We know, it sounds like a fantasy.
In a world where social media churns out microtrends faster than we can double tap, we cling to those few classic silhouettes that stand the test of time. Katie often boasts about 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, however, it’s much harder to find a style that’ll feel on-trend yet timeless. It seems most silhouettes fall victim to defining a generation (like skinny jeans or bell bottoms). If you’re looking to invest in denim that’ll have a longer lifespan in the fashion zeitgeist, we’d advise moving away from the newest and hottest (like waxed jeans or the recent resurgence of low-rise waists) and toward some sort of wider leg. Even when skinny jeans were bible, bootcut or a slight flare was still acceptable.
Wide-leg jeans have the ability to make you look instantly put-together or casual, sometimes both at once, depending on the cut you choose. Low-rise, baggy styles are all Gen Z wears these days, while denim trousers would pass in most offices nowadays. Boyfriend jeans are ideal when running out the door, while ripped jeans take casual up a notch.
The best news? Regardless of the width, wider designs are always much more comfortable than more restricting ones.
Oh, and the common misconception that short people can’t wear wide pants can be instantly debunked by the fact that Katie prefers wider jeans, and she looks great in them, to boot.
We included a couple of her favorite styles in our list of the best wide-leg jeans below, alongside more incredible options.
Best Wide-Leg Jeans for Women
L’Agence Alicent Wide-Leg Jeans
L’Agence
These are Katie’s personal pick. They fit true to size and have a roomy and comfortable feel while still hugging your derriere. She owns this versatile blue color in a non-stretch fabric, but we also found a couple of pairs on sale.
Madewell The Emmett Wide-Leg Full Length Jeans
Madewell
As you may know, Katie loves her Emmett pants from Madewell. She owns them in multiple colors, like yellow and rust, but there’s a new denim iteration that should be added to her collection, as well as yours. This pair features patch pockets, giving it a subtle nod to retro styles. With a high waist and a choice between petite, regular, and long lengths, it’s sure to complement any silhouette.
Abercrombie High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
Abercrombie
A lot of wide 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.
Amo Anita Flare
Amo
Some flared jeans are just too…flared. We adore that ‘70s cut, but we don’t want to look dated (especially when we already feel vintage). That’s why we gravitate toward Amo Denim’s Anita jeans, which fit snugly through the hips and thighs with a tame wide leg that looks modern compared to bell bottoms.
J.Crew Sailor Denim Trouser
J.Crew
You’ll always be safe from the fashion police with nautical-inspired styles, no matter what the cut of the item is. Set sail with J.Crew’s fashion-forward jeans that have front patch pockets and contrast gold buttons. If you need a summer pant, consider the white. But for maximum year-round wear, you’re safest with the black or blue.
Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle
Levi’s
The higher the inseam, the closer to heaven, right? Few brands do denim quite like Levi’s, the OG denim brand, so it only makes sense that these wide-leg pants are cult classics. Not only do the ultra high-waisted, ever-popular Ribcage jeans come in 10 washes, but they come in three different leg lengths, too. The slightly cropped bootcut will help you feel with-it without swallowing your calves.
Nili Lotan Joan Jeans
Nili Lotan
These pants are made with high-quality Japanese stretch denim that’s fitted through the hips and gently widens as it reaches the floor. We’re digging the sandblasted wash, which makes them look worn in and almost vintage. They’re an investment piece, for sure, but they’ll outlast any cheap pair and you’ll want to wear them for decades.
Everlane The Way-High Curve Jeans
Everlane
Barrel jeans are wide at the hips and knees but taper at the ankle for a contemporary, avant-garde silhouette. They’re not for everyone, but Everlane’s take is an accessible fit that’s not too baggy or too trendy — the dream!
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, but with its sleek silhouette and deep indigo hue, it bridges the gap between lowkey and buttoned-up for a result that retains a sense of formality.
