Although we are in the midst of a skinny jeans revival (which I still refuse to accept), baggy jeans are proudly making themselves known. They're the comfortable alternatives to the slim-fitting styles we've recently been re-introduced to.
"Baggy jeans are trending because they offer a different silhouette that works with a lot of body types," explains stylist Melissa Chataigne. "After squeezing into skinny jeans, baggy jeans offer comfort without sacrificing style."
The extra-wide leg of baggy jeans, however, can sometimes seem intimidating compared to its counterparts. But luckily, there are versions that are less baggy (think a barrel leg, which is currently high in search) and more baggy than others (a classic boyfriend or oversized fit, for instance) to suit all style preferences. They're also easier to style with different accessories, from casual to elevated, according to our experts.
Keep reading to discover the best baggy jeans for everyone, according to stylists and editors.
Recommended for curvy frames$39.99$100.00
Best baggy jeans for women, according to stylists
Most affordable:
We previously spoke with style coach Nesta Simone in our petite jeans coverage, who then recommended this affordable pick from Asos. It is a high rise with a baggy, dad-fit style for the ultimate comfort.
Good for short and long torsos:
Chataigne calls this highly cozy pick from Gap a "fantastic affordable option that is flattering for long and short torsos." The jean has even gone viral for its 'sweat pant-like' feel, according to reviews.
A classic denim:
"These are always a classic fit, even with the throwback 90s cut," explains stylist Liz Teich. Levi's 501 jeans are loved for their old-school flair and five-pocket styling, but this version is loose throughout the hip and thigh for a slightly baggy fit.
A baggy jean with balance:
Celebrity stylist Stephanie Escobar says these Levi's jeans offer "the perfect balance between structure and ease," as they combine the slim-fit of a straight leg with the roomy feel of a baggy jean. "The mid-rise waist works on a variety of body types, and the removable tie lets you switch up the vibe — cinch it for shape or leave it loose for that laid-back cool," she adds. "It’s a versatile piece that moves effortlessly from day to night."
Stylist- and editor-loved jeans:
Chataigne calls this figure-flattering pick a personal favorite. “I love the high rise that cinches my waist and elongates my legs,” she says. “Pair with white tee and slightly cropped blazer.”
Senior SEO editor Jess Bender also recommends the jean after renting it from Nuuly. “It’s rare for me to get excited about jeans since it’s hard to find a pair that flatters my apron belly, add a semblance of shape to my hips, elongates my legs and doesn’t suffocate my thighs,” she raves. “And yet, I’ve found the perfect option in this baggy option that I’ve rented no less than six times.”
Bender adds that she is committed to buying them now, and was swayed by “how progressively softer these get with every wash without wearing down the material.”
Best low-rise baggy jean:
"This pair is the softest denim and doesn’t even feel like you’re wearing jeans," raves Teich. "I won’t usually do a low-rise jean, but this slouchy style is still flattering. They may be the best working from home jeans that you don’t mind being seen in if you stand up on Zoom!"
Best baggy jeans for women, according to editors
Best black baggy jean:
The demand for baggy jeans are real, and this pick from PacSun is proof of that. With sizes already selling out, especially in the longer length, it’s no wonder the jean is a bestselling silhouette for the brand.
“The super relaxed fit is comfortable enough to wear all day and the rise hits at a sweet spot (just below the belly button, without verging on underwear-baring),” claims production associate Audrey Ekman. “Love the black wash too! My only caveat with these is that they run really long... I’m 5’1, so a trip to the tailor was a must.”
Recommended for curvy frames:
I am a bit fuller on the behind, so when it comes to standard pairs of jeans, I often deal with waist gap. Abercrombie's Curve Line eliminates the issue, and even offers extra space in the leg to minimize the risk of chafing. This pair is also on clearance in many washes, so I plan on picking up a few pairs since I love the way it fits my body.
An affordable barrel jean:
"I never thought I’d see myself in a pair of barrel jeans, but I snagged this pair from a giveaway and I love how they look," raves editorial operations manager Jillian Ortiz. While she was hesitant about the cropped ankle length at first, Ortiz says the length hits at the perfect spot for pairing with sneakers and other casual footwear. "They’re also pretty comfortable and don’t feel restrictive," she boasts about the affordable pick.
Not too baggy:
We get it — baggy style jeans may take some time getting used to. But associate editor Sierra Hoeger says they're the perfect in-between of a baggy and not so baggy jean.
"Honestly, I've been bored of my current lineup of jeans and tried these on at Free People, not expecting to like them as much as I do!" she claims. "They're mid-rise, which equates to high-rise on me because of my petite frame and short height, and the length sits right at the ankle, which is new to me and I deeply appreciate not having to cuff my jeans! Plus, they're soft — which is a word I've never used to describe jeans before."
A slim-fitting baggy jean:
At the time when I first tried these jeans, they didn't come in an option for curvy bodies, but I was surprised that I had very little waist gap with the standard sizing. I contribute it to its slim fit, which is much more fitted than other baggy jeans I own.
This is a good pick for you're wanting to try the trend, but want a jean that is more body molding. And fortunately, there is an option in curve sizing and additional lengths!
