Finding a soulmate is tricky; spotting Waldo is a challenge. But nothing compares to the struggle of hunting down a flattering, comfortable pair of jeans after having kids. Yes, I’m talking about “mom jeans,” a term that sends shivers down the spine. Let’s just call them jeans from now on.
Jeans shopping has always been on my list of dreaded activities, right next to cleaning up baby spit-up. After becoming a mom, the task of squeezing into denim that fits my new curves felt like a special kind of torture. I appreciate my body and the changes motherhood has brought me, but the reality of trying on endless pairs of jeans under the harsh lighting of a fitting room is more about enduring a trip to purgatory than enjoying a few moments of peace.
With my third child in tow, I recently decided to face my denim fears at the mall, determined to buy several pairs to avoid another shopping trip for a decade. My mind was flooded with pressing questions:
- Can I just stick with maternity jeans forever? They’re cozy, they fit well, and I like to think that the elastic panel is somehow flattering. Don’t even try to change my mind—my postpartum hormones are in control! Maternity jeans don’t expose any skin (even if they sag a bit without a bump), and they’re perfect for indulging during the holidays. Plus, I already have them!
- What do trendy moms wear these days? After years of shopping in the maternity section, I can’t remember the last time I bought regular jeans. Was it back in college? It feels like ages ago, and I can almost hear my old low-rise jeans calling from the closet. What is even in style now? Thankfully, the store I visited had a plethora of choices, from skinny to ultra skinny—my post-baby body was thrilled!
- What size am I looking for? Upon discovering the sizes were European, I felt a wave of panic. I Googled size conversions and took a wild guess at my current size. Juggling my stroller and a mountain of denim, I made my way to the fitting room to find out. (Spoiler: the size felt much larger than expected.) But hey, size is just a number! (And if you’re constantly drenched in baby drool, maybe it’s time to size up, regardless of the number on the label.) No shame.
- Is this the same store I used to love before my hips transformed? Walking into Forever 21 with a stroller was like stepping into a bonfire of embarrassment. That store is way too young for my post-baby meltdowns, and the clubbing styles on display are nothing like the supportive mesh I’m used to. It’s time to accept my shopping reality. Meet my new friend, Ann Taylor, who whispers sweet nothings about high-waisted styles and business casual dreams.
- Will these jeans make my rear look good and withstand the chaos of motherhood? Can these jeans endure a week of cleaning baby food off the floor? Will they survive two rounds of racing toy cars? Are they so tight I can’t read bedtime stories without feeling like I might pass out? How many washes can they handle after being covered in spit-up? Are they so flattering that I might just conceive again? Come on, jeans—your job is more than just covering my backside!
I’m happy to report that I left the store with four new pairs of jeans. They might not be as comfy as my maternity ones, but at least they’re a step up. Plus, my butt is officially safe from the wrath of my old low-rise jeans. I think I’ll hold onto these for a while because returning jeans is almost as dreadful as the shopping experience itself!
If you’re on a similar journey with fertility and parenting, explore more about your options at Make a Mom. For those looking to boost their chances of conception, check out Make a Mom’s suggestions on supplements. And for an excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Womens Health.
Summary:
Finding the perfect pair of jeans after becoming a mom is a daunting task, filled with questions about comfort, style, size, and practicality. From contemplating the comfort of maternity jeans to facing the realities of post-baby shopping, every mom understands the struggle of denim dilemmas. With a bit of humor and determination, it’s possible to find jeans that not only fit but also make you feel good as you navigate motherhood.
Keyphrase: jeans shopping for moms
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