Despite the love for comfy matching sweatsuits and no-fuss leggings, jeans are proving their sartorial resilience as a timeless closet staple. The classic garment is at the very top of our shopping lists year-round, and we’ve got our eyes out for the best jeans for women right now to upgrade our existing collections.
Of course, as far as denim is concerned, there are the heavy hitters (lookin’ at you Levi’s) that are always a safe bet. But retailers like Abercrombie & Fitch, Everlane, and Anthropologie have stepped up their game over the past few seasons, which means shoppers have more choice than ever before in the denim department. To help narrow down the search for the best pick of the bunch, we’ve sought the advice of shoppers who’ve doled out their stamps of approval in the form of stars and ratings. From an Everlane Way-High pair with over 1,400 reviews to an under-$40 option that’s got shoppers racing to hit that “add to cart” button, we’ve rounded up 16 of the top-rated styles on the internet to get you closer to your perfect match.
Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors. At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff.
Abercrombie & Fitch High Rise Carpenter Dad Jean, $110 $88
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 230 reviews on abercrombie.com
Best For: Utility-style jeans
Curious about cargo pants, but not sure? Tap into the utilitarian trend with these approachable carpenter-style jeans. The frayed hem adds onto the relaxed-fit appearance for an elevated everyday pair.
“The wash of these jeans are literally perfect. If you’re looking for a pair of that girl/hot girl jeans,” writes a reviewer. “These are it! They’re so cute and such great quality.”
AE Stretch Mom Jeans, $39.95 $35.95
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 819 reviews on AE.com
Best For: Mom jeans
For the busy bodies among us, this pair of mid-weight, ankle-skimming jeans were made to move as you move. They’ve got just enough stretch for everyday comfort while being reinforced with structure to maintain their shape.
“Saying I’m IN LOVE with these jeans is an understatement. I honestly feel that these jeans were MADE for me personally. [They] are so comfortable and [have]such a good fit I would wear these [every day]if I could. The material is perfect,” writes one reviewer. “I really am not into high waisted jeans, but I love how these fit me,” another reviewer shares. They loved the fit of the bottoms so much that they even convinced their mom to buy a pair. “They make me feel so much better about how I look in high waisted jeans and are so so soft!! I absolutely am in love with these jeans.”
Levi’s 725 High Rise Bootcut, $69.50
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 347 reviews on Levi.com
Best For: Bootcut jeans
When I say jeans, you say Levi’s. That’s the name of the game in the world of denim. So the only thing that beats a classic pair from the brand is a pair that’s got lots of good reviews … to boot! (Sorry, had to.)
“Bootcut is more flattering on my body type than skinnies or a straight-leg pair. The stretch is adequate to make the jeans form-fitting and not uncomfortable at the waist. I even bought another pair,” writes a reviewer.
Eloquii Classic Fit Sculpting Skinny Jean, $89.95
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 327 reviews on Eloquii.com
Best For: Skinny jeans
We understand TikTok may have “killed” the skinny jean, but you can’t deny that the fitted style effortlessly elongates your legs and makes them appear miles long. (Fans of this snug fit will deny that the trend is actually over.) Eloquii customers count themselves among skinny-jean champions, especially when it comes to the brand’s best-selling silhouette.
“Fabric is very good quality in my opinion. Generally, jeans with good stretch tend to be very thin fabric and break at the inner thighs in no time! I am super confident these ones will keep shape and all for a long time! Definitely recommend them,” writes one reviewer.
J.Crew 10″ Vintage Slim-Straight Jean In White, $128
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 58 reviews on JCrew.com
Best For: Slim-fit jeans
Maybe you’re a fan of the perfect balance between skinny and loose-fit denim — you like a more form-fitting style, but don’t want them to be skin-tight, too long, or too short in length. What can we say? Some people know what they want. Well, the just-right pair you’ve been looking for may be hiding in plain sight right here, from J.Crew.
“I’m very glad I purchased the Vintage Straight Jean. I was searching for white denim jeans, specifically a straight, not skinny, pair for a business-casual work office,” writes a reviewer. “The denim is soft and stretchy and these jeans are very comfortable to wear. I’m 5’6 and 130 lbs and the 28 fits me well.”
