Why should I wear a coat when pregnant?

If you are pregnant, you might not think it makes sense to invest in a maternity coat. If you’re early in your pregnancy, or if it hasn’t become too chilly where you live, you might not need to wear a coat yet. But if you are starting to outgrow your pre-pregnancy coat, and it’s getting colder where you live, you shouldn’t try to tough it out until your baby arrives. Your own needs matter, and having a comfortable coat to get you through the colder months is important. Not only that, but even if you end up using a maternity coat for just a few months, it’s likely that you will still be able to use it after your baby arrives, as it can take some time to fit into your pre-pregnancy clothing.

Does cold weather affect pregnancy?

It’s well known that pregnancy can make you heat up easily, but what you may not know is that cold weather also has strong a impact on pregnancy. Pregnant people are more likely to have sensitive skin, which may easily dry out in cold weather. They are also more likely to experience nosebleeds, and cold weather often triggers those. Research has also found that extreme cold weather can increase your risk of premature birth.

Should I size up for a maternity coat?

Most of us are told to size up when it comes to buying maternity clothes, but that’s not always the best advice. It's helpful to have some maternity clothes on hand for the first few weeks or months postpartum when you will be smaller than you were while pregnant but larger than you were before pregnancy. If possible, pick a maternity coat that matches your pre-pregnancy size. Many maternity coats offer multiple options, like expandable waistbands, so that you can adjust to the different sizes you may be over the next couple of months.

The 10 Best Maternity Coats of 2023

A comfortable maternity coat is a must-have in your closet as the temperatures dip. Depending on where you live, the seasons of your pregnancy, or your lifestyle, your needs may range from a light jean jacket to a super warm maternity puffer.

Many maternity coats and jackets are 3-in-1 styles, which means they convert from pregnancy to postpartum and often have a built-in extender for a belly or a baby in a carrier. Consider maternity coat extenders to find the most comfortable fit while keeping seasons and longevity in mind. We looked over design, material, ease of cleaning, value, size, adjustability, and longevity when reviewing products. An obstetrician-gynecologist on our Review Board also reviewed the contents of this article for accuracy and how to evaluate maternity coats.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Seraphine Reversible 3-in-1 Maternity Coat at Seraphine.com

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Best Puffer:

Modern Eternity Penelope 3-in-1 Long Puffer Maternity Coat at Apeainthepod.com

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Best Plus-Size:

Woman Within Fleece Swing Funnel-Neck Coat at Amazon

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Best Parka:

ASOS Maternity Waterfall Parka Coat at Asos

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Best Faux-Fur Lined:

Hatch Coco Coat at Hatchcollection.com

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Best Jean Jacket:

Ingrid & Isabel Mama Denim Jacket at Nordstrom

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Best Wool:

Kimi + Kai Wool Blend Duffle Coat at Nordstrom

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Best Dress Coat:

Momo Maternity Swing Coat at Amazon

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Best Alternative:

Seraphine 3-in-1 Knitted Maternity Cape at Seraphine.com

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Best Rain Coat:

Modern Eternity 3-in-1 Maternity Raincoat at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected the Best Maternity Coats
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Family

Seraphine

View On Seraphine.com

Pros

Fully reversible
Detachable panel
Waterproof

Cons

Only one color option

The Seraphine Reversible 3-in-1 Maternity Coat is our top pick because it's fully reversible, making this comfy choice like two coats in one. Choose between the sleek, waterproof side for rainy days and the soft, fleece side for chilly days. Cut generously, the coat will fit through your pregnancy and is still wearable when the baby arrives, so it is a worthwhile investment.

The waterproof maternity jacket comes with a fully reversible, detachable panel designed to zip up and over your baby carrier or sling. While the coat is only available in black, the sizes range from 2 to 14.

Price at time of publication: $229

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: 2 to 14 | Material: Fleece (interior), exterior fabric not listed}

A PEA IN THE POD

View On Apeainthepod.com

Pros

Removable panel extender
Works with a baby carrier
Welt pockets

Cons

Long style not for everyone

This long-line maternity puffer is warm and still stylish, so you won't look like a floating marshmallow. Available in four on-trend colors and five sizes, this fully waterproof coat comes with a removable panel extender.

Wear the coat without the panel during pregnancy and then pop your baby in a carrier and add in the panel to keep warm while on the go. The ribbed storm cuffs and welt pockets keep hands toasty and cozy all winter long.

