Should I Size Up or Buy Specific Maternity Prom Dresses?

For maternity prom dresses, prioritize comfort-first styles with empire waists, flowy A-lines, or soft wraps in breathable stretch fabrics. Sizing up one size in regular dresses often works better than specific maternity formal wear, which can be limited and expensive. 

Avoid any dress with restrictive seams across the belly, tight bodices, or non-stretch fabrics. Pair with stable, comfortable shoes for all-night wear.

Comfort Priorities: What Matters Most

When pregnant at prom, comfort and confidence take precedence over trends.

Priority	Why It Matters	What to Look For
Belly room	Avoids pressure on bump	Empire waist, no belly seams
Breathable fabric	Prevents overheating	Natural fibers, lightweight materials
Stretch	Accommodates movement	Spandex blend, jersey knit
Support	Prevents back pain	Built-in shelf bra, wide straps
Easy bathroom access	Practical necessity	Avoid complicated closures
Stable shoes	Safety and comfort	Low heels or supportive flats

Critical comfort features:

No restrictive belly seams:

Any seam, belt, or detail that sits across your belly will become uncomfortable quickly. Look for dresses where fabric flows freely over your midsection.

What to avoid:

• Defined waist seams at natural waist
• Belts or sashes that tie at belly
• Fitted waist areas with no stretch
• Drop waist styles that sit on bump

Breathable, lightweight fabrics:

Pregnancy increases body temperature, so heavy or non-breathable fabrics will make you uncomfortable.

Best fabric choices:

• Lightweight chiffon
• Jersey knit with stretch
• Soft cotton blends
• Breathable satin prom dress materials with natural fibers

Adequate stretch:

Even in flowy styles, some stretch in the bodice ensures comfort as your body changes throughout the evening.

Stretch requirements:

• Bodice should have 5-10% spandex
• Fabric should give when you move
• Avoid stiff, structured materials
• Test by pulling gently on fabric

Best Silhouettes for Maternity Comfort

Certain dress shapes naturally accommodate pregnancy while still looking formal and elegant.

Most flattering and comfortable silhouettes:

Empire waist (the maternity champion):

The waistline sits just under the bust, then fabric flows freely over the belly. This is the most universally comfortable maternity formal style.

Why it works:

• No pressure on belly
• Accommodates any size bump
• Elegant and formal
• Available in many prom dresses styles
• Can be dressed up or down

How to style:

• Choose empire waist with V-neck or sweetheart neckline
• Ensure bodice has support and isn’t just loose fabric
• Select flowing skirt in lightweight material
• Pair with comfortable sandals or low heels

Flowy A-line:

A line prom dress styles with loose bodices and gentle flare from bust or upper ribcage provide room and elegance.

Why it works:

• Skims over belly without clinging
• Provides movement freedom
• Classic formal silhouette
• Easy to size up if needed

How to style:

• Choose one size up from pre-pregnancy size
• Look for adjustable back closures
• Select styles without defined waist seams
• Pair with flowy prom dress fabrics

Soft wrap or draped styles:

Wrap-style bodices with tie closures adjust to your changing body and provide customizable fit.

Why it works:

• Adjustable throughout pregnancy
• Flatters without restricting
• Creates elegant draping
• Comfortable for long wear

How to style:

• Ensure wrap stays secure (safety pin inside if needed)
• Choose soft, flowing fabrics
• Avoid stiff materials that don’t drape
• Test movement before committing

Column or shift with stretch:

Straight, loose-fitting dresses in stretch jersey or soft knit provide comfort and modern style.

Why it works:

• No defined waist to restrict
• Stretch accommodates bump
• Simple and elegant
• Easy to accessorize

Silhouettes to avoid:

Fitted mermaid or trumpet:

These hug the body through hips and belly, creating uncomfortable pressure on your bump.

Fitted bodices with structured boning:

Corset prom dress styles and heavily boned bodices restrict movement and compress the belly area.

Drop waist styles:

Waistlines that sit at or below the natural waist will sit directly on your bump, causing discomfort.

Ball gowns with heavy petticoats:

Multiple layers and heavy skirts add weight and heat, making you uncomfortable.

Fabric Checklist: Breathable and Comfortable Materials

Fabric choice directly impacts comfort when pregnant.

Best fabrics for maternity prom wear:

Jersey knit:

Soft, stretchy, and breathable. Jersey moves with you and doesn’t restrict.

Fabric benefits:

• Natural stretch in all directions
• Soft against skin
• Drapes beautifully
• Machine washable (practical for spills)

Lightweight chiffon:

Airy and flowing, chiffon keeps you cool and provides elegant movement.

Fabric benefits:

• Very lightweight
• Breathable
• Formal appearance
• Flows over bump gracefully

Soft cotton blends:

Natural fibers that breathe well and feel comfortable against skin.

