Pregnant? Thinking about shopping for maternity clothes?

Once upon a time, expectant parents had very few choices when it came to maternity clothing. Often, pieces were either not stylish, or easy to find, or ready to wear for work. Years and years ago, most of us (me included!) wore oversized shirts and dresses, and found stretchy pants that could go over our growing bellies and were often frustrated with the process. Oh, how times have changed!

Now you’ll find comfort, style, and functionality in maternity wear and it’s more easy to find (online or in person) than ever before.

We’ve rounded up a list of local Ottawa locations where you can fill your closet at any stage of your pregnancy and beyond.

Maternity Shops in and around Ottawa

HauteMama

In Ottawa’s West End (Kanata), book an in person boutique appointment at HauteMama or browse their online selection (be sure to also check out the deals in their outlet!). For almost 20 years, HauteMama has been outfitting people who are expecting in Ottawa with beautiful clothing and they’re ready to welcome you on your journey to fill your closet with work wear, comfy clothes and more.

Happily Ever After

Located outside of Ottawa in the Ottawa Valley is Happily Ever After, an online second-hand clothing shop. If you live in Petawawa you can arrange local pick up, but don’t worry if you’re further away: You’ll be able to ship your purchases right to your door! Browse their extensive selection of previously loved clothes, or consign items that you no longer need.

Maman Chic

Maman Chic is a popular shop (located in Gatineau) for before, during and after pregnancy. You’ll love their stylish pieces for work or at home, where comfort and style meet. Plus, with so many of the clothes they carry able to transition into your post-pregnancy life, we know you’ll love the value and longevity that each piece offers.

Bump and Bae

Bump and Bae is an online maternity and nursing wear shop that also offers private appointments if you live in the Ottawa area. If you aren’t sure where to begin to build your pregnancy wardrobe, start with their everyday essentials page. It will help you discover the best tank tops, leggings, joggers, tops and denim to add to your closet during your childbearing years.

Never Mind Clothes

The Canadian company (based in Ottawa), Never Mind Clothes, has comfortable and functional sweaters, sweat suits and dresses that are convertible for nursing as well. Their stunning colour palette and made-in-Europe clothing line is perfect for lounging around the house or running out to do errands. There’s a flat-fee shipping rate across Canada too.

AFTER9

Did you know that the best time to buy a nursing bra is actually in your third trimester of pregnancy? If you’re looking for a nursing sports bra, look no further! This all Canadian, female owned company has a supportive sports bra for people who are pregnant, pumping or nursing their babies. Finally, someone has filled this gap! While they aren’t Ottawa based (yet), you can find good sizing info on their website or ask for help with sizing. They also have beautiful leggings for both pregnancy and postpartum and the have a selection of workout tops that are great for nursing your baby. We like this company so much that we’ve partnered with them and can offer you 10% off when you buy from them using our link!

A few additional thoughts and tips when shopping for maternity clothing:

Consider second hand at locations that aren’t specifically for maternity clothes (for instance, Boomerang Kids or Value Village). Some consignment shops have sections for maternity, while an online marketplace may also offer clothing that can be loved again. Ask around your friends and family too; many of us hold onto clothes and we may not realize we don’t need it taking up space in our closet anymore! Or try your local buy nothing group on Facebook.

Also, while we focused on locally owned shops, places like Old Navy, the Gap, Nordstrom and other larger stores have maternity departments that often include items like bathing suits and more.

After baby arrives:

Although not a maternity shop, Milkface Nursingwear is a terrific resource for newly postpartum mammas. They have an excellent selection of nursing bras and a smaller selection of nursing tanks. They are well known for all things breast/chest feeding and provide lactation services to the community.

One final note: Wear whatever makes you comfortable if you’re joining us for one of our Prenatal Fitness Classes!

Happy shopping!

Please note, we receive a small referral fee from After9 each time you purchase using our link.