Jean-ius

Elasticated and drawstring waists have revolutionised my mum-drobe

Jeans and I have a somewhat difficult relationship. Actually, that’s a polite way of putting it: I positively loathed them. Restrictive, uncomfortable, impractical – the list goes on… After my fair share of abdominal surgeries, time of the month tantrums, pregnancy and postpartum, jeans made it to the top spot on my “not list”. But what I did feel I was missing out on was that instant, pulled together image that denim excels at. I’d look longingly at these polished women around me in mom jeans and oversized white shirts, then elasticated waists and drawstrings made their debut, and I finally became a fully fledged member, too. I was sceptical to begin with; could contemporary fashion really nail comfort, without compromising on style? It sure can! Here’s a couple of pairs that have kick-started my love affair…

Beyond Nine Rowan Jeans

I must confess, I’ve developed a slight addiction to anything and everything Beyond Nine. Created for all stages of womanhood, their well-considered designs champion wearability. I entered my jean era with the Rowan (aptly sharing a name with my son, a sure sign that I HAD to have them). The flattering barrel-leg shape skims the ankle and the elasticated waistband’s complemented by a zip/button opening, meaning you don’t lose the feel of a classic jean. Soft and roomy, they pass the squat test with ease – and the spacious pockets double-up as a handbag/snack box. Mum and toddler-approved.

COS Extra Wide Leg Drawstring Denim Trousers

Dimensions aside, this COS number is definitely giving extra. A sartorial success paired with my trusty Gazelles and a cropped black jacket, but how do they measure up practically? I put on my big girl pants (quite literally) and bravely took them for their first outing on day one of my period, featuring a belated Mother’s Day afternoon tea. I didn’t need to undo them five minutes into my brioche buns, I didn’t need to rush home to whip them off and when I eventually did that evening, my tummy was happy to report that there wasn’t an indentation mark in sight. Hoorah! Effortlessly cool and comfy.

PS You’ll have to excuse the background Vinted piles and changing room try-ons. Just keeping it real over here, as always 🤞