Every mom-to-be needs a few pairs of stylish and comfortable jeans.
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While many of your other clothing items, including leggings, dresses, and elastic-waisted bottoms, might be able to stay in rotation during your pregnancy, jeans are generally one of the first pieces of clothing you will be forced to retire or replace. Here’s the great news: Maternity brands (especially jeans) have come a long way over the past few years. Whether you are partial to skinny, bootcut, wide leg or boyfriend styles, petite or plus-size, a designer denim devotee or more into frugal finds, there are so many options in today’s maternity market.
The most important consideration when buying maternity jeans is comfort. The major difference between OG jeans and maternity jeans is the waistline, as your growing baby bump needs to be accommodated. This can be achieved via over-the-bump or under-the-bump styles (more on that below!) We conducted extensive testing on maternity jeans as well as interviewed a panel of experts—all fashion stylists, influencers, and yes, moms, who have worn the styles—to compile a list of the best maternity jeans in every category.
What We Love: You don’t have to worry about these soft-as-butter (and wallet-friendly) maternity jeans slipping down off your bump.
What We Don’t Love: We wish there were more color options.
This over-the-belly style from 1822 Denim is one of the most comfortable maternity jeans on the market. We found the high-quality fabric really does feel like butter — or at least on par with the most comfortable leggings in your closet. The belly band was snug enough to stay in place, but not restrictive or too compressive, like many other over-the-bump styles. It is also stretchy enough to grow with you into the third trimester. And, as one of the lower priced maternity jeans we tested, you get a lot of bang for your buck: One pair is likely to last you at least another pregnancy. Unfortunately, the straight-leg style only comes in one color option.
What We Love: Finally, a non-maternity maternity jean that will make you feel like you are rocking “real” clothes during all stages of your pregnancy.
What We Don’t Love: Designer denim comes at a steep price, but this style is well worth the splurge.
Under belly maternity jeans make a great investment, as you can wear them the moment your belly starts growing until post-pregnancy. Think of Hudson’s Nico style as the non-maternity maternity jean — unless you look close and see the subtly camouflaged side panels, you can’t really tell the difference. As Hudson is a premium denim brand, you get what you pay for: An ultra luxe, comfortable pair of jeans that make you feel like the best version of yourself. We found they were well worth the nearly $200 investment for three trimesters plus postpartum wear especially if you are looking for jeans that make you feel like you are wearing “real” clothes. The style is so popular with women in all stages of pregnancy that it comes in four washes, including a black coated, faux leather looking style for when you need a little fashion pick-me-up. Don’t even think about sizing up, as they run true to size.
What We Love: This budget-friendly pair of maternity jeans comes in multiple washes and a wide range of sizes.
What We Don’t Love: Because of the under-the-bump panel, you won’t get a lot of back support for that final trimester.
You don’t have to spend a fortune on designer denim to dress your bump in style. This budget-friendly but high-quality pair of maternity jeans available on Amazon was recommended by nearly everyone on our expert roster and testers. “These Levi Strauss & Co Skinny jeans are a classic and they are a great price too,” explains Lucy Aylen, a stylist, mom, and founder of Never Fully Dressed. Gillette adds that the skinny style has the “perfect amount of stretch” while still managing to stay up without constant readjustment. We found that the thickness and stiffness of the band made for great belly support, but don’t expect too much in the form of back support. For the price, you can’t go wrong. Even after several washes there was zero pilling, fading or stretching out. Available in three color options and sizes XS to XL. We suggest sizing up as they run a little on the small side.
Size: XS–XL | Washes: 3 | Fit: Under-the-bump
What We Love: This wide-leg designer style offers serious cool girl vibes paired with below-the-bump comfort.
What We Don’t Love: The side panels might not offer sufficient bump and back support for the final trimester.
