Best Maternity Clothes on Amazon Under $40

At 36 weeks pregnant, I've learned that building a maternity wardrobe doesn't require breaking the bank. Amazon has become my go-to destination for affordable, comfortable, and surprisingly stylish maternity pieces—all under $40. Whether you're just starting to show or counting down the days to delivery, these budget-friendly finds will keep you looking and feeling great throughout your pregnancy journey.

Why Amazon for Maternity Clothes?

Amazon offers an unbeatable combination of affordability, variety, and convenience for expecting mothers. With thousands of maternity options, Prime shipping, and easy returns, you can try multiple sizes and styles without leaving home—crucial when you're dealing with pregnancy fatigue and a rapidly changing body.

According to What to Expect, the average pregnant person starts showing between 12-16 weeks, but comfort becomes important even earlier. Dr. Sarah Johnson, an OB-GYN with 15 years of experience, notes: "Investing in comfortable maternity clothes early can significantly improve pregnancy comfort and confidence. But 'investing' doesn't mean spending a fortune—quality basics at reasonable prices are perfectly adequate."

Best Maternity Leggings Under $40

Maternity leggings are the foundation of any pregnancy wardrobe. I've lived in mine throughout all three trimesters. Look for these key features:

• Wide, supportive waistband (over-the-bump or under-the-bump options)
• Stretchy, breathable fabric with good recovery
• Non-sheer material (squat test approved!)
• Machine washable—pregnancy laundry is real

Top picks include the BeMatik Over-the-Bump Leggings ($22-28) and the Foucome Maternity Yoga Pants ($18-25). Both offer excellent bump support and come in multiple colors. Browse maternity leggings on Amazon.

Maternity Jeans That Actually Fit

Finding maternity jeans under $40 that don't constantly slide down is a challenge, but it's possible. The secret is in the panel design. Over-the-bump panels provide more support in later pregnancy, while under-the-bump styles work better in the first and second trimesters.

The Rumor Has It Maternity Skinny Jeans ($28-35) offer incredible value with a comfortable panel and stretch denim that actually retains its shape. For a more relaxed fit, the Signature by Levi Strauss Maternity Jeans ($30-38) provide that classic denim look with pregnancy-friendly comfort.

Pro tip from stylist Emma Rodriguez: "Size up if you're between sizes in maternity jeans. The stretch factor is real, and you want comfort over vanity sizing. You can always use a belt or adjust the panel."

Nursing-Friendly Tops for Now and Later

Smart shopping means choosing pieces that work during pregnancy and postpartum. Nursing-friendly tops with discreet access points extend the life of your maternity wardrobe significantly.

Look for tops with:

• Crossover designs or wrap styles for easy nursing access
• Button-front details or side zippers
• Ruched sides that accommodate belly growth
• Longer hemlines to avoid ride-up

The BBOUGE Maternity Nursing Tops 3-pack ($25-32) and the Smallshow 3-Pack Nursing Shirts ($28-35) offer exceptional value. You're essentially getting three versatile tops for less than the price of a single specialty maternity piece at traditional retailers.

Maternity Dresses: Comfortable and Chic

Maternity dresses are a pregnancy game-changer—they're essentially one-piece outfits that require zero coordination. Amazon offers stunning options that look far more expensive than their price tags suggest.

For casual everyday wear, the Ecavus Maternity T-shirt Dress ($22-28) provides effortless comfort with pockets (yes, pockets!). The soft jersey fabric drapes beautifully over your bump without clinging uncomfortably.

Need something dressier? The Merokeety Maternity Wrap Dress ($30-38) works for baby showers, work events, or date nights. The wrap silhouette is universally flattering and adjusts as your belly grows. According to BabyCenter style experts, empire waists and A-line silhouettes are most forgiving across all pregnancy stages.

For summer pregnancies, the Nemidor Maternity Maxi Dress ($28-35) offers breathable comfort with its flowy design. The adjustable straps and empire waist ensure a perfect fit from first trimester through delivery.

Bump-Friendly Basics

Building a capsule maternity wardrobe starts with quality basics that mix and match effortlessly:

Maternity Tank Tops: The Beachcoco Maternity Tank Top 3-pack ($20-27) provides layering essentials in neutral colors. The longer length prevents embarrassing belly exposure when you reach up.

Basic T-Shirts: Liu & Qu Maternity T-Shirts ($16-24 for 2-pack) offer side ruching that grows with you. These work under cardigans, with jeans, or paired with leggings for endless combinations.

Cardigans & Layers: A longer cardigan from Amazon Essentials ($25-35) works throughout pregnancy and beyond. Choose neutrals that coordinate with everything in your closet.

Sleep & Loungewear: Don't forget comfort at home! The Ekouaer Maternity Pajama Set ($25-32) with nursing access means you'll use it long after delivery.

