The Best Maternity Jeans to Add to Your Pregnancy Wardrobe
Denim is a timeless wardrobe staple. And whether you’re into slouchy styles or straight-leg jeans, a great pair can make or break your look. Plus, having a staple pair of maternity jeans adds a sense of normalcy to your pregnancy wardrobe. Unfortunately, denim is a fabric that doesn’t offer much give, meaning your favorite Levi’s will be one of the first things to go when your baby bump starts to show. Stressed at the thought of giving up jeans for the foreseeable future? Don’t sweat it! The best maternity jeans will get you through the next nine+ months. Of course, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to pregnancy jeans, but the best options have a decent amount of stretch, work with your changing shape and perfectly complement your unique sense of style. Worried about splashing out on denim you can only wear for a few months? Many maternity jeans can be worn during the postpartum period too, which brings down the overall cost per wear.
Not sure where to begin? To help narrow your search, we asked The Bump community—real parents, both current and expecting—to tell us about their favorite jeans and denim brands during pregnancy, and included their thoughts throughout. From wide-leg styles to plus-size and petite picks, here you’ll find stylish pregnancy jeans to fit your body and your fashion aesthetic. Discover our favorite maternity jeans organized by style and body type below—plus, sizing tips as well as a few of our favorite pregnancy-friendly denim brands.
Maternity jeans are a wardrobe staple and an important part of feeling like yourself while you’re expecting. To choose the best maternity jeans, we took the following steps:
- In May 2023 we surveyed 300 members of The Bump community. We asked this sample of new and expectant parents to rate the maternity jeans they used while pregnant and to comment on their overall experience. We evaluated this data and used it to inform our product choices.
- We leveraged our familiarity with leading maternity brands to make sure items are from reliable manufacturers. And since many of us are also parents, we rely on our writers’ and editors’ experience using these products with their own families.
- We read user reviews and surveyed members of The Bump community—real parents, just like you—to get the low-down on how these products work for families, and typically don’t consider anything with less than an average four-star rating.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles, including product reviews.
Overall best maternity jeans
- Cotton blend fabric
- Stretchy side panels
- Vintage style
- High price point
- 32" inseam
First up on our list is a pair of pregnancy jeans from Paige. This denim brand got a nod of approval from our editors in our annual Best of The Bump awards—with good reason.
Our staff reviewer was a big fan of the high-quality fabric as well as the overall aesthetic of Paige Denim, which she described as “chic, on-trend and comfortable.” There are a few different styles to choose from, but we’re big fans of this high-rise flared cut. This pair has a cool, laidback feel, but is still comfortable thanks to a stretchy panel on either side that expands to accommodate your bump. Better yet, the cotton denim material is durable and wears well over time, meaning the jeans won’t sag or lose their shape.
Size range: 23 to 34 | Material: 93% cotton/5% polyester/ 2% spandex | Care instructions: Gentle cycle with like colors, line dry
Our product tester says:
“They were a nice medium-thick fabric and they had just enough stretch to be comfy but also kept their shape.” – Jen, mom of three and head of marketing at The Bump
Best comfortable maternity jeans
- Soft cotton denim
- Over-belly waistband
- Affordable price point
- Some customers say the waistband is a little too snug
If wearing a pair of jeans while pregnant sounds unappealing, you probably haven’t found the right pair. Enter the MAMA Slim Ankle Jeans by H&M, which are so well-made and comfortable, you can rock them right up until the day you deliver. Made from a washed cotton denim with a touch of spandex, these jeans offer the perfect amount of stretch, without being saggy. The jersey full-panel waistband is also easily hidden underneath a top and actually stays in place, meaning you won’t need to hike them up every other minute. These maternity jeans also fit true to size, with 100 percent of our survey respondents reporting that H&M’s sizing was accurate. We love this slim-fit style available in three washes, but if you prefer a different fit the brand also offers wide, straight-leg and skinny maternity jeans.
