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Best maternity jeans for comfort and style 2023

You can’t beat a good pair of jeans and that doesn’t change when you’re pregnant. Find the best maternity jeans to suit your figure throughout pregnancy and beyond. 

By Jenny Wonnacott | Last updated May 23, 2023

It’s hard enough finding a pair of jeans to flatter your figure when you’re not pregnant so it can get even more complicated once you have a pregnancy bump, which will expand on a daily basis. 

You can live in maternity dresses and leggings, of course, but nothing’s quite so useful and go-with-everything as a great pair of jeans. In recent years the top retailers for maternity clothes have really stepped up their denim game, designing size-inclusive pieces with trend as well as comfort in mind, making now a better time than ever to shop for the best maternity jeans to accommodate a pre- (and post) natal figure in style. As many a Mumsnetter reports, you may even find yourself still reaching for your favourite pair long after you've shelved your pregnancy books and put away your prenatal vitamins.

As home to the largest online network of UK parents, Mumsnet users are a wealth of information when it comes to all things pregnancy and parenting-related from the best TENS machines to the most useful parenting books. Using their top recommendations, we've rounded up our pick of the best maternity jeans for 2023, from under bump to over bump and side panel styles. We've also made every effort to keep our listings as up to date as possible, so whether you're looking for denim shorts or cropped and casual for the summer months, boyfriend, mom, girlfriend or skinnies, our pick of the best maternity jeans have you and your denim game covered, no matter how big your bump grow

Here are the best maternity jeans UK 2023.

The best maternity jeans 2023: at a glance

1. Overall best maternity jeans: Seraphine Cotton Organic Over Bump Maternity Jeans

Seraphine Cotton Organic Over Bump Maternity Jeans

Price on writing: £59 | Buy now from Seraphine

Key specs

Sizes: 6 - 18, P, R, L | Waistband: Over bump | Material: 81% organic cotton

What we love

  • Various lengths available
  • Also available in under bump version

What to know

  • Pricier than a lot of options
  • Only one colour available

What Mumsnet users say 

"I lived in them for months postpartum too, so definitely got the wear. I normally struggle to find jeans as a rule because I'm curvy with short legs, but these looked fab and felt good." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user StarkintheSouth)

"I know they are expensive but I LOVE my Seraphine maternity jeans. They are so much more comfy and stretchy over my bump than other jeans and they are actually long enough (I'm 5ft9). They're just really nice quality and comfy." (Recommended by Mumsnet user BlueberryPancake21)

Our verdict

Rating: 5/5

Worn by the likes of Kate Hudson and Kate Middleton, you’re in good company if you choose Seraphine maternity jeans (or any of their maternity clothes, for that matter). This fashion-forward pair and the best over-the-bump maternity jeans we’ve found is composed of soft, stretchy organic cotton denim with a soft-stretch jersey band for a snug, secure fit around your tum. Although a little on the pricey side, Mumsnet users rate them as comfy as the likes of the best pregnancy pillow and comfiest maternity leggings.

Offering a super flattering skinny cut, with Seraphine Cotton Organic Over Bump Maternity Jeans you can still look sleek and stylish, even if you feel more Mr Blobby than Barbarella.

2. Best maternity jeans on a budget: Dorothy Perkins Maternity Over Bump Bootcut Ellis Jeans

Price on writing: £9 (reduced from £19) | Buy now from Dorothy Perkins

Key specs

Sizes: 8 - 22 | Waistband: Over bump | Material:  83% cotton, 15% polyester and 2% elastane

What we love

  • Smart enough to wear to work
  • Alternative for those not into skinny jeans

What to know

  • Selling fast, not all sizes currently available

What Mumsnet users say

“This time round I've discovered Dorothy Perkins maternity and found their jeans are way better fitted and look smarter.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Jarofsticks)

“I’ve got some bits from Dorothy Perkins and they were all great, especially the jeans.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user MrsB2019x )

Our verdict

Rating: 4/5

You might not have worn bootcut jeans since the noughties, but did you know they’ve come right back around and are now fashionable again? If you fancy a change from skinny jeans or sense that a wider trouser leg might be more flattering to your pregnancy curves, these may be worth a whirl - and thanks to their reduction in price, they also win our best budget maternity jeans category award.

