We often write about closet staples and essentials, but in my humble opinion as a fashion editor, nothing is more foundational than a good pair of jeans. When I don’t know what to wear, I reach for denim first, and as the temperature drops, skirts and shorts give way to scarves (I still love a fall dress moment), and denim becomes my default. It’s one less decision I need to make in the morning. I just add a cozy sweater and a cute pair of boots, and I’m ready to take on the day. However, my denim drawer could use a refresh, and who better to ask for recommendations than my fellow Who What Wear editors?
Ahead, discover which denim brands have our seal of approval this fall, from Hollywood favorite Levi’s to insider denim picks.
6 Editor-Approved Denim Brands for Fall 2026
Agolde
Agolde jeans are a year-round staple in my wardrobe, but I’ve got a soft spot for denim in the fall, especially a Canadian tuxedo. I’ve really liked pairing my Low Rise Boot Jeans with a matching wash for a double-denim look. Something about the low-rise bootcut silhouette feels very Zoë Kravitz, and I absolutely love it. Agolde’s been a longtime editor favorite, and the brand’s attention to cut and wash makes me return time and again. If you’re not feeling the bootcut, let me suggest the 90’s Pinch Waist High Rise Jeans instead.
Pistola
“Pistola is my go-to when I want jeans that look vintage but feel like I’ve owned them for years from the first wear. The fits are classic, the washes have that perfectly lived-in fade, and they land at a price I don’t have to talk myself into. I’ve reached for this pair quite consistently this fall mainly because it’s comfortable and the perfect silhouette. How much you wear a pair of jeans is really the only test that matters with denim.” — Sierra
Citizens of Humanity
“Citizens of Humanity is a denim brand I’ve worn for over a decade, and I keep coming back to it again and again because of its incredible quality, chic silhouettes, cool washes, and vintage-inspired styles. For fall 2026, the brand has some effortless styles that hit on this season’s biggest trends. I particularly love the Faye Jeans, which have a vintage-inspired low-rise, straight-leg look. There are so many more on my wish list this fall!” — Judith
Mother
“Ever since I discovered Mother’s petite collection in March, I haven’t looked back. I love that there’s an assortment of cuts and washes and that they all fit my 5’1″ frame perfectly—no hemming required. Among the many styles, The Lil Reifler in the Daydreamer wash stands out as my favorite for its fit, which is reminiscent of vintage Levi’s. I love the relaxed yet polished look that makes them suitable for the office with a sweater and boots or for a night out with pumps, a cute top, and a fitted jacket.” — Nikki
Levi’s
“I’m pretty loyal to my vintage Levi’s 501 jeans. I have 25 pairs (I counted before I said this to ensure accuracy), which I know is a lot, but I’m always searching for the perfect pair and honestly wear them all during different stages of my style, the year, etc. They’re classic and just get better with age. Don’t fear buying a new pair, either. Just wear and wash them regularly, and before long, they’ll feel like a vintage pair.” — Eliza
Abercrombie & Fitch
“When Abercrombie had its resurgence circa 2021, I hopped on the bandwagon and never looked back. I was pretty impressed with the brand’s variety of inclusive sizing to fit not only my curves but also my height. I’m 5’4″, and I wear a size 33 in most denim styles, so being able to buy a pair of jeans without extensive research is a true luxury. Now that we’re in a new season, I’m already finding myself clicking ‘add to cart’ without even skimming the ratings because I have so much trust that the denim will work for me.” — Aniyah
