Nothing is scarier than shopping for staple wardrobe pieces — and jeans are no exception. Between countless cuts and confusing sizing, the thought of jean shopping is enough to make many of us resign ourselves to the same old worn-out pairs that have been haunting our closets for years.
We rounded up fashion experts to share your new secret tools for fighting common jean-shopping woes. No matter how jeans seem to disagree with your body, there’s a silhouette that will flatter your curves (or perhaps lack thereof).
Scroll through to discover the hottest styles that will look great on practically every body.
Best for short legs$58.80$168.00
Best petite jeans$undefined$90.00
Best for thick thighs$55.65$79.50
Tips and tricks | Expert-approved jeans | Best jeans for short legs | Best petite jeans | Best jeans for long legs | Best jeans for thick thighs | Best plus-size jeans | Best jeans for short torsos | Best jeans for long torsos | Meet our experts
Tips and tricks for finding your perfect jean
Step 1: Don't focus on what your "size" is.
Our experts say size doesn't matter as much as it may seem. Jeans that make you feel confident and comfortable are the perfect pair for you.
Denim expert and fashion designer Madeline Rakosky suggests shoppers keep in mind that every brand's jean size chart is different.
"You might be a 25 at one brand and a 28 at a different brand," Rakosky explains. "The second that you erase the idea that you're a specific size, you're going to make shopping a lot easier for yourself."
She suggests you start shopping by going in-store to find the staple jean brand that works for you.
From there, our experts suggest shopping from those specific brands that are compatible with your body. Whether you strut into the store or order online, you'll know exactly what size you should be looking for.
If you're looking for a classic, stiff denim jean, search for jeans that are made of 100% cotton. If you prefer a bit of stretch, look for jeans that are made of a cotton and spandex or polyester blend. Our experts say the higher the cotton content, the longer your jeans will last.
Step 2: Break out the measuring tape.
The best way to find a pair of jeans that will hug you in all the right places is to make sure the pair aligns with your body measurements.
While measuring yourself can seem daunting, our experts say it's a task you can DIY at home.
Rakosky says to start by checking the brand's fit guide because this will tell you how to measure yourself.
When you're jean shopping you should be aware of three measurements: waist, hips and length.
Rakosky says that the waist measurement is always the smallest part of your waist.
If you have trouble finding the smallest part of your waist, I personally have a trick to help from years of sewing. The best way to find your waist is to stand up straight and bend to your body to one side. The point where your waist curves inward the most is where your waist is.
Usually, your waist measurement should lie about an inch above your belly button, however, each body is unique.
To find your inseam, measure from the inside of your crotch to the bottom of your ankle. Your inseam measurement will determine the length of your pant leg.
A bonus tip: indigo is the material that gives your jeans that lovely dark blue hue, according to Simone.
"It’s normally used on more durable denim," she says. "This color can hold up for many years if washed and cared for correctly."
Jean size is identified by waist size
- Our experts suggest shoppers keep in mind that brands label jean sizes based on waist measurement.
- "For example, say you're a size 28 in a low-rise jean. That jean is actually starting on your hips, but your waist measurement determines what the brand is calling your size," Rakosky explains.
Best jeans, according to experts
Gap High Rise ‘70s Flare Jeans
- Vintage 70s style
- Tend to run long
Fabric: 86% cotton, 13% recycled materials, 1% stretch | Size Type: Regular, tall, petite | Sizes: 24-35 | Inseam: 30-36.5 inches | Washes: 1
Rakosky says she recommends Gap's jeans to everyone. This brand has a multitude of jean length and jean rise combinations.
"Gap also does a great job with like the leg inseam length, so they always have a tall, regular and short length on everything that they do," she adds. This inclusive inseam range allows for the brand's jeans to fit any height or leg length.
This pair of Gap '70s flare jeans adds a retro vibe to any simple outfit. Reviewers say these jeans are a little loose in the thigh area and have just the right amount of flare.
Breaking up with your skinny jeans? These high-rise jeans are also a great way to transition into a wider leg.
Gap's fabric is also consistent over most jean styles in their fabric, so if you like the way one style fits, you're probably that size in another style too.