For those who like a wider leg style, Hudson’s Rosie offers some serious cool girl vibes. Made from “premium stretch denim designed to hold their shape,” fashion expert, designer and mom Maggie Gillette maintains that the slight flare is perfect for pairing with a wedge or heel “for a dressed-up look.” The fabric is smooth and lightweight with the side panels resting just below the bump for comfort. While it may be possible for some women to wear them throughout the entirety of pregnancy, we found that due to the lack of support around the back and bump, the style is better suited for the first and second trimesters. If you do plan on wearing them throughout all three, consider sizing up. Overall the on-trend style offers a more designer denim feel than less expensive options. So, if you don’t mind splurging a little, they are well worth the investment.
What We Love: High-quality, durable jeans with a built-in belly panel offering extra support for the third trimester.
What We Don’t Love: Only available in one length.
Hatch, the premium maternity brand that outfitted Meghan Markle, Olivia Wilde and Kate Upton during their pregnancies, have nailed the maternity denim category, says Lauren Rae Levy Vigneron, a Los Angeles-based stylist, consultant and founder of the LRL Group. “These skinny maternity jeans made from recycled cotton, come with a built in belly panel made up of a breathable bamboo blend and stretch,” she says about the jeans that got her through her pregnancy. Just how comfortable are they? We maintain that the ultra-soft panel will trick you into thinking you are wearing a pair of leggings.
Designed to grow with you through all stages of pregnancy, including the third trimester and postpartum, the panel provides the support needed around your bump and for your lower back, she adds. “Bonus points for being c-section friendly and wonderfully crafted to give that perfect amount of postpartum compression,” she says. (Our tester did note that she found the panel a little too restrictive and wished she had sized up.) Vigneron also loves the “perfect indigo wash” that goes with pretty much everything and “will become a core piece of your maternity wardrobe.” And while on the expensive side, after several washes they still looked as good as new with zero piling or fading.
What We Love: Simply put, it’s “the most flattering maternity jean on the market.”
What We Don’t Love: These only come in a black denim wash.
If you are going to splurge on one pair of maternity jeans, Vigneron recommends this pair from L’Agence, which she dubs “the most flattering maternity jean on the market” with a high rise, straight leg and boot cut. “If you are looking to splurge on mama-to-be jeans, this premium denim style is the one for you,” she says. The jeans have stretch panels built into the front pockets for extra comfort, so “not only do they look great, but feel great,” she maintains.
Unfortunately, they come in one wash, “a clean true black denim,” but “every detail was designed with love,” she says, including the button “which is monochromatic to give this pant a more elevated look.” If you prefer skinny jeans, their Margot style is equally chic and comes in “subtle” and “super” stretch options and three colors, black, white and an indigo wash.
What We Love: This moderately priced jean offers the perfect cut plus sizes.
What We Don’t Love: The style is popular and often sells out.
According to Darlene Lebron, content creator, model, entrepreneur and mother-of-two, plus size maternity is limited to a very small handful of stores, “so to identify a best of the best is very difficult,” she maintains. “Most stores don’t offer past a 3XL and at some stores the 3XL that is offered is more a junior plus cut which means they are technically stopping at a 18/20.” Overall her favorite style of denim is definitely the over-the-belly, as it offers the best support and rounds out the belly a little better, “plus it gave me a little more coverage on both ends which I needed the later I became in my pregnancy,” she says.
She selected this style from Motherhood Maternity as her top pick, due to the combo of fit, cut, accessibility and cost. “The cut is trendy and fun, the style is overall comfortable to wear,” she says. “They are a little lightweight but they held up great throughout my pregnancy.” She owned both colors, “but the light wash was definitely on heavy rotation.” This style is very popular and will go out of stock in sizes or colors, but the brand does restock.
Size: 1X–3X | Washes: 2 | Fit: Over-the-bump
What We Love: This chic, frayed edge skinny jean comes in tall sizes.
What We Don’t Love: The style only comes in a single wash.
Aaronica Cole, Atlanta-based style influencer and mother-of-three, is a fan of this reasonably priced pair of jeans from Maurices, available in standard and plus sizes in short, regular and long lengths. “With these you don't have to sacrifice style for budget. These are cute and super budget-friendly,” she says. The super skinny leg, over-the-bump jean made out of a stretchy fabric features a chicly frayed ankle with shoppers attesting the style is “so comfortable” and “so cute.” For as many options as there are for fit, the style only comes in a single wash.
