Maternity jeans: how to choose and buy new or second-hand
Why jeans need special models
Regular jeans rarely work for an expecting mum: a stiff waistband and button press on the bump, and the back seam slides down. Maternity models have a knitted or elastic panel in the waistband, and it decides the comfort. So you look not only at size but also at the type of waistband and the cut.
Prices vary with brand and condition, and walking around shops is tiring when you are pregnant. On BlaBlaPrice you describe what you need once, and sellers send offers in the chat. It is free for the buyer, and your phone stays hidden until you choose a seller.
Types of waistband
- High knitted panel — covers the bump and keeps it warm, the most comfortable late in pregnancy;
- Under the bump — with an elastic at the bottom, suits early months but may slip later;
- Adjustable — with buttons or elastic inserts, worn longer than the others.
What to put in your request
- style — mom, straight, tapered, flared, skinny;
- bump waistband — high knitted, under the bump, adjustable;
- size — W28, 38 or your usual, plus height;
- stage of pregnancy — the week;
- season — summer, mid-season, lined for winter;
- colour — dark blue, black, light;
- brand — if you have a preference;
- condition and budget.
Example: “I'm looking for fleece-lined mom jeans for pregnancy, dark blue, with a high knitted waistband, size W28, 20 weeks. Second-hand in good condition is fine. Montreal, budget up to $34.”
Check before you buy
With second-hand jeans, look at the knee and inner seams and at the waistband: after many washes the elastic may have stretched. Ask for close-up photos of the waistband stretched on a mannequin or a hand. Ask about the fabric composition: a little elastane makes jeans more flexible, but a fabric that is too thin wears through quickly.
Length matters as much as size: some models come in several heights. For winter look for a warm lining that does not add bulk on the thighs.
How to compare offers
Compare brand, size, waistband and condition. For second-hand, ask why it is being sold and whether the item was repaired. BlaBlaPrice shows the best-value offer first, with seller reviews next to it. Sellers can see where they stand among the others and sharpen their terms, so the price often turns out better.
To complete the look, see tops and tunics, trousers and leggings and tights. More in “Maternity wear”.
Questions and answers
Which waistband is best in jeans?
A high knitted waistband is comfortable late in pregnancy, while an adjustable one lets you wear the jeans longer. Say which stage you are at, and sellers will advise.
Is it worth buying second-hand jeans?
Often yes, since they are worn for a few months. Check the photos of the seams, knees and waistband.
How do I choose the size?
Take your usual size, but ask for the garment measurements, because the size chart differs between brands. Also state your height.
Are there winter maternity jeans?
Yes, there are fleece-lined ones, and you can mention them in your request.