The Knit High-Rise Wide Leg Jeans
- Hidden zipper
- Stretches around curves
- Runs large
Fabric: 81% cotton, 11% lyocell, 8% elastane | Size Type: Standard, tall, petite | Sizes: 23-34 | Inseam: 30.5-35.5 inches | Washes: 2
Reviewers are in love with the side zip on these jeans. However, reviewers suggest sizing down because these jeans have some stretch that will expand over time.
Simone says "the cut and design can work great for curvy, shorter women."
Current/Elliott The Boulevard Bootcut Jean
- Ankle-length fit
- Has just enough stretch
- Only a slight flare
Fabric: 83% cotton, 15% polyester, 2% elastane | Size Type: Regular, tall, petite | Sizes: 24-35 | Inseam: 30-36.5 inches | Washes: 1
Current Elliot is also great for straighter body shapes, according to Simone.
The brand's high-quality denim comes in a variety of flattering silhouettes like the Boulevard Boyfriend jeans. The slight flare in these bootcut jeans will highlight your shape and any bold shoe you're strutting in.
"I love this cut. The rise works great with my long torso, and the inseam length on my 5'7" frame hits a few inches above the ankle bone, so I can wear these with both flats and heels," one reviewer said. "I've been wearing them with chunky loafers and flat sneakers."
Best jeans for short legs, according to editors and shoppers
Calvin Klein Standards Iconic Straight Fit Vintage Selvedge Jeans
- Unisex style
- May not work for thick thighs
Fabric: 100% cotton | Size Type: N/A | Sizes: 24-38 | Inseam: 32 inches | Washes: 1
Social media editorial assistant Annie Shigo says the Standard Iconic Straight Fit from Calvin Klein is the perfect match for her short legs.
"I struggle to find a pair that fit my legs and waist," she says. "These are great and on sale and they are unisex!"
Hop on the baggy jean trend ,but be aware that reviewers said these jeans are meant to sit on your waist and not your hip.
"These have quickly become my favorite jeans. They feel very high quality and as long as you get the right size, they look amazing. I noticed they sit a bit higher on the waist than I am used to," one reviewer said.
The best part? Shigo's favorite jeans are 70% off right now.
BDG Kylie Cropped Kick Flare Jean
- Hugs backside curves
- May be snug on wide hips
Fabric: 98% cotton, 2% spandex | Size Type: N/A | Sizes: 24-34 | Inseam: 26 inches | Washes: 3
Highlight your legs in BDG's flared cropped jeans. A reviewer who is five feet in height said they love the fit of this pair.
"They are more mid-rise on me but I have a shorter torso. They’re the perfect length for me, I’m 5’0" so if you're a lot taller they’d probably be too short for you," the reviewer said.
Best petite jeans
Curve Love Ultra High Rise 90s Slim Straight Jean
- Perfect office jeans
- Too short for tall women
Fabric: 99% cotton, 1% elastane | Size Type: Extra short, short, regular, long, extra long | Sizes: 23-30 | Inseam: 27-33 inches | Washes: 10
Back gap be gone! Social media's beloved Curve Love jeans magically makes the dreaded waist gap disappear in these jeans. These slim, straight jeans are a fusion of skinny jeans and straight jeans and have been tagged as the "best jeans ever" by reviewers.
"After all the social media hype, I caved and bought a pair of these jeans. I am happy I did," one reviewer said. "I have never had a pair of jeans fit as well as these. As all curvy gals know, that back gap in jeans is annoying. It is nice to finally not have one!"
If you usually fall between sizes, reviewers said buy the smaller size if you want it to be tight fitting on the smallest part of your waist.
Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jean
- Works for short or long torso
- Many washes and styles
- Washes can be darker in person
Fabric: 99% cotton, 1% elastane | Size Type: extra short, short, regular, long, extra long | Sizes: 24-30 | Inseam: 26.5-32.5 inches | Washes: 22
Abercrombie’s rebrand brings a touch of perfection to the petite shoppers. The Ultra High Rise 90s Straight jean is a timeless silhouette you can dress up or down.
