We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Fashion Clothing Jeans & Pants The Best Straight-Leg Jeans for Everyday Wear Slip into one of these stylish picks By Michelle Rostamian Michelle Rostamian Michelle Rostamian is a beauty, wellness, and lifestyle writer with nearly 10 years of experience in the beauty industry and bylines at PEOPLE, Byrdie, Real Simple, InStyle, and more. She began her career in the beauty industry as a publicist and content writer representing makeup and skincare brands as well as industry professionals. She formerly was a social media marketer. Michelle graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a B.A. in Communications. People Editorial Guidelines and Alyssa Brascia Alyssa Brascia Alyssa Brascia is a staff shopping writer for PEOPLE with two years of experience in the digital media industry. Her expertise lies in the realm of fashion and beauty, where she covers the best products that your wardrobe and makeup vanity need like the best lip oils, boyfriend jeans, workout sets, ballet flats, and more. People Editorial Guidelines Updated on August 20, 2024 02:17PM EDT In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews What to Know FAQ Why Trust PEOPLE? Photo: People / David Hattan Finding the right pair of jeans is such a nuanced journey, isn't it? There's a lot to consider, from the length, wash, and of course, the fit. One style of jeans that has withstood the test of time is the straight-leg jean. According to Cassandra Sethi, personal stylist and founder of Next Level Wardrobe, straight-leg jeans are one of those styles that'll always have a place in a wardrobe, no matter what's cycling in and out of fashion at the time. We know how accomplishing it feels to finally land on the right pair of straight-leg jeans. After hours of research, we found the best straight-leg jeans on the market. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Levi's Premium 501 Original Fit Jeans at Amazon $98 Jump to Review Best Pull-On: Good American Power Stretch Pull-On Straight Jeans at Goodamerican.com Jump to Review Best '90s Style: Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Jean at Abercrombie.com Jump to Review Best Slim: Abrand 94 High Slim Jeans at Amazon $60 Jump to Review Best Dark Wash: Current/Elliott The Soulmate Slim Straight Jean in Lighthouse at Amazon $36 Jump to Review Best Light Wash: Diesel 1999 Straight Light Blue Jeans at Diesel.com Jump to Review Best Mid-Rise: Reformation Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans at Nordstrom $168 Jump to Review Best Curvy: Madewell The Curvy ’90s Straight Jean at Nordstrom $128 Jump to Review Best Maternity: H&M Mama Straight Ankle Jeans at Hm.com Jump to Review Best Overall Levi's Premium 501 Original Fit Jeans PHOTO: Levi's $98 at Amazon $108 $84 at Zappos View on Levi.com If you're looking for a capsule wardrobe basic, 501s are a classic for a reason. Between the durable denim and reliable fit, these jeans never go out of style. We love how these jeans fit snugly over the hips and thigh, tapering out ever-so-slightly toward the ankle. With 13 different washes, two different lengths, and the choice between low-stretch fabric or no-stretch fabric, there’s truly something for everyone when it comes to this tried-and-true style. Material: 100% cotton or 99% cotton, 1% lyrcra | Size Range: 23-34 | Colors: 13 | Inseam: 30 inches, 32 inches Best Pull-On Good American Power Stretch Pull-On Straight Jeans PHOTO: Good American View on Goodamerican.com It'll be love at first try-on with the Good American Power Stretch Pull-On Straight Jeans. With three washes and nine sizes to choose from, these are the perfect pair of jeans to own if you're constantly in between sizes thanks to how forgiving the material is. During testing, we found these jeans to be incredibly comfortable and stretchy, to the point where it felt like we were wearing leggings the minute we put them on. We appreciate how smoothing and sculpting they are — we didn't experience any bunching with this pair, and we found the slim fit from the top to the knees to be very flattering. Material: 81.5% cotton, 5% recycled cotton, 4.5% elasterell-P, 5% recycled polyester, 4% elastane | Size Range: XS-5XL | Colors: 3 | Inseam: 27.5 inches Best '90s Style Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Jean PHOTO: Abercrombie & Fitch View on Abercrombie.com With a fit this good, you'll want one of Abercrombie & Fitch's Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jeans in every color (and you're in luck because there are four of them to choose from). But don't worry, they're relatively affordable. Finding your fit is foolproof because there are several sizes and lengths to sift between, making them great for those who fall in the petite, tall, or plus sizes. Beyond this, we love the juxtaposition of the straight-leg silhouette with the vintage ‘90s fit — the hem is also so subtly frayed that it won't overpower your look. One note: the fabric is a bit on the stiff side, so they're not ideal for sitting or doing any constrictive movement for long periods. Material: 99% cotton, 1% elastane | Size Range: 23W-37W | Colors: 4 | Inseam: Extra short, short, regular, long, extra long Best Slim Abrand 94 High Slim Jeans PHOTO: Abrand $60 at Amazon View on Abrandjeans.com $98 at Urban Outfitters