These are the best jeans to shop right now, chosen by a fashion editor
Staple denim styles to invest in
- The best jeans to wear in 2024
- The best straight leg jeans
- The best high waist jeans
- The best horseshoe jeans
- The best white jeans
- The best long jeans
- The best petite jeans
- The best embellished jeans
- The best baggy jeans
- The best sculpting jeans
- The best plus size jeans
- The best vintage jeans
- What are the best jeans for my body shape?
- How can I prolong the life of my jeans?
For many of us, jeans are a staple in our wardrobes acting as the go-to piece when we don't know what to wear, want to dress down an item or just want an outfit that feels effortless. As a fashion editor, it's taken me many years of trying different types of jeans to figure out which styles not only work for me but also go with the maximum amount of pieces in my wardrobe.
After all, a great pair of jeans isn't a one-season piece and, if cared for well, can last for many years to come, so finding a style you want to reach for again and again is a must. From current autumn denim trends to finding the perfect inspiration on how to dress up your denim, the best jeans are those that not only pull your outfit together but also ensure you feel confident.
No matter what they're styled with, whether it be a soft cashmere knit, or layered under a chic winter coat, you really can't go wrong with a sleek pair of denim.
If you're unsure which style of jeans to go for, in my opinion the foundation of any timeless wardrobe includes three pairs of jeans, all of which I own and would highly recommend: a high-waisted wide-leg pair, a straight-leg pair and a slimmer-fitting silhouette. By opting for these three cuts that transcend trends, you'll be able to create a multitude of outfits so endless occasions. Simply add a t-shirt and an oversized blazer for a stylish day look, a camel coat and a cashmere knit for the office or an embellished top once party season rolls around, and you've got three effortless looks that you can easily rework throughout the year.
Alternatively, for any true denim lover who has the already basics covered, you'll most likely want to invest in more trend led jean styles. To get the best advice on the best jeans to be wearing in 2024 I thought why not turn to the experts to find out which jeans they'll be shopping and styling this coming season. Keep scrolling to hear their recommendations...
The best jeans to wear in 2024
According to Richard Johnson, Chief Commercial and Sustainability Officer at MyTheresa, it's all about relaxed styles, "[We're] definitely leaning towards a mid-rise straight or relaxed fit, akin to the classic 501 for a timeless appeal," he told us, "The oversized trend is waning, with the barrel leg and subtle curve remaining essential, inspired by the Alaia jean."
And Anna Foster, founder and creative director at E.L.V denim agrees, "In terms of details and finishes, distressed denim, raw hems, and vintage washes have been prevalent, reflecting a preference for a more lived-in and authentic aesthetic."
For Richard, the lived-in aesthetic is also key, "Expect to see a resurgence of authentic, worn mid-blue washes reminiscent of classic vintage denim. Additionally, a touch of indigo is making its presence felt in the trends for this year."
So, now you know which jeans to be wearing in 2024, from classic styles to more unique cuts, it's time to get shopping. To help, we've created an edit of all the best jeans to shop right now stamped with a fashion editor seal of approval. Keep scrolling to see for yourself...
The best jeans to shop now, as chosen by a fashion editor:
The best straight leg jeans
If you only invest in one pair of jeans this season, make it Reformation's straight-leg style. A true wardrobe classic, they're relaxed enough to be worn everyday but can also be smartened up with a sleek top and a must-have designer bag.
Sat high on the waist with a 90s-inspired straight leg, Agolde's blue-toned jeans offer a nostalgic take on the straight-leg trend. Pair them with loafers, trainers, and even knee-high boots for the utmost versatility.
COS's slouchy straight-leg jeans offer a more relaxed take on straight-leg styles. Available in five washes, I love this vintage tone for a lived-in look.
For a more elevated straight leg style add these Lee jeans to your Wishlist. Featuring a loose-fit silhouette in a medium blue tone, these will see you through any season.
If you're looking for a pair of figure-flattering straight-leg jeans, you can't go far wrong with Mint Velvet's denim range. Thanks to the high-rise waist and straight cut, they're designed to make legs look ultra-long regardless of your height. They're a true crowd-pleaser.
The best high waist jeans
Look at Zara's Z1975 style for a hard-working under £30 number for a classic pair of high-waisted jeans. They give off-duty model vibes when paired with a chunky black knit or tank top.