Size range: XS to XXL | Material (shell): 94% cotton/5% elastomultiester/1% spandex | Material (waistband): 92% cotton/8% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cool, tumble dry medium
Our product tester says:
“These were hands-down my favorite maternity jeans in my wardrobe. I added to my cart because they looked cute and were the right price, but I was very pleasantly surprised by the quality—thick but stretchy denim and an over-the-bump panel that didn't get baggy over time. These hit the trifecta for me: Stylish, comfy and affordable.” – Ashlee, mom of two and content director at The Bump
Our community says:
“[H&M jeans] grow with you which I love. I get bloated sometimes so even in one day they grow and shrink with me.” – Katherine, expectant mom
“I like the style, availability and fast delivery. /[But] the belly band is too small for when you reach 8/9 months” – Donna*, expectant mom
Best black maternity jeans
- Straight-leg cut
- Cotton blend fabric
- Over-belly panel
- High price point
- Some parents say the belly band lacks stretch
Black maternity jeans are a wardrobe staple. The right pair can take you from day to night, the office to dinner out and everyday life to special events. Given their versatility, it’s worth investing in a quality pair. Our top pick? These dark-hued maternity jeans by Madewell. Inspired by 90’s denim trends, these jeans are fitted through the thighs and then taper out to an old-school straight leg cut. For added comfort, the jeans feature a low under-belly cut at the front that transitions into a stretchy panel that you can pull up over your bump. While a high rise fit at the back enhances your curves and gives your butt a little lift (you’re welcome!).
Size range: 23 to 32 | Material: 99% cotton/1% Lycra | Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry
Our community says:
“Great fit and style. You feel like your normal old self—I'm just wearing Madewells like I always do!” – Linda, mom of one
“They were the only pair of maternity jeans I bought and I used them for nights out. It was comforting to have Madewell maternity jeans, since the rest of my jeans are also Madewell.” – Amanda, expectant mom
“These jeans are nice but not as stretchy at the top under the band as I would like. However, the quality is wonderful and the fit is great for me, which can be hard to find.” – Jenny, expectant mom
Best cropped maternity jeans
- Cropped hem
- True waistband
- Can be worn after baby is born
- Expensive
Looking for the perfect pair of ankle-skimmers? Check out these cropped maternity jeans by HATCH Collection. The on-trend cropped cut features a relaxed fit through the hip and thigh along with side panels at the waistband to grow with your bump. Speaking of that waistband, it hits at the right spot to tuck in your shirts for a fitted look, and can easily be worn after baby is born. (That’s worth considering when you weigh the $198 price tag.) These jeans are tapered at the knee and flare out slightly ending in a distressed hemline. We also love the fact that this pair has real pockets, a functional zipper and belt loops, just like your regular jeans.
Size range: 24 to 34 | Material: 92% cotton/8% elastomultiester | Care instructions: Machine wash cold with like colors
Our community says:
“These made me feel halfway normal throughout pregnancy.” – Anna, mom of one
Best side-panel maternity jeans
- Discrete side panels
- Comfortable fit
- Affordable price point
- May not fit in the final trimester
Side-panel maternity jeans have—you guessed it—side panels that stretch to accommodate your changing body. Opt for this style of under-belly maternity jeans if you want to wear fitted tops that don’t cover up your bump. This pair look nearly identical to regular jeans—except they’re way comfier thanks to an accommodating waistband. We also like the slim-fit, which offers a modern take on classic skinny jeans. While our survey respondents all remarked upon the comfort and affordability of Gap maternity jeans. Available in short, regular and long in-seam lengths in four different colors.
Size range: 25 to 34 | Material: 86% cotton/12% polyester/2% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash
Our community says:
“The jeans were more comfortable than other brands I tried with a side panel.” – Lauren, mom of one
“Comfortable and easy to put on.” – Molly*, expectant mom
“I liked the style and the fit. Quality was ‘good enough’ for how infrequently I wore them.” – Samantha, mom of two
Best designer maternity jeans
- Inset elastic panels on the waist
- Classic style won’t date
- Raw edge hem
- High price point
Next up on our list of the best maternity jeans is this premium pair by DL1961. Yes, they’re an investment, but the side-stretch panels extend the life of these jeans, making them work when you’re just showing, ready to pop and during the postpartum phase. The dark indigo wash is timeless and cool, while the straight leg design isn’t too restrictive. Plus, the cotton stretch material has a touch of spandex for added stretch. Based on sheer comfort alone, these designer maternity jeans are worth every penny—but throw in how awesome they make you look, and it’ll be the smartest money you’ve ever spent!
