I'm a Fashion Editor Who Has Tried Hundreds of Jeans—These 8 High-Street Stores Officially Do the Best Pairs

As far as shopping experiences go, finding a great pair of jeans on the high street used to be tough (both in person and online). But over the past few years, there's been an influx of styles, lengths and shapes to suit every body shape. It's no longer good enough that "cheap" jeans should feel cheap, and thankfully, gone are the days of ill-fitting, saggy pairs made of fabric that quickly wears away.

In fact, there are so many impressive, good-quality affordable styles out there right now. But for this round-up of the best high-street jeans, I wanted to really do the research and dig down into the brands, so I took on the challenge of putting each to the test. As someone who does lots of try-ons, I've already tested most of the offerings in various cuts and styles too.

All the brands and pairs I tried below have a few things in common, though. First, they are all classic—no embellishments or gimmicks here. Mostly, they tend to be high-rise and straight-leg, although a few wide-leg and skinnies crept in there too. I've made a concise list of the brands that came out on top, along with the most recommended pairs. Keep scrolling to see, and more importantly, shop.

THE BEST HIGH-STREET JEANS, HANDS DOWN

1. ARKET

Style Notes: With some of the best-quality jeans on the high street, Arket is always reliable in terms of denim. Its could-be-vintage washes look classic for every day, and I find they fit true to size (I've tried on a range of Arket jeans), except the Jade style, which I sized up in for extra comfort.

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2. H&M

Style Notes: One reader described H&M jeans as "surprisingly good quality and fit", and I have to agree. Fitting true to size with seriously soft compositions and the bonus of affordable prices, there's a lot to love about H&M's denim. Here, I've tried the best-selling Wide High Jeans.

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3. COS

Style Notes: COS is one of our go-to destinations for good-quality, affordable basics that fit well, and the brand's jeans selection is just that. I tried the Arch style, which fits true to size.

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4. MARKS AND SPENCER

Style Notes: Marks and Spencer has some great jeans, and I've tested many of them. Expect classic styles with denim that has a bit of stretch. There are options for petite and long lengths which is game-changing—I'm always surprised that more brands don't do this. Here, I've tried a classic straight-leg pair in my usual size, 10 short.

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5. LEVI'S

Style Notes: Whilst Levi's Ribcage jeans were by far the most popular amongst our readers, there are plenty of other options to choose from, including the iconic 501s, which I'm wearing above. With a wide selection of cuts, lengths and washes, Levi's continues to show off its denim prowess. The brand also offers various leg lengths; at 5'2", I go for a 27.

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6. ABERCROMBIE FITCH

Style Notes: Abercrombie Fitch is one of my favourite places to buy jeans. The denim itself is always soft and comfortable, and the sizing is just right; I've taken my regular size here. What's more, there are various lengths from extra short to extra long plus a variety of rises, and the brand's Curve Love collection, which has a more generous cut through the hip and thigh but not the waist, includes all the best styles.

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7. OTHER STORIES

Style Notes: Other Stories has made a name for itself as a denim destination thanks to the best-selling Slim Cut Jeans. Heading in-store, I wanted to see if the other styles were as good, and in trying on the Wide Jeans, I can officially confirm that they are. Here, I've taken my usual size.

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8. MANGO

Style Notes: With a focus on classic colours and timeless cuts, Mango's denim selection seldom rotates, which is great when you find a pair you want to wear over and over.

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