Though these high-waisted jeans may not look familiar to you right off the bat, according to a press release, they were the very pair that Margot Robbie’s character in Barbie sported during her final scene in the film. Complete with an ultra-high waist, a slim silhouette, and a slightly cropped hem, these are the perfect casual jeans for someone who wants to dress down their look without looking too relaxed. Go for real-world Barbie’s look with a pair of pale-pink Birkenstocks, or throw on your favorite pair of heels for an elevated night-out look. Material: 99% cotton, 1% elastane | Size Range: 23-34 | Colors: 9 | Inseam: 27.5 inch Best Dark Wash Current/Elliott The Soulmate Slim Straight Jean in Lighthouse PHOTO: Current/Elliott $36 at Amazon View on Currentelliott.com The Current/Elliott The Soulmate Slim Straight Jean in Lighthouse will quickly become your soulmate if a dark wash is what you're after. The color is timeless and complements any outfit (daytime or nighttime) while the slim style is an all-season staple. There's no distressing or raw hem on these, making them a great option for those who prefer a sleeker look to their denim. Plus, the high waistline gives the illusion of longer legs — what more could you ask for? Material: 99% cotton, 1% elastane | Size Range: 23-32 | Colors: 3 | Inseam: 30 inches Best Light Wash Diesel 1999 Straight Light Blue Jeans PHOTO: Diesel View on Diesel.com If there's one thing we can promise, it's that you won't miss the stretch in these 100% cotton jeans: the baggy, relaxed fit and low rise make them so easy to slip into (and wear for hours on end). If you're into lighter washes, you'll find the bleached light blue color easy to style. Pair these jeans with some Chelsea boots and a lightweight sweater for brisk days, or throw on a white tee and sneakers for an easy breezy vibe. Another quality that gives these jeans major brownie points: They run true-to-size, which helps take the guesswork out of something as tedious as denim shopping. Material: 100% cotton | Size Range: 23-32 | Colors: 1 | Inseam: 27.5 inches Best Mid-Rise Reformation Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans PHOTO: Reformation $168 at Nordstrom $168 at Reformation $168 at Anthropologie The Reformation Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans are an ideal choice for those who want to strike a balance between comfort and style. The mid-rise fit is flattering and versatile for all body types, while the vintage style gives these jeans a bit of flair. The classic, straight-leg cut provides a look that can easily be dressed up or down for any occasion. Available in nine different colors, these jeans are meant to have a bit of a slouch below the waist, thighs, and legs, and are fitted at the hips. Material: 57% regeneratively grown cotton, 43% TENCEL lyocell | Size Range: 23-34 | Colors: 9 | Inseam: 32 inches Best Curvy Madewell The Curvy ’90s Straight Jean PHOTO: Madewell $128 at Nordstrom View on Madewell Show off your shape with one of our favorite curvy jeans from Madewell. This pair has a comfortable and flattering fit that hugs the waist and eliminates gaps. Made with just the right amount of stretch, these classic ‘90s straight-leg jeans fit snugly at the hips and thighs and have a high-rise cut for ideal coverage. They come in sizes petite, plus, standard, and tall, so you’re sure to find your ideal fit. These jeans also feature Madewell’s Magic Pockets which are reinforced to smooth the tummy. Material: 99% cotton, 1% elastane | Size Range: 23-33 | Colors: 4 | Inseam: 30.5 inches Best Maternity H&M Mama Straight Ankle Jeans View on Hm.com We get it — you want to look cute during your pregnancy but can't justify spending a fortune on a pair of maternity jeans you'll only wear for a few months if that. Cue H&M's Mama Straight Ankle Jeans — not only will these not put a dent in your wallet, but they'll make you wish they came in a non-maternity style. These fit like a glove but don't feel constricting, which is a combination that's hard to achieve when we're talking maternity jeans. That's all due to the wide jersey panel that's both breathable and adaptable to your growing belly. The ankle-grazing length is also noteworthy; they play nicely with any type of shoe from high-top sneakers to slip-on shoes (which we're willing to bet you're living in during pregnancy). Material: 99% cotton, 1% spandex | Size Range: XS-XXL | Colors: 3 | Inseam: Not listed What to Know About Straight-Leg Jeans Length Traditionally, straight-leg jeans hit just above the ankle, says Duer founder Gary Lenett. "That said, we are seeing some straight-leg fits with longer inseams that hit the shoe for a slightly stacked look." Ultimately, the length of your jeans will depend on a few things — your personal style and functionality being the main factors. You should also consider the best length for your choice of footwear for ease of styling. "If you’re looking for everyday jeans, choose a length that will best suit an everyday sneaker," says Lenett. Aside from footwear, he recommends considering the season. "If you’re living in a wet climate, for instance, opt for a shorter length to ensure your jeans last for multiple seasons," he says. Material Jeans are made out of cotton fibers, and many of today's styles are made with materials like lycra or spandex