The Best Jeans for Women, According to a Fashion Editor Who Knows Good Denim
Welcome to your denim drawer's overdue intervention.
A great wardrobe begins with the basics: a classic white T-shirt, a walkable loafer and sneaker, an arsenal of knitwear, and a great pair of jeans. Few categories beyond these possess the same staying power, versatility, or ability to make getting dressed feel as effortless as a well-fitting pair of jeans. Whether worn with a crisp button-up shirt or a cool blazer and layering tee, denim is the foundation upon which countless good outfits are built.
Fortunately for the fashion set, the denim landscape has never been more varied—or more interesting. Basically, there's a silhouette for everyone! Classic straight-leg jeans remain the forever wardrobe hero, while slim-fit silhouettes have returned to our Hedi-era repertoire. On the trend-forward end of the spectrum, barrel jeans add an edgy element, while winter white denim challenges the notion that lighter washes belong exclusively to the summertime. Hint: white jeans look incredible with a sweeping coat.
From timeless blue jeans to contemporary cuts with a little more personality, the best pairs prove that denim's greatest strength lies in its ability to evolve without ever losing its relevance. Below are the best jeans for women, spanning tried-and-true brands like Levi and Agolde, and bestselling favorites among editors from The Row, Khaite, and Toteme.
The Straight-Leg
The ultimate denim mainstay, straight-leg jeans offer a clean, uncomplicated silhouette that works with everything in your wardrobe. Try styles from Frame, Agolde and Khaite.
The Baggy
Relaxed in fit but never lacking in style, baggy jeans bring an effortless, borrowed-from-the-boys vibe to everyday dressing. Find favorites from Levi, Gap, and Khaite to juxtapose with more polished pieces.
The Slim Fit
A refined alternative to oversized denim, slim-fit jeans follow the body's natural proportions without feeling restrictive. Modernize them with embellished jackets, evening bags, and suede loafers.
The Wide-Leg
With elongated lines and generous proportions, wide-leg jeans deliver the ease of relaxed denim while featuring the chicness of a tailored trouser. The best of both worlds!
The Winter White
No longer reserved for the summertime, white jeans offer a refreshing departure from traditional blue, black, and grey denim. Find styles from Toteme, The Row, and Slvrlake.
The Flare Leg
Nostalgic yet modern, flare-leg jeans create a figure-flattering, lengthening shape that feels particularly perfect when teamed with pointed-toe boots and cropped jackets.
The Barrel Leg
The new kids on the block are suddenly a fan favorite among the style set. Defined by their curved, sculpted shape, barrel-leg jeans introduce an unexpected element to everyday outfits.
