Maternity Pants Buying Guide

If you’re wondering if you need maternity pants, the answer is yes — especially if you want to switch up your looks and not be limited to wearing maternity dresses. Your regular pants won’t be able to keep up with your changing body as you go through pregnancy, so it’s always a good idea to invest in maternity clothes that are comfortable, versatile, and stretchy.

Maternity pants are designed specifically for pregnant women and come in various colours, sizes, and cuts. Their most important feature is the waistband, but it's also important to think about how they fit, look, and flatter your figure. There’s a long list of styles available, including maternity dress pants, work pants, and jeans. Which ones should you buy? How do you choose the right maternity bottoms? Look no further for answers because this guide is for you!

Choose Maternity Pants Based on The Waistband

The special waistbands or belly bands for maternity bottoms come in three types:

1. Over-The-Belly

These are high-rise pants with a stretchy panel to fully cover the bump while providing back support. They are perfect if you’re used to wearing high-rise jeans or bottoms before pregnancy or prefer full coverage.

Seraphine Charlyn Maternity Ponte Trousers are maternity work pants with a soft stretch jersey over-the-belly waistband that comfortably fits over the bump for a streamlined and smooth look. The classic straight cut of these maternity pants is perfect for corporate environments.

Olian also offers versatile maternity dress pants for the office or an outing. One of its best features is the cotton-lycra band you can fold up or down to suit your needs.

If you want versatile maternity bottoms, check out these Sugar Coated Slim Jeans with an over-bump waistband that offers optimum support and comfort. They go with almost anything, allowing you to wear them for work or dressy occasions.

2. Under-The-Belly

Low-rise maternity pants with a band sitting underbelly are perfect if you like wearing low-rise bottoms. Try these skinny maternity pants by Olian. It will keep you looking professional and sharp, with a versatile belly band you can wear under-, mid-, or above-belly.

An alternative is an under-belly waistband with a higher back for comfort. Check out Soon’s Coated Skinny Pant, which is super easy to dress up or down.

3. Mid-Belly

Mid-belly maternity pants have a waistband sitting at the natural waistline. Looking for something versatile, comfortable, and stylish? Check out these Super Soft Scuba Pants. It’s a very comfy and stretchy pair with a slim leg and a wide, flat waistband.

What Size Should You Buy?

Stick to your pre-pregnancy size when shopping for maternity bottoms. The pants should feel comfortable and snug without putting any pressure on your belly. Avoid sizing up or down, as it can cause discomfort around your buttocks or thighs.

Things to Look for When Buying Maternity Pants

1. Fabric

The best maternity clothes are made from soft, breathable, lightweight, and stretchy fabrics to ensure comfort. The best fabrics for maternity bottoms are cotton, cotton jersey, rayon/viscose, or stretch denim.

2. Leg Style

Maternity bottoms come in different leg styles, such as bootcut, wide-leg, skinny, and straight. Choose a cut that suits your body type. Flared, boot-cut, and full-length wide-leg maternity work pants can suit petite women. Those styles also suit tall women, along with skinny maternity dress pants.

3. Length

Make sure the length of the pants will suit your preference and height.

4. Features

Consider features like a foldable or adjustable belly panel, side pockets, and waist adjustment features like buttons or drawstrings.