Your Body The 8 Best Maternity Pants of 2022 The Luxe Essentials Secret Fit Ultra Soft Maternity Leggings are comfy and chic By Ashley Ziegler Ashley Ziegler LinkedIn Ashley Ziegler is a lifestyle writer specializing in motherhood, family health, and consumer products. She has written for Romper, Moms.com, and more. Learn about our editorial process Updated on April 04, 2022 Medically reviewed Verywell Family articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and family healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Tosin Odunsi, MD, MPH Medically reviewed by Tosin Odunsi, MD, MPH LinkedIn Twitter Tosin Odunsi, MD, MPH, is a board-certified obstetrics and gynecology physician and founder of The Mentorship Squad to promote diversity in medicine, a community of Black and Latinx women seeking mentorship along their journey to becoming U.S. physicians. Learn about our Medical Review Board Fact checked Verywell Family content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Marley Hall Fact checked by Marley Hall LinkedIn Marley Hall is a writer and fact-checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education. Learn about our editorial process Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. Learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. At some point in every pregnancy, the day comes when you stop trying to squeeze into your regular size pants and transition into maternity pants. The best maternity pants complement and support a pregnant person's changing body and are fashion-forward, so you don't have to sacrifice your style to get the support you need. Reviewed & Approved We love the Luxe Essentials Secret Fit Ultra Soft Maternity Leggings because they are comfy, provide ample support, stay in place all day, and aren't see-through. If you're looking for jeans, try the Madewell Maternity Skinny Jeans. When searching for your perfect pair, prioritize comfort to accommodate your changing body, your preferred belly panel type, and ideal style from joggers to leggings to jeans. We researched the top picks with these helpful features in mind. Here are the best maternity pants that you'll want to wear for nine months and even longer. Our Top Picks Best Leggings: Luxe Essentials Secret Fit Maternity Leggings at Buybuy BABY Jump to Review Best Joggers: Ingrid & Isabel Cozy Knit Maternity Jogger at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best Jeans: Madewell Maternity Skinny Jeans at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best Slacks: Hatch The Stiletto Pant at Hatchcollection.com Jump to Review Best Faux Leather: Spanx Mama Faux Leather Leggings at Nordstrom Jump to Review Best Over Belly: Old Navy Maternity Ponte-Knit Pants at Gap.com Jump to Review Best Under-Belly: Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Baby Bump Skinny Jeans at Amazon Jump to Review Best Overalls: Storq Anytime Overalls at Storq.com Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks What to Look For Why Trust Verywell Family Best Leggings: Luxe Essentials Secret Fit Ultra Soft Maternity Leggings 4.7 Courtesy of A Pea in the Pod View On Buybuy BABY View On Apeainthepod.com View On Macy's Pros Over- and under-belly support Three color options Cons No sizes offered above a large Pilling may form quickly for some These leggings get the top spot due to their overall value. Made from a jersey knit rayon/spandex blend, they will certainly keep you cozy. They pull up over the belly to ensure they stay put all day long, and they're specifically designed not to be see-through. In terms of support, the brand's patented Secret Belly Fit provides under-belly support that will grow with you throughout your pregnancy. You can get these pants in black, grey, navy, or charcoal and sizes XS to L. And we also love that they're machine washable, so you can just toss them in the wash when they need to be cleaned. We Researched the Best Maternity Leggings—Here Are Our Favorites Best Joggers: Ingrid & Isabel Cozy Knit Maternity Jogger Courtesy of Neiman Marcus View On Nordstrom View On Ingridandisabel.com View On Zappos Pros Elastic/drawstring waistband Large front pockets Elastic at the ankles Cons Costly Elastic waistband does not appear to be sewn into place (may turn) For running errands or lounging around the house, these joggers are super soft with fleece fabric and comfortably stay put thanks to the drawstring waistband. They have functional pockets on the front and cozy ankle cuffs for style. These joggers are available in sizes XS-XL and are safe for the washing machine (but need to be line-dried). The Best Places to Buy Maternity Clothes for Every Occasion Best Jeans: Madewell Maternity Skinny Jeans Madewell View On Nordstrom View On Madewell.com