During my pregnancy, I set a personal goal to buy just one piece of maternity clothing. I stuck to this plan and I’m happy to report that I managed to transform a significant portion of my wardrobe into functional outfits, even as I neared the final trimester. To add to my satisfaction, not a single outfit has lost its shape and they remain wearable today. The only item that didn’t fit me was a pair of jeans. Thankfully, one pair of leggings was my constant companion throughout my pregnancy, and the support band became a game-changer as my baby grew. However, after months of daily wear, I was eager to return to my jeans.
As many parents can attest, it takes time to fit back into your pre-pregnancy pants. I eagerly awaited the day I could slip into jeans without any hassle. So when that day finally came, I should have been ecstatic. This was a moment I had dreamt about for almost a year. However, I suddenly found myself developing a dislike for stiff, restrictive denim. I yearned for flexibility and ease of movement more than ever.
One day, I decided to leave the baby with my husband and made my way to Nordstrom, a haven for denim lovers. With back-to-school shopping in full swing, an overwhelming array of denim styles awaited me. The ambiance was thick with the scent of denim, yet I felt overwhelmed and resorted to trying on some of the extremely stretchy SKIMS pieces, which had been my go-to during pregnancy.
As my search for the ideal jeans continued, I returned home and got down to work. Before diving into the task of trying on jeans, I conducted some research. It had been quite a while since I bought new jeans, and I was determined to expand my options beyond my usual picks. I combed through major online retailers to find jeans that had stellar reviews, specifically looking for the most comfortable choices.
How I selected the most comfortable jeans
I focused solely on jeans that had detailed customer feedback—not just star ratings. I was interested in insider information. My search concentrated on reviews that included keywords like comfortable, stretch, bend, and movement. Many online retailers offer filters that allow you to sort reviews by specific terms, helping you find the insights you need. For example, when researching white T-shirts, I would look for reviews discussing how well the shirt washes or if it’s see-through. For jeans, I sought anything that assured me I could wear those jeans comfortably throughout an entire day.
Whenever possible, I preferred to sort the retailer’s denim selections by “highest ratings” rather than my usual “low to high.” This doesn’t mean that unreviewed jeans are poor quality. However, as a busy parent, I prefer not to waste time when fellow shoppers have already put in the effort to find the best options.
What to consider in the most comfortable jeans
- Fabric composition: Finding a shirt or dress made entirely of cotton is a major win, but with denim, a hint of polyester or elastane can provide valuable stretch. While it’s not necessary—I found some great 100% cotton jeans that were noted for their stretch—it can definitely simplify the shopping process.
- Buttons: I appreciate a playful use of buttons in theory, but in practice, I don’t want a line of stiff buttons pushing into my midsection. Simplicity can make bending, squatting, and sitting in jeans much easier.
- Silhouette: As a millennial, I will always hold a special fondness for skinny jeans. However, I’ve never deemed them the most comfortable denim style. If you’re seeking a sleek appearance, consider cigarette jeans that don’t cling tightly to your legs while still providing a polished look. Alternatively, opt for a bold, wide-leg style for enhanced comfort and mobility.
The most comfortable jeans to shop now
After extensive hours of online research for the most comfortable jeans, here are my top picks.
Levi’s 501 Original Fit Cropped Lightweight Jeans
My teenage self would be surprised to learn how much I enjoy wearing “mom” jeans. I believe that if the Levi’s 501 cut was suitable for my mom three decades ago, it should work well for me today. This style is also a favored choice at Nordstrom while remaining under the $100 price point. These jeans are primarily cotton but include 23% Lyocell, a semi-synthetic fiber derived from wood pulp known for its softness, breathability, and stretch.
The numerous reviews on Levi’s website were compelling: “These jeans are incredibly soft and comfortable and exceptionally well-constructed. I examined every stitch, and there isn’t a loose thread. Yes, they are $100, but they’re worth every penny, as you can dress them up or down, making them essential for any wardrobe.”
Madewell Kick Out Crop Jeans
When it comes to jeans, discovering the right fit can dramatically influence how you feel in them both physically and mentally. As a new mom, I don’t have the time to visit a tailor for every new pair of pants (short girl problems!). I appreciate that the Madewell Kick Out Crop Jeans come in a variety of sizes—including petite, plus, standard, tall, and extended.
