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The Best Jeans To Wear Right Now, According To True Blue Denim Fans

Photo: Courtesy Of Free People
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
While we love a matching sweatsuit and the ultimate no-fuss black leggings, jeans are still a timeless closet staple. The classic garment is at the very top of our shopping lists year-round, and we’ve got our eyes out for the best jeans for women right now to upgrade your collection. We've included a variety of styles, such as more contemporary looks that touch upon the top denim and jean trends of 2024 as well as some timeless options.

As far as denim is concerned, there are the heavy hitters (lookin’ at you Levi’s) that are always a safe bet. But retailers like Abercrombie & Fitch, Free People, and Anthropologie have stepped up their game over the past few seasons, which means shoppers have more choices than ever before in the denim department. To help narrow down the search for the best pick of the bunch, we’ve sought the advice of shoppers who’ve doled out their stamps of approval in the form of stars and ratings. We’ve rounded the top-rated jeans on the internet, from classic straight-leg styles to trendy barrel silhouettes to get you closer to your perfect match. Make sure to check back frequently as we'll continue updating this roundup with only the best highly rated jeans by customers.
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Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors. At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff.
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The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 450 reviews on FreePeople.com
Best For: Testing out the trendy barrel-leg trend
Barrel-leg jeans are one of the top 2024 denim trends, and Free People has put its own spin on them with subtle distressed detailing and wide legs that taper at the ankle. There's a plethora of hues to choose from, such as milk-white to midnight black. Mind you, sizing can be tricky with this silhouette and design, so double-check your measurements before you order! Also, one note is that the jeans have a button closure, not a zipper. 
"I love the FP barrel jeans. I own the black and blue, and they're perfect for me. I'm 4'11. The jeans are full-length, not cropped on me, and have a flattering shape. I just wish they had a tiny bit of stretch to them; otherwise, I'm so happy with them," writes a reviewer.
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The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 2,229 reviews on Abercrombie.com
Best For: A classic pair of relaxed high-rise jeans
Have you dealt with your fair share of jeans that leave an unwanted waist gap? Well, Abercrombie & Fitch's Curve Love will do the trick. All the denim styles add an additional 2 inches at the hip and thighs for a roomier fit to hug your curves and eliminate that gap. Even better, the brand has not one, but 30 different styles and light to dark washes in various sizes and lengths. We've selected one of the classic dark blue styles with sleek trouser pockets to start you off.
"As someone with thicker thighs and wider hips, I haven't found a pair of jeans that aren't just flared or skinny that work well for my body type. I can finally wear a relaxed pair that looks good and hits all the right places. I went up a size for a looser look but could have gone with my normal waist size. So happy with this purchase," raves a reviewer.
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars; 55 reviews on Madewell.com
Best For: A true wide-leg wardrobe staple
I might be a bit biased since these are my all-time favorite pair of jeans, but based on the reviews, I'm glad to see that I'm not alone. I had to go to three different stores and be on the waitlist for my size since it kept being sold out. I opted for a bigger size since I wanted a slightly baggier fit and would personally recommend it. While I bought the petite version, I tried on both lengths; they were equally soft and comfortable. The wide-leg silhouette isn't overwhelming and adds a chic factor to any look, whether you style it with a tweed lady jacket and loafers or a sheer top and black pointed boots.
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"I've been buying Madewell jeans for many years, and these are one of, if not THE best pair! The Heathcote wash is a perfect mid-blue that works with many outfits. I kept waiting for them to go on sale, but they were always excluded from promos. I ended up snagging them full price in-store, and I almost NEVER pay full price for anything," explains a reviewer. "These are true to (Madewell) size and, for my 5'5" frame, hit above the ground; no need for heels. The perfect wide-leg jeans indeed, get yourself a pair!"
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 331 reviews on JCrew.com
Best For: An everyday no-fuss pair of jeans
If you're not one for the frills and extra details regarding jeans, J.Crew has various laid-back designs. One of its most popular pairs is the Vintage Slim-Straight Jeans. The style has an array of soft blue shades, a sprinkle of black tints, and white that you'll want to stock up on the denim.
"Honestly, these are the best jeans I have ever owned. They fit perfectly, and the wash is also perfect! The midrise is just below my belly button, and they hit just above my ankle bone for a comfortable fit. For reference, I am 5'7". They just feel classic. Nothing super trendy about them. Definitely buying more washes," writes a reviewer.
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The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 481 reviews on Anthropologie.com
Best For: A cropped wide-leg look
When it comes to Anthropologie, our editors have their go-to collections from the brand. First, there's the Somerset Collection and then the Colette. The latter is our most recent favorite, as the collection is home to comfy wide-leg pants that we've personally tested out ourselves, which is why we have our complete trust in the denim version. Get ready to model your favorite ankle booties or chunky loafers in these wide-leg cropped jeans. The jeans hem falls perfectly at your ankle for a comfortable fit.