Palazzos may come in and out of style, but I find they're never away for long so they're worth having in your wardrobe. I'm wearing mine with a co-ordinating dark denim shacket this season.
I am obsessed with Toteme's simple wide leg jeans. The pleat leg offers a chic tailored feel while the blue wash is understated and effortless. The perfect balance of high-low styling.
Fitted at the waist with a flared hemline, these jeans offer both style and comfort. Wear with heels or trainers to completely transform your look.
With a vintage inspired 70's feel, these H&M jeans prove great jeans never go out of style.
The best horseshoe jeans
Made from 100% cotton, these high-rise horseshoe jeans are the ultimate pair by Citizens of Humanity. Featuring a flattering silhouette, I simply cannot stop wearing mine this season with a soft-knitted cardigan and cowboy boots.
Want to wear jeans to the office? COS's tapered jeans perfectly bridge the gap between easy-wearing denim and smart-tailored trousers. Add a cashmere knit and a slingback kitten heel to finish the look.
Horseshoe or barrel jeans hug at the waist before rounding at the leg to create a unique balloon-style shape. This Gap number has an exaggerated silhouette that looks great paired with a fitted top for a balanced look.
For a more subtle take on the trend, I love Aligne's style. Featuring a wider leg and rounded shape that feels slightly less exaggerated than the other styles, they nod to the trend without feeling too overwhelming.
M&S horseshoe jeans have been a viral hit since their latest collaboration with Sienna Miller. Made from a cotton-blend material these jeans come in two colours and range in petite, regular, and tall lengths.
The best white jeans
Known for their sleek, smart designs, Tommy Hilfiger's denim range is one of my favourite high-quality options for everyday denim. Pair this flared pair with a chunky knit and trainers.
Mother's jeans are the cool girl-approved brand to be seen in right now, but if you're looking for a style that taps into the trend yet feels much more timeless, I'd suggest this all-white.
For a softer look, rather than bright white tones instead opt for a warmer shade like this ecru style from Sézane.
The days of thinking white denim cannot be worn during winter are far gone, and these Reiss jeans hold a classic silhouette that is as chic as it is effortless to style. Simply add a cashmere knit, ankle boots, and long coat for the perfect everyday look.
There's something eternally chic about wearing head-to-toe white, yet while white trousers can feel a little done, white denim offers a more understated look.
The best long jeans
With a dedicated range of denim for longer legs, ASOS stocks a great variety of different styles that guarantee a satisfactory fit. These straight-leg jeans are a perfect everyday option.
With a slightly slim cut leg and high rise waist, Reformation's Cynthia jeans make the perfect day-to-night jeans.
Combining volume and length, Aligne's Martha jeans make a statement in the best way possible. Wear with a simple white tee to allow them to take centre stage.
While denim has a place on the catwalk every season, for AW24, dark denim tones were spotted everywhere, from Coperni to Miu Miu. Tap into the trend in this floor length style from Agolde.
Nothing says comfortable chic more than slipping on an oversized blazer with a classic pair of wide-leg jeans. Make it your uniform, with this classic pair from Next.
The best petite jeans
Wrangler's denim comes in three different lengths, which is very appreciated as a petite girl. This classic style is a great must-have that will see you through many seasons to come.
"Standing at 4ft11, jeans shopping can be incredibly difficult as I'm constantly plagued by too long hems and gaping waistbands. River Island is one of my go-to shops as they not only offer petite friendly fits but styles that feel cool too." Jazzria Harris, Freelance Fashion Editor
Mother recently launched a line catering to petite frames, and as someone who always has to hem her trousers after buying them, I am thankful.
Another great go-to, M&S ultra-comfortable jeans come in three different lengths, which make getting the perfect fit from the get-go a much easier task.
"Culotte jeans are a fail-safe option that I've found almost always fit as someone measuring up to 5'4. The cropped hemline is very helpful in making sure they don't look too long as they are made to measure up to the ankle." - Sofia Piza, Fashion Writer
The best embellished jeans
I can just picture these worn with a white knit and co-ordinating silver slingback heels for dinner and drinks with the girls.
The great thing about MSGM's crystal-embellished jeans is that they don't scrimp on the details. Bejewelled in different colourways, they ensure you sparkle from every angle.
For an understated take on embellishment, I can't get enough of Reformations Cary jeans. Wear with a white blouse and western boots to like out your cowboy Carter fantasy.
