From bump to baby, changing hormones to changing bodies: pregnancy and motherhood come with many transformations, not the least bodily ones. Enter the need for comfortable luxury nightwear that’s suited to the pregnancy or motherhood stage you’re at. We’re particularly thinking of easy-to-slip-on sleepwear styles like nightgowns, as you’ll be spending a good amount of time resting, recharging and/or nursing. The best thing? Our featured hero designs will look the part outside your home, too.
Read on to learn what makes a perfect nightgown and discover our top 3 picks from the Bocan edit.
What to look out for?
Pregnancy and motherhood (if you’re breastfeeding) both come with their own sartorial needs — here’s what to look out for in your nightgown.
The Cut
A perhaps obvious point but fundamental nevertheless: the cut of your nightgown determines your overall level of comfort. For mid-pregnancy onwards, turn to loose, flowing silhouettes that will accommodate your growing bump and changing body shape and still look great post-delivery. Early pregnancy, as well as the fourth trimester, are more flexible, so you may wish to opt for something a bit more streamlined or fitted — just look out for generously cut bust profiles or go a size up to be on the more comfortable side.
The Fabric
Keep an eye out for natural fabrics — such as the ones we use here at Bocan — to ensure you feel comfortable overall. From airy silk-chiffon and cotton-voile to slinky rayon-viscose blends, single out fabrics that are naturally breathable and lightweight. Unless your chosen piece is cut loose, consider the amount of stretch in the fabric, opting for stretchy fabrics that will flex with your changing body shape.
The Neckline
If you’re breastfeeding, a nightgown with a flexible or adjustable neckline is a non-negotiable. A deep V- neck with a strappy shoulder always comes in handy, as do neck-buttoned designs. Alternatively, pick out a front-zipped style like the Loukia one in our roundup below.
Our Top 3 Picks Summery Simplicity
If you’re looking for a light, summery piece, our Lyra the Star nightgown has you covered. It’s crafted from cotton-poplin that’s airy and gentle on the skin. The bust and V-neckline are detailed with crochet trims, plus clusters of floral broderie anglaise for added ventilation. For easy nursing, the midi style is dotted with buttons down the front and features adjustable shoulder straps. Our favourite design detail? The ruffled trim — it provides a touch of definition at the front and transitions into a loose-cut back. For the full look, we’ve also designed a coordinating robe
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Natural Ease
You can’t go any more comfortable than with our Loukia nightgown — from the cut down to the fabric, it’s the perfect maternity piece. The shell is rendered in pale-pink linen — cooling, thermoregulating and durable — and the inner cotton layer feels airy against the skin. A hidden zip runs along the front for easy nursing, while the front split provides ample room for movement. The white trimming adds a beautiful finish and allows for added breathability along the sleeves and back where it’s partially open.