Have some curves? No problem. These jeans are made to hug your hips. The extra-short length delivers that trendy vintage straight-leg style to anyone around five feet tall.
Reviewers say the brand's attention to detail is why this is a bestselling pair among petite women.
"Abercrombie jeans are the only ones I buy! The quality is great and the jeans fit like a glove," one reviewer said. "I got these in size 26 and 27 and both fit great. I’m 5’2" [and] 128 pounds for reference. They do stretch after a while so if I want something more fitting I wear the 26. These are the best jeans! Buy them!"
Best jeans for long legs
Gap High Rise Patched ‘70s Flare Jeans
- Dual tone leg
- Heavy material
Fabric:86% cotton, 13% recycled materials, 1% stretch | Size Type: regular, tall, petite | Sizes: 27-33 | Inseam: 30-36.5 inches | Washes: 1
Run to Gap! Senior social media editor Kate McCarthy’s favorite jeans are on sale now.
Want jeans that have the quality and style of the '70s with a modern twist? Groove your way into a pair of Gap’s High Rise Patched ‘70s Flare Jeans. McCarthy says these have been her “go-to jeans for the fall.”
"They fit true to size, are super comfortable, and are the first pair of jeans I’ve ever owned that I’m not dying to get out of by the end of the day," she adds.
Torrid Bombshell Skinny Premium Stretch High-Rise Jean
- Holds in tummy
- Runs small in calf area
Fabric: 65% cotton, 20% rayon, 13% polyester, 2% spandex | Size Type: Extra short, short, regular, tall, extra tall | Sizes: 24-35 | Inseam: 10-30 inches | Washes: 8
Have long legs and curves? Make them pop in these bombshell high-rise skinny jeans.
One reviewer said, "These are my favorite go-to jeans to wear with high boots, booties or high sandals. They have premium stretch and give you a great, smooth finish."
Gap High Rise Stride Wide-Leg Jeans
- Hugs your hips
- Regular size runs long in leg
Fabric: 99% cotton, 1% stretch | Size Type: regular, tall, petite | Sizes: 24-35 | Inseam: 29-34 inches | Washes: 1
One word, five letters — sleek. Style is built into Gap's high-rise stride jeans. The high cotton count means that these jeans are built to last for years and years of wear.
Reviewers suggest you dress up this pair for a night out with heels or boots. You can also dress it down with espadrilles or tennis shoes, according to reviewers.
"Love these jeans so much! They are exactly what I hoped for," one reviewer said. "Fit is good and they are so comfortable. No more skinny jeans, this style flatters every shape. Thank you GAP."
Madewell Harlow Wide-Leg Jean
- Fits most body types
- Tailored pleated waistband
- May not work for curvy frames
Fabric: 61% cotton, 39% TENCEL lyocell | Size Type: standard | Sizes: 23-33 | Inseam: 31 inches | Washes: 1
Want your outfit to feel tailored to perfection? The secret ingredient is a pair of Madewell's Harlow Wide Leg jeans.
Senior SEO editor Jess Bender and production coordinator Camryn Privette are obsessed with the Harlows.
"They’re perfectly baggy without being unflattering. Not only do they come in countless colors and materials but they will fit a range of body sizes," Privette raves.
If you use the code LETSGO, you can score 30% off right now.
Levi 501 Original Fit Jeans
- Button fly
- Larger in waist
Fabric: 100% cotton | Size Type: N/A | Sizes: 23-34 | Inseam: 30-33 inches | Washes: 16
All rise for the holy grail of jeans! Levi's 501 jeans are beloved with over 360 million videos about them on TikTok. Plus, these vintage-inspired jeans are proven to last for years to come.
"I’ve been debating on getting 501s for a while. I don’t know why I waited so long because these are the most perfectly fitting jeans. I have extremely expensive denim and these are just as nice if not better," one reviewer noted.
Best jeans for thick thighs
American Eagle Next Level Super High-Waisted Flare Jean
- Trendy Y2k style
- Run a bit long
Fabric: 80% cotton, 12% recycled polyester, 6% viscose, 2% elastane | Size Type: regular and long | Sizes: 000-18 | Inseam: 32-34 inches | Washes: 1
These high-stretch American Eagle jeans have a vintage feel that pairs well with most basic tees. The super high rise and slim leg frame your curves as you strut through the day.
