Many women find that their regular jeans are one of the first things to become uncomfortable when they start to show signs of pregnancy. This is because denim has very little stretch, and as the baby grows, it can start to feel constricting. If you’re anxious about giving up your beloved denim jeans for the foreseeable future, don’t worry! There are plenty of great maternity jeans options that will keep you comfortable throughout your pregnancy.
All of us are aware that the right pair of maternity jeans can be dressed up or down to meet almost any occasion. But making a decision might be challenging. Maternity jeans shouldn’t cost too much if they’re going to touch your delicate tummy, roll down, or restrict your movement. According to a study, maternity clothing should hold three characteristics, adaptability, comfort, and stylishness, and meanwhile, minimize the protrusion of enlarged areas of the body (1).
We were astonished to learn that certain maternity jeans actually worked well after trying a wide range of brands and designs. In order to help you look and feel your best at all times throughout your pregnancy, we’ve put together a list of the best maternity jeans for every occasion. In addition, be sure to check out our selection of maternity underwear and compression socks.
Our Top Picks
- Best Affordable Maternity Jeans: Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Maternity Jeans
- Best Side Panel Maternity Jeans: HATCH Collection | Maternity Skinny Jeans
- Best Over The Bump Maternity Jeans: Motherhood Maternity Secret Fit Belly Boot Cut Jean
- Best Straight Leg Maternity Jeans: DL1961 Maternity Emma Power Legging Jeans
- Best Skinny Maternity Jeans: Jessica Simpson Women’s Maternity Jeans
- Best Maternity Overalls: Motherhood Maternity Denim Overalls
- Best Petite Maternity Jeans: Motherhood Maternity Skinny Leg Denim Jean
- Best Tall Maternity Jeans: Wrangler Women’s Retro Mae Maternity Boot Cut Jean
- Best Plus-Size Maternity Jeans: NYDJ Women’s Plus Size Barbara Boot Cut Jeans
- Best Designer Maternity Jeans: PAIGE Denim Women’s Transcend Verdugo Maternity Jeans
In This Article
HappyBabyHub’s Best Maternity Jeans Picks
Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Maternity Jeans – Best Affordable Maternity Jeans
- High rise
- Washes well
- Easy to get on
- Comfortable all day long
- A little loose in the back waist area but it makes sense because of the stretchy band in the front
These affordable jeans have a sleek and slim leg opening that hugs the hip and thigh for a flattering look. Made from soft and stretchy fabric, these jeans also have a cooling technology waistband and a panel specifically designed for the baby bump.
These jeans are the perfect blend of style and comfort. They are designed to fit and flatter your figure during pregnancy, with a stretchy waistband that grows with your belly. Plus, the soft, stretchy denim provides all-day comfort.
HATCH Collection | Maternity Skinny Jeans – Best Side Panel Maternity Jeans
- They are true skinny jeans
- The color is incredible
- Looks very stylish
- The length is fantastic for a shorter person
- They fit at the waist but they just weren’t cut to accommodate curves
These side panel jeans are made of recycled cotton blend material that is soft and stretchy, providing comfort and flexibility as your body changes. The bamboo spandex waistband expands with you, providing a comfortable fit throughout all trimesters.
With four different wash options, you can choose the perfect color to match your style. The pink stitching at the belt loop, bespoke buttons, and rivets add a unique touch to these jeans. You can even wear them after your pregnancy as postpartum jeans.
Motherhood Maternity Secret Fit Belly Boot Cut Jean – Best Over The Bump Maternity Jeans
- They are true skinny jeans
- The color is incredible
- Looks very stylish
- The length is fantastic for a shorter person
- They fit at the waist but they just weren’t cut to accommodate curves
Made from high-quality materials, this belly band is designed to expand with your bump without stretching out, providing superior comfort and support throughout your pregnancy.
If you’re a fan of the classic bootcut style, you’re in luck! These maternity bootcut jeans are a must-have for any fashion-forward mom-to-be. Available in both dark and medium washes, they flatter your figure while providing ample comfort. Bootcut jeans are a versatile option that can be dressed up or down with a variety of different top styles.
DL1961 Maternity Emma Power Legging Jeans – Best Straight Leg Maternity Jeans
- They look like normal jeans
- Comfortable
- Can be easily worn after pregnancy
- Stretchy
- Expensive
These straight maternity jeans are designed to provide comfort and support for pregnant women. The under-belly elastic helps to keep the jeans in place and prevents them from riding up.
Many pregnant women find that their regular jeans become uncomfortable as their baby grows. Straight jeans are a great alternative because they are made with a stretchy cotton-lycra blend that will accommodate your changing body. Plus, they look just like regular jeans, so you can feel stylish and comfortable at the same time.
