How to find the perfect maternity jeans – the Holy Grail

One of the very first maternity fashion buys I made was jeans. And yes, it’s a total minefield, especially for first-time mums like me! You’ve got so many choices: over-the-bump, under-the-bump, bump bands, jean expanders… I was clueless at the start so here's the lowdown on skinny jean options: How long each of us last in our jeans differs from girl-to-girl; if it’s your second baby or if you are expecting twins, you might start showing sooner. Or if you are like me, and you gained quite a bit of weight early on, then maternity jeans might be called for as early as 12 weeks. There are also loads lucky ladies who don’t need maternity jeans for months. So, what are our options, and what are the best buys out there? 1. Bump bands Personally, these didn’t work, they weren't comfortable – for many pregnant ladies, though, these are a Godsend, it allows you to stick with your favourite jeans, open them at the top and add a bump band (or extender) to fit the bump in. Look to high-street brands like New Look, ASOS and Topshop for a great selection. 3-pack bump extenders, €27.65 at ASOS 2. Over-the-bump   We could debate it for hours; over bump or under bump – which is best? The truth is, both are good, it’s a personal decision depending on your body shape, plus what you feel most comfortable in. My preference is over-the-bump – they don’t roll down, and give you the appearance of a more rounded bump. But I have both, which I alternate, depending on what top I wear. My top two buys for over-the-bump styles: Jeans, €22.99 at New Look I have this style in both navy and black and they are super-comfy and flattering. They've been my saviour since the early days of  pregnancy. Jeans, €41.48 at ASOS.com A more recent buy, these look great worn turned-up with trainers for a casual look. 3. Under-the-bump Now that I am in my third trimester, I'm opting for under-the-bump styles. The only annoying thing about this style is that they constantly roll down, which can be irritating. Having said that, I have found two styles I am loving. Jeans, €48.39 at ASOS.com I can’t begin to describe how comfy these are. They have a nice stretchy fabric and the colour goes with everything. Jeans, €50 at Topshop  Finding nice fitting (and flattering) white jeans can be tricky at the best of times, never mind when you are pregnant! I can safely say, having tried on nearly every style, these white Topshop ones are my fave – very comfy and not too white (see through!). Naomi Clarke is The Style Fairy – a fashion stylist and personal shopper with a history in PR and event management. She is expecting her first baby soon. Catch up with her on her website, on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.