Super stretchy, the Dorothy Perkins Maternity Over Bump Bootcut Jeans feature a soft over-the-bump panel to keep them snug. In classic black, they’ll look great with trainers, winter boots or something dressier, and are sure to be your go-to maternity jeans for work as well as day-to-day.

Related: Trying for a baby? Unsure when your most fertile days are? Fear not, we've got you covered with our guide to the best ovulation tests according to Mumsnet users who've tried and tested them all!

3. Best side-panel maternity jeans: Next Maternity Grow With You Skinny Jeans

Price on writing: £45 | Buy now from Next

Key specs

Sizes: 6 - 18, R, L | Waistband: Side panels | Material: 81% cotton, 13% recycled polyester, 6% elastane

What we love

  • 'Grow with you' design fits throughout pregnancy
  • Adjustable internal tab
  • Real pockets

What to know

  • Skinny fit not as fashionable as it used to be

What Mumsnet users say

"I've just bought a few pairs from Next. They have the elastic side panels and 'grow with you' rather than have the fabric that goes over your bump. They fit lovely and are very comfy." (Recommended by Mumsnet user Flutterby8)

Our verdict

Rating: 4/5

Maternity jeans with side panels are a fairly new invention and we for one are here for it. Many a Mumsnetter has complained that under-bump jeans can cut into a growing baby bump towards the third trimester, while the over-bump designs can be run too big or too warm in the summer months. These jeans from Next have been designed to combat both these issues with their innovative side panels, allowing the jeans to grow with you. They fit nicely around your belly which means they also won't interfere with a pregnancy support belt if you're wearing one.

Although skinny jeans are seen (by some) as a little dated these days, they're still a popular style choice for maternity jeans as they allow for easy, flattering styling with a longer top or tunic. 

4. Best maternity denim shorts: H&M MAMA Denim Shorts

Price on writing: £25 | Buy now from H&M

Key specs

Sizes: XS - XXL | Waistband: under bump | Material: 85% cotton, 13% polyester, 2% elastane

What we love

  • Classic design goes with everything
  • Perfect for summer pregnancies

What to know

  • Not a lot of stretch so may need to size up

What Mumsnet users say

"H&M do comfy maternity shorts (denim)... I bought a pair and have been living in them during the hot weather!" (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user mummabubs)

Our verdict

Rating: 3/5

Mumsnetters love H&M MAMA range when it comes to maternity wear, and these classic denim shorts are no exception. Made from partly recycled cotton, they feature sewn-in turn ups at the hems and real back pockets as well as a soft jersey panel. Although billed as over bump, the panel is short enough to fit under the bump as it grows, so you shouldn't get too hot. 

 Available in three colours, this classic-fitting pair of denim shorts should ensure you can stay at the top of your denim game as the weather heats up this summer. It's important to point out that many reviewers report they run a little small, so it may be a good idea to size up.

5. Best mom maternity jeans: New Look Maternity Ripped Over the Bump Tori Mom Jeans

New Look Maternity Ripped Over the Bump Tori Mom Jeans

Price: £33 | Buy now from New Look

Key specs

Sizes: 8 - 20 | Waistband: Over bump | Material: Main: 99% cotton and 1% elastane. Lining: 65% polyester and 35% cotton.

What we love

  • Trendy, edgy look
  • Good quality jeans
  • Can be rolled up in warmer weather

What to know

  • Some reviewers reported waistband sits too low

What Mumsnet users say

"New Look Tori jeans. I ordered about nine pairs from different places and these were the best by far." (Recommended by Mumsnet user LittleGwyneth)

“New Look worked for me and it’s cheap compared to other places.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Pfb12345)

Our verdict

Rating: 4/5

Ripped maternity jeans add a rock 'n' roll vibe to proceedings - ideal if you’re not planning to lose your street cred just because you’re expecting.

The New Look Maternity Black Ripped Over the Bump Tori Mom Jeans are made from comfort-stretch denim with a tapered leg design, five pockets and a button and zip-fly fastening. These are the best high street maternity jeans we’ve found, trendy looking to wear out and about but also comfy enough to pop on while you stretch on your birthing ball or lounge on the sofa with a good book.

The comfy stretch waistband will stretch as you grow and they’re available in Mid Wash and Black. Reasonably priced, you could even buy both colourways. 

