Maternity jeans comparison: 23 mai Paris Next Direct

A comprehensive guide to choosing maternity jeans and a detailed analysis of two brands with different approaches.

Maternity jeans: a must-have item in your pregnancy wardrobe

Jeans occupy a central place in French women's wardrobes. According to studies in the textile sector, women own an average of seven pairs of jeans in their wardrobes and wear at least one pair several times a week. This clothing habit does not disappear with pregnancy, quite the contrary: maternity jeans are among the first purchases made by expectant mothers, usually at the end of the first trimester.

A recent history

Maternity jeans as we know them today are a relatively recent invention. Until the 1980s, pregnant women had to make do with elasticated waist pants or loose-fitting dresses, as the maternity fashion market was virtually non-existent. It was in the 1990s that the first brands began to develop jeans specifically designed for pregnancy, with the appearance of the famous support band.

Since then, the sector has evolved considerably. Today's expectant mothers refuse to sacrifice their style for nine months and demand clothing that combines functionality and aesthetics. This growing demand has prompted brands to innovate in terms of cuts, materials, and support systems.

Why classic jeans are no longer enough

From the very first weeks of pregnancy, the body begins to change. Even before the belly becomes visibly rounded, the waist thickens and the hips widen under the effect of hormones. Classic jeans, even when worn with the trick of threading elastic through the buttonhole, quickly become uncomfortable or even painful.

Maternity jeans respond to these physiological changes with several technical features: a tailored waistband that doesn't put any pressure on the abdomen, stretchy fabrics that accommodate the growing bump, and a support system that holds the belly without compressing it. These elements, invisible from the outside, make all the difference in everyday life.

The different types of maternity jeans

Today's market offers several categories of maternity jeans, each designed to meet specific needs.

High-waisted jeans (over-the-bump): The stretchy fabric band rises above the belly button, or even under the bust. This design completely envelops the belly and provides optimal support, which is particularly appreciated in late pregnancy. However, it has the disadvantage of creating extra bulk that is visible under fitted tops.

Low-rise jeans (under-the-bump): The waistband stops below the belly, leaving it uncovered. This option is more suitable for early pregnancy or for women who find high-rise waistbands too restrictive. The support is less pronounced, but the comfort may be greater for certain body types.

Side panel jeans: Elastic inserts are integrated into the sides of the jeans at hip level. This system allows the jeans to retain the appearance of classic jeans while providing the necessary stretch. Some brands offer models with functional buttons and zippers, further reinforcing the illusion of traditional jeans.

Adjustable jeans: Some innovative designs feature adjustment systems that allow the jeans to be adapted to each stage of pregnancy. Internal snaps, adjustable elastic, or modular bands: these solutions are designed to extend the life of the garment.

Essential selection criteria

Before comparing brands, it is important to identify the criteria that determine the quality of maternity jeans.

The fabric composition plays a major role. Good maternity jeans should contain enough elastane (or Lycra) to provide stretch, but not too much to avoid the leggings effect. The proportion of cotton influences comfort and breathability, while the presence of synthetic fibers impacts durability and ease of care.

The quality of the headband largely determines everyday comfort. A headband that is too thin will roll up on itself, while one that is too thick will cause discomfort. The material must be stretchy enough to accommodate the growing belly without exerting pressure, while remaining firm enough to provide effective support.

The cut should not be overlooked. Contrary to popular belief, pregnant women can wear all styles of jeans: slim, straight, bootcut, mom, flare... The key is to choose a cut that suits your body shape and personal style.

The finishes reflect the care taken in manufacturing: quality of the seams, strength of the pockets, durability of the topstitching. These details, often invisible at first glance, determine the longevity of the garment.

23 mai paris Next Direct: two visions of maternity jeans

After this general introduction, let's take a look at two brands that illustrate two different approaches to the market: 23 mai paris, a French specialist in maternity fashion, and Next Direct, a British generalist retailer.

Detailed comparison table

Presentation of the two brands

23 mai paris expertise born of experience

The story of 23 mai paris with a friendship that spans more than thirty years. Two women, friends since nursery school, became mothers and shared the same observation: finding maternity and nursing clothes that were beautiful, comfortable, and practical was an uphill battle. On May 23, the birthday of one of their first children, they decided to create the brand they would have loved to find.

This background explains the DNA of 23 mai paris each garment is designed by women who have experienced motherhood and who deeply understand the needs of expectant and new mothers. The brand focuses exclusively on this segment, refusing to spread itself too thinly across other fashion categories. This hyper-specialization allows it to deepen its expertise and continually refine its products.

