The Best Maternity Leggings to Complete Your Pregnancy Wardrobe
March 16, 2021
When the athleisure trend took the fashion world by storm, pregnant women everywhere rejoiced. The ongoing fad has made comfy, stretchy maternity leggings (that are still super-chic) more accessible than ever. Leggings are a must-have item for moms-to-be who like to work up a sweat. But they’re not just for the gym: Leggings are also a great alternative to maternity jeans on days when you need a little extra stretch.
Before you invest in a pair of maternity leggings, think about your comfort needs and preferences. There are two main types of pregnancy leggings on the market:
• Under-the-bump maternity leggings: These maternity leggings are low-waisted and rest just under your baby bump. Under-the-bump leggings have a super stretchy waistband that offers moms-to-be gentle support. These are often great for earlier on in pregnancy, when your belly isn’t big enough to fill out an over-the-bump style.
• Over-the-bump maternity leggings: This style has a built-in panel that’ll stretch to accommodate your growing belly. Over-the-bump maternity leggings are super-versatile as the belly panel can be folded down during early pregnancy (and postpartum) or pulled up for maximum support in the final trimester.
Also keep in mind your lifestyle and where you’ll be wearing them. If you’re looking for styles that can be incorporated into your work wardrobe, consider maternity jeggings or a classic black pair. Gym bunnies should keep an eye out for supportive workout leggings made from moisture-wicking fabric. Want a pair that does it all? No sweat—there are plenty of high performance maternity leggings that are super-stylish to boot!
No matter where you plan on wearing them, the best pregnancy leggings are made from breathable materials with plenty of stretch to accommodate your growing bump. From boldly printed pants with shapely cuts to affordable options in super-soft fabrics, here are some of the best maternity leggings available right now.
If you’re looking for your next go-to pair of maternity leggings, check out this must-have from Beyond Yoga. The leggings are made from buttery-soft performance fabric that’s cozy enough to lounge in and durable enough to work out in. It wicks moisture away to keep you cool and offers a four-way stretch to keep you comfy. The midi length hits just above the ankles and the empire waist covers your belly for maximum support.
Buy it: Beyond Yoga Maternity Empire Waisted Spacedye Midi Leggings, $105, Zappos.com
Best Black Maternity Leggings
There are so many black maternity leggings out there, it’s hard to pick just one pair to spotlight. We’re especially impressed with Nordstrom’s wide assortment of options, which includes this highly rated style from Zella. The maternity active leggings dry fast after a sweaty workout, but are casual enough to lounge around in too. Moms really love the flatlock seams that don’t rub them the wrong way—literally.
Buy it: Zella Mamasana Live In Maternity Ankle Leggings, $65, Nordstrom.com
If pregnancy has led to varicose veins and swollen ankles, these maternity compression leggings may be just the thing to offer some relief. Crafted from a breathable, high-performance polyester-spandex knit, they wick away moisture to keep you cool and comfortable all day long. Engineered panels with maximum compression help hold you in and offer support while you kick butt during high-intensity workouts.
Buy it: Maternity GapFit Full Panel Leggings in Sculpt Compression, $60, Gap.com
Best Maternity Workout Leggings
High-performance maternity leggings are a must-have for active mamas. And this figure-sculpting pair from Seraphine really goes the distance. The ultra-breathable fabric wicks moisture away, while the mesh panels act as air vents that’ll keep you cool during sweaty gym sessions. Plus, the stretchy belly band can be worn over your bump for more support during pregnancy or folded down for postpartum wear. Stylish workout leggings that can be worn during every stage of pregnancy? Yes, please.
Buy it: Seraphine Power Mesh Maternity Leggings, $65, Seraphine.com
Since you’re only going to wear your maternity clothes for a finite amount of time, you may not want to blow your budget on basic pieces that cost a pretty penny. Check out the maternity leggings at H&M. The stores sell everything from “ Treggings," (denim-look leggings) and faux-leather pairs to seamless sports maternity leggings. But our go-tos are these eco-conscious pants. They may be made from organic cotton jersey, but they’re so affordable, you can stock up on several pairs at once. The best part? These maternity leggings have a soft and stretchy foldover waistband.
Buy it: H&M MAMA Leggings, $15, HM.com
Love the look of skinny jeans but need more than a little give? Opt for SPANX’s super-stretchy maternity jeggings. The smoothing fabric and over-the-bump band are designed to make you feel fully supported but definitely not squeezed. That makes these denim-look maternity leggings comfy but still more refined than a regular cotton pair.
Buy it: SPANX Mama Maternity Jean-ish Ankle Leggings, $110, Bloomingdales.com
We’re big fans of Girlfriend Collective, an eco-friendly company that makes their activewear from recycled water bottles and fishing nets. The brand’s over-the-belly maternity workout leggings come in a wide range of sizes (XXS to 6XL), plus a few trendy colors. If you prefer a streamlined silhouette, these leggings are also available in a seamless style. They offer all the support and comfort you crave courtesy of a compressive fit and moisture-wicking fabric. Bonus: These super-soft maternity leggings offer UPF 50+ sun protection.
Buy it: Girlfriend Collective Maternity Leggings, $88, Girlfriend.com
There’s no reason you can’t still look smokin’ hot with a baby on board. These faux-leather maternity leggings may look restrictive, but they’ve got a soft, stretchy nylon belly band that won’t squeeze your bump. In fact, the brand’s signature “Mama Magic” waistband means you can wear these maternity leggings right through your pregnancy and beyond. Better yet, these maternity leggings are center-seam free (bye-bye camel toe) and the faux-leather fabric is smoothing and supportive. How fabulous!
