Now well into my second pregnancy, I've already packed away most of my everyday designs in favour of the best maternity bras that are far more forgiving. If you're wondering whether maternity bras are really worth buying, I'd say the answer is yes – whether you plan to breastfeed or not. Unlike standard bras, maternity bras are designed to accommodate fluctuating breast size, increased tenderness and the changes that happen throughout pregnancy and after birth. They typically use stretchier fabrics, wider straps, flexible support and additional hook-and-eye fastenings, while nursing bras add drop-down cups that make feeding or pumping much easier. Read more: The best pregnancy pillows, testedI tried a range of maternity bras in different styles and fabrics to find the very best ( Sarah Jones/The Independent )The best maternity and nursing bras for 2026 are:Best overall – M&S body invisibles non-wired maternity bra: £22, Marksandspencer.com– M&S body invisibles non-wired maternity bra: £22, Marksandspencer.com Best budget buy – Asda maternity grey comfort bras 2 pack: £16, Asda.com– Asda maternity grey comfort bras 2 pack: £16, Asda.com Best for support – Momcozy jelly strip seamless nursing bra: £39.99, Momcozy.com– Momcozy jelly strip seamless nursing bra: £39.99, Momcozy.com Best for sleep – BabyGo nursing sleep bra: £22, Babygo.ukRead more: Best breast pumps, tested