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.
Though H&M jeans are hit or miss for me, I love this pair.
I love Warp + Weft jeans. I think more people need to know about them.
I love how this pair toes the line between classic and distressed. It's truly the best everyday pair for spring.
I'm not gonna lie. BDG makes some of my favorite pairs of high-waisted jeans.
Yes, these are rigid, but that gives them that luxury feel.
I own way too many pairs of wide-leg jeans, but what can I say? They're so reliably chic.
I call these my going-out jeans.
Baggy denim never fails, and these feel impressive for only $30.
Yep, I'm reaffirming my love for Warp + Weft. Most of the brand's denim goes up to a size 24.
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.
I think Mango jeans are really underrated.
With Topshop, I tend to go for oversize fits to accommodate my hips and booty.
When I want denim with an interesting twist, I go with Free People.
Raw-hem jeans always look great with heels. This silhouette leans more toward the sailor shape.
This wash!
I'm on a baggy-denim kick—can't you tell?
I'm a fan of BlankNYC for how generously cut its jeans are.
As classic as it gets.
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.
These look extremely expensive.
If you're a fan of classic true-blue jeans, check these out.
These look especially great with bodysuits.
After my recent try-on of the brand, I quickly added Nasty Gal to my list of destinations for cheap jeans.
Sometimes, you want a no-frill pair, and these deliver.
These have good in the name for a reason—they're just about perfect.
It pays to stick with the classics like heritage brand Wrangler.
This is the pair I'm wearing in the photo above. The slight amount of stretch offers comfort without losing its shape.
I usually avoid skinny jeans, but these mold to my shape beautifully.
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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