Buy it: SPANX Mama Faux Leather Leggings, $110, SPANX.com
Motherhood Maternity is hands-down one of the best places to pick up maternity basics in every size. These plus-size maternity leggings come in a few neutral shades and range in size from 1X to 3X, making them a fantastic capsule piece for your plus-size maternity wardrobe. They’re crafted from a soft cotton-spandex jersey knit and feature a full pregnancy panel for a great fit as your bump grows. Bonus: Motherhood Maternity carries cropped plus-size maternity leggings too.
Buy it: Motherhood Maternity Plus Size Essential Stretch Secret Fit Belly Maternity Leggings, $30, MotherhoodMaternity.com
If you’re a mom-to-be with a smaller stature, it can be tough to find great pregnancy leggings that aren’t too long. Good news—Storq, purveyor of awesome maternity basics, has a legging sized just for you. Get ready to fall in love with these incredibly comfy, super-soft and totally chic petite pants. Wear the panel over or under the belly, and revel in the fact that Storq’s leggings have few exposed seams, which can help cut down on that annoying pregnancy itchiness.
Buy it: Storq Maternity Leggings, $65, Storq.com
A must-have for any winter pregnancy wardrobe? A pair of cozy fleece-lined maternity leggings—you never know when you’ll need to brave a snowstorm. These thick maternity leggings come in two colors and feature an over-the-belly panel as well as a stretchy waistband that won’t dig-in. When the weather turns cold, you’ll never want to take these off.
Buy it: Motherhood Maternity Fleece Over the Belly Maternity Leggings, $30, MotherhoodMaternity.com
Searching for affordable under-belly maternity leggings? This two-pack of pregnancy leggings from Bumpstart are here to save the day. Made from a soft cotton-spandex mix, these cropped leggings are über-comfortable. The best part? They have a genius crossover waistband that is lower in the front so it sits comfortably under your bump but won’t slip down in the back.
Buy it: Bumpstart Under Belly Maternity Leggings 2-Pack, $30, MotherhoodMaternity.com
If you’re sick of humdrum black pregnancy leggings or want something lighter-colored for the summer months, consider these white maternity leggings from UNIQLO. The soft, stretchy, summer-ready pair are made from a ribbed double-layer cotton material that’ll keep you cozy all year round.
Buy it: UNIQLO Women Maternity Ribbed Leggings, $15, UNIQLO.com
Looking for a stylish pair of cropped maternity leggings? Turn to Ingrid & Isabel. The brand makes this genius foldover pair with a band that can be worn over or under the bump, depending on how you’re feeling. Either way, the crossover panel provides lower back support, while the breathable fabric prevents your legs from feeling suffocated. Other key features: They’re antimicrobial, designed to combat chafing and won’t slip down or ride up.
Buy it: Ingrid & Isabel Maternity Workout Capri With Crossover Panel, $78, IngridandIsabel.com
When you’re pregnant, a little help goes a long way—especially when it comes from your clothing. These BLANQI maternity leggings offer full over-the-belly support with a built-in anchor to lift and redistribute your baby bump weight, as well as light compression to help combat swelling. Thanks to the stretchy expandable panel, these pants can take you through all three trimesters. Love the feel of these ones? Try the maternity active leggings on for size too.
Buy it: BLANQI Everyday Maternity Belly Support Leggings, $64, BLANQI.com
Taller mamas-to-be are all too familiar with the struggle to find the perfect pair of maternity leggings, since regular length pants end up looking more like capris. Your salvation: these basic pregnancy leggings from Love Leggings. They’re soft, stretchy, comfy and totally opaque, making visible panty lines a thing of the past. Better yet, these leggings are available in inclusive sizes and come in 15 stunning shades.
Buy it: Love Leggings Full Length Maternity Leggings Tall, $27, LoveLeggings.com
If you want to treat yourself to pregnancy leggings that look and feel luxurious, spring for a pair of maternity leggings by David Lerner. Made in the USA, these leather-look coated leggings are oh-so-chic. Plus, the super-stretch belly panel ensures that these leggings are comfy too. Pair them with a sweater and your favorite boots for a timeless (not to mention fashion-forward!) look.
Buy it: David Lerner Coated Maternity Leggings, $125, ShopBop.com
Hoping to switch things up a bit? ASOS offers an amazing selection of maternity leggings in statement-making prints. The brand’s namesake collection, ASOS DESIGN, has plenty to pick from, including this pair of trendy tie dye leggings, which you can rock all year round.
Buy it: ASOS DESIGN Maternity Tie Dye Leggings in Washed Mint, $26, ASOS.com
Best Maternity Leggings on Amazon
The last (but by no means least) pick on our list of best maternity leggings is this best-selling pair on Amazon. Made from a buttery-soft microfiber material, these leggings are cozy enough for lounging at home but durable enough for the gym. The moisture-wicking fabric will keep you cool, while the front belly panel provides firm support. Oh, and these leggings come in a variety of fun prints and colors (18 to be exact!). All this from just $20? Now that’s a bargain.
Buy it: Foucome Women’s Maternity Leggings Over The Belly, starting from $20, Amazon.com
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