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The best jeans for women are the pairs you want to live in—ones you can wear over and over again, that only get better each time you slip them on. They’re the styles that might be a small investment, but have a large return, lasting for years to come. If you’re in the market for some new denim, keep in mind that trends come and go, but classics are forever. A great-fitting pair of jeans is a personal thing. Whether you prefer to find a single silhouette or like to keep a few favorites on rotation, switching up the cut or wash depending on your vibe, we have you covered with perfect pairs from the best jeans brands, right here.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Jeans for Women
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Included in our denim guide, you’ll find a handful of foolproof, can’t-go-wrong silhouettes every person should have in her wardrobe. For starters, consider the simple, straight-leg (with a high-rise, of course!). This editors’ favorite can be found at all the greats—including The Row, Khaite, Agolde, and for those price-conscious shoppers, even Banana Republic. Next, take a look at something on the comfortable side; there are baggy jeans aplenty, relaxed wide-legs, and even the trouser jean, which features front pleats and extra leg room for professional polish. Skinny-fit denim jeans lovers won’t be turned away, either. Check out our selection of fresh stovepipes and straight fits that take a modern approach to the beloved millennial style, along with trend-forward silhouettes, like the barrel-leg and buckled jean.
Regardless of your preferred style, body type, or shopping habits, sticking to simple, vintage-inspired washes with minimal (if any!) distressing is the way to go for maximum versatility. Of course, with hundreds of options on the market, it can still be daunting trying to find the best pairs. So, we’ve gone through them all for you, to bring you the best jeans for women—after all, a perfect fit will never bring buyer’s remorse.
The High-Rise Straight
Nothing feels more nostalgic than a pair of high-waisted, straight-leg jeans. Teetering the line between slim and wide-leg, the style comes straight from the ’90s, but has been reinterpreted by today’s designers for contemporary wear. Uniqlo’s straight-leg jeans are high on our must-haves, while designer takes from The Row and Khaite are as close to vintage-sourced as you can get. You don t have to break the bank, either—styles from Madewell’s Alexa Chung collab are still in stock, and ultra-chic. Tuck in a T-shirt or button-down, add a simple shoe, and you will have a classic look that just feels downright cool.
The Wide-Leg
Wide-leg jeans are a wardrobe staple that add instant sophistication to any look. If you pick the right wash, they can easily take you from the workplace to the weekend and beyond. We love an assortment of variations in true blue, whether that be a simple, high-waisted pair like the Anina from Citizens of Humanity, or a fashion-crowd favorite, such as Agolde’s low curve jean, in a milkshake-colored wash. A true crowd pleaser, the super wide-legs from Madewell come in both standard, petite, and tall sizes, making finding your denim white whale all the easier.
The Baggy
There’s something about a baggy jean that always feels good. Relaxed and fuss-free—they’re what effortless denim is all about (and are unsurprisingly, are very easy to style). We can’t get enough of the low-rise styles out there currently, so load up. From the throwback, early-aughts designs from Levi’s to the relaxed, wide-leg from EB Denim, and Still Here’s Everyday jeans, there are options aplenty in a bevy of washes ripe for the picking.
The Trouser
The trouser jean still gets comfy points for its effortless, wide-leg, but these are the jeans you can also confidently wear to the office. From pleated waists to creased fronts, be sure to choose a style that resembles the feel of trousers. Consider something from tried-and-true favorite, Gap, with their Dôen collaboration, or a pleated pair from Haikure. Tuck in a button-down and loop in a belt and you’ll be good to go.
The Slim-Fit
Slim-fit jeans wear close to the leg, but don’t feel as unforgiving as a skin-tight jegging. Toteme’s organic jean is a forever essential in our book, while Everlane makes an under-$100 style in organic cotton. Khaite’s Callum style is perfect for tall women. A word to the wise: If you’re drawn to this silhouette, opt for a high-rise to really give that long and leggy look. Prepare to wear these with everything from tanks and tees to sweaters and leather jackets, all year long—they’re just that versatile.
The Flare
The flare jean has taken on many personas over the years, from buttoned, naval garb to the bohemian bell bottoms of the ’70s. Today, it is considered a style constant, always on offer by true denim brands. Take, for instance, Mother’s The Weekender; these bestsellers are as classic as they come and available season after season, reissued in new washes. If you prefer a micro, bootcut jean (a major trend of-the-moment), we’ve got you covered, too. Veronica Beard’s high-waisted jeans has the subtlest bell.
The Barrel
We have officially reached the phase where barrel, curved-leg jeans are now a denim wardrobe staple. The curved-leg plays with the proportions of a straight and wide-leg, giving them an entirely new feel. From TWP’s statement-making dark-wash pair, to the simpler ankle jeans from Loewe and Free People, these voluminous pairs look great with everything from your favorite T-shirt and retro sneakers, to a draped top and kitten heels for a night out. Pump up the volume!
The Cropped Jean
Cropped jeans are where many petites find their best denim, ensuring hems don’t drag and shoes can be on full display. The best cropped jeans ideally hit right above the ankle. It’s a proportion that’s perfect for petite women but stylish on every height. Agolde’s high-quality Arc jeans are an editor-favorite, as well as the Harper jean. Style, away!
The Carpenter Jean
This style of jeans is the quiet overachiever of your closet—a little slouchy, a little structured, unapologetically utilitarian. With their signature hammer loops and roomy pockets, they bring a laidback, borrowed-from-the-boys energy to every ensemble. Try Gap’s striped pair, seen below, or opt Another Tomorrow’s more elevated wide-leg take.
The Super Skinny
Skinny jeans are officially back, and we are officially on board with their return. No matter your age or body type, here, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re in the market for a curvy-friendly, black skinny, a stretchy light wash, or a dark wash jeans style with a longer inseam, embrace the Y2K revival with simple styles that work for everyday, sans embellishment or raw hems. The sky’s the limit when it comes to styling, so give them your best Kate Moss, with a billowy blouse and ballet flats, or a tailor blazer and silky tank top, to keep things feeling extra polished.
The Trimmed and Tied
All things trimmed and tied have taken center stage in the world of denim trends. Adorning timeless, often wide-leg silhouettes (no stretch denim here!), you’ll find everything from buckles to drawstring waists, plus thin, belted detailing on relaxed fits. Still Here’s Buckle jeans are a new favorite, while roomy variations from Citizens of Humanity, Agolde, and Madewell, are quintessential summer denim picks. Thanks to timeless silhouettes, these contemporary jeans show no signs of losing their hype any time soon.
The Cuffed Jean
If you crave a little something that makes a statement, an intentionally cuffed jean is a timeless choice. We recommend keeping things modern, rather than skewing too boyfriend-style, by going the tailored route. Both of these pintuck seam versions from Bottega Veneta and Ulla Johnson have a very grown-up feel. Or test drive an oversized, baggy version, such as the Ayla from Citizens of Humanity, for a cool, off-duty look when paired with a sneaker. Alternatively, tuck in a blouse and pair with your favorite ballerinas or a sleek loafer for an easy, everyday combo.