Here's a secret: I don't like spending a lot of money on jeans. It's true that my entire denim collection includes the usual suspects, such as Mother, Agolde, and Hudson, but since I'm a fashion editor, the reality is that a majority of my pricier pairs are gifted. It's one of the advantages of the job, but despite the privilege of trying on some truly amazing jeans, it hasn't done much to change my penchant for cheap pairs.
I still maintain that a $200 pair of jeans can absolutely be worth the money in the right circumstances, but little comes close to the allure of saving a few bucks. After analyzing the styles and pairs that I reach for the most, I found that the bulk of them are what I'd call moderately affordable—typically under $100 on retail and, on a good day (aka a sale), under $60. Each pair is as trendy, high-quality, and comfortable as those double the price. Ahead, I'm outlining all of my favorite jeans that fall into this category of cheap and amazing. Just a warning: I'm a curvy girl who loves a crop top, so they're all high-waisted pairs. Keep scrolling to check out my top recs.
Best Cropped Jeans
Though H&M jeans are hit-or-miss for me, I love this pair.
Best Rigid Jeans
Yes, these are rigid, but that gives them that luxury feel.
I love how this pair perfectly balances classic and distressed. It's truly the best everyday pair for fall.
I'm not gonna lie. Gap makes some of my favorite pairs of high-waisted jeans.
Best Mid-Rise Jeans
I love Wit Wisdom jeans. I think more people need to know about them.
Best Low-Rise Jeans
I own way too many pairs of low-rise jeans, but what can I say? They're so reliably chic.
Best Gray-Wash Jeans
I call these my going-out jeans.
Baggy denim never fails, and these feel impressive for only $30.
Best Plus-Size Jeans
Yep, I'm reaffirming my love for Warp + Weft. Most of the brand's denim goes up to a size 24.
Best Stovepipe Jeans
I tried these last year and haven't taken them off since.
I'm testing the waters of flared jeans, and I plan on starting with this pair.
Best Mom Jeans
I think Mango jeans are really underrated.
Best Everyday Jeans
Aritzia's jeans are so flattering. When they're on sale, I immediately grab two pairs.
When I want denim with an interesting twist, I go with Free People.
Best Black Jeans
Raw-hem jeans always look great with heels. This silhouette leans more toward the sailor shape.
Best Colored Jeans
This wash!
Best Corduroy Jeans
I'm on a corduroy-denim kick this fall.
Best Ripped Jeans
I'm a fan of Abercrombie for how generously cut its jeans are.
Best Light-Wash Jeans
As classic as it gets.
Best Jeans for Pear and Hourglass Body Shapes
I know Levi's has a fervent fan base, but I have a hard time finding styles that don't constrict my hips. I've found the Wedgie silhouette to be the best for pear and hourglass shapes.
Best Dark-Wash Jeans
These look extremely expensive.
Best Cuffed Jeans
If you're a fan of classic true-blue jeans, check these out.
Best Jeans for Tall People
These look especially great with bodysuits.
After my recent try-on of the brand, I quickly added Topshop to my list of destinations for cheap jeans.
Best Pleated Jeans
Sometimes, you want a no-frill pair, and these deliver.
Best Skinny Jeans
These have good in the name for a reason—they're just about perfect.
Best Classic Jeans
It pays to stick with the classics, like heritage brand Wrangler.
Best Wide-Leg Jeans
This is the pair I'm wearing in the photo above. The slight amount of stretch offers comfort without losing its shape.
Best Tight-Fitting Jeans
I usually avoid skinny jeans, but these mold to my shape beautifully.
Best Crossover-Waist Jeans
The crossover waist is calling my name.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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