H&M Wide High Jeans, $34.99
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 329 reviews on HM.com
Best For: Wide-leg jeans
H&M jeans are not to be overlooked. The brand not only creates a plethora of shades and trendy styles — as this wide-leg style — but they have become a staple in people’s wardrobes for years and years. Don’t believe us? Read ahead for a reviewer who wore their pair of Wide High Jeans until there was a hole!
“These are literally my favorite jeans in the world. As a taller woman (5’8), I have a hard time finding flattering jeans that are long enough and not wicked skinny,” shares a reviewer. “These are so perfect! I literally wore my last pair until there was a hole I couldn’t mend. Do your butt a favor and buy these.”
Agolde Criss Cross Upsized Jean, $188
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 634 reviews on Revolve.com
Best For: Statement-making jeans
Your pile of light-wash jeans didn’t see this pair coming. Agolde’s Criss Cross Upsize Jean has the light fading and worn-in appearance of your favorite vintage denim, but the asymmetric button closure makes these a unique take on a classic. Buy these statement-making jeans for a ‘fit that everyone will remember.
“I just pulled these out of the box, and I am already obsessed. The color is a great light wash, the rise is perfect, and the fit through the legs is *chef’s kiss*” an ecstatic reviewer writes. “I’m a tall girl (5’10), and the longer inseam is great. Favorite pair of Agolde denim so far! I wish they had this fit in more washes. Also it does run a tad big. I’m typically between a 27 and 28 and I ordered the 27, which I’m glad I did.”
Penny Pull-On Printed Flare Jeans, $98
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 127 reviews on FreePeople.com
Best For: Retro-inspired flare jeans
Introducing the most playful jeans that deserve a section of their own. First, don’t worry about zippers, buttons, and the overall suffocating tightness of jeans. Free People has the most eye-catching pair of pull-on jeans with various bold boho prints that you’ll be obsessed with — there are zebra prints, floral designs, etc. Also, the elastic waistband comfortably hugs your waist, leaving you wondering where these were all your life.
“I love these jeans and the stretch that’s added to them. They feel great on and wasn’t [too]long for us shorty girls,” shares a reviewer. “I bought a size 28s and they’re a little loose in my waist, but fits everywhere else perfectly so I’m okay. I bought them in five colors and just spotted one more I want to buy.”
BDG Relaxed Baggy Jeans, $79
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 3 reviews on UrbanOutfitters.com
Best For: Baggy jeans
Considering this baggy pair has stellar reviews, it’s safe to say they’ve got all the fixings to become your new go-to dungarees. The super-loose jeans with a low-rise cut will complement any outfit mood you find yourself in.
“I just got these in the mail and I’m obsessed! Definitely my go-to fav jeans from now on, so beautiful!!! I read the comments and sized down, I agree it makes a difference! They fit perfect,” writes a reviewer.
H&M Slim Mom High Ankle Jeans, $24.99
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 1,216 reviews on HM.com
Best For: High-waisted jeans
Elongate your legs with these slim, durable, and ultra-high-waist jeans. Did we mention this pair also comes in four additional washes?
“These are definitely a sturdy pair of jeans with minimal stretch (if any)! I love the fit of the high waist. Very flattering. Can be dressed up or down which makes them very versatile too,” writes a reviewer. “I’m 5’6, slim built, and usually wear sizes 0 or 2 in H&M pants/jeans so I would say these fit true to size. WARNING: These are very snug in the waist! It wasn’t an issue for me since I usually struggle with a waist that’s rather loose on most pairs of jeans/pants that fit well through my hips/thighs/legs but I definitely DID NOT have a loose waist issue with this pair of jeans. I can wear these with sneakers or heels and they look great!”
Madewell Mid-Rise Perfect Vintage Jean, $128 $99.99
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 117 reviews on Madewell.com
Best For: Mid-rise jeans
For the past six years, successful shoppers have cited Madewell’s Perfect Vintage Jean as an unbeatable kind of denim find, so much so that the brand sells one every other minute. If you’ve got a shorter torso, this 1/2″ mid-rise version of the style is the one for you.
