What to look for in the best maternity leggings
You might be convinced that all black maternity leggings are equal but there are certain qualities you should look for when buying them to ensure they’re comfortable, practical and last you well into your fourth trimester.
As Chelsey Oliver, Chief Creative Officer at Seraphine, explains: “Investing in leggings that will retain their quality for the duration of your pregnancy and postpartum journey is so important, not only for your wardrobe and wallet, but also for the world the next generation will inherit.
“The key thing when it comes to leggings during your pregnancy and postpartum journey is finding soft, breathable fabrics that sculpt to your changing body (and don’t go saggy!). Whether you decide to go for over-bump or under-bump styles, they need to stay up and be comfortable all day long. Increased skin sensitivity is a common symptom for pregnant women, choosing super soft fabrics will really increase comfort levels.
“At Seraphine we offer a variety of super soft legging styles that cater to both maternity and postpartum , with styles that range from loungewear to activewear. Our selection of compression styles that offer support around the tummy area after baby arrives and our bamboo leggings are the perfect choice if you are looking for a super soft legging option post c-section.”
When should I start wearing maternity leggings?
It’s totally up to you, but I slipped into the best maternity clothes – leggings included – around my second trimester, when my bump really started to pop. They’re arguably the one maternity wardrobe item I don’t regret making.
Can I wear normal leggings while pregnant?
Of course! If your best leggings still fit you, keep wearing them and save your money for other things you might be in need of (like maternity knickers, maternity trousers and maternity pyjamas!). However, keep in mind that while they might be fine now, they could become too tight further down the line; your bump is likely to grow even bigger, and to avoid being uncomfortable at any point, I recommend investing in at least one pair just in case. Due to their stretchy nature, you can always wear them after pregnancy as well as during.
How we tested the best maternity leggings
Throughout both of our Website Director (Bianca London) and Commerce Picture Editor’s (Néamh Randall) pregnancies, they’ve shopped for a whole host of maternity leggings, from on-trend leggings with ankle split detail to maternity gym leggings and new-in leather look maternity leggings. They’ve tried them out for sheerness (because there’s nothing worse than see-through leggings), comfort over their growing bump, and style. Bianca has also continued wearing them beyond birth to see how they adapted. See how they fared below.
After more maternity content? Head this way for the best body pillows and in this direction for the best maternity jeans. We’ve also got nursing bras, maternity dresses, maternity loungewear and baby changing bags for your perusal.