6. Best cropped maternity jeans: JoJo Maman Bébé Light Washed Cropped Wide Leg Maternity Jeans

Price: £33 | Buy now from JoJo Maman Bébé

Key specs

Sizes: 8 - 18 | Waistband: Over bump | Material: 98% Cotton, 2% elastane

What we love

  • Wide legged jeans are on trend
  • Cropped and light-coloured for summer
  • Waistband can be worn over or under bump

What to know

  • Pricey

What Mumsnet users say

"Love my JoJo Maman jeans." (Brand vetted by Mumsnetter Derbee)

Our verdict

Rating: 4/5

If you're off the skinny jean train and a fan of the cropped jean look, then look no further. This light wash, on trend pair of wide-legged jeans from maternity wear favourite JoJo Maman Bébé are designed to fit throughout pregnancy, with a soft jersey waistband which can be pulled up over the bump or tucked underneath, depending on fit and comfort. 

An excellent pick for a cool, casual look, these jeans can be dressed up with heels or boots and a blouse, or down with t-shirt and trainers. Granted, they're not the cheapest item on our list, but they're versatile enough to be considered a good staple for your maternity wardrobe. 

7. Best flared maternity jeans: ASOS DESIGN Maternity flared jeans in washed black

Price on writing: £28 | Buy now from ASOS

Key specs

Sizes: 6- 20 | Waistband: Side panels, under bump | Material: 99% cotton, 1% elastane

What we love

  • Adjustable waist and side panels can accommodate most bump sizes
  • Real back pockets

What to know

  • Reviewers say they run large

What Mumsnet users say

"I preferred the under bump to over bump and got a few pairs from ASOS own brand." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Lockdownmummy)

Our verdict

Rating: 4/5

Not everyone finds that stretchy bump panels work for them - you can’t tuck in your tops for starters! It’s all personal choice, of course, and if you’d rather wear your maternity jeans under your bump, you can't go far wrong with this stylish pair from ASOS DESIGN. Featuring the popular side-panel design, these on-trend flared jeans create a trendy silhouette which you can wear with just about any top and shoe. Perfect if you're not a fan of the skinny jean!

They’re also designed to be worn from bump to baby thanks to the stretchy waistband, so they’re great value for money too and fit nicely over a pair of the best compression socks for pregnancy.

8. Best maternity jeans for short and long legs: River Island Maternity Molly Overbump Skinny Jean

Price on writing: £43 | Buy now from ASOS

Key specs

Sizes: 6 - 18 in lengths 30 - 34 | Waistband: Over bump | Material:  98% cotton, 2% elastane

What we love

  • Super comfy
  • Range of sizes

What to know

  • Quite pricey

What Mumsnet users say

"I got mine from ASOS, but they are River Island Molly ones - I got 2 colours and they are the comfiest things I've ever worn! I can nap in them and everything!! 100% recommend!!" (Recommended by Mumsnet user surprised12)

Our verdict

Rating: 3/5

If you’re petite or tall and struggle to find jeans to suit you, these River Island Molly Maternity jeans could be the solution to your problems. Designed for a sculpted, skinny jean look, these jeans fit leg lengths from 30" to 34" and Mumsnetters love how comfortable they are.

They're not the cheapest option on our list, but they're certainly smart enough for most offices and can be styled with a huge range of maternity tops for an effortlessly chic look. But their fashionable look doesn't detract from their supportive comfort, and with Mumsetter surprised12 claiming they're lovely enough to nap in, you may find they give your best maternity pyjamas a run for their money in the comfy stakes!

9. Best maternity boyfriend jeans: M&S COLLECTION Maternity Boyfriend Jeans

Price on writing: £45 | Buy now from M&S

Key specs

Sizes: 6 - 24 in three lengths (short/petite, regular and long) | Waistband: Over bump | Material: 99% cotton and 1% elastane 

What we love

  • Good variety of sizes
  • Versatile style, works all year round

What to know

  • Some reviewers report they run short

What Mumsnet users say

"M&S have certainly upped their game as far as jeans are concerned." (Retailer recommended by Mumsnet user RampantIvy)

Our verdict

Rating: 3/5

These relaxed fit boyfriend maternity jeans look great rolled up with trainers or tucked into winter boots - and you can pick them up at the same time as you shop for maternity bras.

