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.
Need some fashion inspiration? Keep reading to learn more about sizing—plus, discover a few of our favorite pregnancy-friendly denim brands. And, once you’ve got a grasp on the basics, browse the best maternity jeans for every body type, style preference and stage of pregnancy. 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. These are pairs you won’t just tolerate, but ones you’ll truly love.
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: 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:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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HATCH: HATCH is our go-to store for high-quality maternity wear. The brand’s denim collection is made with über-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.
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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.
The best maternity jeans showcase your unique sense of style and feel as comfortable as your favorite pregnancy loungewear. You can choose maternity jeans that work for your current stage of pregnancy, or shop for options that’ll grow with you. Not sure where to begin? 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.
Best overall maternity jeans
If wearing a pair of jeans while pregnant sounds unappealing, you probably haven’t found the right pair. Enter the MAMA Straight 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. Meanwhile the jersey full-panel waistband is easily hidden underneath a top and actually stays in place, meaning you won’t need to hike them up every other minute. Plus, the straight leg cut and light blue wash is right on style for spring. These maternity jeans fit true to size and are also available in a dark wash and white denim. With so many options is it any wonder H&M was voted the top maternity denim brand in our Best of Pregnancy awards?
- Size range: XS to XXL
- Soft cotton denim
- Over-belly waistband
- Affordable price point
- Some customers say the waistband is a little too snug
Best black maternity jeans
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 1822 Denim. The 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 30
- Belly band is stretchy and supportive
- Machine-washable
- Sizes run large
Best boyfriend maternity jeans
It can be tempting to reach for your partner’s roomier pants as your pregnancy progresses. Skip the closet theft and invest in your own pair of maternity boyfriend jeans. HATCH has perfected the comfy-cute style with their iconic Boyfriend Maternity Jean; they’re designed with a roomy fit and a purposeful worn-in look. We’re wild about the low-slung waistband that has a subtle elastic wedge at the side that stretches, meaning you can still tuck your favorite shirt into your pants. Pair these jeans with sneakers for an easy-breezy outfit, or add a slick of red lipstick and fancy flats for an evening out. Like to mix up your look? HATCH has awesome kick-flare cropped maternity jeans and slim-fit styles too. Bonus: Get 10 percent off your first order from HATCH Collection with code BUMP10.
- Size range: 24 to 34
- Soft cotton denim blend
- True waistband means you can tuck shirts in
- Features belt loops
- High price point
Best maternity skinny jeans

Skinny jeans may not be as fashionable as they once were—but these wardrobe staples are a must-have for many moms-to-be. (Remember trends come and go, so be true to your own sense of style!) After all, slim-fit jeans suit most body types and are super-easy to style. The good news? You don’t have to give up your skinnies during pregnancy! This pair by tried-and-true brand Motherhood, are soft, stretchy and stylish. Made from a cotton-denim blend, the material features Sorbtek technology, which keeps you cool in the heat but warm and comfortable in the cold. Another standout feature is the secret-fit belly band, which can be worn up for full belly coverage or folded down for extra hold.
- Size range: XS to XL
- Slim fit
- Maternity band can be worn over the belly or folded down
- Sustainable fabric made from recycled water bottles
- This pair do not have belt loops or front pockets, which makes it difficult to pull them up
Best vintage-style maternity jeans
How cool are these nineties-inspired maternity jeans? The relaxed fit, light blue wash and waistband that rests low on the hips score serious fashion brownie points. While the stretchy side inserts ensure a comfortable fit. Style them with a band tee for a grunge glam vibe or pop on a crop top and bare your bump in a nod to Rihanna’s iconic pregnancy style. Oh, and did we mention that these pregnancy jeans come in plus-sizes too?
- Size range: 00 to 30
- Relaxed fit
- Vintage style
- Stretchy side panels
- High price point
- Longer length may not suit petite frames
Best side-panel maternity jeans
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 by GAP 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. Available in short, regular and long in-seam lengths.
- Size range: 25 to 34
- Discrete side panels
- Comfortable fit
- Five different denim washes available
- May not fit in the final trimester
Best flare maternity jeans

