Everyone has that one item of clothing that they own way too much of. Mine is jeans. Some may call it a jeans obsession–I prefer the term jeans collection–but either way, I’d consider myself well versed in the subject.
Let me provide you some context: my jeans must fit into the extremely narrow category of simultaneously looking good, and being comfortable. Since high school, I have searched for a pair of jeans that were flattering on my 5’7 athletic body type, and would fit my high standard of comfort.
Finding the perfect pair of jeans for yourself is a bit of a guessing game. The process of finding my favorite jeans took years, and I was successful when I focused on the look and feel, instead of the size or style. If you are looking for an amazing pair of jeans, maybe one of my favorites will work for you…but if it doesn’t, that’s okay! Everybody is different, and it is important to find jeans that you feel confident and comfortable in.
This summer when straight leg, bootcut, and flare jeans came in style, I quickly hopped on the trend, and p.s., I’m never going back to skinny jeans. After years of searching for a good pair of jeans, I found not one, but three favorite pairs. Here’s the scoop:
1. Levi’s 725 High Rise Bootcut
Ringing in at $70, the Levi’s 725 High Rise Bootcut jean is seriously amazing. These jeans are so flattering and the most comfortable thing ever. They are a stretchy material, but maintain that authentic Levi’s denim look. They are branded as high rise, but hit me mid-waist, making them super comfortable to sit in, and they don’t fall down when walking around. The Levi’s 725 were my go-to jeans this winter to wear with boots, and I recently cut the ends to give them a distressed cut-off look. I would highly recommend trying them out.
My Madewell Cali Demi-Boot were my staple jeans this summer, because of their comfort and the flexibility they provide. The Demi-Boot is fitted at the thigh and knee, but has a subtle flair at the calf, with a crop above the ankle. The pair I have are a light wash, and have a distressed hem, making a perfect look with sandals or white sneakers. The Madewell Cali Demi-Boot jean rings in at $128, but I found my pair at Nordstrom Rack on discount. So, if you’re a girl on a budget, keep an eye on the Rack, as they often have Madewell jeans!
3. Etica High Rise Tyler Vintage Straight
Etica Denim is not as well known as Levi’s and Madewell, but they really should be. First off, Etica is a brand committed to corporate responsibility and sustainable practices, which makes the price of $168 a bit easier to get behind. I can’t talk enough about how much I love the Etica Tyler cut; it is such a flattering straight-leg look, and they rank 10/10 for comfort. The Tyler Vintage straight is a high-rise cut with four buttons, a tapered straight leg cut, and is loose through the thigh and leg. In the age of virtual learning and work from home, the Etica Tyler are my go-to jeans for remote classes since they are so incredibly comfortable. I have the light blue wash and recently invested in a whitewash as well. The Etica Tyler jeans have been my best investment piece, as they are a staple in my wardrobe and definitely my most-worn pair of jeans.
Edited by Emma Paquette