Featuring a soft, stretchy over-bump band and in sustainably sourced organic stretch denim for extra flexibility, the M&S COLLECTION Maternity Boyfriend Jeans are styled with a vintage wash in either Dark Indigo or Medium Indigo. Reviewers say that they come up a little small so bear that in mind when ordering.

10. Best maternity skinny jeans: JoJo Maman Bébé Skinny Maternity Jeans

Price: £39 | Buy now from JoJo Maman Bébé

Key specs

Sizes: 6 - 18 | Waistband: Either over bump or under bump | Material: 98% cotton, 2% elastane

What we love

  • Also available in darker wash colour
  • Can be dressed up or down easily

What to know

  • Some reviewers report they run large

What Mumsnet users say

“JoJo skinny jeans but a size down worked for me!” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user ELM8)

Our verdict

Rating: 3/5

JoJo Maman Bébé maternity clothes generally get a good write-up on our forums and these are no exception. Made from stretch denim in a flattering skinny cut, these pull-on jeans feature a wide jersey waistband that you can wear under or over the bump depending on your preference as pregnancy progresses.

The JoJo Maman Bébé Skinny Maternity Jeans also offer a mock fly, front slip pockets and vintage effect Dark Wash detailing. For the quality, they’re great value for money. Bear in mind though that you may need to size down as reviewers say that they’re roomy.

Read next: Looking to up your self-care game during pregnancy? Discover the best skincare for pregnancy items according to Mumsnet users.

11. Best maternity jeans for comfort: H&M MAMA Super Skinny Jeans

Price on writing: £28 | Buy now from H&M

Key specs

Sizes: XS - XXL | Waistband: Over bump | Material: 91% cotton, 7% polyester, 2% elastane

What we love

  • Good range of colours and sizes
  • Super comfy
  • Easy to style

What to know

  • Not as many options for longer or shorter leg lengths

What Mumsnet users say

"I have the H&M super skinny over the bump jeans, practically live in them!" (Recommended by Mumsnet user LemonRizzle)

"H&M were good - I had a pair of the dark navy skinny jeans and they were really flattering." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user TerribleCustomerCervix)

Our verdict

Rating: 4/5

H&M come up time and time again when Mumsnetters take to the boards to ask for maternity jean recommendations - and while some would argue that skinny jeans have had their day, you can't beat the classic style for comfort and ease of styling when it comes to a maternity wardrobe staple. These H&M MAMA jeans come in a huge range of colours and sizes and look just as great with a baggy jumper as they would with a floaty summer blouse, making them a great investment buy if your pregnancy goes over several seasons.

H&M have a great range of baby clothes too, if you're looking to splash out on one of the best baby gifts while you're there!

12. Best girlfriend maternity jeans: GAP Maternity True Waistband Girlfriend Jeans

Price on writing: £80 | Buy now from GAP

Key specs

Sizes: Waist size 26 to 32, length R | Waistband: Full panel over bump 

What we love

  • Made with Washwell program which saves water
  • 5 real pockets

What to know

  • Pricey
  • Not available in longer or shorter leg lengths

What Mumsnet users say

“I really rate GAP. They look and fit just like normal jeans.” (Advice from Mumsnet user AnnaSW1)

"Gap maternity jeans are amazing." (Recommended by Mumsnet user georgialondon)

Our verdict

Rating: 3/5

GAP usually reigns supreme when it comes to comfortable clothes and these on-trend girlfriend maternity jeans don’t let the side down. Offering plenty of give to accommodate a rapidly growing baby bump, the stretch denim means that you can slide in and out of them quite easily - always a winner when you get to the ‘I can’t see my own feet’ later stages of pregnancy.

The girlfriend style is a great option for warmer months as the bottoms can be rolled up and create an effortlessly casual look with a pair of white trainers or chunky sandals.

Related: Combine with a pair of the best maternity underwear for extra comfort as your body changes.

