While struggling to get ready for a casual outing the other day, I had somewhat of a frustrating yet eye-opening realization. All my jeans suddenly felt too short, too long, too skinny, too wide, not the right wash, or, of course, any combination of the above. Sure, we've all had that "I hate all my clothes!" moment, but this time, it felt all too real—at least when it came to my denim collection.
Resolved to fix my little issue and hopefully not spend a single additional hour agonizing over what jeans to pair with my favorite tees and tanks, I decided I needed—or rather deserved—a new pair. After all, I really use my jeans (more than most), and if I was going to budget for any one basic, it should be them. So I did a little research for myself and, as always, ended up with way more favorites than I'd even like to admit, but before I narrowed them down, I figured I couldn't be the only one in the market for a trendy-but-wearable pair of jeans that feels very 2021 but still ready for 2022. You know, not too tight or skinny, a little on the longer side, and preferably high waisted. So here I am to share them with you. To see all my options and to get a look at my denim Instagram inspo along the way, just keep scrolling.
Warning: I'm very into distressing right now.
I may or may not have already purchased these.
These have a trouser-like cut that I love.
Can't go wrong with Re/Done.
Nordstrom's Topshop jeans selection is a 10 out of 10.
There's a reason this brand has become so successful. Its jeans really do flatter everyone.
This whole outfit reminds me of a cooler version myself.
Wear them in any season.
Perfect for pairing with flat sandals.
The goal.
Few brands come close to making affordable jeans as well as H&M.
Wear them with heels, Jordans, or slippers.
What a perfect wash.
Just add strappy sandals.
I do love a slit hem.
These are so good that I had to show you two washes.
The perfect summer jeans don't exi–
This brand is a personal favorite.
I feel like I always see & Other Stories jeans tagged on my feed, so it's about time I give them a try.
Who can say no to this under-$100 investment pair?
Weekend-ready.
I'm so happy about the return of bootcut jeans.
Classic indeed.
Gotta love a pair with good ratings.
Next: All the Fall-Ready New Arrivals You Won't Want to Wait to Buy
-
Give Your Denim Outfits a Chic Boost With These 21 Jeans From the Madewell SaleTwenty percent off? Done and done.
-
Dua Lipa and Miley Cyrus Traded In Their Dark-Wash Denim for This '90s ThrowbackHalle Berry and Cindy Crawford also approve.
-
Cooler Than Jeans and a T-Shirt—Everyone With Good Taste Will Wear These 15 Denim Outfits This FallNext time fall styling inspiration runs dry, just reference these looks.
-
These 31 Effortless Summer Basics Make Getting Ready So Much EasierLow lift, high reward.
-
Kylie Jenner Just Declared This "Dated" Denim Trend Is Still In—But Only Styled *This* WayTake note.
-
Everyone, Stop—Reformation's Huge Sale Is Here, and You Need to See These 49 Pretty FindsScore 30% off so many amazing items.
-
Enjoy Your End-of-Summer Ice Cream Trips in These 26 Chic Pieces From J.Crew, Nordstrom, and ZaraKeep cool without sacrificing style.
-
Basic Jeans Aren't Out, But This Denim Trend Feels Way More 2025It's not white, dark wash, or chocolate brown.
