As your pregnancy progresses, it becomes more and more important to invest in a maternity bra that is both comfortable and supportive.
During pregnancy, your breasts may feel sore, sensitive or tender, so it is crucial that your bra should not make this worse, particularly by opting for wire-free options as well as those with additional hook fastenings so that it can adapt as your pregnancy progresses. Michelle Kennedy, the CEO and Founder of Peanut, an app connecting mothers around the country relates, “Shopping for maternity bras can be a nightmare. You’re basically trying to find something which doesn’t make you feel like you’re wearing something your grandma wears, whilst still getting support.”
Choosing that perfect maternity bra that will see you through your pregnancy can be a daunting process, so we’ve contacted the experts to get their advice on selecting the best option for you.
Elizabeth Day, Mothercare’s Parenting Expert explains, “During pregnancy the average mum-to-be will go up two under-band sizes and four cup sizes, this is why it’s important to ensure a comfortable fit. When shopping for a maternity bra, always ensure it is adjustable with at least a four hook position so you can adjust it throughout the day as you expand.”
Figleaves Garment Technologist Victoria Shelton furthers, “look for non-rigid cups to accommodate changes in sizes as well as soft lined and smooth seamed options that will not rub on the nipples.”
And finally, Jill Faulkner, the Retail Learning and Development Manager at JoJo Maman Bébé recommends “customers return every six weeks for a remeasure and fitting to ensure that bra is offering the best support.”
Taking the advice of our experts, we’ve gathered our favourite maternity bras on the market to take you from pregnancy, to nursing.
Heidi Klum Mama Carina Maternity Bra
Recommended by the CEO and Founder of Peanut, Michelle Kennedy, this maternity bra is as comfortable as it is feminine and elegant. From Heidi Klum’s range, it has floral lace detailing in a fine tulle across the front, further embellished with contrast bow details and a scallop trim edging. The bra has a U-shaped back and nursing clips for once your baby is born.
Floral Satin & Lace Maternity & Nursing Bra
This maternity bra is designed to grow with you throughout your pregnancy. On top of the feminine floral designs, the bra is super practical with fully adjustable straps, 6 clasp options and has all the support and shape that you need without under wiring. The bra is composed of stretch satin with cotton lining and a lace trim and can be bought alongside the matching briefs.
Lace Trim Maternity & Nursing Bra
Combining pretty with practical, this lace trim bra is available in white and black and we’re sure that you’ll want to buy both. Set to become your go-to, the bras are made from cotton with a slight stretch.
Ideal for pregnancy and nursing thanks to breastfeeding clips, the piece will remain gentle on delicate or sensitive skin. There are also five rows of eyelets so you can adjust as you grow and the matching lace trim briefs available too.
Heidi Klum Intimates Madeline Nursing Bra
Proving that maternity bras can still be elegant and sexy, this Heidi Klum number is composed of a delicate cream lace. From every day to a special occasion, this bra will see you through your pregnancy and through to breastfeeding with handy drop down cups.
Cream Bamboo Seamless Maternity & Nursing Bra
Designed for sensitive skin, this bra is composed of a hypoallergenic and antibacterial soft bamboo viscose that is soft and seamless. The bra is fully adjustable from the straps, to the moulded cups that are flexible and adapt to your changing fit. With an impressive support, there is no under-wiring, making it comfortable enough to sleep in.
Cotton Maternity & Nursing Bra
Available in black and white, this bra is designed for a comfortable fit with its seam-free construction and soft cotton composition. The piece has four hook and eye fastenings and a stretch fit to extend as your pregnancy progresses. There are also clips to reveal drop cups for ease in breastfeeding.
Cake Lingerie Zest Nursing Flexi Wire Sports Bra
For the gym bunnies, finding a sports bra that can adapt to your changing needs can be quite challenging. Enter this stylish option that puts support, comfort and style at the forefront of its design. The bra has a secure, seam free fit with an underwriting for added support. There is even clips for easy drop down cups.
Ingrid and Isabel Seamless Crossover Maternity & Nursing Bra
Offering you the ability to buy one bra for pregnancy and beyond, this option from Gap has a crossover design for ease in nursing after the baby is born. The bra is composed of a double-layer fabric and an elasticised ribbed band for extra support that is stretchy enough to adapt as your pregnancy progresses. Gap offer the piece in nude and black.
2 Pack Maternity Padded T-Shirt Full Cup Bras
Expecting mothers head to M&S for maternity bras for the retailer’s extensive size selection with this specific bra set ranging from 32B to 36F. The lingerie features a drop cup and a built in sling for support. It is also non-wired and has an adjustable strap as well as the ability for added stretch.
Lace Soft Cup Maternity Bras 2 Pack
Mothercare offer this handy set of two maternity bras in both black and white. Providing gentle support, they are designed to adapt as your body changes. The set features two soft cup bras with pretty lace designs and the option of four hook-and-eye fastenings for extra adjustment.