Size range: 23 to 32 | Material: 99% cotton/1% spandex | Care instructions: Wash cold
Our community says:
“Everything about them is great.” – Lisa, expectant mother
Best maternity boyfriend jeans
- Stretchy material
- Drawstring waist
- Distressed details
- May run small
- Some parents said they were uncomfortable to wear while sitting
It can be tempting to reach for your partner’s roomier pants as your pregnancy progresses—but you’re better off skipping the closet theft and investing in your own pair of maternity boyfriend jeans. Ingrid & Isabel has perfected the comfy-cute style with their Boyfriend Maternity Jean, designed with a roomy fit and a purposeful worn-in look. We’re wild about the low-slung waistband with a drawstring that you can adjust with your bump. Pair these jeans with sneakers for an easy-breezy outfit, or add a slick of red lipstick and fancy flats for an evening out.
Size range: XS to XL | Material: 61% cotton/26% polyester/11% rayon/2% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash, line dry
Our community says:
“Maternity jeans can be pretty boring, but these jeans had holes and I really liked the style of them.” – Carissa, mother of one
Best plus-size maternity jeans
- Cotton blend denim
- Over-bump band
- Real pockets
- Sizes tend to sell out fast
- Baggy fit at the knees
PinkBlush has an awesome selection of plus-size maternity jeans, and we especially love these light-wash skinny jeans available in inclusive sizes. Made from a soft cotton blend, these jeans offer a comfortable fit as well as a stretchy over-the-bump band to support your belly. Not into this style? Whether you love spray-on skinnies or prefer to stick to wide-leg jeans, there’s something on this brand’s site for you.
Size range: 1X to 3X | Material: 90.5% cotton/7.5% polyester/ 2% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Our community says:
“[PinkBlush] suits me. It's great in every way.” – Moore, expectant mom
Best petite maternity jeans
- Reinforced belt loops
- Inclusive sizes
- Stretchy over-bump band
- Not tumble-dryer safe
Jeans that don’t require any alterations are a petite person’s dream—but when you’re petite and pregnant, that dream may seem more like a fantasy. Seraphine is one of the few retailers that carries maternity jeans in petite, regular and long sizes to suit women of every stature. We love this dark denim pair. Our two favorite features? A seamless over-the-bump panel that’s easily concealed under tops and slim-fit legs with ankle-grazing cuffs. We also like that the waistband is higher at the back and has reinforced belt loops, so it's easy to pull these jeans up or tug them off.
Size range: US 2 to 14/ US Petite 2 to 14/ US Long 2 to 14 | Material: 99% cotton/1% elastane | Care instructions: Machine wash
Our community says:
“The quality of the denim is good.” – Denise, expectant mom
Best tall maternity jeans
- Wide leg fit
- Long over-belly band
- Real belt loops and functional pockets
- Not suitable for tumble-drying
Being born with long legs may seem like a blessing, but when it comes to looking for pregnancy jeans, it can make things a little tricky. Over-the-bump panels often don’t stretch high enough, and inseams are frequently too short, leaving the fit anything but flattering. This pair of maternity jeans solves both of those problems with a 36-inch inseam and a long over-bump panel that’ll stay securely in place. And if you do need to hoist them up, no problem: This pair has real belt loops and pockets too. We love the wide-leg cut, but if loose-fit styles aren’t your thing, check out Long Tall Sally’s maternity skinny jeans for another option.
Size range: 4 to 20 | Material: 66% cotton/27% polyester/5% viscose/3% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash
Best low panel maternity jeans
- Available in three leg lengths
- Elasticated under-belly band
- Denim holds its shape
- Some parents say sizes run small
Most expectant moms have a preference for under- or over-belly jeans. Neither is best—it’s just a personal thing. If you’re in the under-belly camp, this pair from Old Navy is for you. The jeans are made from a mix of cotton and spandex for a slight stretch, with a comfortable under-bump band to hold everything in place. The slim fit and ankle length is flattering, and matches with just about anything.
