Jeans are always worth the investment, but what if they don't have to be one? With such a saturated denim market, it can be difficult to narrow down pairs that are worth it. My friend is desperately in need of new denim but doesn't want to spend too much, as she needs a few pairs. But if you grab a couple of affordable pairs from trusted retailers, you're guaranteed to find your holy-grail denim. There are so many trending styles currently for denim, including baggy jeans, straight-leg jeans, trouser jeans, and more.
I shared with her my ideal formula: to pick up a mix of classic pairs and trendy pairs to balance your wardrobe. You may end up wearing a trend-forward pair as your go-to for years to come. But to make this possible, price point is extremely important. It's difficult to spend high on something that is more of a fad, so the 46 pairs of jeans below are all the under-$100 pairs I shared with her. Shop around and find your new favorite pair(s).
Everlane jeans are unmatched in my denim drawer.
These cotton jeans have a perfect straight-leg silhouette.
Nineties denim is one of my favorite trending styles that also feels timeless.
Baggy Levi's are the ideal relaxed jeans.
Refined, sleek dark-wash jeans.
Super-trendy, low-rise, baggy jeans will be your favorite weekend piece.
Column jeans will be a must-have in 2025.
High-rise straight jeans are an essential.
Vintage Levi's are so worth it.
The super-wide-leg silhouette is a sophisticated trending style.
Easy baggy jeans are my current denim of choice.
Ankle jeans are the best for spring weather.
Early aughts bootcut jeans.
The waistline on these jeans is so good.
This silhouette is my favorite for looking elevated.
Effortless denim that looks vintage? Yes.
Timeless denim.
The super-light wash makes every ensemble cooler.
For the skinny-jeans stans.
You can never have too many pairs of wide-leg jeans.
High-rise flared jeans are an effortless choice.
The silhouette and wash make these jeans feel like a vintage find.
Levi's 501s, enough said.
The split hem on these makes them perfect for your favorite heels.
Style these jeans for any occasion with sneakers, boots, or heels.
Black jeans are a very worthy buy.
Ultra-dark-wash jeans feel very sophisticated.
Straight cargo jeans are a hybrid of modern trends and classic silhouettes.
This denim is my current favorite, dark wash and wide leg.
Solid white jeans to replace your old pair.
Light, distressed denim that makes for the ideal casual jeans.
This denim has all the makings of a traditional vintage pair.
This pair makes for a fun way to try the baggy trend without buying into low-rise.
Crisp, chic straight-leg jeans.
For a high-rise option with a baggy silhouette.
Comfy Madewell denim that you'll live in.
If you're looking to dip into low-rise options.
The style of jeans all over downtown Manhattan.
Second-skin denim that won't even feel like you're wearing jeans.
The material of these jeans is everything.
A friend of mine swears by this brand for flared silhouettes.
Just $20 for jeans? Absolutely.
These elongating jeans are so supportive.
Your classic bootcut denim.
A worn wash with a masterful silhouette.
High-rise flared jeans are an easy go-to.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.