The "rich mom" trend, which involves wearing classic, understated, sophisticated staples that convey wealth, shows no sign of slowing down. Otherwise known as "quiet luxury," the rich-mom look (despite its dumb name) is one I'm drawn to for its simplicity and "I care" stylishness, no matter your age. However, given my preference for all things soft and comfortable, particularly in the pants department, I feared I'd be left out of all the fun. But lo! In the past few weeks, I've tracked down several chic, affordable elastic-waist pants that fit the "rich mom" aesthetic I crave.

My elastic-waist devotion is somewhat new. Pre-pandemic, I was an avid "hard pants" wearer. I squeezed into proper trousers before heading to the office and thought little of the sharp buttons, rigid zippers and stiff fabric that left my squishy midsection looking like pants-simulated Silly Putty by the day's end.

Then the world closed down, and I realized that I was not wearing inflexible slacks for my own pleasure. I also hit menopause, and my hormonally imbalanced stomach expanded, rendering any clothing referred to as "high-waisted" a digging, stabbing torture device. These days, I have little tolerance for any bottom that can't be described as "loose" or, at the very least, "expansive."

This doesn't mean I don't want to look cute! Here are six stellar options for when you want to look as chic as a rich mom but feel as great as when you're wearing sweats, "menopot" belly be damned.

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