La collection de jeans de maternité 23 mai paris reflète cette philosophie. Découvrez notre collection de jeans de grossesse pensée pour allier confort et élégance. Les coupes suivent les tendances actuelles de la mode, les matières sont sélectionnées pour leur qualité et leur confort, et chaque détail technique est pensé pour faciliter le quotidien des femmes enceintes.

Next Direct: the power of an international group

Next is a British institution. Founded in 1864 as J. Hepworth & Son, the company has transformed over the decades to become one of the UK's largest fashion retailers. The name "Next" appeared in 1982, marking a repositioning towards more contemporary and accessible fashion.

Today, Next Direct represents the group's e-commerce division, allowing European consumers to access the entire catalog from their homes. The maternity section is a small part of this overall offering, alongside collections for women, men, children, and the home.

This generalist approach has undeniable advantages: economies of scale enabling competitive prices, well-established logistics ensuring reliable deliveries, and established brand recognition reassuring consumers. On the other hand, maternity fashion does not receive exclusive attention and the collections reflect a more standardized approach.

In-depth comparative analysis

Product design and development

The fundamental difference between the two brands lies in their approach to design.

At 23 mai paris, developing a new maternity jeans involves careful consideration of the specific needs of pregnant women. Drawing on their own experience and feedback from their customer community, the founders identify areas for improvement and work with their suppliers to address them. This proximity to the target market allows for a high degree of responsiveness and continuous product adaptation.

Next Direct operates according to a more traditional mass retail model. The collections are developed by teams of designers who work on all of the brand's ranges. Maternity fashion is one segment among many, treated with professionalism but without the specialization that characterizes a dedicated brand. The collections are inspired by general market trends and aim to satisfy the widest possible audience.

Quality of materials

Analysis of the compositions reveals significant differences.

Next Direct jeans typically have a composition typical of the entry-level to mid-range segment: approximately 66% cotton, 28% polyester, 4% viscose, and 2% elastane. This formula offers a good compromise between cost, comfort, and durability. Polyester adds strength but can reduce the breathability of the fabric, which is something to consider for women who experience hot flashes during pregnancy.

23 mai paris a more demanding selection of materials. The brand favors fabrics with a high cotton content for their softness and breathability, with enough elastane to ensure comfort without sacrificing the jeans' shape. Suppliers are chosen for their ability to produce fabrics that meet specific quality criteria. This requirement naturally has an impact on the final price, but also on how the jeans feel when worn.

The banner system

The waistband is the key technical feature of maternity jeans. It determines everyday comfort and the garment's ability to adapt to the body's changes.

23 mai paris developed an adjustable band system that evolves with pregnancy. Rather than a fixed band that is suitable for a specific moment, the brand offers solutions that accompany women from the beginning to the end of their pregnancy, and even beyond during the postpartum period. This band is also designed to be discreet, avoiding the effect of visible bulk under clothing.

Next Direct offers the two classic options on the market: over-the-bump and under-the-bump. These tried-and-tested systems meet the basic needs of consumers. The high band provides good support but can create a bulky effect under tops. The low band is suitable for early pregnancy but may lack support in the third trimester. The choice between the two depends on personal preference and the stage of pregnancy.

Style and trends

The stylistic approach differs significantly between the two brands.

23 mai paris its desire to offer maternity jeans that are, above all, desirable jeans. The cuts are inspired by current trends: slightly boyfriend-style mom jeans, flattering straight cuts, and intricate finishes. The goal is to make the "maternity" aspect invisible, with style being the only thing that counts at first glance. The brand regularly updates its designs to keep up with changing fashion trends.

Next Direct takes a more conservative approach, favoring timeless basics over trendy pieces. The collections offer classic cuts (skinny, straight, bootcut, mom) in standard colors (medium blue, dark blue, black). This strategy meets the expectations of consumers looking for safe bets rather than bold fashion pieces. The risk of fashion faux pas is limited, but so is the potential for stylistic expression.

Durability and versatility

The question of how long maternity jeans can be worn deserves special attention when analyzing value for money.

Classic maternity jeans are generally designed to be worn for six to nine months, corresponding to the period when the belly prevents the wearer from wearing traditional jeans. Once the baby is born and the body returns to its previous shape, these jeans are often relegated to the back of the closet or resold on second-hand platforms.

23 mai paris a different vision: designing maternity jeans that can be worn well beyond pregnancy. The cuts are designed to remain flattering even when the belly has returned to its normal size. The discreet and comfortable waistband continues to provide welcome support during the postpartum period, when the body takes several months to recover. Some customers even say they wear their 23 mai paris jeans 23 mai paris regular jeans years after their pregnancy.