Multi-editor loved:
"The silhouette of these jeans is perfect," says Ekman. "It has a just-right slouchy fit that makes them feel comfy and lived-in from the first wear, and the roomy leg looks great with heeled boots and sneakers alike." Although the dark wash she wears in the photo below is out of stock, Ekman says she's been eyeing a lighter wash for summer.
Partnerships editorial assistant Erica Marrison also owns this pair, but Fennbrook Wash, and mentions that she wears them constantly. "These one's have a super flattering fit, so they sit securely across my waist in the right spot, but fit loosely around my thighs," she adds.
I also love this style, but own it in the cropped version. If you're unable to pick up a specific length or get it hemmed, my hack for shorter heights is to get a cropped jean for the perfect length.
Tummy-controlling and shaping:
Searching for the right barrel jeans for fall? Ekman says she's been wearing this pick from Spanx "non-stop since I got them." Per the brand, the jeans' legs flatter your figure from hip to hem. It also has a 360-degree panel for shaping and hugging your curves, along with a 4-way stretch for comfort throughout, butt-enhancing pockets and multiple lengths for the perfect fit.
"I tried on my usual size and it had a flattering high-waisted fit, but I’ve been liking my jeans baggier lately, so I sized up for a lower rise and looser fit," Ekman suggested.
Best barrel jean to splurge on:
Although being one of the pricier options on this list, deals editor Rebecca Brown had nothing but praise for Rolla's barrel jean. "These are flattering, with a high-waist and loose 'mom jean-style' fit. The leg silhouette is quite modest for a barrel, too," she hypes.
Per the brand, you can roll up the hem of the sculpting barrel leg for versatile styling.
How to shop for baggy jeans
Although looser compared to most styles, baggy jeans aren't as difficult to shop for as it seems. But like all jeans, you should shop for a pair that works best (and is most comfortable) for you.
Pay attention to the rise
"Baggy jeans come in various styles, so make sure to go with the rise that’s best for your body type (i.e. long torsos may want to opt for mid to higher waist, and shorter torsos [might want to] opt for low to mid waist)," suggests Teich. "You can consider sizing up if you want them looser or more low slung," she explains, or size down if you prefer a snugger fit.
Cut and length are key
The stylist also emphasizes paying attention to cuts when it comes to baggy jeans. Such as, if you often wear a wide leg, Teich recommends a loose palazzo. But if you love a straight leg, a relaxed straight might align with your preference. Plus, "look for thicker denim if you want more structure, or go lighter for a flowier, lived-in vibe," Esobar eecommends.
Additionally, baggier jeans can often lean a bit longer. So "if you’re on the shorter side, try a pair that tapers a bit at the ankle so you’re not drowning in fabric," notes Escobar.
Chataigne continues, "Be sure to not have your jeans dragging," she notes. "Tailor them to your favorite shoes with a quick stop at the dry cleaners."
Look at proportions
Chataigne also advises shoppers to "pay attention to proportions with the pant rise" according to your body. "You don’t want an extra long zipper with a low waist especially if you have a shorter waist. It throws everything off."
Frequently asked questions
"Baggy jeans aren’t about body type, they’re about styling," emphasizes Chataigne. "That said, different silhouettes can work with your shape to highlight your best features."
If you are curvier around the hips and things, the style expert recommends mid- or high-rise baggy jeans "because the volume balances the hips while accenting the waist." But if you carry weight around your midsection, "try high-rise jeans with a looser fit around the leg to elongate legs and draw attention away from the midsection," she adds.
Teich agrees, and notes that baggy jeans "can add balance and curves to inverted triangle and straight body types, but with the right styling, anyone can pull them off."
All of our experts highlight the importance of balancing you look when dressing baggy jeans, since they can sometimes feel sloppy. As a quick tip: "Pair volume with structure," says Chataigne. For instance, "Try a tucked-in tank, a fitted blazer, or a cropped knit," she recommends. "Make the outfit interesting with a juxtaposition of a tighter top, blazer or jacket with your denim." Teich especially recommends this method for those who may be broader on top.
If you're pear-shaped, Teich's favorite way to style baggy jeans "is with a top that has a nipped waist, belted or something more structured on top for balance."
When accessorizing or choosing a baggy jean, "opt for a sleeker sneaker, sandals or flats to help add polish," the stylish suggests. Escobar says that baggy jeans are "endlessly adaptable," so you can style them freely with any shoe in your current rotation.
"Baggy jeans are a natural progression after the fall of the skinny jeans, and after everyone was accustomed to comfort during the pandemic," suggests Teich. Some people might even prefer baggy jeans if wide-leg jeans weren't their style, the stylist notes.
She says, "I think baggy jeans can look effortlessly cool when done well, and are a great pair to own to stay comfortable for WFH days or weekends to step it up a notch from sweats or leggings."
How we chose
To choose the best baggy jeans, we leaned on the expertise of fashion experts as well as stylists. We got their recommendations on the best baggy jeans, along with styling advice and their shopping practices. We also tapped into the knowledge of Shop TODAY editors, asking them to share their favorite pairs of baggy jeans they own and love.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on denim styles. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Melissa Chataigne is a host, producer and style expert.
- Liz Teich is a New York-based stylist and founder of The Closet Refresh.
- Nesta Simone is a style coach based in both New York and New Jersey.
- Stephanie Escobar is a celebrity stylist.