"After trying some of the short Colette styles, I finally tried the jean. The medium wash is a nice balance between light and dark and will carry across all seasons. The fit is perfect as there are additional shaping darts to contour to your body," shares a reviewer. "I normally wear a size 28 or 6 with an hourglass shape, so the 27 fits better. I love the stretch and length; these are perfect for dressing up or down."
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 252 reviews on Gap.com
Best For: A denim take on the utilitarian trend
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Like the barrel leg style, cargo jeans have made the list of the top 2024 denim trends. While exaggerated cargo pockets blended with statement details, such as zippers have hit the runway, for a daily pick we think Gap's '90s Loose Cargo Jeans does the trick.
"Cargo jeans are my go-to for a perfect blend of style and functionality. The classic denim fabric offers durability, while the cargo pockets provide a utilitarian edge," writes a reviewer. "I appreciate the versatility—whether I'm on a casual day out or need that extra storage on the go. Comfort meets practicality, making these cargo jeans pants a wardrobe essential for me."
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 150 reviews on Everlane.com
Best For: A super-high-waisted fit
Prepare for a sea of reviewers praising how Everlane's Way-High Sailor Jeans have become their favorite pair. The extra high-waisted style has gained a cult following, and Everlane enthusiasts now own multiple pairs in different hues. We can't blame them, as the jeans are a true wardrobe staple — especially for the longer torso gals like me. The bottoms reach a little above the belly button, so the jeans don't bunch in the wrong places, and they only comfortably hug the hips, so you'll want to stay in it all day long. Even better, the high-quality denim is rigid yet soft and only gets better with every wash.
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"The jeans of my dreams! As a long-torso girlie, these are ACTUALLY high rise and hit above my belly button — almost to the small of my waist. I'm just under 5'7", and I have a curvier hourglass shape that's a little fuller on the bottom, and these don't cling/bunch around my thighs or gap at the waist," exclaims a reviewer. "The leg is wide, falls nicely from the hip for a clean line, and sits just above the shoe. Super cute with sneakers and booties, and I think they'll look just as good with sandals and warmer-weather shoes."
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 1,525 reviews on HM.com
Best For: A sturdy pair of slim-fit mom jeans
If you're looking for jeans that won't lose their shape, not sag or bunch, H&M's Slim Mom High Ankle Jeans are the way to go. These extra-high-waist jeans are crafted from a 99% cotton and 1% spandex blend. They have a clean-cut look that cinches in the waist and is more rigid in the legs while still maintaining that mom jean flair in the hips.
"These are definitely a sturdy pair of jeans with minimal stretch (if any)! I love the fit of the high waist. Very flattering. They can be dressed up or down, which makes them very versatile too. I'm 5'6", slim built, and usually wear sizes 0 or 2 in H&M pants/jeans, so these fit true to size. WARNING: These are very snug in the waist," shares a reviewer. "It wasn't an issue for me since I usually struggle with a waist that's rather loose on most pairs of jeans/pants that fit well through my hips/thighs/legs, but I definitely DID NOT have a loose waist issue with this pair of jeans. I can wear these with sneakers or heels, and they look great!
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The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 87 reviews on Frame-store.com
Best For: Traveling in comfort and style
This goes out to our petite jean ladies. Who would have thought jeans could be included among the best travel pants? Frame has disproved the notion that jeans are stuffy and uncomfortable for commuting with this black Jetset Crop Mini Boot pair. The no-hardware and no-pocket jeans are designed for travel so that you can try your best to get comfortable in the cramped airplane seat. Plus, the silhouette is crafted from super-stretchy denim that conforms to your body. There's also an identical version in a longer flared style
"I bought these for a quick trip and plan to use them on an overseas flight, too. They are TTS and are super comfortable and flattering! The jeans are super stretchy but return to their original shape afterward. Highly recommend," writes a reviewer.
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The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars; 777 reviews on GoodAmerican.com
Best For: A pair of comfortable fitted skinny jeans
You've heard it here, folks. After a long few years of falling out of fashion, skinny jeans are making a comeback. However, the figure-hugging style is no longer suffocatingly tight. The just-right pair you've been looking for is hiding in plain sight over at Good American. The brand's soft skinny jeans are created with a gap-proof contoured waistband for a snug fit and a comfy high waist.

"I absolutely love these jeans. There’s no gaping in the back, which is usually an issue for this curvy girl. The skinny jeans feel soft, not stiff, like some denim. I also purchased an ankle pair for my 75-year-old mother," writes a pleased reviewer. "She absolutely loves them and has worn hers numerous times already. So if you’re debating with yourself, stop it and just purchase the jeans you’ll be happy you did."
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The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars; 581 reviews on Levi.com
Best For: A pair of comfortable fitted skinny jeans
​​Look no further if you're searching for a pair of classic black jeans that glide on with that perfect amount of stretch. Your wish has been granted with this sleek and timeless midrise style. The fitted hip, thigh, and straight-leg finish gives the jeans a subtle vintage flair.
"These are a very comfortable, relaxed fit with a bit of Lycra for stretch. I would recommend it to anyone wanting a pair of comfortable jeans while moving and sitting. No binding," writes a reviewer. "The pants are very comfortable, riding just below the waist and stretching appropriately and as needed. In addition, they're flattering. They wash up well but are subject to fading if you do not handle them with care. I recommend them," another reviewer shares.
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