf print maxi is fit for a wedding by the shore. Versatility is key here—the flirty ruffled neckline can be worn off the shoulder, strapless, or even one-shoulder.

Most Feminine: PinkBlush Lavender Chiffon Long Sleeve Maternity Maxi Dress

For the blushing bridesmaid in search of a flowy maxi dress with feminine appeal. We just love the mauve-pink hue, especially for a garden wedding. A cinched elastic waist and tie-front detail allow you to dress your bump in style.

Best Maxi: Azazie Annabelle Maternity V-Neck Dress

Channel the look of a Grecian goddess with this effortless floor-length gown that's made from a soft and stretchy mesh material. Between the vibrant blue hue, empire waist, and side slit, this pleated stunner is ready for a destination wedding. Plus, it even has pockets!

For the Glamorous Bridesmaid: Maya Maternity Bridesmaid Maxi Tulle Dress

What to look for in a maternity bridesmaid dress

When it comes to shopping for a maternity bridesmaid dress, it's important to pick a silhouette that is not only stylish but comfortable, too. Dresses made of stretch cotton, lace, jersey, and stretch crepe are more breathable and make for comfortable and bump-friendly options, while styles with elastic, adjustable, or no waist require little or no adjustments. Dresses that incorporate a stretch lining can also make for relaxed options that don't require heavy alterations.

FAQ

How do I estimate the correct dress size?

When shopping for her maternity bridesmaid dress, your pregnant bridesmaid can consult with a bridal stylist about picking the right size. Depending on the dress, she’ll want to go at least two sizes bigger than her current dress size.
What should I do if the bridesmaid dress has already been ordered?

Your bridesmaid should contact the dress designer or boutique right away. Some shops will allow exchanges for another dress style or size. “If the dresses were ordered far enough in advance, there may be enough time to order a new dress or the designer can check to see if there is a larger size in their inventory,” Turner says. Your bridesmaid should also ask if the designer offers the option to purchase additional fabric. Usually, you can order an extra yard or two in the same fabric of the dress for alterations.
What happens if I need to alter the dress?

Your bridesmaid should have the dress tailored by the boutique’s in-house seamstress or go to one recommended by the designer, as they’ll be familiar with the designer’s dresses and know creative fixes to make the dress fit. For example, the seamstress can add a shawl across the back and shoulders if the dress can't be zipped up or cut a too-long hem to add panels to the side seams of the bodice. Other adjustments like adding tulle straps to a strapless dress can help provide support for an expanding bust.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Ivette Manners founded BridesStyle.com, a savvy wedding planning resource for brides. Prior to that, she worked as a writer and editor at Long Island Bride and Groom for more than 14 years. Ivette is an established lifestyle writer with more than 20 years of experience covering topics in bridal, beauty, travel, and wellness.

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.

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Best dressed bump!