This extended durability changes the economic equation. Jeans that are more expensive to buy but worn for eighteen months or more have a potentially lower cost per use than cheaper jeans worn for only six months.

The customer experience

Advice and support

Buying maternity jeans can be confusing for a woman who is pregnant for the first time. The usual size guidelines no longer apply, and there are many questions: What size should I choose? High or low waistband? How will the jeans change over the months?

23 mai paris on personalized support to answer these questions. The customer service team, made up of people who are intimately familiar with the issues surrounding motherhood, can advise on size selection based on stage of pregnancy, body type, and wearing preferences. The brand also capitalizes on the opinions of its community of customers, a valuable source of information for future buyers.

Next Direct offers standard customer service typical of a large retailer, which is effective for logistical issues (delivery, returns) but less specialized when it comes to product advice. Product descriptions provide essential information, and customer reviews give an idea of overall satisfaction, but personalized support remains limited.

Consistency of the wardrobe

A pregnant woman isn't just looking for jeans: she needs to build a whole wardrobe for the coming months, and then for the breastfeeding period if she chooses that option.

23 mai paris offre l'avantage de la cohérence. La marque propose une gamme complète de vêtements de maternité et d'allaitement : t-shirts, pulls, sweats, robes, pyjamas... Les styles et les coupes sont pensés pour fonctionner ensemble, facilitant la création de tenues harmonieuses. Un jean 23 mai paris s'associera naturellement avec un haut d'allaitement de la même marque.

Next Direct allows you to find your entire wardrobe in one place, but without the specific focus on maternity wear. Maternity clothes sit alongside classic collections, and the link between the different items is less obvious. However, the brand offers a wide variety of complementary products (shoes, accessories, homeware) for those who like to group their purchases together.

Summary: a brand for every profile

Next Direct is for women who are looking for:

An economical solution that allows you to build your wardrobe without making a major investment. The British brand's affordable prices are ideal for those on a tight budget or women who prefer to buy several inexpensive items rather than investing in a few high-quality pieces.

A pragmatic approach to maternity fashion. For those who view maternity wear as a temporary necessity rather than an opportunity for stylistic expression, Next Direct offers functional basics that fulfill their purpose without complication.

The convenience of a major retailer. Reliable delivery, clear return policy, the ability to order other product categories from the same place: Next Direct offers the shopping convenience characteristic of major retailers.

23 mai paris at women who prioritize:

Quality materials and comfort. For those who appreciate soft fabrics, breathable materials, and everyday comfort, 23 mai paris high standards 23 mai paris fabric selection make all the difference.

A bold style during pregnancy. Women who refuse to put their personal style on hold for nine months will find 23 mai paris at 23 mai paris that allow them to stay true to themselves.

A profitable investment over time. The economic logic of cost per use appeals to consumers who think long term and appreciate the idea of keeping their maternity jeans well after the baby arrives.

The expertise of a specialized brand. Personalized advice, in-depth knowledge of the needs of pregnant women, and a consistent range entirely dedicated to maternity are compelling arguments for those who value support. Explorez notre collection complète maternité et allaitement pour découvrir tous nos essentiels.

Conclusion

Today's maternity jeans market offers a wide range of options, allowing every woman to find the product that meets her expectations and fits her budget. Next Direct and 23 mai paris two complementary approaches to this market.

On the one hand, the efficiency of a major international brand offering affordable and functional products. On the other, the expertise of a specialist brand that puts quality and style at the heart of its offering.

The choice between these two options depends on individual priorities: budget, style requirements, sensitivity to materials, and short- or long-term vision for the purchase. In any case, today's expectant mothers are fortunate to have a choice, whereas their own mothers often had to settle for default solutions.

Nevertheless, the general market trend seems to be leaning toward higher expectations. Pregnant women are increasingly less willing to accept the idea that pregnancy means compromising on clothing. This shift is benefiting brands such as 23 mai paris, which have made comfort and style their raison d'être.

