At the beginning of each season, I sort through my wardrobe to determine the pieces that need replacing. When it comes to my denim collection, I feel like I’ve got the blue jeans category covered; I also have a beloved pair of white jeans that I wear constantly. But my black jean selection is...a different story. Luckily, the search for new black jeans isn't difficult. Whether you gravitate toward black jeans that are skinny, high-waisted, cropped, or a combination of styles, a good pair of black jeans go with everything and will be a mainstay in your wardrobe for years to come.
You might assume that black jeans are only a fall or winter favorite, but allow me to prove you wrong—many of these pairs work beautifully for spring and summer as well. Below, meet your new favorite year-round staple (and once you’ve found your new favorite pair of black jeans, here’s how to style them).
Everlane The ’90s Cheeky Jean
‘90s Jeans
Everlane’s washed black are the coolest way to rock a ‘90s-inspired fit. Cut from rigid cotton, the straight legs are perfect for tucking ankle boots into.
Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans
Ultra-High-Rise Jeans
Levi’s has been making top-quality jeans for almost 200 years (!), so it’s safe to say that they know how to make a killer pair that you will own forever. While the classic 501 style is forever, mix it up with the label’s ribcage silhouette, boasting a soaring 12-inch rise.
Warp & Weft MXP Plus High Rise
Sustainable Jeans
Warp & Weft is committed to sustainability at every step of the design process. Their jeans save an average of 1,400 gallons of water during production, and their fabric is made from 20 percent recycled denim, plastic, and cotton. Bonus: They look and feel really, really good.
AG Jeans Alexxis High-Rise Vintage Slim Straight Jeans
Slim-Straight Jeans
The ultimate black jeans to pair with chunky loafers this season? Unquestionably AG’s high-rise vintage slim-fit.
Madewell High-Rise Skinny Jeans
Long-Inseam Jeans
Madewell makes many of their jeans in four lengths: petite, standard, tall, and taller—but this pair has been reimagined to fit those with a curvier shape. They now feature a narrower waist with a contoured band and a longer inseam for a better fit all around.
Agolde ‘90s Jeans Mid Rise Loose
Wide-Leg Jeans
Wide-leg jeans are super on-trend right now, and this pair from Agolde fits the bill to a T. The cropped hem and mid-rise fit complete the look. Plus, they come lightly distressed and faded, so you'll get cool points.
We The Free Crvy High-Rise Lace-Up Skinny Jeans
Lace-Up Jeans
If pure black denim feels too harsh in warm weather, try a pair that are made to look like they’ve been washed dozens of times. These retro-feeling jeans by We The Free come with a lace-up detail at the front that adds a rocker-girl vibe.
L’Agence Oriana High-Rise Straight-Leg Coated Jeans
Coated Jeans
Coated jeans like these work for either day or night—it all comes down to the styling. Wear them with sneakers and oversized button-downs for a more casual look, and pair them with a crop top and heels for a going-out look.
Re/Done High Rise Stove Pipe
Best-Selling Jeans
There’s a reason everyone loves these jeans from Re/Done so much. They have a rigid, high-waisted fit that gives off a ’70s-inspired vibe. In short: They’re a classic wear-everywhere style.
Frame Denim Le Color Ripped Jeans
Distressed Skinny Jeans
You can’t go wrong with a good pair of black skinny jeans in your closet—they go with everything and look timeless year after year. Frame makes some of the top-selling jeans on the market, so these distressed jeans deserve a spot on your must-buy list.