Jessica Simpson Women’s Maternity Jeans – Best Skinny Maternity Jeans
- Stylish
- The belt is nice and stretchy and reaches so high
- Snug but not too snug
- It doesn’t feel like it will droop like some others
- Not many color options
Many women strongly recommend Jessica Simpson pregnancy jeans for their durability and fit. They like the fit of these shorts, finding them comfortable and elastic. They also don’t cut into the belly or sides, which is a plus.
These skinny maternity jeans feature an over-the-belly panel that is fully enclosed by stretchy material. Plus, they have a slender leg design and are made to be comfortable and flattering.
Motherhood Maternity Denim Overalls – Best Maternity Overalls
- Pretty stretchy
- Very comfortable when you get to those uncomfortable stages of pregnancy
- They aren’t too tight
- Very cute design
- You should size up regardless of how small you are
Motherhood Maternity has been a long-standing favorite brand of expectant mothers, offering high-quality products at reasonable prices. Their overalls are no exception – they are the perfect combination of comfort and style that you can wear all year round. These overalls feature a knit elastic side panel that provides just the right amount of stretch to accommodate your growing bump.
The ankle-length overalls have a unique torn side panel and a frayed let-down hem, giving them a stylish edge. Made from stretchy and breathable fabric, these overalls offer a loose and comfortable fit that you can wear all day long. And if you’re a fan of options, you’ll love that these overalls are available in both a lighter and darker wash.
Motherhood Maternity Skinny Leg Denim Jean – Best Petite Maternity Jeans
- Pretty stretchy
- Very comfortable when you get to those uncomfortable stages of pregnancy
- They aren’t too tight
- Very cute design
- You should size up regardless of how small you are
These slim-leg maternity jeans with a secret-fit belly are a go-to choice for expectant mothers who want to look fashionable and feel comfortable. The versatile waistband can be worn in two ways, so you can wear them from early pregnancy to the end.
With their slim silhouette and stretchy fabric, these jeans hug your curves in all the right places. And, with a 27-inch inseam, they’re tailored specifically for petite women. Whether you’re dressing up for a night out or just running errands, these jeans are a must-have in your maternity wardrobe.
Wrangler Women’s Retro Mae Maternity Boot Cut Jean – Best Tall Maternity Jeans
- Very comfortable in the waistband to ride in
- They have a small stretch band so it doesn’t feel so obvious that they are maternity jeans
- The material is thick
- The belly is stretchy but isn’t huge and baggy and is easy to wear other shirts with
- Make sure to size up
These jeans have a modern take on the cowgirl chic style and are designed to keep you comfortable all day long. The elastic waistband and contour design make sure that the jeans hug your curves without being too tight or uncomfortable.
These jeans are made from stretchy cotton that’s built to last, so you can wear them throughout your pregnancy and beyond. The Wrangler “W” embroidery and brand patch add a touch of vintage style to the jeans. Plus, you’ll have plenty of pockets to stash your essentials! The Retro Mae jeans have two embroidered hip pockets, one patch watch pocket, and two front pockets in the traditional five-pocket jean pattern.
NYDJ Women’s Plus Size Barbara Boot Cut Jeans – Best Plus-Size Maternity Jeans
- The tummy panels are stitched so that you have some stretch but it also helps shape you better
- The boot cut flare is very flattering
- Great for plus-size
- The material is soft and shaped nicely
- They are big
These jeans are designed to fit just right especially if you are plus-size, with a classic bootcut style that flatters your legs and makes them look longer. They feature cutting-edge technology that shapes and supports your curves, giving you a consistently trim look. The proprietary slimming panel uses a trademarked crossing pattern to lift, thin, and flatten in the front for a pleasing fit.
These boot-cut jeans are finished with a traditional five-pocket style, a zip fly, and a button closure, making them a timeless and versatile choice that you can wear for years to come.
PAIGE Denim Women’s Transcend Verdugo Maternity Jeans – Best Designer Maternity Jeans
- Great softness and stretch
- Fits well
- Low-rise is great for an expanding belly
- They hold their shape and do not bag out
- They run a little large
These designer jeans with deep-set elastic side panels are designed to provide maximum comfort and support as your body changes throughout your pregnancy. With deeper panels, these jeans can be worn for a longer time as your belly grows.
The mid-wash, subtle fading, and whiskering give these jeans a casual, laid-back look that can be dressed up or down. The denim fabric is comfortable and stretchy, ensuring a perfect fit for all stages of pregnancy. Plus, the adjustable waistband and side seam pockets add extra function and style.
Related: Best Maternity Dresses
How To Choose The Best Maternity Jeans?
- Fit: First, think about your pre-pregnancy size. Trying on several different sizes and styles is the best way to find something that fits well. Keep in mind that some sizes are more universal, while others are based on pre-pregnancy waist measurements.
- Waistband: There are three main types of waistbands for maternity jeans: under-the-bump, side panel, and over-the-bump. The design you select will ultimately depend on your particular preferences, although side paneling is the most like ordinary jeans you can get, under-the-bump waistbands can offer support from below, and over-the-bump paneling often offers the smoothest support for your bump.