Pros Over-the-belly waistband Stretchy Faux fly Cons No front pockets Not true to size for some (run large) Jeans that are stylish, comfortable, and stretchy: What more could a pregnant person ask for? These maternity jeans have an over-the-belly waistband and are made to grow with your changing body without the risk of sagging throughout the day. They have a fitted skinny leg design, a 28.5-inch inseam, and are available in sizes ranging from 23 to 33. One note, these jeans do run large so you may want to size down. The Best Maternity Jeans for Every Type of Pregnant Body Best Slacks: Hatch The Stiletto Pant Courtesy of Shopbop View On Hatchcollection.com View On Shopbop.com Pros Stretchy Elastic waistband Cons Four size options available Only one color offered Unfortunately, being pregnant won’t get you out of having to show up to the office or dress up occasionally, but it will be a little more bearable in these pants. The black slacks hit at the ankles, have a slim fit, and will grow right along with you thanks to the elastic waistband and back zipper. These pants are also lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for warmer seasons, and they’re available in maternity sizes 0 to 3. Best Faux Leather: Spanx Mama Faux Leather Leggings Nordstrom View On Nordstrom View On Bloomingdales View On Saks Fifth Avenue Pros Eight sizes offered Over-the-belly waistband Cons Must be line dried after washing Whether it’s your first pregnancy, your last, or you’re carrying multiples, you will look amazing in these faux leather leggings. Made by the famous shapewear company, these leggings have a “magic” over the belly waistband that is designed to be worn before, during, and after pregnancy (so you can even leave the hospital wearing them). The pants’ faux leather fabric is not only super comfortable but it’s also made to smooth and support your lower half while you wear the leggings. These amazing pants are available in sizes XS to 3X and they’re safe for the washing machine (but need to be line dried). For the best fit, reviewers recommend either sizing down one or purchasing your pre-pregnancy size. Best Over Belly: Old Navy Maternity Stevie Full-Panel Ponte-Knit Pants Courtesy of Old Navy View On Gap.com Pros Full panel elasticized waistband Budget-friendly Cons May be tight for some in hips/legs Available in black or brown, and in sizes XS through XXL, these maternity pants are made from a super soft, stretchy, and comfortable knit fabric that will support and grow with you throughout your pregnancy. They have an over-the-belly waistband, making them essential for your second and third trimesters, and have a seam along the front of the legs for a little extra style and shape. Best Under-Belly: Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Baby Bump Skinny Jeans Courtesy: Levi View On Amazon Pros Available in three different colors Made from stretchy cotton Cooling technology in waistband Cons No front pockets Sizing can be confusing for some Finding a good pair of under-the-belly maternity pants can be tough, but these skinny jeans definitely fit the bill. They slide on and have an elastic waistband on the front of the pants, but the traditional jeans look on the back. The jeans are made primarily from stretchy cotton that will grow with their body and won’t lose shape throughout the day. These jeans are available in size XS to XL and are machine washer and dryer safe. Best Overalls: Storq Anytime Overalls Courtesy of Storq View On Storq.com Pros Adjustable straps Front pockets Nursing-friendly Cons Design can be inconvenient for bathroom breaks Costly The next best thing to a flowy maternity dress? Maternity overalls. You can pick these ones up in black, olive, or shell color and in sizes XS to 3X. Made from soft, stretchy jersey cotton, this stylish set has front pockets and adjustable straps on the back to help give you a perfect fit throughout your pregnancy. Even better? They’re nursing friendly, so you can wear them even after you’ve had the baby. The 9 Best Maternity Dresses of 2022 Final Verdict The best maternity pants for you will depend on your personal style, but if you’re looking for a pair that will go with just about anything, you can’t go wrong with the Madewell Maternity Over-the-Belly Skinny Jeans or the Luxe Essentials Secret Fit Ultra Soft Maternity Leggings. What to Look for in Maternity Pants Comfort Because your body is quickly changing, you want to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the day. Check out maternity pants that aren’t too tight and give you some breathing room, along with some support for your growing bump. Stretchy material will be your best friend when it comes to comfort. In the long run, you’ll save money