Trimester-by-Trimester Shopping Guide

First Trimester (Weeks 1-13)

You might not show much yet, but bloating and breast tenderness make tight clothing uncomfortable. Start with:

• 1-2 pairs of under-the-bump leggings
• Stretchy, forgiving tops in your regular size
• A belly band to extend your regular jeans

Total budget: $50-75

Second Trimester (Weeks 14-27)

Your bump is official! This is prime maternity shopping time. Parents magazine recommends transitioning to true maternity pieces around week 16-20. Invest in:

• 2 pairs of maternity jeans or pants
• 3-4 over-the-bump leggings
• 5-6 maternity tops (mix of casual and dressy)
• 1-2 versatile dresses

Total budget: $150-200

Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40+)

Comfort is everything. Your body is working hard, and clothes should make life easier, not harder. Focus on:

• Nursing-friendly loungewear
• Stretchy dresses with room to grow
• Extra leggings (you'll live in these postpartum too)
• Hospital-ready nightgowns or button-front pajamas

Total budget: $75-100

Comfort Tips from a 36-Week Pregnant Person

Here's what I've learned about maximizing comfort in maternity clothes:

1. Prioritize Natural Fibers: Cotton, modal, and bamboo blends breathe better than synthetic fabrics. Pregnancy increases body temperature, and breathable fabrics prevent overheating and skin irritation.

2. Size Up When Unsure: Maternity sizing can be unpredictable. When reviews mention running small, order up. Amazon's easy returns make this risk-free.

3. Read Reviews Religiously: Look for reviews from people at similar weeks of pregnancy. They'll mention fabric quality, true-to-size fit, and whether pieces hold up in the wash.

4. Wash Before Wearing: This removes chemicals and ensures accurate fit. Many maternity pieces shrink slightly after the first wash.

5. Invest in Multi-Use Pieces: Choose items that work during pregnancy, postpartum, and potentially with future pregnancies. Nursing-friendly designs, adjustable waistbands, and stretchy fabrics provide the best value.

6. Don't Forget Undergarments: While not outerwear, comfortable maternity underwear and bras make everything else feel better. Amazon has excellent options under $40 for multipacks.

Smart Shopping Strategies

Maximize your maternity budget with these proven strategies:

Watch for Lightning Deals: Amazon regularly offers time-limited discounts on maternity clothing. Add items to your watchlist and enable notifications.

Buy in Multipacks: Basic tanks, leggings, and nursing tops in multipacks offer better per-item pricing.

Check Amazon Warehouse: Open-box and returned items in like-new condition offer additional savings.

Use Subscribe & Save: Some maternity essentials qualify for Subscribe & Save discounts. Order what you need, cancel after delivery.

Compare Price Variations: Different colors or sizes sometimes have different prices. A navy option might be $5 cheaper than black.

Building a Complete Wardrobe Under $200

Yes, it's possible! Here's a complete starter maternity wardrobe for $200:

• 3 pairs maternity leggings: $60
• 1 pair maternity jeans: $30
• 3-pack nursing tops: $30
• 3-pack basic tanks: $25
• 2 maternity dresses: $55
• Total: $200

This gives you multiple outfit combinations that work from second trimester through early postpartum. Mix and match pieces to create dozens of looks without spending a fortune.

Sustainability Considerations

Maternity clothes have a limited wearing window, which raises sustainability concerns. Maximize the environmental benefit of your purchases by:

• Choosing quality over quantity—better to have fewer well-made pieces
• Selecting nursing-friendly items that extend wearability postpartum
• Saving pieces for potential future pregnancies
• Donating or reselling gently used maternity wear after you're done

Many pregnancy resource centers accept maternity clothing donations, giving your pieces a second life helping other expecting mothers.

Final Thoughts: Style Meets Comfort

Pregnancy is a unique time when your body deserves celebration and comfort. The good news? You don't need designer maternity wear to look and feel amazing. Amazon's affordable options prove that budget-friendly and stylish aren't mutually exclusive.

As you build your maternity wardrobe, remember that the best outfit is the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Whether that's maternity jeans and a cute top or your favorite stretchy dress, embrace what works for your body and lifestyle.

Your pregnancy journey is uniquely yours—your wardrobe should reflect that while keeping you comfortable every step of the way.

Discover Your Perfect Maternity Style with LOOQS

Finding maternity clothes that match your personal style while accommodating your changing body can feel overwhelming. That's where LOOQS comes in—our AI-powered platform helps expecting mothers discover outfit inspiration tailored to their unique preferences, body type, and budget.

Whether you're looking for casual everyday maternity looks, work-appropriate bump-friendly outfits, or special occasion maternity dresses, LOOQS curates personalized recommendations that actually work for your pregnancy stage and style. Get outfit ideas that combine Amazon affordability with Pinterest-worthy aesthetics—all in one place.

Ready to elevate your maternity wardrobe? Visit LOOQS today and discover how easy it can be to look and feel amazing throughout your pregnancy—without breaking the bank.