This brand describes the fabric as, “vintage-inspired stretch denim that hugs your body and retains its shape (meaning no 3 p.m. sagging).” Fun pockets caught my attention, and this review confirmed that these jeans are a solid choice: “These jeans are soft and comfy, ideal for dressing up or down. A fantastic addition to your wardrobe as we transition into warmer weather.”
J.Crew Mid-Rise Relaxed Demi-Boot Jean
I firmly believe that white jeans can be worn year-round (there’s no convincing me that white jeans with a gray sweater aren’t the perfect autumn outfit), so I needed to include a white option. Many J.Crew jeans, like this pair, are available in various styles (petite, classic, and tall).
While high-rise jeans can create a flattering figure, they can also be constrictive around the waist and not accommodate even the slightest bloating. One review filled me with optimism that these jeans might be exactly what I needed: “These have become my favorite jeans. I initially thought I would only wear high-rise, but I love the rise of these. The denim is substantial but not rigid. They’re relaxed yet very stylish—I receive compliments every time I wear them. I’d buy these in every color if they offered more than white.”
Everlane The Way-High Jean
With three inseam options and ten different washes, it’s no surprise that Everlane The Way-High Jean has received a wealth of positive reviews. With over 1,600 evaluations (including 952 five-star ratings), this particular review caught my eye: “Feeling like a stylish mom! White jeans four months after giving birth?Absolutely! These garments offer enough support to enhance the post-baby silhouette while also providing ample stretch for engaging with your little one. Although it remains to be seen if they can resist baby-related stains, I genuinely appreciate how these pieces make me feel!
AG Farrah Boot Crop Jean
AG is a brand that I’m fairly new to, yet it caught my eye due to its jeans frequently receiving top ratings on the Nordstrom site. The trade-off, however, is that those high rankings often come with a hefty price tag. Having grown up in the age of designer denim, exorbitant prices for jeans shouldn’t really surprise me.
What are customers saying about these pricey jeans? The reviews are rather impressive. As highlighted by one thorough reviewer (thanks, friend!), these jeans are indeed worth the price. “I own several pairs of AG Jeans because each time I put one on, I’m like… YUP. They’re soft, stretchy, and the length is just right. I am 5’3 and weigh 123 lbs. I opted for a size 27. Maybe I could have gone with a 26 because of the stretch, but it’s not a major enough issue to warrant a change!”
Abercrombie High Rise Taper Jean
Given my background from the early 2000s, it’s no wonder that I feel compelled to explore Abercrombie for some of the best denim. The brand has completely revamped itself in recent years. Many of my friends rave about their jeans, prompting me to give them a try, and I came across a pair I adore on sale. With five different washes and three length options available, there’s something for everyone. The cut leans more modern and might feel too loose for some, but they undeniably offer comfort for movement.
If you’re uncertain about opting for a looser fit, take comfort in this review: “I love these jeans! They’re nice and oversized without being excessively baggy. I’m petite (5’1) and purchased a size 24 regular. They’re a bit long on me, but I appreciate that I can wear them with boots or heels or roll them up for sandals.”
Target Wild Fable Low-Rise Seamed Flare Jeans
With a broad range of sizes from 00 to 30, you’re likely to discover the perfect fit with these Target jeans, and since they are very affordable, there’s little risk in giving them a shot. You’d be looking at just $13.75 if they don’t meet your expectations.
The fabric blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex offers significant flexibility. They are designed to be low-rise, a style that may not be everyone’s favorite, but here’s a thought: during the first trimester of my pregnancy, I often found myself craving a pair of low-rise jeans. Even before gaining weight, I experienced quite a bit of bloating, and low-rise pants would have been much more comfortable.
I appreciate this reviewer’s honesty about her fitting issues: “These jeans are comfortably stretchy (without that overly stretched or unflattering appearance), true to size, and feature a unique design. I was worried about how flattering or unflattering the design would be and whether the size would fit, as… I sometimes wear a size 10, other times a 12, and occasionally still fit into an 8, or go back and forth between M and L in bottoms depending on the fit. … The size 10 was just right for me. I wouldn’t call these ultra low-rise like some of the jeans from the 2000s, but they do sit lower than mid-rise options today and sit below my belly button. I often feel indifferent in pants, but these are stylish and comfy. Stick to your regular ‘standard’ size.”