for some added stretch, notes Lenett. "A lot of people still associate stretch with loss of shape retention or lack of structure, but there’s been a lot of innovation in denim over the last decade — it’s now possible to have the look of ‘90s rigid denim while also having just enough stretch integrated for comfort," says Lenett. "For that person who seeks to avoid stretch altogether, rigid raw denims are the best alternative." There's also sustainability to consider. Lenett notes that there’s a big focus on integrating recycled fibers in place of virgin synthetics. To take things a step further, some brands are integrating "performance fibers like COOLMAX® with antimicrobial and cooling properties so jeans can be worn day after day without washing," says Lenett. Rise Choosing the right rise for your denim is all about your personal style and body type. Lenett explains that low-rise jeans, like the Diesel 1999 Straight Light Blue Jeans, hit on the hips and sit below your natural waist while mid-rise jeans, like the Reformation Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans, sit midway between your hips and belly button. "Mid-rise jeans offer more coverage than a low-rise but can feel less constricting than a high-rise, which typically sits at or above the belly button, accentuating the waist and providing more of an hourglass silhouette," he says. There's also ultra-high-rise denim to consider, which sits even higher than high-rise and closer to the lower ribs. Take the Abrand 94 High Slim Jeans and their leg-lengthening silhouette, which sits a bit above the waistline for the ultimate elongated look. While each style works differently for various body types, Lenett says that high-rise jeans offer added support around the hips and stomach, making it a solid option if you’re looking for pants with a snug fit across the midsection. Frequently Asked Questions What women's jeans are in style? Straight-leg jeans are a huge hit, as it's a shift away from skinny jeans and a throwback to ’90s trends, says Lenett. "It's the perfect blend between a classic, relaxed style that offers a vintage look but at the same time, a modern, flattering cut."Besides straight-leg jeans, there are several women's jeans that are in style. For one, carpenter jeans are making their waves among fashion lovers, as they're a nod to the comfort of cargo pants we all know and love. "Many people [are] looking for a twist on their essential styles that are still functional, making this the perfect entryway for the cargo pant," says Sethi. "Look for a pair in a darker denim or olive color for maximum versatility."A good pair of relaxed-fit jeans with a looser silhouette is also sought after this year. As Sethi notes, since the relaxed style can read casual, try pairing this type of denim with a more structured top to dress it up a bit (think: cool blazers, crisp blouses, and classic cozy cardigans). What shoes should I wear with straight-leg jeans? Straight-leg jeans are so versatile and can be worn for both casual outings and dressier occasions alike. "We’re seeing a lot of people pair a longer straight-leg with a dressy boot for a more sophisticated look," says Lenett. "In terms of what to avoid, calf or knee-high boots that you’re hoping to show off won’t complement the straight-leg fit." If you prefer to go more casual, you can never go wrong by pairing your straight-leg jeans with a pair of everyday comfortable sneakers. What are the most comfortable straight-leg jeans? The most comfortable straight-leg jeans are the ones that fit you the best. They should "be fitting throughout the leg, bottom, and waist," notes Sethi, and they should also pass the "sit test," which involves sitting down in your jeans and seeing if they dig into your stomach. If they do, you should go one size up. Also, pay attention to the type of closure the jeans have — while most will have a button and fly, some will have a button placket (a row of four or more buttons) or even a drawcord and elastic band, which Sethi says can be comfortable for those in the midst of a body transition.Also, consider the material of the denim and if it'll have a break-in period. "Raw or non-stretch denim, typically made from 100 percent cotton, rely on starches that result in a stiff and rigid feel," says Lenett. "The 'break-in period' is critical for wearability and comfort." In any case, you’ll know you have the right fit if your straight-leg jean is snug (not tight) throughout the thigh and loose from the knee down, says Lenett. Why Trust PEOPLE? Michelle Rostamian has been covering beauty and fashion for the last 12 years, writing pieces on an array of topics. When researching our list of the best straight-leg jeans, she consulted with Cassandra Sethi, personal stylist and founder of Next Level Wardrobe, and denim industry expert and Duer brand founder, Gary Lenett. Staff writer Alyssa Brascia later updated this piece with new, customer-loved styles that stand out among the crowd of straight-leg jeans. Our Expert Panel Cassandra Sethi, personal stylist and founder of Next Level Wardrobe, Gary Lenett, denim industry expert and founder of brand Duer has spent over 30 years making jeans for brands such as Levis, Gap, Lee, Nordstrom, Wrangler, and more. The 10 Best Places to Buy Jeans Online, According to Editors and a Fashion Expert