Size range: 0 to 20 | Material: 66% cotton/27% polyester/5% viscose/3% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash
Our community says:
“The fit is true to size /[and] the quality of the material is good.” – Paige, expectant mom
“They fit well in both early and late pregnancy underneath my bump.” – Cara*, expectant mom
Best affordable maternity jeans
- Affordable price point
- Elasticated side panels
- Real belt loops and functional fly
- May lose shape over time
Unwilling to spend a fortune on clothes you’ll soon grow out of—but also don’t want to skimp on quality? Isabel Maternity by Ingrid & Isabel offers some of the best maternity jeans at knockdown prices. They have a designer look and feel with several washes, cuts and styles to choose from. And at $35 a pair, you’ll be left with a little extra cash to spend on a maternity top or two—the ultimate pregnancy win-win! Our favorite style is this pair of cropped bootcut jeans made from stretch denim designed to shape and sculpt those pregnancy curves.
Size range: 2 to 16 | Material: 70% cotton/28% lyocell/2% Elastane Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry
Our community says:
“I felt this brand was stretchy and accommodating to my bump, which made it easier getting on. It didn’t get overstretched with repeated use.” – Sophie
Best skinny maternity jeans
- Belly band is stretchy and supportive
- Machine-washable
- Cool ankle detailing
- Sizes run large
This simple, pull-on style has a slim fit and a stretchy belly band that ends just under your bust for maximum support. Stylish details like the rivet-topped ankle slits add to the elevated vibe. Not the right fit for you? 1822 Denim has a pair of plus-size maternity jeggings and black bootcut jeans too.
Size range: 24 to 31 | Material: 79% cotton/20% polyester/1% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash, tumble dry
Our community says:
“[1822 jeans are] fairly comfortable, and have a ton of stretch. I’ve worn them a lot and they wash and hold up well.” – Andrea, expectant mother
Best maternity flare jeans
- Stretchy front panel
- Soft cotton denim
- Four leg length options
- Some women find an under-belly fit uncomfortable
Flare jeans are making a major comeback, and Wrangler carries some of the coolest pairs out there. Made from a comfortable cotton-stretch denim, this pair hits the mark in terms of style and comfort. The jeans flare out to a bootcut silhouette for a nod to seventies glam. We love the dark blue denim wash and the subtle front panels that’s virtually undetectable, but still makes space for your bump. Pair them with oversized shades, a simple tee and cowboy boots for a winning look!
Size range: 1 to 17 | Material: 98% cotton/2% elastane | Care instructions: Machine wash, line dry
Best white maternity jeans
- Over-belly panel
- Gap to tuck in a T-shirt
- Soft cotton denim
- High cost per wear
White maternity jeans are distinctly harder to find than those of darker washes. But if you’re dying to get your hands on a pair, this Seraphine style is a good option. The slim-fit jeans made from cream cotton feature a clever waistband that sits high at the back with reinforced belt loops. It has a stretchy over-belly band made from a breathable modal fabric that’ll support your changing shape. Plus, an innovative “tee-tuck gap” behind the fly lets you tuck in your top at the front. Genius! Wear these jeans with a breton shirt and espadrilles for a cute summer-ready look.
Size range: US 2 to 16 | Material: 98% cotton/2% lycra | Care instructions: Machine wash, do not tumble dry
Best straight-leg maternity jeans
- Soft feel
- Work as postpartum jeans
- Good tailoring
- Pricey
Straight leg jeans go with just about anything. This popular pair from HATCH has a tailored leg and relaxed fit through the hip and thigh for a polished look you can wear out to dinner. Like other HATCH maternity jeans, the pair has a bamboo and spandex wedge on each side to help your jeans grow with you (and work after baby has arrived). Enjoy real zippers, pockets and belt loops for a “real” jeans feel.
