How to Buy Mom Jeans

Co-authored by Kathi Burns, CPO® and Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA

Last Updated: September 15, 2021 References

You may have heard jokes about mom jeans in the past, but they’re currently a very popular style. “Mom jeans” typically have a high waist and relaxed, straight legs, so they’re super comfortable. Look for mom jeans at your favorite clothing store or online. Try on the jeans to get the best fit and pick a style that fits your personal style.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Finding Mom Jeans

1
Look for high-waisted jeans if you’re shopping in a store or online. Some shops may label the jeans as “mom jeans,” but this isn’t always the case. Since mom jeans have a classic high-waisted cut, find a display of high-waisted jeans. From there, you can find the mom jeans that fit you best.^{[1]
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- At a store, they’ll likely be labeled as high-waisted. If they aren’t, ask a sales associate to help you find them.
Tip: The denim used for mom jeans is typically thicker and more rigid than the stretchy demin you may be used to wearing. This makes the jeans sturdier and helps them hold their shape.
2
Pull a wide range of sizes because mom jeans can run small. Because mom jeans aren't stretchy, finding the right size can be tricky. Pull several pairs of jeans ranging in sizes from your normal size to 2-3 sizes up. Pick the size that feels comfortable to you.^{[2]
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- This is especially true if you buy vintage mom jeans from a thrift store. Sizes were typically cut smaller in the past, so you may need a larger size than you'd normally wear.
- Don't worry about the size on the tag. If it bothers you, use a pair of scissors to cut it out.
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3
Shop at a thrift store for a deal on vintage mom jeans. Since mom jeans were super popular in the 90s and early 00s, you might be able to find some great pairs at a local thrift store. Visit several shops to find the available options. Typically, this is a great way to find a good deal.^{[3]
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- Check the jeans to make sure they don’t have any noticeable flaws or damage.
4
Try on several pairs of mom jeans if you’re shopping in a store. It’s really hard to find the perfect jeans without trying them on. Try different cuts and styles to see which pair flatters you the most. This way you can pick the pair that works best for you.^{[4]
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- Pull different styles, colors, and sizes so you have a wide range of options. Every body is different, so focus on finding the right cut for you.
5
Check the size chart to find your best fit if you’re shopping online. Buying jeans online can be challenging, especially because fit is so important. Fortunately, a size chart can help you find the right pair for you. Read the size chart closely and compare your measurements to what’s listed. Then, pick the right size for you.^{[5]
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- Each brand has its own sizing, so always follow the size chart, even if it says to buy a different size than you normally would.
6
Read customer reviews to find out how the jeans fit. Customer reviews can give you a lot of insight into how the jeans fit and what their quality is like. Pay special attention to reviews from people who have a similar body type to you. This can give you a better idea about how the jeans might fit your body.^{[6]
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- Make sure the jeans you’re planning to purchase have high ratings. If other buyers weren’t happy with them, you might be disappointed, too.
Tip: Some websites allow customers to post photos of themselves in the clothing. Look for people who have a similar body type to see how the jeans might look for you.
7
Check the return policy before you make a purchase. The return policy is most important when you’re shopping online, since you don’t know how the jeans will fit. Make sure you can return the jeans if you decide you don’t like the fit, color, or cut. Additionally, read the fine print to see if you’ll have to pay for return shipping if you send the clothes back through the mail.^{[7]
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- Verify how much time you have to return the item if you don’t like it. For instance, you may need to return it within 15 days.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Getting the Best Fit

1
Pick a pair of mom jeans that fit you snugly at the waist. Mom jeans are intended to be relaxed through the hips and legs. However, you don’t want them to be falling off of you. Make sure the jeans fit you well at the waist by trying them on.^{[8]
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- A snug waist also helps define your waist to you won’t look like your clothes are swallowing you up.
- Your waistband doesn’t need to feel tight or uncomfortable, but it should fit you well.
2
Check that the jeans feel comfortable when you sit and move around. The classic mom jeans look is relaxed, so you want to be able to move easily in your jeans. Pace back and forth, sit down, and do a few squats to see how the jeans feel. Pick a pair that feels comfortable.^{[9]
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- If your jeans are tight or pinching, you might try a different size or cut.
3
Use the mirror to see how the pockets make your butt look. The positioning of your pockets can change the look of your butt. Small pockets make your butt look bigger, while large pockets can shrink your butt. Similarly, wide set pockets make your butt look wider, while close together pockets make your butt look narrow. Pick the pockets that make your butt look its best.^{[10]
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Expert Source

Kathi Burns, CPO®
Fashion Stylist
Expert Interview. 31 December 2019.}
- Try on different styles to find one that works for you.
4
Make sure your mom jeans don’t look baggy. The toughest part of picking mom jeans is finding a pair that’s the right amount of comfy without looking baggy. Check yourself out in a mirror to see how each angle of your body looks. Pay attention to how the jeans skim your hips and thighs. Pick the pair that has a little give but isn’t bulky.^{[11]
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- If possible, ask someone to take photos of you in the jeans so you can see yourself from different angles.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Picking the Right Style

1
Choose a straight leg for a classic mom jean look. A straight leg is roughly the same width from your thighs down to your ankles. This cut creates a slimming silhouette and balances your figure. Additionally, it’s typically a comfortable cut, as it won’t be tight on your thighs. Pick a straight leg jean if you want a safe choice.^{[12]
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- To find out if pant legs are straight, fold the pant leg in half to see if the hem of the jeans is about the same width as the thigh. If you’re buying a new pair of jeans, it may be labeled as straight-leg.
2
Look for a pair that tapers in a little at your ankle for a slimmer look. Since mom jeans have a relaxed fit, they can add bulk. A slight taper around your ankle will nip in the jeans and make you look slimmer. Check yourself in the mirror to see if you like how your legs look in the jeans.^{[13]
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- It’s okay if your ankle shows between your pants and your shoes. Just wear no-show socks or shoes that don’t require socks.
- If you have wider hips, a tapered ankle might not be the best fit for you, as it can make your hips look even wider.
3
Pick a cropped pant if you want to make your legs look longer. You might be used to seeing mom jeans with long pant legs, but they also come in cropped styles. Cropped pants show off your calves, which can add length to your legs. Try on a cropped pair to see if they work for you.^{[14]
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Variation: If you can’t find a pair of cropped mom jeans, roll your cuffs to expose a bit of ankle. This can make you look taller and leaner.^{[15]
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4
Opt for a dark wash if you want a sophisticated look. Mom jeans are a relaxed style, but that doesn’t mean you can’t dress them up. A dark wash looks more upscale and will work great for a professional or posh look. Pair your dark jeans with a silky top, a nice blouse, or a pullover sweater.^{[16]
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Expert Source

Kathi Burns, CPO®
Fashion Stylist
Expert Interview. 31 December 2019.}
- Look for a dark blue or black denim, depending on your preferences.
5
Pick a light wash if you want a casual pair of jeans. A light wash will create a classic mom jean look. Go for a bleached wash if you want an edgy or vintage look. If you prefer an everyday jean, try a medium-light wash.^{[17]
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- You can wear your jeans with a wide range of tops, from t-shirts to tailored blouses.
6
Choose ripped jeans if you want an edgy or grudge look. Ripped jeans help you show off your personality and show off a little more of your skin. Look for jeans that have rips around the thighs or knees. Alternatively, use a pair of scissors to cut your own rips.^{[18]
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