Plus, Bender has been wearing these jeans nonstop since she received them.
“They give my inner thighs space to room and stretch and don’t hug them in an awkward, unflattering manner,” she says.
NYDJ Marilyn Straight Denim Jeans
- Incredibly stretchy
- Small front pockets
Fabric: 67% cotton, 31% elastomultiester, 2% elastane | Size Type: regular | Sizes: 00-18 | Inseam: 32 inches | Washes: 2
Not Your Daughter's Jeans is one of Shop Today's all-time favorite jean brands, and even Oprah agrees too. The brand was featured in Oprah’s 2017 Favorite Things selection as her “favorite denim brand.”
They use “lift tuck technology” that slims your curves and thighs. The classic straight-leg design can be paired with almost any item in your closet.
Deputy editorial director Alexandra Deabler and associate SEO editor Kamari Stewart recommend these jeans to anyone and everyone because they are so comfortable.
Deabler bought these jeans on sale during Amazon Prime's Big Deal Days. She also suggests shoppers size down because of just how stretchy and roomy these jeans are.
Best plus-size jeans
ASOS New Look Curve Ripped Knee Skinny Jeans
- Thick and soft denim material
- Super high-waist
- No front pockets
Fabric: 94% cotton, 4% polyester, 2% elastane | Size Type: regular | Sizes: 14-24 | Inseam: N/A | Washes: 2
Simone says ASOS Curve is perfect for women with curvier shapes who may want a more fitted style of jeans.
"The price point is affordable and the brand has nice quality fabrics," she adds.
The ripped-knee skinny jeans are a fan favorite because of their high-waist and stretchy material.
"The denim is really stretchy and I’d say the leg is about 28 inches - I’m 5'2" and they go to my ankle which is good for me, if you’re taller they’ll be shorter," one reviewer said. "I do wish the actual waistband had a little more stretch but they’re ok. They go all the way up to my waist so they are really high-waisted which I love."
Universal Standard Seine High Rise Skinny Jeans
- Slimming silhouette
- Hugs thick-thighs
- Can run slightly large
Fabric: 73% cotton, 23% polyester, 4% elastane | Size Type: 27 inches, 30 inches, 32 inches, petite | Sizes: 00-40 | Inseam: 27-32 inches | Washes: 7
Universal Standard has entered the chat! If you're curvy and on the shorter side, the Seine high-rise skinny jeans are your new best friend.
One verified reviewer said that they originally had trust issues with jean shopping online.
The reviewer noted, "I really didn’t think these would fit me, but, I was wrong! They fit perfectly! I am 5’10 1/2 inches tall and have a hard time finding jeans that are long enough, but, since these were skinny jeans that hit at my ankle, they were okay. I ordered a size 24 and I think I could actually wear a size smaller, but, I am happy with these for now."
Talbots Straight Leg Jeans
- No waist gapping
- Runs a little large
Fabric: 98% organic cotton, 2% elastane | Size Type: misses, petite, plus, plus petite | Sizes: 2-18 | Inseam: 28.5-31 inches | Washes: 1
Here's one trend you can slip into. The straight leg is back and better than ever! Hopefully, you kept the pair you had in the '90s, but if you didn't Talbots has you covered.
These straight-leg jeans are here to snatch your waist and hug your hips.
Reviewers say these jeans are perfect for the petite and curvy woman.
One reviewer said, "I LOVE these curvy fit pants. No gap at my waist. Yet fits great in the hips and thighs. I wish Talbots offered more curvy fit pants including shorts. This would expand many women’s choices when searching for pants/shorts with Talbots."
Best jeans for a short torso
H&M Curvy Fit 90s Baggy Low Jeans
- Roomy leg opening
- Small gapping at the waistband
Fabric: 65% spandex, 35% cotton | Size Type: regular | Sizes: 10-18 | Inseam: N/A | Washes: 1
Like the baggy jeans trend but refuse to pay the high price tag? H&M has got you covered.
