Where to Buy Mom Jeans

In 1990, mom jeans were all we knew. We didn't know any better--everyone, including the teen fashionistas, wore mom jeans. These days we know better. Today, those high-waisted jeans of the '80s and '90s are now known as mom jeans--high-waisted, tapered leg, light wash, unflattering jeans that are typically worn by middle-aged or older women. They're not stylish or trendy-and because of the high waist, they make your butt look fat and wide. Most people who wear "mom jeans" don't know they're even wearing them. They just believe they're wearing a pair of jeans. So where do you buy mom jeans? With the skinny jeans trend these days, buying mom jeans isn't as easy as running down to your local mall. Whether you're looking for a pair of mom jeans to add to your wardrobe arsenal or you need them for a costume, there are plenty of places to buy mom jeans.

How to identify mom jeans?
Look for the following traits when shopping for mom jeans:
-High waisted. This is also noted in advertising copy as "natural waist" or high-rise. In a pinch, mid-rise will work.
-Tapered leg. The legs of the jeans get smaller as they reach the ankle. This can also be noted as "classic fit."
-Light wash. Try to go for the light denim color when shopping for mom jeans, but know that darker color washes also come in the 'mom jean' style.
-Elastic waist, no back pockets, pleated. Some mom jeans have these traits-especially those worn by senior citizens.

QVC or the Home Shopping Network is one place to buy mom jeans
Television shopping networks, such as QVC and HSN, are still in full force these days, despite the popularity of online shopping. That's partly due to their target customer-Grandma. If Grandma's going to buy denim, then she might buy it from QVC or HSN. QVC's clothing is known for its generous fit. Some of their jeans are made with an elastic waist, and some with a traditional button or zipper fly. Doing a search for "jeans" on QVC yields eight pages of mom jeans goodness. Here's a great pair of mom jeans from QVC's Denim & Company line-just make sure to order them in a light wash for a true mom jeans look.

Shop at Thrift Stores for cheap mom jeans
Find a bountiful supply of used mom jeans at your local thrift store. The mom jeans don't sell very well, so you'll find a good supply of them, most of them reasonably priced. Look for tapered leg or "classic" fit and a light wash. Bonus points for pleating and/or an elastic waist. As with any used clothing, check for holes, stains or rips.

Buy mom jeans from discount stores
Check your local Wal-Mart, Kmart, Pamida or Fleet Farm for mom jeans. Brands to look for include Chic, Carhartt, Levis and Lee. Target typically does not carry mom jeans. Here's an excellent pair of mom jeans from Fleet Farm-these Riders Misses' Side Elastic Jeans sit on your natural waistline (read: high-waisted) are only $21.99. Notice how the model kind of looks fat? Obviously, she isn't, but the jeans do her no favor.