These Designer Jeans Make Me Feel Like a Grown-Up With Excellent Credit and Even Better Taste

I may be 29, but more often than not, people mistake me for being 21. I blame it on being five feet tall with a baby face. Whenever I share my real age, I get the same line: "You'll appreciate looking young when you're older." Maybe one day I will—but that day hasn't come yet.

Because of this, I've spent years figuring out how to dress more mature. I've learned that maxi or midi skirts and dresses work better for me than short ones, and that long, fitted jeans are infinitely more flattering than cropped or baggy styles. However, I'm always on the lookout for new silhouettes and designers to try. For example, a few months ago, after hearing everyone talk about Khaite Jeans, I went into the NYC flagship store and ended up splurging on a pair because they somehow make me look taller. I also recently filled up my closet with maxi pencil skirts from Enza Costa and COS. After all of that, one brand was still on my must-try list: Nili Lotan, specifically its denim. Between TikTok, Instagram, and Substack (yes, I'm chronically online), every fashion influencer I follow has been raving about how good Nili Lotan jeans are. While they've all spoken about the fit, the feel, and the quality, I noticed that every person, regardless of their body type, looks a little more sophisticated and put-together with the jeans on, so naturally, I was intrigued.

For those unfamiliar, Nili Lotan is a New York–based designer who launched her eponymous label in 2003 following a career at renowned labels such as Ralph Lauren and Nautica. Over the past two decades, she has built her brand around timeless, sophisticated staples—pieces that are clean, functional, and luxurious, which her jeans exemplify. They're all made from Japanese denim, a high-grade, long-staple cotton known for its durability and beautiful fade over time. In other words, they're built to last.

Since I'm easily persuaded, but also always have to see for myself, I made my way to Nili Lotan's Tribeca store to try on the brand's top four best-selling denim styles—Shon, Joan, Megan, and Florence. Without further ado, keep scrolling to see how each pair fits and how they made me feel and, hopefully, look more mature.

Nili Lotan Shon Jeans

My review: Whether you're a longtime fan of Nili Lotan or just discovering the brand, it's likely you've come across the cult-favorite Shon pant. This barrel-leg silhouette has appeared in the closets of celebrities such as Anne Hathaway and Emma Roberts, as well as fashion editors and content creators. Apart from its endorsements, the Shon pant has gained acclaim for its ultra-soft fabric, utilitarian-inspired pockets, and a fit that's both comfortable and flattering. To further explain its popularity, the brand features an entire section and landing page showcasing everything about the Shon, from wool and cotton styles to leather, corduroy, and Japanese denim—the latter of which I tried on.

Now, let's dive in to the review. To start, the Shon pant tends to run large, as my attentive sales associate kindly informed me. Typically, I wear a size 25 in jeans, so I went with a 24, and I could have possibly gone down another size without issue. While the 24 fit, it sat a bit lower on the waist than the intended mid-rise style.

I loved the uniquely curved silhouette and seam detail at the knees, which gave it a classic barrel-leg look while still being figure-flattering—no small feat for someone like me, who's only 5 feet tall. I was especially happy to see how the legs gently tapered at my ankles, rather than pooling on the ground.

Overall, these jeans are ideal for anyone seeking stylish yet comfortable denim. They're the pair you grab when the goal is to look put-together with minimal effort.

Size range: 23–32

Washes: 3

Inseam: 26"

Sizing tip: Size down

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Nili Lotan Joan Jeans

My review: When I asked my sales associate to pull the best-selling styles, she hesitated before suggesting the Joan, warning they'd likely be far too long for me. However, I know they are one of the brand's most popular pairs, so I insisted on trying them on and cuffing them underneath for pictures—and I'm so glad I did. Yes, they're long—longer than most jeans I've worn, but in every other respect, they're near perfect. Plus, Nili Lotan offers complimentary hemming in-store and online. For in-store, it is available on all pants (denim and non-denim). Online, it is only available for the brand's denim, and customers can bring their purchase to a Nili Lotan store.  

The Joan features a high-rise, straight-leg silhouette made from non-stretch Japanese denim, which means they run slightly small. The fit is flattering yet subtly relaxed through the leg, and the back pockets sit high, creating a lifted effect. They come in three washes, but for winter, I'm partial to the dark rinse because it feels especially sophisticated when paired with my black sweaters and coats.

If I had to compare these to another favorite denim, I'd say they're most similar to Khaite's Danielle jeans, only with a touch more flexibility—and at nearly half the price.

Size range: 24–32

Washes: 3

Inseam: 34"

Sizing tip: Size up

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Nili Lotan Florence Jeans

My review: Anyone who claims patch-pocket denim is outdated hasn't seen the Florence jeans. Nili Lotan refreshed this popular French-backed denim trend by slightly enlarging the front pockets compared to other styles, launching them in three very 2025 washes—black and two medium-blue distressed shades that evoke a vintage appeal—and constructing them in Japanese denim for a high-quality look and feel. The Florence jeans fit true to size but are fairly snug, especially in the upper thighs. Their style flows into a long, bootcut hem, giving an extra nod to '70s fashion.

Talking about the '70s, these jeans exude a carefree, bohemian spirit that feels relaxed and aligns well with the larger trend toward boho-inspired fashion we're noticing this year. It looks equally good paired with billowy blouses as it does with a simple tee and a short jacket.

Size range: 23–32

Washes: 3

Inseam: 34"

Sizing tip: Runs true to size

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Nili Lotan Megan Jeans

My review: Classic wide-leg jeans have become a favorite among fashion people, and this pair is a real contender. The Megan jeans feature a mid-rise silhouette that fits snugly around the waist and hips, cascading into a cropped wide leg—though, I must admit they didn't end up cropped on me. Crafted from luxuriously soft Japanese stretch denim, these jeans feel like a gentle embrace against the skin. I can easily envision wearing them on a long-haul flight, which is a big statement since I typically stick to leggings or elevated sweatpants for travel.

They don't have front pockets, which is a bit new for me, but I do love the thick waistband that makes a statement while flattering the waist. I can envision insiders pairing these with a calf-length heeled boot and a fitted leather jacket, or with ballet flats and a polo sweater. The versatility of this pair makes it an essential addition to any It girl's wardrobe.

Size range: 24–32

Washes: 2

Inseam: 28"

Sizing tip: Runs true to size

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