A pair of maternity jeans should be a staple in every pregnant mum’s wardrobe. Trust me, you will wear them throughout your pregnancy and well into those first post-partum weeks as well. What should you look for when buying maternity jeans?

Top 5 tips for buying maternity jeans

Panel: You have three choices when it comes to the belly panel, and it is definitely a personal preference. Try on a variety of jeans to decide if a full panel, mid-panel or underbelly fit is most comfortable for you. At Mamma Bella you can find a large range of jeans from sizes 4 – 22.

Cut: Boot-cut jeans are always the most flattering cut on a pregnant woman. The height at the bottom balances out your growing midsection. Lately, skinny leg and straight leg have made a good impression on the market. Depending on what you are used to wearing pre-pregnancy, will depend on what style of jeans you choose. The wide leg denim jean is also making it's debut this autumn/winter, available in store from April 2009.

Stretch: Look for jeans that are labelled “stretch” denim for little extra give that feels oh-so-good. Maternity jeans contain a lot more elastane in the denim than normal, allowing for growth and stretch. 

Wash: Dark-wash jeans are a little dressier, whereas jeans with a lighter wash or “rough” edges are more casual. When in doubt, go for a dark wash jean for their slimming and lengthening properties.

The right fit: We encourage our customers to walk around in store in their jeans to make sure the fit is just right. Sit down in your jeans when you are trying them on to ensure they will be comfortable. Jeans do have to be a little on the firm side when trying on, to allow for stretch over the following months.