Here's the truth: I used to shy away from jeans. I found some denim stiff, some styles awkward and some lengths far too long (I'm just over 5 feet tall). But that's until I found the right pair of jeans, and since then, I'm never going back.
Not everyone has this luck, though. Shopping for jeans shouldn't be as complicated as it is, but with far too many jean styles, it can sometimes be impossible to narrow down what we should actually own. Some jean styles are popular because they're trending, while others are simply more timeless and versatile.
"It’s important to have a nice variety of rises, lengths and widths to accommodate different styling for tops, jackets and outerwear," suggests Jessica Thompson, Global Brand President of Halara.
That's why we contacted the experts to help find the best types of denim to have in your closet, with their top style suggestions to own. From skinny to cropped, trust us when we say you'll want to be taking notes — you might just find your perfect pair.
Best types of jeans, according to experts
Skinny jeans
"Skinny denim is making a comeback (I never thought I’d see the day!)," says Thompson, so you'll want to bring out your old pair and embrace it. Bonus? Most of our experts agree that it's easier to style than one might think.
For instance, stylist Catherine Bibeau loves pairing skinny jeans with knee-high boots. Thompson also likes to keep her “slim-legged and skinny-legged styles balanced with a mid rise, styling them back to a heel or pump and a cardigan for a classic and chic look.” Bibeau adds that skinny jeans are "a perfect pair of denim to accentuate all body types," too.
The perfect pair: Levi's 501 Skinny Women’s Jeans
- Has 99% cotton
- Not overly skinny
- Comes in different lengths
- Might be short for tall sizes
Size range: 24 to 33; multiple lengths available | Shades: 7 | Material: Cotton and elastane | Style: Skinny | Rise: High-rise
"This classic Levi’s Women’s Skinny Jean in a light wash is the perfect pair of denim for any occasion," boasts Bibeau. "I love these jeans because they are durable and high-quality, and the back pockets sit in just the right place."
Straight-leg jeans
"Straight-leg jeans are a must-have for your wardrobe," claims Bibeau. "This style features denim that stays the same width from the waist to the ankle. For a timeless model-off-duty look, tuck your straight leg jeans into a pair of Barile boots."
And for everyday styling, Thompson loves pairing straight-leg jeans with "a simple white tee and tennis shoes, or with a cardigan or cozy sweater layered on top during cooler weather for a really effortless, cool-girl look."
A throwback: Gap High Rise ’90s Straight Jeans
- Full-length pant
- Vintage feel
- Some say it runs small
Size range: 23 to 33; multiple lengths available | Shades: 3 | Material: Cotton, polyester and elastane | Style: Straight | Rise: High
Ready for a throwback? This pick loved by stylist Melissa Chataigne is inspired by the '90s jean, offering a slim leg from the hips to the thigh and a vintage look and feel.
Figure-hugging: Madewell The ‘90s Straight Leg Jeans
- Hugs hips and thighs
- True '90s fit
- Runs small; size up two sizes
Size range: 23 to 33; multiple lengths available | Shades: 3 | Material: Cotton, polyester and elastane | Style: Straight | Rise: High
Bibeau calls Madewell's The '90s Straight Leg Jeans a "staple and flattering pick." We're guessing its because the jean is curve-enhancing, all with the '90s flare. Bibeau's favorite? "The Barlow wash is perfect for everyday wear, offering a classic look," she adds.
High-waisted jeans
"A high-waisted rise is great for tucking in more fitted tops to create a nice, cinched-waist effect," Thompson explains. "Even better, try a high-waisted, long, wide-legged cut for a '70s silhouette that emphasizes the waist and lengthens the legs. I love pairing this kind of style with a cropped cardigan or a short jacket." High-waisted jeans can even elongate the torso, and since the waistband is high, curvier body types might experience less waist gap.
For double the high-rise: Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Sky-Hi Wide-Leg Jeans
- At a great price point
- Neutral and fun shades
- Some found petite too long
Size range: 00 to 30; Petite to tall available | Shades: 10 | Material: Cotton and spandex | Style: Wide-leg | Rise: Extra high-rise
"A slightly stretchy high-rise, wide-leg '70s vibe is so flattering on tall women and lengthens the more petite women too without being too overwhelming," suggests Chataigne, which is why she loves this option from Old Navy.
