Unless you’re starring in the ’00s feel-good film Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, searching for the perfect pair of jeans isn’t a picture-perfect experience. If you’re curvy or plus-size, finding the best places to shop when the industry still falls short in terms of size inclusivity is a struggle. It’s no surprise that finding a pair of jeans that fits can feel downright insufferable (much less finding a pair that you and your best friends can wear), which is why we decided to round up the best plus-size jeans all in one place. And to make finding that perfect pair even easier, we tapped Nadia Boujarwah, the founder of the e-commerce site Dia & Co, which is dedicated to solely curating plus-size products. Ahead, you’ll learn a little about her retail platform, some of her tips for shopping denim, and a roundup of the best places to find plus-size jeans. Your very own magical pair of pants awaits.
What compelled you to start an e-commerce site that curates only plus-size brands?
I had always hidden the painful shopping experiences that defined my adolescent years in the back of my mind. I’ve been everything from a size 8 to a size 22, and I couldn’t help but notice, no matter my size, that there was nothing for me. I struggled with clothing fit and finding stylish options. It wasn’t until years later that I realized that these experiences were not at all unique. They were experiences that I shared with tens of millions of women. That realization made me change from being on the sidelines to creating a solution, and Dia & Co was born!
What tips would you give to women looking for that perfect pair of plus-size jeans?
Until you find the perfect pair, commit to trial and error. Find a retailer that has a generous return policy, or a home-try on a model like Dia & Co, and try brands and styles you may not have usually picked. Once you find a great pair, stock up! I always have fresh pairs of my favorite jeans tucked away in the back of my closet. The idea of not having them when I finally wear out my current pair is just too stressful.
Online shopping is becoming more a part of our lives every day. What tips would you give for finding great plus-size denim online?
Denim is all about the fit, so being able to try different styles is critical. There are great options, so don’t settle for something that doesn’t make you feel great. Know the attributes that generally give you the best-fit feel. For me, I know that means a high waist (at least 10 inches) and a cropped inseam to accommodate my 5’3” frame. Within that, I love experimenting with washes and styles and can do so more successfully.
What denim cut, if at all, do you feel looks universally good on every body type?
I don’t think there is a universal fit; fit is very personal and is more about how you feel in the jeans than just how it technically fits. It’s one of the reasons why finding a pair you love can be so exciting.
Are there any washes or even denim blends you’d recommend consumers avoid?
I think it depends on what you are looking for. Denim with more stretch is usually more comfortable, but more rigid denim can give you a more tailored look that I often love. Again, the key with denim is not to be afraid to try new things, and try a lot!
What denim brands do you feel do a great job of creating the best plus-size jeans?
My all-time favorite jeans come from Molly & Isadora. I’m a big fan of the Leroy Skinnies. These jeans hug my curves in all the right places, never gape at the waist, and come in many inseams and washes so I can always find what I am looking for. I also love Meri Skye denim for more rigid cuts. The tailored look is always perfect on these, and even though I’ve washed mine dozens of times, they still look and fit great.
What are your hopes for the future of plus-size shopping?
To celebrate the plus-size experience! The simple truth: Amazing style is part of a life well-lived. At Dia & Co, we’re dedicated to creating that for our community, from developing the shopping experiences our consumer has always wanted to building community platforms that inspire her to ensure she sees herself represented in the world around her. Because when you find your style—both in fashion and in life—it changes everything.
Shop more of the best plus-size jeans from around the internet:
We’re also huge fans of Good American here at Who What Wear, as the brand not only has some of the best plus-size jeans around but also offers inclusive sizing.
These bone-white jeans are begging to get bought.
Another one of the best places to buy plus-size denim? Universal Standard. With sizing from 00 to 40, it basically guarantees you’ll find that perfect pair.
Jeans aren’t the only denim essential you should be able to find in your size. A denim jacket is a must-have for a practical gal.
Levi’s has some of the best jeans, in general, and its plus-size styles are just as good.
Our editors live and swear by Levi’s Ribcage denim, and luckily, this pair comes in inclusive sizes.
You’d never guess that some of the best plus-size jeans could be found at Mango.
Nothing makes getting dressed easier than a one-and-done jumpsuit.
Eloquii is one of the best places to shop for plus-size clothing, and its jeans are no exception.
Let me just add these to the cart real quick.
Sustainability and size inclusivity go hand in hand for the premium denim brand DL1961. For anyone searching for the best sustainable denim option in their size, this brand is for you.
Tan jeans are the unexpected denim staple everyone should own.
Some of the chicest and cheapest plus-size jeans can be found at Forever 21 (yes, fam, really).
Statement jeans that are available in sizes 12 to 20? Sign us up.
Everlane is another brand you can count on to carry some of the best jeans in your size.
These look great on literally everyone.
Warp + Weft is another brand leading the charge in inclusive sizing within the fashion industry, and it features some of the best stretchy denim around.
Wide-leg denim in sizes 14 to 24? Don’t mind if I do.
Looking for more trend-forward plus-size denim? We recommend ASOS’s, as your're bound to find your new favorite pair.
You’ll want to scoop up this classic pair before it sells out.
Madewell also has a great selection of extended-size jeans that would make for a great addition to any streamlined wardrobe.
Looking for something different? Why not try these workwear pants?
Nordstrom carries some of the best fashion-forward size-inclusive brands, including Wit & Wisdom. If you’re looking for fun, plus-size denim, you’ll find it at Nordstrom.
Red denim? Yes, please.
Finding plus-size brands you love is half the battle, and if you haven’t met Torrid, you’ll want to acquaint yourself with the brand ASAP. Start with its denim department, of course.
These wide-leg jeans not only are available in sizes 10 to 30 but are also very much on-trend for this season.
Looking for a denim brand that specializes in jeans all under $100? Kut From the Cloth has officially entered the chat about the best plus-size jeans brands.
Red wine is the color of the season, so why not indulge in a pair of jeans in the hue?
Another affordable place to find size-inclusive denim is Pretty Little Thing. With sizes ranging from 12 to 26 in trendy cuts, this will be your favorite place to shop for of-the-moment denim trends.
Distressed denim is something that stays relevant season after season.
If you’re an avid user of shapewear, then you’re going to want to buy a pair of NYDJs. The brand is the first size-inclusive denim company to patent (and use) lift-and-tuck paneling inside the denim to make you look and feel your best.
Now that you’ve found the perfect pair of boot-cut jeans, here’s how to style them.
While some brands fail to have inclusive sizing, 1822 denim does it all. With denim for every body type (including tall, maternity, and plus-size), this is a brand you’ll want to bookmark.
A good pair of straight-leg jeans are a staple you can wear for seasons to come.
What's another brand with great size-inclusive options to keep on your radar? Lee denim.
Skinny jeans available in sizes 12 to 24? Sign us up.
And finally, one more affordable brand that you can find the best plus-size denim with is Walmart’s very own brand Terra & Sky.
In truth, some of the best plus-size jeans come from the most surprising places. All you have to do is be willing to search for them.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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