Size range: 24 to 32 | Material: 92% cotton/8% elastomultiester | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Our community says:
“The quality of [Hatch’s] denim is very good. It fits well and makes my booty look good.” – Anna, mother of one
Best ankle-length maternity jeans
- Ankle-length cut
- Flattering color
- Affordable
- Sizes run large
Old Navy is serving up seriously cool pregnancy apparel. There are tons of styles to choose from, but we like these straight leg maternity jeans. Thanks to a high waistband and ankle-length leg, the pair is super-flattering and won’t swamp your figure. The cotton blend fabric is soft while the belly band provides the perfect amount of stretch. And the medium-wash denim is naturally faded and has raw edges for a lived-in look from day one.
Size range: 0 to 20 | Material (shell): 83% cotton/11% recycled polyester/ 5% recycled cotton/1% spandex | Material (panel): 93% nylon/7% spandex | Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low
Our community says:
“I liked that they truly looked like regular jeans. They were comfortable and easy to get on.” – Meredith, mother of two
Best vintage-style maternity jeans
- Good color range
- Over-belly waistband
- Affordable
- Front pockets are fake
Bootcut jeans were everywhere in the ‘90s, and they’re making a comeback. This pair from Levi Strauss is made from a stretchy cotton and polyester blend for jeans that move with you. A large belly panel stretches as you grow, while the snug fit doesn’t lose its shape throughout the day. There’s even cooling technology in the waistband to prevent overheating. Choose from four different shades.
Size range: XS to XXL plus | Material: 70% cotton/29% polyester/1% spandex | Care instructions: N/A
Our community says:
“I love the stretchiness, fit and quality after washing. It grows with me.” – Sally
You want to get the most mileage out of your wardrobe, so comfort, quality and versatility are all important when shopping for maternity clothing. Typically, pregnancy jeans use the same sizing system as regular jeans—they’re just built for growth, so you can start by selecting the size you wore pre-pregnancy. Keep in mind that sizes can vary by brand, so check the sizing guidelines. Opt for a jean that’s super soft with a nice stretch to better accommodate your changing body.
Before we dive into our picks for the best maternity jeans, here’s a brief breakdown of the different styles you can choose from. There are three main types of pregnancy jeans:
- Over-the-bump jeans: Over-the-bump maternity jeans have a built-in fabric panel that covers your belly. Styles with a stretchy over-the-bump panel are a great option for moms who prefer high-waisted jeans, since they can be folded up for maximum comfort (especially late in pregnancy, when your bump is big) or down for early pregnancy and postpartum support.
- Demi-panel jeans: Demi-panel maternity jeans have an elasticated waistband that sits under your baby bump. This style provides firm support, and the waistband can easily be hidden under flowy tops.
- Side-panel jeans: Side-panel maternity jeans have discreet, stretchy panels on the sides that expand with your growing body. This style looks closest to your regular jeans and works well for moms who don’t want additional support around their baby bumps.
On the hunt for the perfect pair of maternity jeans? Here are three online stores that offer amazing pregnancy-friendly denim options.
- H&M: If you’re looking for affordable maternity jeans that don’t skimp on style or comfort, H&M should be your first stop. From classic skinnies to flares and paper bag jeans, this brand has something for every preference. Plus, many of H&M’s designs come in petite sizes too.
- HATCH: HATCH is our go-to store for high-quality maternity wear. The brand’s denim collection is made with super-soft stretchy fabrics and comes in a great range of trendy styles. This is one of the pricier brands on our list, but these jeans are so good, you’ll get serious cost per wear.
- Nordstrom: Nordstrom is your one-stop shop for some of the best maternity jeans. The curated collection of denim includes high-quality brands like Madewell Maternity, 7 for all Mankind and 1822 Denim. Whether you’re looking for boyfriend jeans or classic black skinnies, you’re bound to find a style you love at this department store.
About the writer:
Martina Garvey is an editor at The Bump, where she writes and edits e-commerce content for pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. Over an eight-year career in educational publishing and digital media, Martina has developed a keen eye for detail and robust reporting skills. As a staff member on The Bump for over three years, she leverages an in-depth knowledge of must-have baby gear and postpartum essentials alongside a passion for the latest trends to create informative content parents can trust.
Plus, more from The Bump:
The Bump survey of 300 parents and moms-to-be, May 2023
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