A good pair of maternity jeans is a must during pregnancy. But how do you pick a pair that’s right for you? I
First, when it comes to jeans, pregnant or not, the best advice is to “shop your shape.” If you’re tall, a straight-leg “boyfriend” style that’s not too skinny can be flattering. If you’re more of an hourglass or apple shape, then you’ll be looking for a fit that is roomy but not baggy. No matter what your shape, a boot-cut or more flared cuff will help balance out your pregnant shape more than a skinny-jean style. If you’re plus-sized, try a darker wash. If you’re petite, looking a little harder for petite-sized jeans is worthwhile if it means the cuffs don’t drag (or find a pair that fits well in every other way and have them taken up by a tailor)!
A little bit of stretch to your denim is important when you’re pregnant- look for denim will a little bit of spandex. It’s normal for your hips to widen during the third trimester even if you don’t gain extra weight. You want jeans that will keep their shape without looking like they’re hanging on for dear life! And of course you want some stretch so you don’t feel constricted. When you try on jeans, sit, squat (while safely supported) and make sure the jeans can go through the motions with you.
When it comes to maternity panels you’ll have a few choices: below the belly, side elastic, above the belly or a band that can roll. In early pregnancy a below-the-belly style may be more comfortable, in late pregnancy or if you’re plus-sized you may need a larger band just to keep the jeans up! Side-elastic styles will be wearable for the shortest amount of time, usually just a month or two. When it comes to bands, cotton-y ones may be more comfortable, but the very elastic ones will be best at keeping you from having to pull your pants up constantly.
More shopping tips for maternity jeans:
- Try on a lot of pairs. It may take a dozen or more to find a pair that’s the perfect mix of comfort and style.
- Don’t buy online, unless you’re buying a second pair of a kind you already own that is comfortable and flattering. If you don’t live near many maternity-clothing stores and don’t have many options, make sure that your online merchant makes it easy to return items.
- Go for affordable. You’ll be wearing them for six months, tops.
- Choose comfort over style. If the jeans bind you or have itchy seams while you’re in the store, they will be unbearable after 10 hours of wear.
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