Wait — What the Heck Is a Nesting Party?
Let’s clear the air. If you’re hearing the phrase “nesting party” and thinking, Is that where we all build giant bird nests? — you’re not alone. 😂 Nesting parties are basically the way better cousin of the traditional baby shower. They’re all about helping the mom-to-be get stuff done — like meal prep, nursery set-up, or just catching up with other mamas over mocktails.
Which means… no fancy dresses or party heels required. Phew! But what should you wear to a nesting party that’s practical, comfy, and still a bit cute for those inevitable selfies? Don’t stress, friend. I’ve gathered 16 real-life outfit ideas that are easy, chill, and absolutely nesting-party-approved.
Why Your Outfit Actually Matters
It’s About Comfort — But Also Confidence
Look, you’ll be helping assemble cribs, rolling meatballs for freezer meals, or folding itty-bitty onesies, right? So you want to move around easily, but also feel presentable.
Here’s the vibe:
- Comfort-first. No one expects you to show up runway-ready.
- Layer-friendly. You might get warm while working, or chilly while chatting.
- Easy to wash. If you leave with baby spit-up on your sleeve (hey, practice?), you won’t cry.
Ever wondered why leggings are basically the nesting party MVP? Let’s get into it.
16 Nesting Party Outfits You’ll Actually Love
1. Leggings + Oversized Sweater
Nothing — and I mean nothing — beats a pair of stretchy black leggings with a giant cozy sweater. It’s the perfect combo for moving around, plus it gives off a “Pinterest mom” aesthetic.
2. Soft Joggers + Tank Top
I basically lived in joggers during my last trimester. Pair them with a breathable tank and you’re nesting-party ready. Add a cardigan if the house is chilly.
3. Bike Shorts + Boyfriend Tee
Especially if it’s summer, bike shorts save the day. They stay put, don’t ride up, and look super cute with a slouchy tee. Bonus: you can squat for those bottom dresser drawers without flashing anyone. 😅
4. Maternity Maxi Dress
Pregnant and want to feel a bit more put together? A flowy maxi dress = all-day comfort with minimal fuss. IMO, this is a nesting-party staple.
5. Flannel Shirt + Leggings
Think fall, think flannel. It’s cozy, classic, and looks cute in photos. Plus, you can roll up your sleeves when it’s time to get to work.
6. Comfy Romper
One-and-done magic, my friend. A romper takes away the what matches? headache. Just pick one in a stretchy, washable fabric.
7. Simple Maternity Jeans + Soft Tee
Yes, maternity jeans can be comfy. Especially if you get those with a high belly band. Add a stretchy tee and you’ll feel like you actually got dressed without sacrificing comfort.
8. Knit Dress + Leggings
When in doubt, layer. A knit dress over leggings is both cozy and flexible. If you overheat, you can peel off the leggings, no problem.
9. Athleisure Set
You know those matching workout sets influencers wear to brunch? They’re perfect for a nesting party. Soft leggings + a sports bra + a cropped hoodie = cute, comfy, and practical.
10. Denim Shirt + Maternity Leggings
Denim shirts are the ultimate layering piece. Button it up, leave it open, tie it around your waist — however you wear it, it looks effortless.
11. Soft Overalls
Overalls get a bad rap, but hear me out. A pair of soft, relaxed-fit maternity overalls are adorable for a nesting party and let you move around without worrying about your pants falling down. (Been there.)
12. Tiered Midi Dress
If you want something that says “yes I’m nesting, but I still slay,” then a tiered midi dress hits the mark. Flowy, cute, and easy to wash? Sold.
13. Cardigan + Tank Dress
A stretchy tank dress with a big slouchy cardigan is basically a hug in outfit form. Plus, you can nurse easily if you’re postpartum.
14. Thermal Top + Joggers
Winter nesting party? Thermal top. Pair with joggers, and you’ll be toasty and cute. Yes, you’ll still look presentable for group pics.
15. Graphic Tee + Leggings
A cheeky tee with something like “Mama on a Mission” + your favorite leggings? Totally on theme. IMO, these always get the most laughs, too.
16. Pajama-Inspired Loungewear
Okay, hear me out. Pajama-inspired sets are totally in right now. Think matching button-down and drawstring pants — so soft you’ll practically nap mid-party.
Style Tips for Any Nesting Party
Prioritize Function
You might be:
- Folding a mountain of baby clothes
- Wiping down nursery shelves
- Sitting on the floor assembling toys
So, stretchy and forgiving fabrics are key.
Layer Up
Temperatures inside a nesting party can be weird — too hot with the oven going, freezing with the windows open. Bring a layer you can ditch or throw on.
Pick Washable Fabrics
Life lesson: If you get a splash of formula, baby lotion, or mac and cheese on your sleeve, you’ll thank me later for avoiding dry-clean-only. 😉
Choose Shoes You Can Kick Off
You’ll probably slip them off once you get in the door anyway, so stick to:
- Slide sandals
- Comfy slip-ons
- Fuzzy house socks
I once wore lace-up sneakers to a nesting party and spent 10 minutes retying them every time I ran to the bathroom. Never again.
Color Palette? Keep It Chill
Neutrals Are Your Bestie
- Beige
- Soft grey
- Muted olive
- Cream
These work great with baby shower-themed decorations, look calm in photos, and feel cozy.
Pops of Color? Why Not!
Add a pink or blue accent if you know the baby’s gender, or just have fun with a poppy coral or teal. But again, keep it practical — no white jeans around spaghetti sauce, okay?
Accessories You’ll Actually Use
Keep them minimal:
- A hair clip (easier than a ponytail sometimes)
- A simple crossbody bag
- Maybe a delicate necklace if you’re feeling fancy
But skip huge hoop earrings or jangly bracelets that might catch on tiny baby clothes.
My Honest Take (aka Real-Life Survival)
I went to my best friend’s nesting party and wore a black maxi dress with an oversized flannel. 10/10 recommend. I felt cute, comfy, and didn’t stress about bending down to scrub a shelf or rolling meatballs for freezer meals.
Honestly, anything you’d wear to a casual Sunday hang with friends is fair game for a nesting party. No one is judging your OOTD. Promise.
Final Thoughts: Show Up Comfy, Leave Happy
Friend, if you’re stressing about what to wear to a nesting party, please don’t. Seriously. Think of it like a cozy hangout where you might get a little messy helping the mom-to-be, and dress for that.
So go with what feels right — leggings, a flowy dress, layered soft pieces, washable fabrics. You’ll look good, but more importantly, you’ll feel good, and that’s what counts.
Now text your bestie, lock in those plans, and have a blast nesting. Maybe even treat yourself to a snack on the way — because you deserve it. 😉