13. Best coated maternity jeans: Topshop Maternity over bump coated Joni jeans

Price on writing: £24.50 | Buy now from ASOS

Key specs

Sizes: Waist 26 - 36; length 32 | Waistband: Over bump | Material: Stretch denim, coated finish, 100% organic cotton

What we love

  • Fits from bump to baby
  • Power stretch technology
  • Edgy look which can be styled up or dressed down

What to know

  • Can get a bit toasty in warmer weather

What Mumsnet users say

"The Topshop Joni ones are super soft." (Type of jean recommended by Mumsnet user scotgal99)

"Over bump Joni from Topshop are lovely- so comfy and look great... My sister passed her mat clothes on to me and the Topshop jeans are still in good enough shape four pregnancies later." (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user SaturdaySauv)

Our verdict

Rating: 3/5

Fancy something a bit different? Coated stretch denim jeans can be dressed up with a nice top or dressed down with chunky sandals or trainers. They’re a bit sassier than your regular denims and are super flattering too.

Mumsnetters really rate Topshop maternity wear - particularly their jeans - and this pair of Joni over bump coated jeans tick all the boxes. Featuring high-rise coated stretch denim with a stretch-jersey and a skinny fit, they’re designed to fit all through pregnancy and beyond. 

(And if coated denim isn't your thing, there are plenty of other Joni jeans to choose from!)

13. Best maternity jeans for colour choice: MAMAJEANS Milano Basic Maternity Jeans

Price on writing: From £40 | Buy now from Amazon

Key specs

Sizes: 4 - 16 | Waistband: Over bump | Material: 92% cotton, 6% elastomultiester, 2% elastane

What we love

  • Good variety of colours to choose from
  • Made in Italy

What to know

  • Sizing is Italian so best to consult sizing chart and reviews before purchase

Our verdict

Rating: 3/5

If you’re feeling bored of the usual denim tones of black or blue, these MAMAJEANS offer a decent alternative.

With colours ranging from ice grey to bright red, you’re sure to find at least one pair of the MAMAJEANS Milano Jeans to suit your taste and wardrobe. They also feature a cotton elastane mix and a soft, stretchy over-bump band to keep them secure and snug. 

Read next: Struggling with post-partum incontinence? You're not alone: read up to discover what Mumsnet users have to say about the best pelvic floor trainer to help strengthen and tighten those muscles post-baby.

What week do you start wearing maternity jeans?

There are no definite rules when it comes to maternity wear - do what feels most comfortable to you! However, you may feel that your bump is starting to grow around 14 weeks although you may not be showing yet. Most women start showing around 16 weeks and, by 20 weeks, you may find that loose-fitting or maternity clothes feel most comfortable. 

Should you size up in maternity jeans? 

It may be tempting to just buy your usual style of jeans in a bigger size but this doesn’t generally work because, while your abdomen may be fast expanding, the rest of your body will remain the same or thereabouts.

Maternity wear works in the same way as regular clothes - your usual size will be made to fit your proportions. For that reason, it’s best to buy your usual size in maternity jeans and, when trying them on, check that they fit well around your legs and bum. Buying too big may mean that they keep falling down, which can be incredibly annoying when you’re just trying to get on with your day. 

What are the different types of maternity jeans?

You can wear maternity jeans with a stretchy waistband that fit under your bump or maternity jeans with a wide stretchy panel - usually made from soft jersey fabric - that will fit over your growing bump.

What is the difference between under bump and over bump maternity jeans? 

Maternity wear is all about personal choice and comfort. While some pregnant women may prefer to wear their jeans under their bump, others will prefer the snugness of a jersey bump panel. Bear in mind that there are drawbacks to both options of course - with a bump panel, you can’t tuck in your tops. Under the bump jeans may not feel quite so secure and may occasionally slip down a little. 

What jeans are best for pregnancy?

Seraphine Cotton Organic Over Bump Maternity Jeans are the best maternity jeans in our roundup. Beloved by A-list celebrity mums-to-be and Mumsnetters (who are all A-listers as far as we’re concerned), they offer comfort and style points through pregnancy and beyond.

How we chose our recommendations

Because we know that there’s nothing like a real recommendation from other style mavens, we first headed to the Mumsnet forums to find out which maternity jeans were rated by fashionable Mumsnet users. We compiled a list of the best maternity jeans they loved for fit, practicality, style and value for money. We then did some research across the wider web, looking at which maternity jeans were recommended by fashion experts and bloggers - and what customer reviews said about them too. Having collated all that information, we picked the best maternity jeans that we thought would make the best buys.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.

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