Denim
Apr 30, 2023

I Tried On 20 Pairs of Straight-Leg Jeans to Find the Best-Fitting Ones

by Judith Jones

While skinny jeans will forever remain a staple in my closet and baggy jeans are the cool new kid on the block, straight-leg jeans are unquestionably the hardest-working item in my wardrobe, which begs the question—why do I only own two pairs of the rigidly good stuff? Granted, I wear these two pairs a lot, but still, as a fashion editor, this is not okay. With plenty of superb new styles on the market right now, combined with my lackadaisical approach to washing my jeans regularly (I know I’m not alone), I’d say it’s officially time to add a fresh crop of straight-leg jeans to my arsenal.

The vintage-inspired silhouette has been around for some time now, but the subtle nuances in style and shape can vary greatly. So I tried and tested a plethora (20, to be exact) of brands and styles to find the five best-fitting and most flattering pairs. If you’re on the hunt for a fresh new pair of straight-leg jeans, read on to check out my absolute favorites to invest in right now. (For reference, I am 5’7” and usually wear a size 27.)

The Best Straight Leg Jeans: citizens of humanity

Photo:

@joiedejude

One of my absolute favorites in terms of fit and overall look. The high waist sits perfectly on my torso. Although I tend to favor jeans with a little stretch (the Charlotte is crafted from non-stretch denim), these are surprisingly super comfortable and incredibly versatile.

The New Straight Leg Jean Styles: Levi's

Photo:

@joiedejude

Fellow Who What Wear editors Lauren Eggertsen and Anna LaPlaca have already expressed their adoration for the newest straight-leg Levi's on the market. (They're called Ribcage for a reason!) On the hanger, these look bulky, but once I put them on, they were unexpectedly slimming and flattering. If you love a high rise and a slightly wider straight-leg opening, these are for you.

The Best White Straight Leg Jeans: Boyish

Photo:

@joiedejude

I love the relaxed, slightly looser fit of Boyish's vintage white-wash denim. Talk about comfortable! I could see myself wearing these with sneakers, low-heel ankle boots, or sandals. They're the perfect weekend jeans.

Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans to Try Now: Agolde

Photo:

@joiedejude

These seem to fall somewhere between a straight-leg and baggy silhouette, which is absolutely perfect for my frame. The high waist and slightly larger leg opening are extremely flattering and very on-trend.

Straight Leg Jeans Fashion Girls Love: Levi's 501 jeans

Photo:

@joiedejude

These classic high-waisted vintage jeans are a favorite among the fashion crowd. They are quickly becoming my go-to pair to wear with cropped sweaters and low-heel ankle boots.