- Stretch: There are a few things to consider when choosing the ideal fabric for pregnancy jeans. First, you want a fabric that is soft and comfortable, especially as your body grows and changes during pregnancy. Second, you want a fabric with good stretch recovery. This means that the fabric will stretch when you move, but then quickly return to its original shape. This is important for both comfort and support.
- Back Pockets: When choosing a pair of jeans, it is important to consider the back pockets. Excessively large or low-sitting pockets can make your rear look droopy, while pockets that are too small can make your buttocks look flat. Pockets that sit high on the bum can give the appearance of a little lift.
- Style: Pregnant women should opt for denim that resembles their normal design. This will help them feel more comfortable during their pregnancy. Start with one or two simple designs so that you can use them frequently.
- Color: There are numerous different colors of jeans. Darker colors are typically considered as more formal and slimming, whereas lighter colors are more informal.
Types Of Maternity Jeans
- Over-The-Bump Jeans: Comes with a built-in cloth strip above the bump that can help to hide your tummy. For mothers who enjoy high-waisted jeans, styles with elastic over-the-bump panels are a terrific choice since they can be folded up for optimal comfort, or down for early pregnancy and postpartum support.
- Demi-Panel Jeans: An elasticized waistband on demi-panel pregnancy jeans provides support and can be easily covered by loose clothes. This design is perfect for expectant mothers who want to feel comfortable and supported during their pregnancy.
- Side-Panel Jeans: If you’re pregnant and looking for jeans that will accommodate your growing belly, you might want to consider a pair with side panels. These jeans have subtle, flexible panels on the sides that will expand to fit your figure. Ideal for mothers who don’t want additional support around their baby bumps, as it closely resembles a pair of regular pants.
Do You Really Need Maternity Jeans?
While you don’t really need maternity jeans, they can make your life a lot easier. Maternity jeans are designed to provide more support and comfort to pregnant women. They often have extra paneling to support the belly, and some even have built-in compression to help reduce swelling. While you can definitely get by without them, maternity jeans can make your pregnancy a lot more comfortable.
What Week Do You Start Wearing Maternity Jeans?
The timeframe for switching from regular pants to maternity pants varies from person to person. Some people may notice that their clothes are becoming too tight after just six to eight weeks, while others may not pop until 12 weeks or so (2). This is due to the growing uterus which eventually extends outside the pelvic region.
Some women wait until their abdomen starts to expand around week 20 before they need to wear clothing with a more flexible waistband. This allows them to better accommodate their growing belly.
Which Style Of Maternity Jeans Is Best?
If you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of maternity jeans, you may be wondering which style is best. There are several different types of maternity jeans on the market, each with its own advantages.
The most popular type of maternity jeans is the pregnancy belly band. This style is designed to fit over your regular pants and provides support for your growing belly. They’re usually made from a stretchy material, so they’re comfortable to wear and easy to get on and off.
Another popular option is full-panel maternity jeans. These jeans have a waistband that goes all the way around your waist, providing extra support for your belly. They’re a good choice if you’re looking for a little more coverage, and they can also be used after your baby is born.
If you’re looking for a more stylish option, you can also try jeggings or skinny jeans. These Jeans will hug your curves and make you look great, but they may not be as comfortable as other styles.
No matter which style of maternity jeans you choose, make sure you try them on before you buy them. This way, you can make sure they fit well and are comfortable to wear.
Can I Wear My Regular Jeans While Pregnant?
Many women choose to wear their regular jeans throughout their pregnancy. However, as your body changes and your belly grows, you may find that your regular jeans become less comfortable. If this is the case, there are many maternity jeans on the market that are designed to be comfortable and stylish.
How Do I Know My Maternity Jeans Size?
There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for maternity jeans. First, consider your pre-pregnancy size. You may find that you need to size up or down depending on how your body is changing. Additionally, think about the style of jeans you want. Some styles, like jeggings, have a lot of stretches and can accommodate a growing belly. Others, like straight-leg or bootcut jeans, may be more comfortable with a belly band. Finally, consider the rise of jeans. A higher rise will help support your growing belly.
How Many Pairs Of Maternity Jeans Do You Need?
Many women find that two pairs of maternity jeans are sufficient – one for everyday wear and one for dressing up. Of course, if you feel like you need more than two pairs, then go for it!
Can I Wear High-Waisted Jeans While Pregnant?
If you’re pregnant, your regular jeans may still fit for a while. Thankfully, lower-rise, looser-fitting jeans are trendy and quite comfortable. With a small to medium bulge, maternity designs with additional supporting side panels tend to feel pleasant, but styles with a stretch panel rising over the belly are cozy for a huge pregnancy.
Wearing regular high-waisted denim jeans during pregnancy is common until around 20 weeks when most women will switch to regular maternity jeans. At this point, the regular jeans may become uncomfortable or may not fit as well.
