In a world where social media churns out microtrends faster than we can double-tap, it’s wise to hold onto classic silhouettes that stand the test of time. In fact, Katie’s a big believer in the importance of wardrobe basics, like the perfectly tailored trench coat or an investment bag that will live on as a future heirloom. High-quality never goes out of style.
With denim, it’s often hard to find a style that feels on-trend yet timeless — many silhouettes are seemingly attached to a particular generation, like skinny jeans or bell bottoms. So if you’re looking to invest in denim that’ll have a longer lifespan in the fashion zeitgeist, we advise moving away from the newest and hottest fads (like the recent resurgence of low-rise waists) and toward a classic wide leg.
Wide-leg jeans can make you look put-together or casual, depending on the cut you choose. Baggier styles are Gen Z’s favorite weekend wear, while sleeker wide denim trousers could fit right into most offices nowadays. Boyfriend jeans are ideal when running out the door to do errands, while wide ripped-knee jeans like Katie’s add a little edge to an otherwise laidback look.
The best news? Wider designs are pretty much always more comfortable than fitted ones. Oh, and that common misconception that short people can’t wear wide pants? It can be instantly debunked by the fact that Katie actually prefers wider jeans — and looks great in them.
We included a couple of Katie’s favorite styles in our list of the best wide-leg jeans below, alongside more incredible everyday options.
The Best Wide-Leg Jeans for Women
L’Agence Alicent Wide-Leg Jean
L’Agence
These L’Agence jeans are a top pick of Katie’s: They fit true to size and have a roomy and comfortable feel while still lightly hugging your derrière. She owns this versatile blue color in a non-stretch fabric, but the style is also available in a “subtle stretch” fabric, and in a few other hues.
Madewell The Emmett Wide-Leg Full Length Jean
Madewell
Katie loves her Emmett pants from Madewell and owns them in multiple colors, including yellow and rust. But there’s also a denim iteration that should have a spot in your rotation. This pair features patch pockets, giving it a subtle nod to retro styling. With a high waist and a choice between petite, regular, and long lengths, it’s sure to complement any silhouette.
Spanx SPANXshape Authentic 360 Wide Leg Jeans
Spanx
In case you missed it, Spanx launched its newest denim collection just a few months ago — and it’s one of the brand’s best launches yet. The SPANXshape Authentic 360 Wide Leg Jeans have a stretchy feel and medium compression in the tummy and waist, resulting in a super-comfortable fit. It’s available in four classic washes, as well as petite and tall lengths.
Quince Bella Stretch Wide Leg Jeans
Quince
Jeans can get expensive, but you don’t have to blow your whole budget on new denim. These Quince jeans are made from organic cotton and come in at just $50, making them one of the best denim deals around. They’re stretchy enough to move with you without losing their shape, and come in four inseams for ultimate customization.
J.Crew Slim-Wide Jean
J.Crew
Leave it to J.Crew to create a timeless “slim wide-leg” jean that’s ideal if you want to try out a more subtle wider style. These pants are also a favorite of Katie’s, who loves that they have a hint of stretch and look good with any shoe. Plus, they come in petite and tall lengths for the perfect fit.
Abercrombie Curve Love High Rise Wide Leg Jean
Abercrombie
Wide-leg denim tends to have little to no stretch, but Abercrombie’s lyocell-blend jeans are so comfy, you may just wear them around the house instead of sweatpants. They’re sold in both regular and curve fits, the latter of which is featured here. The inclusivity doesn’t stop there: Sizes range from 23 to 37, with five inseams ranging from extra short to extra long.
Levi’s Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans
Levi’s
The higher the rise, the closer to heaven, right? Few brands do denim quite like Levi’s, and its ultra-high-waisted Ribcage jeans are cult classics. The wide-leg version of the Ribcage style comes in 12 sizes, three lengths, and eight washes, so you’re sure to find a fit you love. Just take note that they run big, so you might need to size down.
Everlane The Way-High Sailor Jean 2.0
Everlane
Sailor jeans will never go out of style, as proven by this versatile pair from Everlane. These jeans are fitted in the hip and thigh and flare out to create an A-line silhouette, plus come in two different inseams for a perfect fit. This is an upgraded version of Everlane’s original Sailor Jean, with a slightly lower rise and more comfortable fit in the seat and waist.
Frame Le Slim Palazzo Jean
Frame
Some flared jeans are just too…flared. While we adore that ‘70s cut, we don’t want to look dated (especially when we already feel vintage). That’s why we gravitate toward Frame’s Le Slim Palazzo jeans, which fit snugly through the hips and thighs and end in a understated wide leg that looks more modern than bell bottoms.
Ann Taylor The Denim Trouser
Ann Taylor
If you prefer your denim on the fancier side, opt for a trouser cut. This pair masquerades as pants you’d wear to that chic new restaurant you made reservations for months in advance. With its sleek silhouette and deep indigo hue, it bridges the gap between casual and buttoned-up, for a result that retains a sense of formality.
Gap High Rise Stride Wide-Leg Jeans
Gap
Gap is one of our favorite places to find jeans under $100, and the brand’s High Rise Stride Wide-Leg Jeans are some of the best affordable wide-leg jeans we’ve found on the market. They’re available in 15 different washes, plus come in three different fits and inseams. You can often find them on sale, too — so go ahead and buy them in a few different styles.
Joe’s Jeans The Mia Wide-Leg Pant
Joe’s Jeans
Joe’s is a fashion-editor favorite, and the brand’s Mia style is for those who want to really lean into the wide-leg trend. These jeans have a good amount of stretch thanks to the cotton-lyocell blend (but aren’t too stretchy), and they’ll make your legs look miles long. Plus, they come in tons of fun colors, including a few corduroy options that are perfect for fall styling.
Aligne Barrel Jeans
Aligne
Barrel jeans are all the rage right now, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be chic and timeless. These jeans are made from a stiffer indigo denim that’s heavier in weight, giving the silhouette plenty of structure.