Price at time of publication: $198

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: X-Small to X-Large | Material: Nylon and polyester}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Stand collar for chilly days
Machine washable
Side pockets

Cons

Runs large

From its A-line silhouette to many sizing and color options, the Woman Within Fleece Funnel-Neck Coat is stylish and cozy. A button-down front and stand collar allow you to stay warm on those extra chilly days, while side pockets hold essentials or keep your hands warm. This coat is available in six different colors and pattern options, so you can represent your style effortlessly.

Price at time of publication: $61

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Small to 8X-Large | Material: Fleece}

ASOS

View On Asos

Pros

Drawstring hem
Spacious side pockets
Soft against the skin

Cons

One color (olive green)

Comfy and warm, this parka has a relaxed fit, so it’s not a super formal coat, but it will protect you from frigid temps. The drawstring hem and waist make it easy to adjust the fit for a growing belly, while side pockets are spacious, so if you’re running out for errands, there’s room for a phone, keys, and wallet. Plus, the soft polyester lining is a nice touch for those extra cold days.

Bonus: ASOS has free shipping and returns, making it an easy choice for winter pregnancies.

Price at time of publication: $97

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: 2 to 16 | Material: Polyester, cotton, and nylon}

Hatch

View On Hatchcollection.com

Pros

Oversized fit
Stays closed with snaps
Raglan sleeves

Cons

Short arms
Dry clean only

Stand out in style with this splurge-worthy faux shearling coat that is sure to make a statement wherever you go. The oversized cocoon fit and cozy hood provide plenty of protection from the elements.

Available in two neutral colors and two sizes, the maternity jacket stays closed with two strategically placed snaps. While it’s not super warm, the oversized fit makes it easy to add layers underneath, and the raglan sleeves add some definition while keeping your arms protected.

Price at time of publication: $428

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Petite or one size | Material: Acrylic, polyester, and wool}

Ingrid & Isabel

View On Nordstrom View On Ingridandisabel.com View On Lyst.com

Pros

Can be worn postpartum
Matching kid jackets
Two wash options

Cons

Material not stretchy
Hand-wash only

Celebrate your new status as a mother loud and proud with this classic jean jacket featuring a large “MAMA” embroidered patch on the back. Available in light or dark wash and five sizes, this classic jacket is a perfect maternity staple to add to your closet throughout pregnancy and beyond.

While the material isn't very stretchy, your belly will look cute popping out, even if the buttons don’t close. Post-pregnancy, you’ll rock that badge with honor. If the coat becomes an all-time favorite, the site sells mini-me versions with a “BABE” badge on the back.

Price at time of publication: $128

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: X-Small to X-Large | Material: Cotton and spandex}

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Lyst.com

Pros

Warm material
Hidden front zipper
Roomy pockets

Cons

Dry clean only
Runs big

Stay warm without sacrificing style in this chic duffle coat. Made with a swingy A-line silhouette, the three oversized toggles are on the chest, leaving plenty of room for a growing belly. The warm wool-blend maternity coat is available in two classic colors: camel or black. A removable, face-framing hood gives you some options, and roomy front pockets hold what you need.

Price at time of publication: $248

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: X-Small to X-Large | Material: Wool and polyester}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Button closure front with hidden snaps
Convertible button collar
Four pockets (two interior and exterior)

Cons

Top snap opens easily

This versatile jacket is dressy enough for formal occasions but works over jeans or maternity leggings. The classic swing coat is made from a wool and polyester blend, and the pleated swing silhouette expands and moves with your growing shape.

Price at time of publication: $150

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: X-Small to X-Large | Material: Wool and polyester}

Seraphine

View On Seraphine.com

Pros

Zipper fastening
Zip-on kangaroo panel
Soft

Cons

Not vegan-friendly

Expecting parents on the go may prefer this easy-to-wear, stylish, neutral cape. Elegant and versatile, the contrasting stripes on the trim stand out. Seriously luxurious, it drapes beautifully over your growing bump.

When the baby arrives, there’s a detachable panel that zips in, so you can wear your baby in a carrier, and they’ll be warm and cozy. Made to last, this cape comes in two sizes.

