Marina Liao
Don't underestimate the curve-enhancing powers of high-rise denim. The fit sits narrow on your waist, lengthens legs, accentuates the derrière, and is comfortable enough that you don't have to worry about post-meal bloat. Plus, if you have a long torso, high-rise jeans have a way of balancing your body proportions. The fit has become a staple in the denim world, and you can find everything from high-waisted skinny jeans to high-waisted wide-leg culotte bottoms. This season, brands have you covered with the most coveted washes and shapes. Here, the best styles (rom some of our favorite denim brands to look out for in 2023.
Mother Denim's High Waisted Rider Skimp
We love Mother—yes, that applies to our literal moms, but we're also referring to the denim brand. These straight-leg, high-waisted jeans are the perfect addition to your wardrobe and will transition seamlessly between seasons. Pair them with a cashmere sweater in the winter, or with a crop top (like the model) in the summer for a laid-back, surfer look.
PSA: Not only are all of Mother's products put together by local artisans, but they've also made a commitment to continually reduce their carbon footprint by rethinking product packaging and crafting their pieces out of upcycled materials. Plus, they partner with a myriad of charities, including No Kid Hungry, GLAAD, and Everytown.
Ksubi's High N Waisted Alphabet Street
Why not make a statement with your high-rise jeans? Check out a patterned pair, like this playful one from celeb-favorite Ksubi, to set yourself apart from the crowd.
Warp + Weft's MXP High Rise in Onyx
I own this pair of jeans, and it's hands-down one of my favorite items of clothing. This sustainable brand uses less than 10 gallons of water to produce each pair of its jeans, whereas the average pair takes about 1,500 gallons. Their ethical, slow fashion ethos is complemented by the exceptional quality of their products—I have no idea how they get denim to feel so soft and comfortable.
Sanctuary's 90s Straight Leg Jean in Cascade
ICYMI, Sanctuary is amazing—they're sustainable, ethical, charitable, and their clothes are built to last! We love this pair with its nod to '90s fashion, and we love it even more that Sanctuary sells it in both slim and curvy sizes.
The Reformation's Liza Ultra High Rise Straight Jeans
These jeans have a smoothing, professional feel that makes them perfect for dress-down days at the office or for that early-evening networking fair.
Nasty Gal's Petite Star Design High Waisted Jeans
Why not add a little star power to your wardrobe with these bell bottoms from Nasty Gal? We love the fun detailing on the back pockets of this pair, along with the pronounced seams along the backs of the legs.
Levi's 721 High Rise Skinny Women's Jeans
Levi's has become nearly synonymous with American denim for good reason. This pair of black skinny jeans not only matches with everything, but it's also made to hug your curves and move with you as you go about your day.
Ética's Bryce Pinch Waist Boyfriend in Midnight Dive
We wear jeans, for the most part, so we can look put-together. But who says that you can't be comfortable and polished at the same time? We encourage you to try out this soft, organic pair from Ética when you're looking to transition from the couch to the bar, the store, or even the office.
Windsor High-Rise Flared Straight-Leg Jeans
Y'all know I love a good pair of flared jeans, and this pair really delivers with its row of buttons up the middle, whose structure contrasts the whimsical feel of the flared legs.
Good American's Good Boy Twist Slit
We love Good American's creativity with this pair, which features a non-traditional twisted seam that culminates in a modest slit at the front of the ankle. Pair with that pair of shoes that you've just been dying to show off.
Abercrombie's Curve Love 90s Ultra High Rise Straight Jeans
This is not the Abercrombie of yesteryear, which you once flaunted so proudly in the photos you edited and stitched together with Picnik. This pair of jeans is an all-grown-up, curve hugging option from Abercrombie that transcends season and matches with any style and color top.
Boyish's The Toby - Fatal Attraction
This cropped pair has the best of several worlds: Subtle rips, a straight-leg cut, an understated and versatile color, and plenty of room below the hem to show off your favorite pair of shoes.
Able's Clara Wide Leg Cut
While white jeans have a reputation as a summer staple, they're a chic option for any time of the year. Couple this wide-leg pair with a wool sweater and a pair of black boots, and you're ready to go!
Mott & Bow's High Rise Skinny Orchard
Ah, yes, the good ol' fashioned skinny jean. Despite what Gen Z says, this style of denim remains in fashion's good graces for its ability to flatter all body types and pair with just about any type of shoe (but especially boots! I like to wear skinny jeans under my thigh-highs, personally). Give this gray pair from Mott & Bow, a brand that promises to deliver high-quality jeans at an affordable price. We promise you won't regret it!
Nudie Jeans' High Top Tilde Night Spirit
Meet your new favorite pair of wear-everywhere jeans. The inky color can be dressed up or down, and the super-soft organic cotton will only get better with time.
Outland Denim's High Hopes Mirage Jean
Look at the creative pocket placement on these jeans! If you want to roll into the function looking chic and original, look no further. We also love Outland Denim's commitment to affecting positive change in the world: Not only is the brand ethical and sustainable, but they also work "as an avenue for victims of sexual exploitation to engage in safe, dignified employment as they rebuilt their lives," and have since expanded to employ people from a myriad of vulnerable backgrounds.
DL1961's Hepburn Wide Leg High Rise Vintage Jeans
Not only are these jeans gorgeous with their muted green color and glamorous wide-leg silhouette, but, like all of DL1961's denim, they're made using recycled materials and low-water technology so that you can commit to looking good and to doing right by our planet.
Everlane's The Way-High Jean in Archroma Day Break
My love for Everlane is very well-documented, y'all. This sustainable brand makes premium pieces that you're sure to feel good in for years to come, and this pair of purple high-waisted jeans are no different. Who said denim can be colorful?
Sandro Flower Embroidered Ankle Jeans in Blue Jean
Bring a little whimsy to your wardrobe with this floral embroidered pair from Sandro. Made from organic cotton using low-water production techniques, this pair's subtle faded color complements the intricate detailing of its tiny flowers. With these pants, you'll be sure to brighten up any room you step into.
