Okay, I admit it. When it comes to buying denim I can be a bit of a snob. I spent my twenties trying every high-street style I could find, going through endless pairs of Topshop Jonis and Jamies. Once I hit my 30s, I changed tactic and started investing in fewer, more considered (read: expensive) pairs, hoping this was the solution to finding the holy grail of perfect jeans.
I’ve definitely found a few really great go-tos along the way, but like a lot of us I’m still alwayson the lookout for a better pair. While I presumed my high-street denim days were behind me, it was a recent Who What Wear team Slack discussion around everyone’s favourite jeans that had me reluctantly reconsidering.
The verdict was that Marks and Spencer jeans are seriously impressive. And thinking about it, that wasn’t the first time I’d heard this opinion from fashion insiders. Since M&S is our favourite place for other wardrobe basics like underwear and affordable cashmere, I thought it was worth giving the brand’s jeans a try.
After road-testing a number of styles in store and at home, I totally understand the hype. From the ultimate sculpting skinny jeans to stylish wide-legs, you might be surprised to know that M&S’s denim section basically does it all. Of course, we all have our own preference when it comes to the ol’ blues—so I’ve highlighted my two personal favourites below that suited my shape and style best (I’m 5’2 and a size 10, by the way.)
For me, the Mom Jeans were the perfect throw-on and go everyday style, and the Wide-Leg Jeans felt a little smarter and more trend-led. I know I’ll wear these more into the office with a heeled boot, or out to dinner or a date night. The best thing about the entire M&S denim range, though, is that they come in different length options. So, if you’re petite (like me) or taller you can choose from Short, Regular or Long to suit your shape. Most are also available from sizes UK 6-24, which is useful.
The denim itself is sustainably sourced through the Better Cotton Initiative, which you can find out more about here, and above all, I found all of the jeans to be really, really comfy while still holding their shape—something not even expensive denim brands can seem to crack. With most styles coming in at under £40, it’s hard to argue with the M&S denim superfans. In fact, I just might be one of them now.
Keep scrolling to see and shop my favourite pairs.
Up Next: Spring/Summer 2023 Fashion Trends: 21 Expert-Approved Looks You Need to See.
