Mom jeans have been on the lips of a fashionistas lately as the U.S. President, Barack Obama, was accused of wearing "mom jeans" when he threw out the first pitch of July's All Star baseball game.  While we won't delve into the debate (bottom line:  we've seen worse), we have to weigh in on mom jeans.  They're a big no-no.  But before we find out if you're a mom jeans victim, let's remind you of what mom jeans look like with a primer video:

All right, you've seen the worst of the worst (funny lady, that Tina Fey).  So what makes a pair of jeans, "mom jeans?"

• High-waisted with long zipper:  High-waisted jeans bring attention to any bulge in your tummy, and do you really want people to focus on a giant gold zipper when looking at you? 




• Light denim, often made of a soft cotton:  The lighter the jean, the bigger your body looks.  And the soft fabric just makes the jeans look old, worn out, and junky. 




• Pleats that create a "pooch" in your belly:  Often, moms buy jeans with front pleats to camouflage so-called problem areas.  The real problem is that these baggy jeans puff out, giving the illusion that your stomach is much larger than it actually is.




• Unflattering crotch and saggy butt:  The roominess of the hips makes your butt look not only huge but droopy.  And the crotch fit is tight, often looking like a certain animal's appendage (We think you can figure that one out....).




• Cinched or elastic waist: Just no.  If you're cinching, then the jeans don't fit.  And jeans should be buttoned or zipped; only kindergarteners should wear elastic jeans.  Period.

So, we've figured out that mom jeans make you look, well, dumpy.  And you're a young woman who's anything but.  So, how can you avoid the dreaded mom jean?  Here are some tips to find great-fitting jeans without sacrificing comfort:

• Trouser fit:  Trouser fits are universally flattering and polished enough for work (if you have a fairly liberal office).

• Dark denim:  Where light denim expands, dark denim contracts.  It's sleeker and more stylish than the "I don't care" look of light-colored jeans.




• Lycra for some stretch:  Lycra helps jeans stretch for a comfortable fit.  And don't worry that the jeans are hugging you too tight; lycra is found in everything from skinny to boot-cut jeans and more. 




• Hug your curves:  Don't try to cover your curves with baggy clothes.  Instead, find jeans that skim your body and show off your figure.  You'll look better and feel better when you show your body rather than try to hide it.




• Spend extra money, and have your jeans custom made:  If all else fails, have your jeans custom-made.  Sure, it's more expensive, but a good jean lasts a very long time. 

Are you a mom jeans victim?  Want to start a mom jeans support group?