Party jeans don't get much better than this pair from Maje. Combining delicate sparkle with a menswear-inspired straight cut, they're the best of both worlds.
These darker wash Monki jeans are a great party season hit, pair with a turtleneck and a leather jacket and you're all set.
The best baggy jeans
The recent Y2K revival has seen the return of many denim trends and one that's slowly taking hold is the low rise jean. To wear it in 2024, opt for a baggy rather than figure hugging fit for a cooler finish.
Founded by Anna Foster, ELV denim is here to shake up the denim industry and their oversized Freya jeans prove it pushing the boundaries on shape and style.
If you take one thing away from this denim breakdown, it's that oversized shapes are most definitely in. Embrace all things baggy in this style from Guess Jeans.
Made from organic materials, these baggy Ganni jeans will easily become one of your most hardworking wardrobe staples this season.
Even white jeans get a baggy makeover in the form of Weekday's Astro style. As well as ice white, they also come in mutiple black and blue tones so, if you're prone to spillages, check out their other colours.
The best sculpting jeans
Designed with curves in mind, Khloe Kardashian's denim brand will hug you in all the right places.
The brand's latest 318 Shaping jeans are designed to lengthen the legs whilst hugging your curves to celebrate your personal features. Style them with loafers and a sweater vest layered under a white T-shirt.
Did you know Spanx also created jeans? Drawing on their expansive shapewear knowledge, their denim is designed to sculpt and shape for a smooth, snug fit.
Abercrombie's curve love range is created to flatter and fit curvy figures. Alongside catering to waists from 23-37, their jeans also come in 5 leg lengths meaning all shapes are catered for.
Hourglass shapes, these jeans are specifically for you. Featuring a comfortable silhouette, they're also designed with more room at the hips meaning no annoying gape at the back.
The best plus size jeans
A classic straight fit but with a little added stretch for comfort, Good American's Good Icon jeans are a wardrobe staple for all sizes.
River island is a high street brand that delivers when it comes to plus size denim. Available in sizes 18-28 their selection features multiple on-trend styles in flattering cuts and wearable washes.
M&S are a brand that really do think about all shoppers when designing their pieces. These classic skinny jeans go up to size 22 across 3 leg lengths, so you can tailor the fit to your needs.
Marina Rinaldi's designs are a favourite amongst celebrities and influencers alike for celebrating all women. These boyfriend-style jeans are a great embellished option that works perfectly for the upcoming party season.
Abercrombie's signature Curve Love Low Rise Baggy Jeans are a fan favourite for a reason. Coming in 11 different shades and sizing up to size 37, it is an impeccable choice.
The best vintage jeans
Re/done take preloved and vintage denim and redesign it in modern cuts and styles to create pieces that feel unique yet on-trend. This straight leg style and the perfect example featuring a relaxed worn-in wash alongside a chic straight leg design.
Whilst vintage denim can offer some classic looks, there are also some great fun options out there. Take these Rokit original jeans with powder-blue star details for some extra oomph.
Featuring a low rise, loose fit with a straight leg cut, these Lee jeans are a timeless style that you'll reach for time and time again.
A favourite brand of Kylie Jenner and Lori Harvey, A Vintage Fit take preloved jeans and restyle them into fashion forward styles.
This cropped indigo blue style gives Parisian chic in the best way possible. Simply pair with a Breton knit and ballet flats to channel effortless French style.
What are the best jeans for my body shape?
It's time to ditch the sartorial rule book. Gone are the days when certain body types couldn't wear certain styles of jeans.
Betty Madden, VP Global Design at Lee explains: "With innovative fabric technology around stretch and recovery, women have much more opportunity to try a broader range of fits. This allows women of various body shapes to be more adventurous and find fits that help express their personal style. For example, flares used to be harder to wear if you aren’t tall, but we’re seeing women of all sizes and shapes wear and enjoy them. It’s more about personal expression and preference than ever before."
How can I prolong the life of my jeans?
Once you've found the right pair of jeans, you want to make sure they last as long as possible. We've got a whole guide on how to stop your jeans going baggy but, before you read that, make sure to check out Madden's tips:
"Do not over wash your jeans. Only wash them when they are stained or soiled, ideally hand wash in cold water or on a gentle cycle. Then, line or air dry. Take care of them like you would a work of art and they will deliver beauty in every wear. "
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Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.
She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.
- Sofia PizaFashion Writer
- Jazzria HarrisFreelance Fashion & Beauty Writer
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