Fabric benefits:

• Temperature regulating
• Soft and non-irritating
• Comfortable for extended wear
• Less likely to cause sweating

Stretch crepe:

Structured enough for formal wear but with stretch for comfort.

Fabric benefits:

• Elegant drape
• Built-in stretch
• Holds shape without stiffness
• Professional appearance

Fabrics to avoid:

Heavy satin without stretch:

Non-stretch satin doesn’t accommodate movement and can feel restrictive.

Stiff taffeta or brocade:

These structured fabrics don’t give at all and create uncomfortable pressure points.

Non-breathable synthetics:

Cheap polyester without breathability will make you overheat and sweat.

Sequined or beaded bodices:

Heavy embellishments add weight and can scratch or irritate sensitive skin.

Sizing Strategy: Up vs Maternity Specific

Most pregnant prom-goers do better sizing up in regular dresses than buying maternity formal wear.

Why sizing up works better:

More style options:

Regular prom dresses come in hundreds of styles, while maternity formal wear is limited.

Better quality and price:

Maternity formal dresses are often expensive and lower quality because the market is smaller.

You can wear it again:

A flowy regular dress can be worn after pregnancy, while maternity-specific cuts can’t.

How to size up correctly:

Measure at widest points:

Measure bust, under-bust, belly at widest point, and hips. Compare to size charts.

Size for your largest measurement:

If your belly measurement puts you in a size 10 but everything else is size 6, order the 10.

Consider made-to-order:

Azazie offers made-to-order options where you provide custom measurements for perfect fit.

Try empire waist first:

Empire waist styles are most forgiving and easiest to size up in because the waist isn’t defined.

When maternity-specific might be necessary:

Very late pregnancy:

If you’re 8+ months pregnant at prom, maternity-specific might provide better fit.

Large bump:

If you’re carrying very large or have multiples, maternity sizing may be more accommodating.

Specific support needs:

If you need extra belly support or have pregnancy-related back pain, maternity designs may help.

Shoe and Support Considerations

Footwear and physical support matter more when pregnant.

Shoe priorities:

Stability over height:

Best shoe choices:

• Block heels (2-3 inches maximum)
• Supportive wedges
• Dressy flats with arch support
• Strappy sandals with ankle support

Avoid:

• Stiletto heels (balance issues)
• Brand new shoes (break in beforehand)
• Shoes without back strap (feet swell)
• Anything uncomfortable when standing

Comfort features to look for:

• Cushioned insoles
• Arch support
• Adjustable straps (for swelling)
• Non-slip soles
• Wide toe box

Physical support options:

Built-in bra support:

Look for dresses with shelf bras or built-in cups. Your bust likely increased during pregnancy and needs support.

Belly support:

Some maternity support bands can be worn under flowy dresses for back support.

Posture aids:

• Stand with shoulders back
• Take sitting breaks
• Don’t lock knees when standing
• Ask for a chair to be available

Practical considerations:

Bathroom access:

Choose dresses with easy access. Empire waists and wrap styles are easier in restrooms than complicated closures.

Temperature regulation:

• Bring a light wrap or shawl
• Choose breathable fabrics
• Stay near air conditioning when possible
• Have water available

Seating and breaks:

• Don’t feel obligated to stand all night
• Take breaks when needed
• Listen to your body
• Leave early if you’re tired

Complete Maternity Prom Look Formula

Comfortable empire waist dress:

• Lightweight chiffon or jersey
• Empire waist under bust
• Flowing skirt to floor
• Soft color like pink prom dress or blue prom dresses

Plus supportive accessories:

• Block heel sandals (2-3 inches)
• Statement earrings (draws eye up)
• Delicate necklace
• Small crossbody bag (hands-free)

Equals: Comfortable, elegant, confidence throughout the evening

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you alter a regular prom dress for maternity?

Yes, but options are limited. A seamstress can add fabric panels for belly room or convert a defined waist to empire style. However, these alterations can be expensive and may not look as elegant as choosing an appropriate style from the start. Sizing up in an empire waist or flowy A-line is usually more successful than extensive alterations.

Should I buy maternity-specific formal wear?

Not necessarily. Most pregnant teens do better sizing up one size in regular long prom dresses with empire waists or flowy silhouettes. Maternity formal wear is limited, expensive, and you’ll only wear it once. Regular dresses in forgiving styles can often be worn again after pregnancy.

What if I’m not showing much yet?

If you’re early in pregnancy with a small bump, you may not need to size up at all. Choose dresses with stretch and empire waists for flexibility as your body changes. Remember that you may be further along by prom night than you are when shopping, so plan ahead.

Can I wear heels while pregnant at prom?

Low, stable heels (2-3 inches) are generally safe if you’re comfortable and have been wearing them throughout pregnancy. Block heels or wedges provide more stability than stilettos. However, dressy supportive flats are equally elegant and much more comfortable for extended wear. Prioritize safety and comfort over height.