 

Si vous allaitez, voici nos vêtements d’allaitement qui peuvent vous intéresser :

T-shirts d'allaitement
T-shirts d'allaitement imprimés
T-shirts d'allaitement personnalisés
T-shirts d’allaitement basiques
Hauts d’allaitement personnalisables
Pulls d'allaitement
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement
Pulls d'allaitement maille
Débardeurs d'allaitement
Robes d'allaitement
Pyjamas d'allaitement
vêtements d'allaitement  
Vêtements de maternité et d'allaitement
Vêtements d'allaitement à ouverture sur le côté
Vêtements d'allaitement grande taille
Vêtements d'allaitement d'été
Vêtements d'allaitement chauds
Vêtements d'allaitement brodés
Vêtements d'allaitement d'hiver
Vêtements d'allaitement confortables
Vêtements d'allaitement en coton
Vêtements de grossesse et d'allaitement
Vêtements d'allaitement originaux
Vêtements d'allaitement pas chers
Vêtements d'allaitement personnalisés
Vêtements d'allaitement en soldes
Vêtements d'allaitement à manches courtes
Vêtements d'allaitement à petit prix
Vêtements d'allaitement à zip
Vêtements d'allaitement abordables
Vêtements d'allaitement amples
Vêtements d'allaitement beiges
Vêtements d'allaitement blanc
Vêtements d'allaitement bleu
Vêtements d'allaitement discrets
Vêtements d'allaitement doux
Vêtements d'allaitement en promotion
Vêtements d'allaitement gris
Vêtements d'allaitement Imprimés
Vêtements d'allaitement jaunes
Vêtements d'allaitement leopard
Vêtements d'allaitement noir
Vêtements d'allaitement rose
Vêtements d’allaitement sobres
Vêtements d'allaitement tendances
Vêtements d'allaitement unis
Vêtements de sport pour l'allaitement
T-shirt allaitement imprimé
T-shirt allaitement personnalisé
T-shirt allaitement coloris uni
T-shirt allaitement manches longues
T-shirt allaitement blanc
T-shirt allaitement bleu
T-shirt allaitement noir
T-shirt allaitement gris
T-shirt allaitement camel
T-shirt allaitement léopard
T-shirt allaitement brodés
T-shirt allaitement coton
T-shirt allaitement zip
T-shirt allaitement été
T-shirt allaitement hiver
T-shirt grossesse allaitement
T-shirt allaitement milk
T-shirt allaitement coeur
T-shirt allaitement pas cher
T-shirt allaitement ouverture coté
T-shirt allaitement discret
T-shirt allaitement confortable
T-shirt allaitement originaux
T-shirt d'Allaitement avec col en V
T-shirts d'allaitement jaune
T-shirts d'allaitement marron
T-shirts d'allaitement multicolore
T-shirts d'allaitement rose
T-shirts d'allaitement rouge
T-shirts d'allaitement unis
Pyjamas d'allaitement
Pyjamas d'allaitement 2 pièces
Pyjamas d'allaitement en promotion
Pyjamas d'allaitement en soldes
Pyjamas d'allaitement leopard
Pyjamas de maternité
Chemises de nuit d'allaitement
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement à ouverture sur le côté
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement en promotion
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement pas chers
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement verts
Sweat-shirts d'allaitement roses
Sweat-shirts de grossesse
Sweat Shirts d'allaitement blancs
Pulls allaitement zip
Pulls allaitement maille
Pulls allaitement laine
Pulls allaitement grossesse
Pulls allaitement chaud
Pulls allaitement pas cher
Pulls allaitement hiver
Pulls d'allaitement ouverture coté
Pulls d'allaitement discret
Robes d’allaitement en maille
Robes d’allaitement chaudes
Robes d’allaitement d’hiver
Robes d’allaitement beiges
Robes d’allaitement longues
Robes d’allaitement courtes
Robes d'allaitement festives
Robes d'allaitement d'été
Robes d'allaitement de vacances
Robes d'allaitement en promotion
Robes d'allaitement noires
Robes d'allaitement pas cher
Robes d'allaitement pour mariage
Robes de grossesse
Robes pull allaitement

 

Si vous êtes seulement maman enceinte, voici nos vêtements de maternité :

Jeans de grossesse noir
Jeans de grossesse gris
Jeans de grossesse couleur
Jeans de grossesse bleu
Jeans de grossesse pas cher
Jeans de grossesse confortable
Jeans de maternité
Jeans de maternité couleur
Jeans de maternité noir
Jeans de maternité gris
Jeans de maternité bleu
Jeans de maternité pas cher
Jeans de maternité confortable
Pantalons de maternité
Pantalons de maternité noir
Pantalons de maternité gris
Pantalons de maternité couleur
Pantalons de maternité bleu
Jeans pour femme enceinte
Jeans pour femme enceinte gris
Jeans pour femme enceinte bleu
Jeans pour femme enceinte noir
Jeans pour femme enceinte pas cher
Jeans pour femme enceinte confortable