Size: 0–20W, Short, Regular, Long | Washes: 1 | Fit: Over-the-Bump
What We Love: With just enough stretch, this stylish skinny jean is comfortable for all day wear, even in the third trimester.
What We Don’t Love: Those in the earlier stages of pregnancy might have a little trouble keeping the over-the-bump band in place.
With just the right amount of stretch, this perfect five-pocket skinny jean style from PinkBlush offers a whole lot of comfort at a reasonable price point. Made out of a durable high quality denim with just a little bit of spandex, the jeans moved with us for all day comfort. Due to the stretchiness of the belly band, we found them to be a great option for the third trimester, as the band is big enough to accommodate a larger bump. However, those in the first or second trimester (or with smaller bellies) may have trouble keeping the over-the-bump band in place.
What We Love: This over-the-belly skinny style comes in six color options and costs under $130.
What We Don’t Love: The stellar style doesn’t come in plus sizes or various lengths.
These “great-fitting” pull-on skinny jeans were a “staple” in Vigneron’s pregnancy journey. “The over-the-belly seamless support band brings the support one needs throughout the stages of pregnancy,” she says about the high-quality, reasonably priced style that comes in six washes and sizes 0 to 14. The over-the-bump band is also made out of the same microfiber they use for the ultra-comfy leggings. “I’m a big fan of the “medium clean” wash for fall, “black knee slit” for winter, and the “light destroy” for spring/ summer,” she says. An added bonus? “Blanqi crafts their denim with sustainability using recycled cotton and wood pulp.”
What We Love: This wide style from Paige is perfectly distressed and laid back.
What We Don’t Love: The stretchy side panels are black and don’t blend in with the blue denim.
We love the more casual, wide leg design on these Paige Anessa Maternity Jeans. The laid-back cut is “super stylish and high quality,” says Gillette. “The wide cut of the leg provides a balanced proportion to your pregnant body while still being comfortable.” The style comes in a single wash, a distressed blue dubbed rock show, from the brand’s vintage collection. It offers below-the-bump support via two stretchy side panels and features a cropped, billowy bottom.
The light wash is a nice shade, however we do wish the pregnancy panels were more discreet. The black is stark against the denim if you aren’t wearing a longer top that covers it.
What We Love: This boyfriend style features monochromatic side panels, making them as non-maternity-looking as possible.
What We Don’t Love: Reviewers pretty unanimously agree that the sizing is a little off.
Another Hatch style worth investing in is this “perfect” boyfriend jean, claims Vigneron. “I wasn’t surprised to find this flawless style came from Hatch, as I find the brand to be one of the most on-trend maternity fashion houses,” she says. Her favorite feature? The monochromatic stretchy panels on the sides. “Typically panels built into maternity jeans are black or white, and I love that this style offers a more subtle approach to this by using blue panels on the sides,” she says.
While incredibly durable, our reviewer found the panels to be less stretchy than other styles, which might be a problem during the later stages of pregnancy. However, the leg and shape of these pants paired with the wash options (light or indigo) “make these beauties a great investment,” according to Vigneron. Be forewarned: Sizing is a little wonky, running on the larger side.
What We Love: These designer boyfriend-style jeans are stylish, comfortable and will last you through your pregnancy and into the next.
What We Don’t Love: The low side panels aren’t going to provide ample back support.
Maternity jeans often get a bad rap for being dowdy. However, this cropped style from Paige is about as on-trend as you can get. Designed out of the brand’s trademark high-quality denim and grow-with-you under-the-bump side panels, you will be wearing this slightly loose, boyfriend-style on repeat throughout this pregnancy and into the next.
Due to the stretchy and loose nature of the material, the jeans provide all-day comfort. However, plan on washing them after a few wears, as they tend to get looser over time. Because the side panel bands are so low, you aren’t going to get the ample back support you might need during those final weeks, a common issue with under-the-bump styles.
What We Love: A clean, timeless skinny jean with just enough crop to wear with heels or sandals.