Price at time of publication: $139

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: Small/medium or medium/large | Material: Wool, nylon, acrylic, viscose, and alpaca}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Lyst.com

Pros

Cinched waist
Removable panel
Waterproof

Cons

Tight chest/shoulders

Who says a raincoat needs to be boring? Step out in style with this cinched-waist nylon stunner. Available in bright navy or red, you won’t get lost in the fog wearing this coat. The convertible style means that there’s an extender panel to fit a growing belly. Once your baby arrives, remove the panel; no one will ever know this was a maternity raincoat.

Price at time of publication: $100

^{Key Specs:
Size Range: X-Small to Large | Material: Nylon}

How We Selected the Best Maternity Coats

We chose the best maternity coats by studying the design and features of more than 20 on the market and researching reviews from customers and competitors. We also monitored shopping trends to bring you the best and most up-to-date offerings on maternity coats. We considered size range, material, ease of cleaning, style, longevity, and adjustability when reviewing products. We chose maternity coats that are stylish and comfortable regardless of the season.

What to Look for in a Maternity Coat

Longevity

While a good maternity coat will go a long way, you want a coat that will last as long as possible. First and foremost, you need a maternity coat that will fit throughout your pregnancy and after birth during the fourth trimester. Many maternity clothes are expensive, so finding a coat that will last you a long time helps you get more bang for your buck.

When shopping for maternity clothes, you’ve probably heard it’s best to buy the size you currently wear or a size up. You don’t want to buy clothes that are much too big because once you’ve given birth, they may not fit the same and could end up being baggy on you. Try your normal size first to see how it fits. Then, once you’ve had a baby, the coat will still work during the fourth trimester.

Seasonality

Before purchasing a maternity coat, consider all seasons you will be pregnant in. This will help you decide on what type of coat to look for, whether it be a raincoat for the spring or a puffer for the winter. Picking the right type of coat for the season you’re shopping for will ensure you don’t overheat or always feel chilly.

Look for a more lightweight coat for the fall and spring seasons but a heavier coat during the winter months. For example, during spring, a raincoat like the Modern Eternity 3-in-1 Maternity Raincoat would be your best option as it's waterproof and versatile and can carry you through the cool rainy season. For those cold months, coats with heavier material, like polyester, will keep you warm and toasty.

Adjustability

Just like other maternity clothing, maternity coats and jackets often feature an adjustable panel. It’s no secret your bump will grow as you near your second and third trimesters, so staying comfortable is key. Opting for a maternity coat that offers you breathing room with additional features, like an adjustable waistband or removable panel, will add necessary comfort.

You can create the size you need for your bump and not have to worry about your coat being too tight or snug. Check out wrap coats if you’re looking for coats that give you room to grow, as those can be tied with a belt yet leave you fully covered when chilly. The best part is that the adjustable features, like a wrap or removable panel, allow you to wear the coat after your baby arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I wear a coat when pregnant?

If you are pregnant, you might not think it makes sense to invest in a maternity coat. If you’re early in your pregnancy, or if it hasn’t become too chilly where you live, you might not need to wear a coat yet. But if you are starting to outgrow your pre-pregnancy coat, and it’s getting colder where you live, you shouldn’t try to tough it out until your baby arrives. Your own needs matter, and having a comfortable coat to get you through the colder months is important. Not only that, but even if you end up using a maternity coat for just a few months, it’s likely that you will still be able to use it after your baby arrives, as it can take some time to fit into your pre-pregnancy clothing.
Does cold weather affect pregnancy?

It’s well known that pregnancy can make you heat up easily, but what you may not know is that cold weather also has strong a impact on pregnancy. Pregnant people are more likely to have sensitive skin, which may easily dry out in cold weather. They are also more likely to experience nosebleeds, and cold weather often triggers those. Research has also found that extreme cold weather can increase your risk of premature birth.
Should I size up for a maternity coat?

Most of us are told to size up when it comes to buying maternity clothes, but that’s not always the best advice. It's helpful to have some maternity clothes on hand for the first few weeks or months postpartum when you will be smaller than you were while pregnant but larger than you were before pregnancy. If possible, pick a maternity coat that matches your pre-pregnancy size. Many maternity coats offer multiple options, like expandable waistbands, so that you can adjust to the different sizes you may be over the next couple of months.

Why Trust Verywell Family

Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of an 11-year-old son, an 8-year-old son, and a 4-year-old daughter. Maya’s babies were all born in the spring, so she was able to have a maternity coat before her belly got really big. It was long, black, boring, and warm, and she happily passed it on to a friend after her third kiddo was born.