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. 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 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 Price at time of publication: $60 Bonus: ASOS has free shipping and returns, making it an easy choice for winter pregnancies. Price at time of publication: $97 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 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 Price at time of publication: $248 Price at time of publication: $100+ 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 Price at time of publication: $100
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.
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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.