What We Don’t Love: The stylist-approved cropped jean only comes in one wash.
For a cropped jean, Vigneron recommends this mid-rise skinny jean courtesy of Joes. “It comes in the perfect everyday shade of indigo, falls just above the ankle, and fits beautifully,” she says. The leg length is ideal for a range of shoes — sandals, sneakers, or heels (props to you if you’re feeling good enough to wear during pregnancy).
It is also offered in a wide size range of 23 to 34 and comfortably grows with you with the help of flexible side panels. She also appreciates that the pant offers sculpting stretch for a flattering finish. “I love these jeans for any season of the year, day or night.”
What We Love: This stretchy jean almost falls into the jegging category, making it a great option for women with bigger legs.
What We Don’t Love: While you can’t go wrong with the price tag, they aren’t made to last.
If you are proportionally bigger thighs, you know jeans shopping is tricky. Add in an expanding belly and the roadblocks to your ideal fit increase. Your best bet is to find something with a lot of stretch. Lebron recommends this style from Oh! Mamma Maternity, a cotton, poly, rayon, spandex blend that will stretch with you. This style is also a great option for curvy or plus-size women as well as it comes in sizes S through 3X.
“If you are only planning to wear denim a handful of times during your pregnancy I highly recommend these because for under $20 (and sometimes as low as $12) you can’t go wrong,” she says, but don’t expect them to last throughout multiple pregnancies. Another great thing about the skinny style? If a full over-the-belly panel is uncomfortable or itchy for you, there is a demi cut option as well.
Size: S–3X | Washes:6 | Fit: Over-the-bump and Demi
What We Love: A skinny jean pick is also the best option for basic black.
What We Don’t Love: Not available in plus sizes or various lengths.
Blanqi started as a maternity brand built around providing support “so these jeans not only look cute but also have a super supportive panel to help your bump feel secure even through you’re in the third trimester,” says Gillette. The deep black wash is perfect, the fabric is super stretchy and soft, “and also wicks moisture to keep you feeling fresh and cool,” she says. Vigneron, also a big fan of the maternity brand, chose the same pair as her favorite skinny jean.
What We Love: This clean, white maternity jean comes in a wide variety of sizes, including petite and tall lengths.
What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers note that the elastic waistband runs on the tight side.
One of Gillette’s go-to sources for maternity jeans is the Gap. “The Gap has such a good collection of maternity jeans and I am loving these straight jeans in white,” she says. “They are perfect for running errands or a cute coffee date.” They also come in three other washes, and fit are a great option for women of all heights, as they come in petite and tall sizes 25 to 34. Keep in mind that Gap regularly runs major sales, so there’s a good chance you can save big on these. The biggest criticism shoppers have is that the elastic waistband runs on the tight side.
What We Love: You will forget you are wearing maternity jeans when you slip on this so-comfortable-you’ll-want-to-sleep-in-them style.
What We Don’t Love: There is a $9 fee for returns or exchanges.
These stretch-with-you maternity jeans are so comfortable, you might be tempted to wear them to bed (or nap in at the very least!). Featuring stretch panels on the sides, offering full range of motion for your bump, they are a great option for anyone who doesn’t love the over-the-bump look or feel. The fabric is incredibly soft and stretchy enough to grow with you throughout your pregnancy, while offering enough compression that you don’t have to keep pulling them up or readjusting. We found that if you are in need of extra belly or back support, this isn’t the pair for you.
The main con, according to our testers? They definitely run on the investment side of the price range. However, be assured that this pair will last you throughout your pregnancy, definitely into your next and possibly even a third. Since sizing can be hard to determine, we want to note that their is a restocking fee for returns and exchanges.
What We Love: This inexpensive pair of paneled maternity jeans-slash-jeggings are so comfortable, you can wear them for hours on end.
What We Don’t Love: Compared to more premium styles, these are less likely to survive multiple pregnancies.