Flare jeans are making a major comeback, and ASOS 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 slim-leg jeans flare out to a bell bottom for a nod to seventies glam. We love the dark denim wash and the subtle side panels that are virtually undetectable, but still make space for your bump. Pair them with oversized shades, a simple tee and killer shoes for a winning look.
- Size range: 2 to 16
- Stretchy side panels
- Retro-inspired design
- Affordable price point
- Faux fly
Best under-belly maternity jeans
Don’t like the look of stretchy panels or inserts? This pair may be the best maternity jeans for you. The relaxed denim jeans feature cool distressed detail on the knees and the waistband rests just underneath your bump. But it’s the adjustable drawcord that’s really exciting. This nifty design feature lets you loosen the waistband as your pregnancy progresses, or cinch it in slightly in the postpartum period. Bonus: These jeans boast real pockets at the front!
- Size range: XS to XL
- Relaxed fit
- Adjustable drawstring waistband
- Suitable for pregnancy and postpartum
- Some customers say the jeans slip down in a little
Best designer maternity jeans
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 Lycra 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 34
- Inset elastic panels on the waist
- Classic style won’t date
- Raw edge hem
- High price point
Best affordable maternity jeans
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 $30 a pair, you’ll be left with a little extra cash to spend on a maternity top or two—the ultimate pregnancy win-win. The brand has a few different styles available, but our favorite is this pair of skinny jeans made from stretch denim designed to shape and sculpt those pregnancy curves. We’re also big fans of the brand’s signature crossover panel that can be folded up for gentle compression or down for firm support.
- Size range: 00 to 18
- Affordable price point
- Supportive panel can be worn over your bump or folded down
- Low back keeps you cool and comfortable
- You may need to size down
Best plus-size maternity jeans

PinkBlush has an awesome selection of plus-size maternity jeans. We love these dark-wash jeans with distressed details and frayed hems. Made from a cotton-spandex blend, these jeans offer a stretch fit, and have a stretchy over-the-bump band to support your belly. Not into this style? Whether you’re into spray-on skinnies or prefer to stick to straight cut jeans, there’s something on this brand’s site for you.
- Size range: 1X to 3X
- Trendy distressed look
- Supportive, elasticated belly band
- Made from a comfortable cotton and spandex blend
- Sizes tend to sell out fast
- Cold wash only
Best petite maternity jeans
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. Old Navy is one of the few retailers that carries maternity jeans in three different lengths 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 the slim-fit legs that can be rolled up if they're still a little too long.
- Size range: 0 to 20
- Stylish, straight cut
- Seamless over-belly waistband
- Comes in three different lengths
- Sizes run large
Best tall maternity jeans
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
- Wide leg fit
- Long over-belly band
- Real belt loops and functional pockets
- Not suitable for tumble-drying
Best straight leg maternity jeans
Straight leg jeans are the style du jour, but finding the perfect pregnancy-friendly pair can be tricky. Fortunately, this design by Joe’s Jeans meets the mark in terms of style, fit and comfort. Made from thick denim with authentic vintage stretch, the Lara jean has a flattering straight leg cut and hugs your curves in all the right places. And, thanks to the mid-rise waistband and stretchy side panels, you can tuck things in and style them in the same way you would pre-pregnancy.
- Size range: 23 to 34
- Flattering cut
- Elastic waist insets
- Perfect mid-wash denim color
- High price point
Best distressed maternity jeans
Madewell is a brand that sits high on our list when it comes to the best maternity jeans. Why? Each piece is crafted from premium denim and is effortlessly cool, not to mention comfortable. Cool moms will love these boyfriend jeans. Cut low in front for comfort and high in back for coverage, these pull-on slouchy jeans have a relaxed fit through the thighs, stretchy side insets and an elasticized waistband for added comfort. Plus, the ripped knees give a nod to the worn-in, distressed trend without being too much.
- Size range: 23 to 33
- Loose fit
- Elasticated waistband
- Stretchy side panels
- High price point
- Made from zero stretch denim
Best ankle-length maternity jeans
Paige is another high-end denim brand serving up seriously cool pregnancy apparel. There are tons of styles to choose from but we like these wide leg maternity jeans. Thanks to a high waistband and ankle-length leg, this pair is super-flattering and won’t swamp your figure. The cotton blend fabric is soft while elasticated side panels provide 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: 23 to 34
- Stretchy side panels
- Ankle-length cut
- Wide leg design
- High price point
Best white maternity jeans
Last up on our list of the best maternity jeans is this white pair by Seraphine. Perfect for spring or summer, these jeans are made from premium stretch denim and boast a stylish slim fit. A seamless over-belly band slips discreetly under your top to provide gentle support around your middle as well as a flexible fit for every stage of pregnancy. Pair them with a striped breton top and espadrilles for a classic vacation look.
- Size range: 34 to 46
- Stretch denim
- Slim leg fit
- Over-belly band is virtually invisible when layered underneath a top
- White denim is difficult to keep clean
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