Reviews say these oversized jeans are perfect for women with short torso and large thighs. The best part? They’re only $30.
Duluth Trading Co. Double Flex Denim Relaxed Leg Jeans
- Stretches around curves
- Small waistband
Fabric: 70% cotton, 20% polyester, 9% rayon, 1% spandex blend | Size Type: regular, long | Sizes: 2-18 | Inseam: N/A | Washes: 1
Associate SEO Editor Kamari Stewart suggests these jeans for their comfort and stretchy composition.
The Double Flex Relaxed Leg Jeans are abrasion-resistant to withstand whatever the day throws at you.
Duluth Trading Company is known for making quality outdoor work clothes that can withstand almost anything.
Be mindful that these jeans are truly made for those with a slim waist. Reviewers say these jeans fit best for women who have a small waist and a short torso.
"Really comfy for everyday wear. I love the looser legs, stretchy material and high waist," one reviewer said. "I’ve been wearing these almost daily since I got them. Would love to see additional washes or trousers with this fit/style."
Abercrombie & Fitch Mid Rise 90s Straight Jean
- True mid-rise jeans
- Runs a little long
Fabric: 99% cotton, 1% elastane | Size Type: extra short, short, regular, long, extra long | Sizes: 23-37 | Inseam: 26.5-32.5 inches | Washes: 6
Reviewers say the mid-rise '90s straight jeans are perfect for short women with short torsos.
One reviewer mentioned, "These are perfect for short torso girls. They fit right above my belly button like normal high-rise should fit. Look great on the butt but the short is still a little long on my 5’2” body."
Just Black Denim Uncut Straight Jean
- High cotton content
- Only one inseam size
Fabric: 99% cotton, 1% spandex | Size Type: regular | Sizes: 24-31 | Inseam: 29.5 inches | Washes: 3
Production coordinator Bella Druckman can attest that these are the best jeans for women with long legs and short torso.
"I never wear jeans because I often find that they’re too tight on my stomach, but these are flattering and super stretchy," Druckman says. "Whenever I wear these jeans, people compliment them. The woman standing in line behind me at the pharmacy the other day even asked me where they were from so she could get them for her daughter."
The high cotton content in Just Black Denim’s Uncut Straight jeans makes it a durable pair for hundreds of wears. Also, they have a bit of stretch for your comfort.
Best jeans for a long torso
Everlane The Way-High Jean
- High cotton content
- Denim quality
- Run a size larger
Fabric: 98% organic cotton, 2% elastane | Size Type: regular | Sizes: 23-35 | Inseam: 25.5-29.5 inches | Washes: 7
Top-tier quality is how reviewers think of these Everlane jeans.
The soft and durable denim is what makes these jeans a shopper's must-have.
"The fit is perfect if you’re looking for very high-waisted and have a medium to long-ish torso," one reviewer said. "They have just enough stretch to be comfortable while still feeling held in. The bone color is ideal for summer months all the way through winter."
Good American Good Curve Straight Jeans
- Ultimate comfort
- Not waist gap proof
Fabric: 82% cotton, 17% recycled cotton, 1% elastane | Size Type: regular, plus | Sizes: 00-30 | Inseam: 28 inches | Washes: 1
SEO writer Jannely Espinal said yes to Good American's Good Curve straight jeans. The versatile wash and snug fit made these Espinal's new favorite pair of jeans.
"I have a long torso and long legs, but I don’t mind they hit at the ankle since I can show off my footwear," Espinal says. "I tend to struggle with the waist size and length but this one snugs my body perfectly and gives my thighs enough room to move."
Reviewers say comfort is the biggest selling point for the Good Curve straight jeans. Most reviews say they "fit like a glove."
One reviewer even ordered these jeans to wear to work, "They have a lot of stretch and are very comfortable. All the hype was true!"
- Madeline Rakosky is a denim expert and an apparel & fashion designer based in Los Angeles. She has worked on design concepts with brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Gap and Juicy Couture.
- Nesta Simone is a style empowerment coach based in New Jersey. She is a fashion expert who has worked on everything from fashion show production to designing to luxury fashion and bridal retail.