Cradle your bump in comfort the moment you pull the stretchy panel over your bump of this pair of Old Navy maternity jeans. Designed out of a soft, smooth, breathable and flexible denim, we found them more like a legging or jegging and perfect for all-day wear. Somehow, the belly band manages to stay in place for hours on end without digging into the skin. While the fabric held up nicely throughout multiple wears and washes, those who are planning on having more children might want to consider investing in a more premium style, as these might not make it to baby number two.
What We Love: This over-the-bump Levi style is so soft and comfy, you will feel like you are wearing sweatpants.
What We Don’t Love: Due to the stretchiness of the material, they don’t offer a lot of back support.
The most comfortable pair of maternity jeans we found are also one of the most affordable. Nearly identical to our pick for Best Budget, this over-the-bump Levi style offers a little more give for all three trimesters. The stretchy soft cotton, polyester and elastane blend fabric is so soft and comfy you might forget you are wearing jeans and won’t feel the need to change into sweats the second you get home. The only con? While the smooth and stretchy material grows with you and won’t dig into your bump or sides, you aren’t going to get a whole lot of back support compared to other styles with a thicker band. While the jeans tend to stretch a little throughout the day, after a run through the washer and dryer they regain their shape. Plus, the jeans are available in seven washes.
Size: XS–XXL | Washes: 7 | Fit: Over-the-bump
While we loved the durability and the style of these jeans, we found them to be stiff and a little unforgiving on a growing bump, making them a difficult choice for maternity jeans. These would be better suited for first trimester or potentially postpartum when you’re just looking for a little more stretch and comfort than traditional denim.
The style and appearance of these jeans rated highly but we encountered some fit issues. One size up from our typical maternity size was needed. In the true-to-size version, they fit nicely everyone but the belly, which was a bit constricted. We also wish the panel was a bit stretchier to accommodate growth.
Over-the-belly features a panel, usually stretchy, that pulls up over the bump. “Over the belly is wonderful for those who want to feel some compression and a hug around their bump,” says Vigneron. This style traditionally offers more back and belly support for the final trimester. However, some people don’t like the feeling of fabric around their bump.
Below-the-belly maternity jeans fall under the bump with stretchy side panels to accommodate your growing belly. Some women prefer the fit, “as they may not favor the compression feeling,” explains Vigneron. However, others find that it digs into their sides and doesn’t offer ample support for their back and bump during the final stages of pregnancy.
Vigneron explains that maternity jeans are usually made out of softer, stretchier denim. “I find that we generally associate soft, cozy fabrics with comfort and maternity jeans are no different,” she says. “These jeans tend to have stretch in them, but some are softer than others and premium, high-quality denim materials tend to bring comfort whether pregnant or not.” Your belly may be not the only part of your body to expand and a stretch jean will provide more flexibility in all areas.
Cole adds that material should also be a consideration when thinking about what season you're pregnant in. “I will always choose a stretchy jean over a non-stretch jean because it's more comfortable for me,” she says. “But if you're pregnant in the summer, you might want something lighter weight so you're less sweaty.” Also, a softer denim feels better for those who have heightened sensations.
When it comes to over-the-belly versus under-the-belly there is no right answer. “Choosing pants/skirts that go over or under the belly is really a personal preference,” explains Cole. “I've worn both and my favorites were the over-the-belly style because I felt like they stayed up easier and there was less fuss than the under-the-belly. But some people don't like the way it feels because of the extra sensation so the under-the-belly fit might work best for them.” Additionally, some people find that stretchy side panels aren’t the best option for the final stages of pregnancy, as they don’t offer a lot of support for the bump and back. The bottom line? Try some on and see what feels good. You also might want to invest in both styles, so you have options.
Depending on whether this is your first or subsequent pregnancy, you may start wearing maternity jeans at a different time, explains Cole. “With a first-time pregnancy, you don't normally need them until your late first trimester, or early second trimester. With subsequent pregnancies, you may need them earlier,” she explains.
Leah Groth is a commerce writer and mother-of-two, who tested out lots of maternity jeans while pregnant. She also consulted many experts to help round out the product list and relied on the input of InStyle’s panel of pregnant women who tested the jeans.
The experts she spoke to include:
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