Why is shopping for jeans so hard? I mean seriously, I'm a shopping editor and I still end up tearing my hair out when trying to decipher the minuscule differences between straight, slim and regular-fit jeans. But as always, seems to be the case with these things, you spend months hunting down the perfect pair then three come along at once.
I haven't ordered much over the last six months, however, on a whim, I decided to order a few straight-leg styles from ASOS, hoping that out of three pairs at least one would turn out to be a winner. One was from Topshop, one from a brand called Reclaimed Vintage and one from & Other Stories, and you know what? They're all fab. I have a dilemma on my hands—which one do I choose? From Topshop's longline high-waisters to & Other Stories' classic appeal, scroll down to see the styles and read my verdict. The jury is out.
& Other Stories
Style Notes: I've heard lots of good things about & Other Stories' denim, however, for some reason I've never taken the plunge and bought a pair myself. This Keeper Cropped leg pair really is a classic straight-leg style, with its slim leg and waist-hugging fit. I opted for my usual size W28 and they are true to size, but the denim fabric is quite rigid, so take note if you prefer a stretchier fit. They also come with a multi-button fastening, which is a nice touch, and an oh-so-subtle distressed finish, ideal if you want to embrace that true '90s throwback feel.
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Topshop
Style Notes: I have to say I am a real Topshop denim devotee, and some of my favourite pairs have come from the store. I didn't think I would love this pair, which comes with a longer leg length, however, thrown together with the super high waist, it offers unexpected leg-lengthening benefits. That being said, it probably isn't so good for petite individuals. I'm just over 5'7" and they were a good length for me. They are probably the most distressed out of the three, but it still feels like a suitably classic blue. This is a great pair for those who want a more dramatic silhouette and some serious waist-cinching appeal.
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ASOS: Reclaimed Vintage
Style Notes: The Reclaimed Vintage pair come in a more uniform true blue with a subtly distressed edging on the pocket. It's worth noting that I went one size up, following the advice from reviews, and they were a perfect fit (I would usually get a W28, but bought a W30). They were also snug on the bum, so possibly less good for those with a curvier silhouette. They were just the right amount of high-waisted and had a nice trouser leg width which will pair well with both sandals and boots. A solid 9/10 from me.
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Plus, shop my sandals:
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