Editor's Picks: The Best Jeans for Every Purpose
I’ve always had an affinity for denim. Perhaps it’s my West Coast roots or because my favorite style icons wore it so well, or perhaps it’s due to the fabric’s versatility—whatever the reason, I love jeans. So much so that when I recently relocated to New York from Los Angeles and was forced to significantly trim down my collection, I still came out owning over 25 pairs. So while today’s slideshow is told from the perspective of what I personally like to wear, hopefully my array of styles and love for denim will give you insight on some new pairs you can add to your wardrobe. Scroll down to see the best jeans for every purpose, and be sure to tell me in the comments which ones you’re wearing right now!
Frame Denim Le Skinny de Jeanne Jeans ($199)
I’ll come right out and say it: I’m not a big fan of skinny jeans. I find it challenging to consistently create well-proportioned outfits around them that feel fashion forward, figure flattering, and fresh—three very important F’s! That being said, when I’m going on a date with someone (hey, it happens from time to time), I tend to reach for this pair. The rise sits perfectly on my hips, the dark wash is versatile and evening appropriate, and the ankle crop opens up shoe possibilities. Also, there’s the perfect amount of stretch in them. I’ll typically wear these jeans with a silky button-down shirt and a pair of heels. A final swipe of lipstick, and I’m out the door!
Talley Lola High Rise Ankle Slim Jeans ($278)
Though the idea of having an outfit seamlessly transition from work to drinks sounds pleasant, sometimes at the end of the day you need to shake things up and toss on a pair of sexy denim instead. Enter my Talley jeans. They look amazing with a top tucked in, and the slight crop makes it easy to either wear work heels or slip into a pair of cute flats.
AYR The Slim Slouchy ($195)
If you buy these jeans in your traditional size, they’ll fit slouchier. However, I decided to size down, and the result was delightful. They rest high on the waist, but not too snugly. Also, the bottom of the jeans have a crop kick, which makes me feel a bit like a French girl, and who wouldn’t want to feel like a French girl while running errands?
AG The Ex-Boyfriend Slim Jeans ($225)
Okay, so full disclosure: I don’t go to concerts that much anymore because it hurts my back to stand for long periods of time. However, for the right band or musician (hello, Leon Bridges), I’ll make an exception. And when I do, I love to wear this pair of distressed denim. I unroll the cuff so they sit like a slim boyfriend jean, and because they hug lower on the hips, I can half-tuck a band tee in the front, and it looks pretty effortless.
Velvet by Graham & Spencer Jenny Boyfriend Jeans ($167)
If you’re getting together with family, it's likely you’ll be eating a lot of food. And while I would probably suggest opting for a very flowy dress for such a gastronomical occasion, go with these if you want to wear a pair of jeans. I love how low they sit on my hips without looking like Christina Aguilera circa "Genie in a Bottle," how much stretch they have in them, and the overall relaxed fit. Perfect for a low-key day of fun.
Levi’s 501 Jeans ($198)
It seems like every cool, fashionable girl in the universe owns a perfectly fitted pair of Levi’s 501 jeans. And while the task of finding a pair that fits you like a glove is tremendously tedious, once you find your pair, the world is a better place. I found mine at the beginning of this year and have literally worn them at least 50 times so far.
Amo The Babe Jeans ($253)
In my opinion, a fun and flattering pair of denim can be the perfect party companion, which is why I turn to these cool jeans when I want to make a subtle statement. The wash is super special, and the interesting distressing at the ankles makes it easy to pair them with a white tee and heels and be good to go. And yes, you will feel like a babe in these jeans.
MiH Jeans Phoebe Jeans ($245)
If you can’t wear denim in the office, then keep on scrolling past this one. However, if you work in a creative environment that allows jeans in the workplace, might I suggest MiH’s wide-leg iteration? They look polished when worn with a tucked-in crisp white shirt and a pair of heels.
Mother The Dropout Slouchy Skinny Jeans ($215)
Whenever I have to fly, these are my go-to pair of jeans. Though I definitely wear them outside the confines of an airplane seat, they are perhaps the most comfortable pair of jeans I own, and they just so happen to be very stylish as well. An investment you’ll get a lot of mileage out of, so to speak.
Do you already own any of these jeans? Would you invest in any of them? Tell me what you think in the comments below!