“Thank you for making these in a mid rise. This jean hits me perfectly now, whereas before the regular vintage jean came up to my ribs. If you make them in other washes I will buy all of them,” exclaims a reviewer. “There is no extra fabric in the crotch like before in the original vintage jean. The back rise dips slightly in the back but it’s not a big deal. I am a size 6 and weigh 160 pounds and I’m 5’7” (for reference). They are slightly snug at first but then become a little looser after wearing for a bit. Please please please make them in other washes.”
Good American Good Boy Long Twisted Slit, $165, $99
The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars; 82 reviews on GoodAmerican.com
Best For: On-trend style
For a trendy twist to your good ol’ high-waisted fit, consider this Good American option featuring of-the-minute slit-front hems.
“I’m so in love! I’m 5’ 9” with a bootie and these jeans are my new favorite. Actually the best pair of jeans I’ve ever owned,” a happy reviewer writes. “I’ll take great care of them and admire my body every time I put them [on]. Thanks for boosting my bootie [and]confidence to rock these jeans.”
AG Farrah High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans, $198
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 141 reviews on Nordstrom.com
Best For: Black jeans
If you’re searching for a pair of classic black jeans that glide on with that perfect amount of stretch, look no further. Your deepest wishes have been granted with this sleek and timeless high-waist style.
“I finally found a black pair of jeans! It honestly took forever. The material is perfect, stretchy, and does NOT attract things to it (like fuzzies),” shares a reviewer. “I am 5’2, 150lbs, curvy and went with a 28 (small waist, wide hips for reference). I would definitely recommend to go down a size. I could have even gone with a 27. You’ll enjoy these. It’s better than leggings!”
Mother The Weekender Mid-Rise Flare Jeans, $238
The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 19 reviews on Anthropologie.com
Best For: A nostalgic fit
If you ever imagined how it would feel like to kick up your boots in some ’70s-inspired dungarees, this is your chance. The vintage-inspired silhouette is a comfy piece that is quickly becoming a fan favorite.
“I was doubtful that these jeans would be as good as everyone says they are…they are even better,” writes a reviewer. “They’re so comfortable. I normally wear a 26 and that’s the size I got and although I could have probably tried the 25, I prefer the loose fit. Overall, you won’t be disappointed.”
Hollister Ultra High-Rise Light Wash Star Patch Dad Jean, $64.95
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 33 reviews on Hollister.com
Best For: Ultra high rise extra-fun dad jeans
Hollister’s uber-comfy, ultra-relaxed dad jean feature on-trend star patch details that completely change the look. What more could one want in a pair of jeans?
“Fits perfectly. Description was spot on. Best pants ever,” writes one reviewer. “SOOO cute. They fit like a glove, and the color and material is like a dream. I love how Hollister jeans are never too heavy or stiff. These are so comfortable and they don’t even get covered in dog hair (which is a huge plus if you have two german shepherds like me). They are the best dad jean you’ll buy, especially for this price. 10000/10,” another reviewer shares.
Everlane The Way-High Jean, $98
The Hype: 4.27 out of 5 stars; 1,492 reviews on Everlane.com
Best For: Extra high-waist
There are high-rise jeans, and then there are where-did-my-belly-button-go? jeans — and this premium organic cotton pair by Everlane belongs to the latter category. That means denim that accentuates your true waist while lengthening your legs. No wonder they’ve racked up over 1,400 reviews from some very happy shoppers.
“I LOVE these. Please never stop making them. They are hands down the most comfortable and flattering jeans I’ve ever found,” writes one reviewer. “I purchased these in rinsed indigo, and the fabric is the perfect mid-weight to wear in all seasons. It also has a tiny bit of stretch, which I wasn’t expecting, but I am so grateful for because it makes for a much more comfier fit without compromising a classic, rigid look. I have a 30″ waist, and took a 29, and they are my ideal fit. Not too relaxed, but comfy enough to wear all day every day,” another reviewer shares.
All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. The product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
Cargo Denim Is 2022’s Anti-Skinny Jeans Trend