A bit of edge: Paige Anessa High-Rise Raw Hem Jeans
- Ankle-length
- Wide from the thigh down
- Ultra high rise
- Some say they run a bit big
Size range: 23 to 34; multiple lengths available | Shades: Multiple | Material: Cotton and elastane | Style: Wide-leg | Rise: Ultra high-rise
Although they're priced higher on this list, stylist Lindsey Bernay recommends this pair from Paige because they "combine a raw hem with a high-rise fit, adding an edgy finish for both casual and dressed-up looks." The stylist particular loves them in black because the shade is "a chic alternative to blue denim, and can transition easily from day to night."
Wide-leg jeans
"Wide-legged jeans have a loose, comfortable fit from the waist to the ankle," details Bernay. "This style provides a more dramatic silhouette," so it is great for those looking for more comfort and room. Bibeau says wide-leg jeans also are "a versatile piece of denim, offering comfort and style, and are curvy-girl approved."
"I like styling these more youthful silhouettes with oversized blouses, big jackets or menswear-inspired blazers and tennis shoes for a cool, casual and comfortable look," recommends Thompson.
An under $25 pick: Old Navy High-Waisted Wow Wide-Leg Jeans
- Super affordable
- Multiple lengths available
- Some find them too wide
Size range: 0 to 30; Short to long available | Shades: 7 | Material: Cotton, recycled polyester, recycled cotton and spandex | Style: Wide-leg | Rise: High-rise
"The wide-leg jeans from Old Navy give off cool-girl vibes, allowing you to dress your look up or down," suggests Bibeau. "Pairing with a white T-shirt and sneakers offers comfort while looking effortlessly chic." Plus, it doesn't hurt that all shades are under $25, so you can try the style for less.
Worth the splurge: Agolde Harper Wide-Leg Jean
- Subtle wide-leg
- Retro feel
- Has low-stretch
Size range: 23 to 34 | Shades: 1 | Material: Cotton, recycled cotton and elastane | Style: Wide-leg | Rise: Mid-rise
"Looking for freedom of movement while still looking chic? Wide-leg jeans are the answer," claims Bernay, and we agree with that statement. This option she loves from Agolde checks all of the boxes, from its subtle wide-leg to its retro flare.
Cropped jeans
"I think it’s great to have a pair of cuffed or cropped denim that shows a hint of ankle, especially for spring and summer dressing," notes Thompson. "This style looks great with a pair of sandals or tennis shoes; add a striped top to give you that 'je ne sais quoi' French-girl style or pair the cuffed denim with a tank, wedges and a small day purse for a high/low mix."
Best types of jeans, according to editors
A super-skinny jean: Old Navy High-Waisted Wow Super-Skinny Jeans
- Super high waist
- Snug at hip and thigh
- Multiple lengths available
- Mixed reviews on fit
Size range: 0 to 30; Short to long available | Shades: 6 | Material: Cotton, polyester, recycled cotton and spandex | Style: Skinny | Rise: Super high-rise
At under $20, these Old Navy super skinny jeans might just be your reason to try the style. If you're still not convinced: Associate producer Alexa Arent is a believer in the style, and considers Old Navy's version one of the bests. We're guessing its because of its incredible fit and even incredible price.
Embrace the mom jean: American Eagle Strigid Mom Jean
- Variety of styles; rips, etc
- Many length options
- Reviews say they stretch out
Size range: 000 to 20; X-short to long available | Shades: 4 | Material: Cotton and recycled cotton | Style: Mom | Rise: Super high-rise
"When I put on these jeans, I immediately remembered why I loved those AE jeans so much in the first place — they’re extremely comfortable," mentioned commerce writer Emma Stessman in our mom jeans coverage. "While some mom jeans can be rigid and uncomfortable, these ones are about as stretchy and soft as I imagine that a pair of jeans can get."
Great for petite sizes: Levi’s Women’s Wedgie Straight Jeans
- Flattering high rise
- 5 pockets
- Little to no stretch
Size range: 23 to 34; various inseam options available | Shades: Multiple | Material: Cotton | Style: Straight; cropped | Rise: High-rise
Because of her height (approximately 5 feet, 2 inches), senior partnerships editor Francesca Cocchi Zabloudil prefers to shop for a cropped, ankle-length jean. Because of the naturally 'cropped' nature of these Levi's jeans, it is a pair she can't stop raving about. In fact, Zabloudil previously noted that she owns them “in several washes — they’re so flattering and the perfect length.”
