Maternity Leggings - The Ultimate Guide to Picking the Best Pregnancy Leggings For Pregnant Women
Maternity leggings are a maternity wardrobe essential.
So you're pregnant! Congratulations. There is so much to look forward to. When it comes to maternity wear, you want to choose the most comfortable clothing. A lot is going on in a woman's body around this time, and your belly isn't the only thing that is growing.
While maternity leggings can't solve all of these issues (we wish!), they'll undoubtedly make you—and your growing Lil bump—feel comfier and more supported. Leggings are a great staple item for any pregnancy wardrobe as they are stretchy, soft, and comfortable. So if you purchase a few quality pairs, they will last you throughout the entire pregnancy. But what exactly are maternity leggings? And when should you start wearing them? We have compiled this piece of content so you can get answers to all your questions.
In this article:
- Different Types of Maternity Leggings
- Which Type of Maternity Leggings is Best for You?
- What Size Maternity Leggings Should I Buy?
- Why Can’t I Wear Normal Leggings?
- Advantages of Wearing Maternity Leggings
- When Should I Start Wearing Maternity Leggings?
- How Should Maternity Leggings Fit?
- Can You Wear Leggings When Pregnant?
- Are Leggings Safe During Pregnancy?
- How to Choose The Best Maternity Leggings?
- What to Wear with Leggings: 10 Outfit Ideas
Different Types of Maternity Leggings
There are two types of pregnancy leggings. These are:
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Under Belly Waistband
Product image: Wobbly Wall Maternity Capri Legging
These are also called under the bump maternity leggings. These leggings are designed without a belly panel. So these types of leggings will not cover a woman’s belly. These leggings have an elastic waistband at the top of the leggings. The stretchy waistband expands with your growing belly.
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Over Belly Waistband
Product image: Wobbly Wall Maternity Over Belly Legging
These are also called over bump waistband maternity legging. These have a band that comes over the belly. The panel is very stretchy and comfortable and may even provide some support depending on the type you purchase. This support is especially crucial in the third trimester.
Over the Belly or Under Belly- Which Maternity Legging is Best for You?
- Over the Belly pregnancy leggings are suitable for all stages of pregnancy and postpartum. And Under Belly pregnancy leggings are suggested for the first trimester and postpartum.
- If you have an itchy belly or over-heating concerns, then Under Belly leggings could be a better option. But if you prefer Over the Belly leggings, then for summer, you can opt 3/4 or Capri style.
- Under Belly leggings are perfect for those who don't like any pressure on the belly.
What Size Maternity Leggings Should I Buy?
You will find leggings in various sizes, one size legging, and even plus size maternity leggings. To determine your size for maternity leggings, the best thing to do is to take a measurement of the widest part of your hips. Use the measurement along with the sizing guide of the manufacturer or seller to see what size you should get.
Waist: Measure around the fullest area of your belly, usually around your navel or a little below it.
Hips: With your legs together, measure around the widest portion of your hips.
We recommend staying with your pre-pregnancy size (unless stated on the manufacture’s product size chart).
Why Can’t I Wear Normal Leggings?
You could get away with wearing normal leggings by simply sizing up in the first trimester. This is especially true if you don’t care for the over the belly types of leggings. However, if you are concerned about support and covering your belly, you will definitely want to go for leggings that are designed especially for pregnant women.
When choosing leggings to ensure you are choosing one with enough room so that it is not too restricting and tight. Choose leggings that are made from breathable fabrics and those with a lot of stretches so you can wear them throughout your pregnancy.
Advantages of Wearing Maternity Leggings
- They are comfortable
- They allow for flexibility
- They provide support for your belly
- Great for sleeping in
When Should I Start Wearing Maternity Leggings?
Your maternity clothes will probably start fitting around 3 to 4 months into the pregnancy, but remember that all women are different. Most women find it is ok for them to wear their regular clothes for the first semester of pregnancy.
Most times, it is just a larger bra that a woman may need to consider within the first trimester. You will have to start wearing larger clothes when you are around 4 to 5 months pregnant. When it comes to leggings, though, you really can start wearing these as early as you want. They are comfortable and easy to wear, and they come in a variety of forms so you can even find work-appropriate ones.
How Should Maternity Leggings Fit?
Maternity leggings are perfect because they are soft and stretchy. When you choose the right size, they won’t dig into your skin. They should be tight enough though to fit and not ride up or down during your day to day activities.
Can You Wear Leggings When Pregnant?
Yes, you can definitely wear leggings during pregnancy. They designed pregnancy leggings just for you. Pregnancy tights accommodate your growing belly with a waistband that is stretchy, and that offers support. You will find these in two different styles, over the waist, and under the belly. Just ensure you choose the right size so that they aren't too tight.
Are Leggings Safe During Pregnancy?
Leggings are perfectly safe to wear during pregnancy. They are easy to pull on and off and are extremely comfortable. If you have varicose veins to be wary of the type of leggings you choose, opt for pregnancy leggings designed for your body. The wrong types of leggings may irritate your varicose veins.
How to Choose the Best Maternity Leggings?
So how do you know which legging to choose and where do you buy? You can buy your maternity leggings online. Here are some tips for choosing the best maternity leggings.