purchasing pants with a stretchy material because they’ll expand with you. You'll be able to wear them comfortably throughout your pregnancy. Belly Panel Type You’ll notice while shopping there are three main types of belly panels on maternity pants: over the belly, side panel, and under the belly. Each type of belly panel provides support in its own way, but it’s up to you on what you will feel most comfortable wearing. Over the belly: This panel style is ideal for those who want overall belly support, and it's great for that postpartum fourth trimester too. Side panel: Pants with this panel style will fit as close to regular pants as possible. On each side of the waistband, you’ll find a stretchy fabric so while it will look like you’re wearing regular pants, you’re actually quite comfortable thanks to the stretchy panel. Under the belly: This panel style is if you’re looking for firm support underneath your belly, or prefer not to have any extra material covering your bump. Style Just because you’re shopping for maternity pants doesn’t mean you have to forget about style. Maternity pants are made in all types of styles so you can find a pair that works with your body but also provides the look you prefer. From joggers to jeans to leggings and dress slacks, you’ll find most regular pants come in a maternity version. They typically have a belly panel of some type or are extra stretchy to accommodate a changing body. Try on maternity pants before you buy, if possible, to ensure everything fits correctly and the style will work where you need it, whether at the gym, the office, or a special event. Frequently Asked Questions When should I start wearing maternity pants? There is no magical date you need to wait to reach before transitioning to maternity wear. Start wearing maternity pants as soon as your regular pants begin to feel a little snug. Every pregnancy is different and every stomach will "pop" at a different point. This means you might feel more comfortable in maternity pants as early as a few weeks into a pregnancy, or not for several months.Even if you don’t feel like you need maternity pants just yet, it's a good idea to have a pair or two hanging in your closet ready for when you do. You don't want to get caught out with nothing to wear after an overnight growth spurt. How many pairs of maternity pants do I need? How many pairs of maternity pants you need really depends on your lifestyle. If you work in an office with a dress code, you will need at least one pair of dress pants. If you enjoy exercise, you will need a pair that you can work out in. You will almost certainly need a pair of pants that you can relax in or wear over the weekend, like a comfy pair of joggers or jeans. However, it could be that one pair of pants can transcend different activities. For example, your workout pants might be your go-to option to relax in too. Or the pants that you wear to the office could be the smart-casual option you need to meet with friends—or you may prefer maternity dresses for these occasions. Start small and build on your wardrobe if and when the need arises. Buying multiple pairs of pants for just a few months of a pregnancy can feel excessive. However, your body changes a lot during those nine months and you still need to be able to get dressed and feel comfortable and ready for your day. Can I go up a pant size instead of buying maternity pants? You could decide to go up a pant size instead of buying maternity pants, especially early on in your pregnancy. However, as your pregnancy progresses, you might find that you need to size up quite a few times as your belly grows. This could ultimately make it an expensive and time-consuming option.Plus, maternity pants are specifically designed to accommodate and support a growing bump. Going up a size in non-maternity pants (or other clothing) means that your new pants will be larger around the waist, but they will also be larger everywhere else. So they are not likely to give you the overall fit that your body needs during pregnancy. Why Trust Verywell Family Ashley Ziegler is a staff and freelance writer who covers lifestyle, home, parenting, and commerce for a variety of platforms. She’s a mom to 1-year-old and 4-year-old daughters and an aunt to 3 nieces and 2 nephews ranging from 5 to 11 years old. In addition to regularly scouring the internet to find the best things for herself, Ashley spends multiple hours a week researching, comparing, and writing about products specifically for kids and families. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Get diet and wellness tips to help your kids stay healthy and happy. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? 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