For eliminating waist gap: Abercrombie Ultra High Rise ‘90s Straight Jean
- Works for short or long torso
- Many washes and styles
- Multiple length sizes
- Washes can be darker in person
- Can shrink in dryer
Size range: 23 to 37; Extra short to extra long available; Curve options | Shades: 6 | Material: Cotton and elastane | Style: Straight | Rise: High-rise
If have a fuller bottom and/or hips, getting rid of waist gap can be tricky. Although these bottoms are not their curve line (you can shop the curve option here), associate editor Shannon Garlin previously said it fits her body type well. "These are my favorite jeans ever,” she raves. “I have a smaller waist and round bottom, so most jeans give me that annoying gap. These fit perfectly and are pretty true to size.”
If you prefer low-rise: Superdown Lanie Jean
- At a great price point
- Hugs the figure
- A bit long for petites
Size range: 23 to 30 | Shades: 3 | Material: Cotton, polyester and viscose | Style: Straight | Rise: Low-rise
There's mixed opinions about the return of low-rise jeans, but if you ask me, I am all for the return. As someone with a short torso, low-rise jeans help elongate my body. However, not all are alike, and one of my favorites that hugs my hips nicely is Superdown's Lanie Jean. I own it in grey, and love that it isn't too dark of a wash so I can add some contrast to my black pairs.
Best for shorter torsos: Duluth Trading Co. Double Flex Denim Relaxed Leg Jeans
- Stretches around curves
- Small waistband
Size range: 2 to 18; regular and long available | Shades: 2 | Material: Cotton, polyester, rayon and a spandex blend | Style: Relaxed | Rise: High-rise
It seems as though nothing could get through these jeans from Duluth Trading Co — and associate editor Kamari Stewart is a fan. For instance, they're double-chapped for added durability, abrasion-resistant, double-layered, among other perks, on top of the extra comfortable fit.
For a relaxed fit: Denim Forum The ‘90s Marlo Hi-Rise Baggy Jean
- Not overly baggy
- 100% cotton
- Minimal waist gap
- Not very high rise
Size range: 23 to 32 | Shades: 13 | Material: Cotton | Style: Relaxed; straight | Rise: High-rise
I like to think of these jeans as a happy medium between a straight-leg jean and boyfriend jean. It has a bit of bagginess, but not too baggy, so it is perfectly relaxed throughout the hips and legs. That alone has quickly made them one of my favorite pairs, as the jean is comfortable, elevated and not constricting.
A current season favorite style: Madewell The Darted Barrel-Leg Jean
- Free tailoring for Insiders
- Runs slightly big
Size range: 23 to 33; Standard, petite and long available | Shades: 3 | Material: Cotton | Style: Barrel | Rise: High-rise
Our experts say barrel jeans are in, and we couldn't agree more. If you're looking for an oversized pick with a bit of drama, check out this pair from Madewell. "I’m obsessed with barrel jeans right now, and these have that perfect balance of a roomier leg through the knee and a taper at the ankle that’s super flattering and comfy,” raved production associate Audrey Ekman.
Best for longer torsos: Good American Good Curve Straight Jeans
- Curve-defining
- Highly comfortable
- Doesn't eliminate waist gap
Size range: 00 to 32 plus | Shades: 1 | Material: Recycled cotton, Lyocell and elastane | Style: Straight | Rise: Super high-rise
For those who have a longer torso, finding jeans that fit perfectly around the waist can be a challenge. But after trying this pair from Good America, Shop TODAY SEO writer Jannely Espinal found them to be the perfect fit. "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 previously said. “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.”
How are jeans supposed to fit?
Since every body is different, our experts equally agree that regardless of cut, your jeans should form to your figure. Thompson says we sometimes make the mistake of sizing down because of a denim's stretch, but she argues that it can only stretch so much.
"When buying stretch denim, it should feel 'true to size' like it fits you just perfectly in all the right spots, because it is going to hold its shape," Thompson explains. So as you're shopping for a size or cut, Thompson recommends "doing a 'sit' check and a little walk around the fitting room or your living room." This will test whether there's gapping, digging and tightness around the waist, butt, hips and thighs. If you experience any of the three, that pair may not be a match.
Chataigne also shares some of her tips to determine what jean and cut might suit you best:
- Waist: "Jeans should sit comfortably at your waist without digging in or requiring a belt to hold them up," she recommends. "They shouldn’t gape at the back when you sit or bend." If you experience gapping, you can opt for tailoring or shop jeans that are already tailored to eliminate waist gap, such as curve jeans.
