Finding the perfect pair of jeans can be a significant undertaking, given the vast array of denim brands available today. Each brand brings its unique philosophy to the table, focusing on different aspects like durability, fit, and style. Some prioritize using resilient vintage fabrics that maintain their shape over time, while others integrate elastic materials into more structured cotton to offer a customized and comfortable fit. Beyond material and construction, the world of denim is constantly evolving with new silhouettes, cuts, and washes, making the selection process even more intricate. This guide aims to simplify that search by highlighting some of the most notable denim brands, ensuring you find a pair that not only fits perfectly but also aligns with your style preferences.
Citizens of Humanity elevates casual wear with meticulously crafted jeans, each undergoing a rigorous inspection by numerous artisans. This brand is celebrated for its stretchy denim that retains its form through countless washes, offering sizes from 23 to 34 with various fits from slim to relaxed. Generally, their denim fits true to size, with stretch fabrics enhancing comfort. Meanwhile, Khaite, founded by Cate Holstein in New York, offers refined and polished jeans that transform casual outfits. Known for their high-quality essentials since 2016, Khaite’s light and dark-wash denim pieces are designed to be cherished for years. Available in sizes 23 to 32, Khaite jeans are often structured and non-stretch, making it advisable to size up for a more comfortable fit.
Frame’s denim collection captures the enduring allure of 1970s fashion, specializing in perfectly flared jeans with a French dressing-inspired ease. The brand pays close attention to subtle details like emphasized seams and refined distressing, offering sizes 23 to 34. While generally true to size, some styles may require sizing up for optimal comfort. For those seeking vintage 1990s-inspired denim, Agolde is the go-to brand, constantly innovating with unexpected cutouts and architectural shapes while maintaining high-quality craftsmanship. Agolde’s diverse range includes slim, straight, relaxed, and baggy fits in sizes 23 to 34, with a recommendation to consult their fit guide due to varying fabric and style characteristics.
Mother, established in 2010 by Lela Becker and Tim Kaeding, has grown into a comprehensive ready-to-wear brand, though its jeans remain a standout for their quality and celebrity endorsement. Producing in Los Angeles, Mother emphasizes supporting local businesses. Their jeans, popular with figures like Meghan Markle and Katie Holmes, are available in sizes 23 to 34 and generally run true to size, though specific style and fabric variations might influence the fit. Levi's, a true classic since 1853, continues to be a trustworthy choice, beloved by icons such as Princess Diana. With a wide range of women's sizes from 24 to 34 and various fits including skinny, slim-fit, straight, and relaxed, Levi’s maintains consistent sizing, yet consulting their size guide for personalized measurements is always recommended to ensure the perfect fit.
For buttery-soft denim, Madewell stands out, a spin-off from J.Crew launched in 2006. Madewell excels in creating jeans with a worn-in feel from the first wear, offering inclusive sizing from 23 to 37, including petite, tall, and plus sizes, all at affordable price points. Their jeans generally fit true to size, though some styles may stretch over time. Slvrlake, founded by Louise and Gary Edgley in Los Angeles, prioritizes fit and offers premium denim in a wide range of washes. Their high-rise, straight-leg jeans, available in sizes 23 to 32, typically run true to size, with an option to size up for a more relaxed feel.
Haikure, an Italian denim brand, is known for its sustainable and non-boring designs, ranging from cargos to flares, favored by Instagram style influencers. Available in sizes 23 to 32, Haikure’s relaxed and wide-leg fits are true to size but will soften with wear. Still Here, based in New York, offers a blend of East and West Coast influences with cool-girl-approved silhouettes that are both stylish and high-quality. Crafted from 100% non-stretch cotton in sizes 23 to 34, these jeans run true to size and will adapt to the wearer's body over time. Toteme, founded in 2014 by Elin Kling and Karl Lindman, provides refined wardrobe essentials with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic. Their high-rise, straight-leg jeans, available in sizes 23 to 32, fit true to size but may require sizing down if you prefer a more fitted look.
Triarchy caters to those who appreciate stretchy denim but are mindful of its environmental impact, offering a plastic-free alternative that molds to the body. After a temporary halt in production to focus on sustainability, founders Mark Adam and Ania Taubenfligel relaunched the brand with groundbreaking eco-friendly techniques. Triarchy jeans, available in sizes 24 to 33, fit true to size and come in various styles made from sustainable materials. R13, established by Chris Leba in 2009, is renowned for its expertly ripped, tattered, and distressed jeans, embodying a rebellious spirit. Their edgy, oversized fits are available in sizes 24 to 32, and some styles may run large, so sizing down is recommended for a closer fit.
E.L.V. Denim, a London-based brand founded by Anna Foster, champions sustainability by upcycling pre-loved garments into new creations, ensuring no waste in their jean-making process. Their jeans, crafted from upcycled materials, are available in sizes 24 to 32 and generally run true to size, softening and molding to the body over time. AG, representing founder Adriano Goldschmied's initials, has focused on fabric innovation since its inception in 2000, utilizing materials like hemp and eco-friendly inks. Their collection, available in sizes 24 to 32, includes skinny, straight, and bootcut fits, generally running true to size. Finally, B Sides, named for the idiosyncratic deep cuts of a record, embraces imperfection with its unique spliced and patchwork denim styles. Available in sizes 24 to 32 and made from non-stretch denim, these jeans generally run true to size but can be sized up for a more relaxed fit. Each of these brands offers distinct characteristics, ensuring a perfect match for diverse preferences and body types.