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Fabric:
You have to consider the fabric that is used for making the leggings. Cotton leggings can be very comfortable, but over time they can stretch too much and become SeeThru. You will find leggings made from synthetic or partly synthetic materials. You want to choose leggings made with material that are durable and will provide you with a good aesthetic as well as good coverage. Look for the leggings made from nylon-lycra to get the best.
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Thickness:
The thickness will affect opacity and coverage as well as warmth. You may want to skip thick leggings such as those with fleece, as these will make you hot. Choose tights with a medium thickness; these will give you enough coverage while keeping you cool and comfortable. You don’t want to go too thin and have leggings that are see-thru.
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Length:
You can find leggings in various lengths from Capri-length to full length. The type you choose is based on your needs. If you are wearing them to work, depending on your environment, either may be appropriate. If you have varicose veins, you may want a full length one to cover up.
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Care Instructions:
This is a personal preference, but most of us now use a washer. Check the care instructions as some leggings are made for hand wash only. Then there may be those that have to be laid flat for drying. Check the instructions to ensure you are up to follow the care instructions.
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Belly Panel:
You will find leggings with a belly panel that comes over your waist as well as you will find those with a support band that sits below your belly. Some even have crossover panels for added support. The latter is a good option for later in pregnancy when you get really heavy.
What to Wear with Leggings: 10 Outfit Ideas
Check out this checkered red and black long shirt. It is very smooth made with a rayon fabric that is lightweight to keep you comfortable and relaxed all day long. The long sleeves feature a cuff and button closure. It has a spread collar design with an open, button-up front making it easy to put on and take off. It has a high low design with the front hitting around mid-thigh, and the back is a little longer. When you are ready to clean, these are machine washable so you can throw them into the wash.
Want a fun print in a maternity shirt? Look no further than this all-over print bird print soft crepe shirt in black. This is a long-sleeved shirt with cuffs and button closure to the sleeve. The shirt has a spread collar design and has buttons running all the way down the front. It features a curved shirttail hem. The material is lightweight and comfortable and is ideal for work or play. To clean, toss the shirt into the wash with like colors on a gentle cycle.
Looking for a polka dot print? Here is another soft and lightweight rayon shirt but without the bird print. It is a bit stretchy to provide a top that will grow with you through pregnancy. This one features a polka dot print and a red background with red dots. It features a sleeveless design with a V-neck collar and has a very relaxed fit with a waist tie accent. It is an excellent option for work or play and looks super stylish when paired with leggings or other maternity bottoms. This top is machine washable on a gentle cycle.
This top is a beautiful top with a geometric print against an orange background. It is made with a cotton rayon blend material making it soft and super comfortable as it is cute. It features a V-neck stand collar and a button-down front closure. It is suitable for pregnancy through nursing. With long sleeves and cuff and button closure, this top is ideal for casual or formal wear. The sleeves are versatile in that they can be rolled up to a three quarter sleeve design if you wish. The front of the shirt hits below the belly and the back slopes downwards below the butt. When ready to clean, simply toss into the washing machine with like colors.
Here is a pretty top with flowers scattered across a mustard-colored background. It is a very feminine top with ruffled bell three-quarter sleeves and buttons coming down the front at the top. Made of a rayon crepe material, this top is lightweight and smooth. It is perfect for maternity and beyond with a round neck design and button-down closure for easy access during nursing. It has a straight cut and drops at the hips. It is a great all-round top that can be worn in a variety of settings.
This next option is a long-sleeved button-front top with a geometric all-over print in blue and white color. Made from rayon, it is super soft and smooth against your skin. It features a round neck and the front features button closure with a placket. It features long sleeves with button tabs so you can roll them for a three quarter sleeve design. It is designed in a way that the back is slightly longer than the back and provides enough coverage to cover your belly and then some. Wash in your washing machine with like colors on a gentle cycle.
A stylish black and white option that is suitable for the office or a formal get together. Made from cotton, this top is lightweight and extremely breathable and comfortable. It features a short-sleeved design, and the sleeves have a beautiful tie closure design. The shirt itself has a round neck design and features a very relaxed fit. It pairs very well with various types of leggings, depending on the occasion. Machine wash on a gentle cycle with similar colors for a quick and easy clean.
This is a top with a high stretch cotton jersey fabric. It is made from 93% cotton and 7% spandex with a round neckline and with short sleeves. Available in several colors, this top is ideal for regular everyday casual wear. It features a double opening that is discrete and allows for nursing. The crossover section has a V shape allowing for nursing access underneath while keeping you un-exposed. The straight silhouette allows for a versatile relaxed fit, and it hits below the hip to keep you covered and comfortable. Machine wash like all other products in our listing.
Dresses are very comfortable through maternity into nursing and after. They are easy to put on and easy to maintain. Check out our range of dresses in various colors, patterns, and styles. You can wear an above the knee dress with leggings or without, mix and match and change it up as much as you like. You are sure to find something here for any occasion and to meet any style.
This maternity kurta or floor-length dress is made from lightweight cotton. It is great for pregnancy and as well as for nursing. This is all thanks to its button-down closure, which will allow for easy nursing access. It is designed with a spread collar and has ¾ sleeves complete with cuffs.
Now that we have answered all your questions as it relates to leggings and pregnancy, let’s have a look at our infographic showing what to wear with pregnancy leggings.
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