- Hips and thighs: "Jeans should feel snug but not tight around the hips and thighs," Chataigne says. "They should highlight your shape without pulling. If you see deep creases, then they are too tight."
- Inseam and length: "Length is a matter of style preference," explains Chataigne. "For most cuts, the hem should sit just at the ankle or a bit longer. Cropped jeans should hit a few inches above the ankle," and they are a perfect length for petites, too, without needed to adjust. Pro tip: "When shopping bring along your favorite shoe for easy tailoring," she adds.
- Rise: The rise on denim is based on where the top of the waistband meets to the end of the crotch seam. Since each rise will look different on everyone, especially if you have a longer or shorter torso, you'll want to select a rise that flatters your figure best. For instance, "high-rise works well on most people and provides a flattering shape for the waist," notes Chataigne, especially with those with shorter torsos.
- Back pockets: "Pockets that sit slightly higher tend to give a more lifted appearance," she suggests. "Lift that booty up!"
How to find your jean size at home
There are multiple ways to measure your jean size at home, which are as follows:
- Measure your waist. "Wrap the measuring tape around your natural waistline (usually around the belly button)," notes Chataigne. "Make sure the tape is snug but not tight. This measurement gives you your waist size, which is typically used in jeans sizing."
- Measure your hips. "Place the tape around the widest part of your hips and bottom, ensuring it’s parallel to the floor," she continues. "This measurement will help you choose a style that fits comfortably around the hips and butt."
- Check the inseam. "Take an inseam measurement by measuring from the crotch seam to the bottom of your ankle (or desired hemline)," Chataigne explains. "This length helps you find the ideal jean length, especially if you prefer specific cuts like cropped or ankle-length."
Frequently asked questions
Multiple of our experts agreed that barrel jeans are one of the season's most popular trends. Barrel jeans can have a wide fit in the leg, but unlike wide-leg jeans, the legs are more curved and sometimes more exaggerated.
"Barrel jeans, with their curved, sculptural shape, have the ability to look laid back and high-fashion at the same time," says Bernay. "The voluminous leg creates a dramatic silhouette, making it a go-to for both comfort and style. The fit manages to feel vintage while still looking fresh and modern."
Although this is based on preference, certain denim washes can create illusions and/or elevate an outfit.
For instance, Bernay claims that lighter wash denim "can create a more relaxed, casual vibe and are great for everyday outfits." Bibeau, on the other hand, says dark denim "create a slimming effect, making them a great choice, for a streamlined silhouette. They’re especially perfect for fall and winter outfits, for a seasonally inspired look!" Even white denim can add some flare, with Thompson adding that they're a great addition with "a great black top and navy coat in the winter feels fresh and unexpected."
"This really depends on body type and body shape," Thompson notes. "For example, a high-waisted, wide-legged style can do wonders for creating a longer silhouette and adding a sense of height to someone who is shorter. If you have a naturally short torso and long legs, a high-waisted style isn’t necessarily your friend," so a mid-rise or low-rise might be preferred. High-waisted jeans are also great for supporting the midsection.
However, other styles can enhance your figure, too, such as:
High-rise barrel jeans: Bernay says this style is perfect "for hourglass shapes as they hug curves in all the right places and draw attention at your narrow waist."
Straight-leg and boyfriend jeans: Having a straight-leg jean can "create curves where you want them," whereas boyfriend jeans can add volume, which can help "play up your natural shape."
But importantly, the best way to find the right jean style is embracing your figure. "At the end of the day, the key is understanding your body shape and then deciding how you want to dress based on it — some days you might want to lean in and 'own' it, other days you might want to create the illusion of a different body shape," Thompson highlights.
Meet the experts
- Jessica Thompson is Global Brand President of Halara.
- Catherine Bibeau is a luxury fashion stylist based in New York City.
- Lindsey Bernay is a fashion expert and stylist based in New York, and the author of the book, “You Can’t Leave the House Naked.”
- Melissa Chataigne is a host, on-air beauty and fashion expert and stylist based in Los Angeles.
How we chose
We leaned on the expertise of fashion experts and stylists and got their recommendations on the best jeans types to own (and the best ways to measure at-home for the perfect fit). We also tapped into the knowledge of Shop TODAY editors, asking them to share the tried-and-true jean styles they love for everyday wear.
