Jeans are arguably the most hardworking piece in our wardrobes, but finding the perfect pair is often an uphill battle.
Many of you will relate to countless hours spent trying on denim only to discover that sizes can vary immensely, quality and feel can let a good cut down and some styles hug and bag in odd places. This means many of us end up settling for something good but not quite the one.
As a shopping editor who wears jeans more than anything else, I know how wardrobe-altering a great pair can be, so I've spent the past year putting almost 50 pairs to the test and sharing my insights with you. Recently, I tried on a pair that not only met my high standards but which I know have also impressed fashion people and our readers alike—the COS Column jeans (£85).
When it comes to finding your new favourite jeans, the first place to start is the cut. Wide-leg jeans have an innate relaxed feel, barrel-leg styles are trending for the season and skinny jeans are gearing up for a surprise return. But the straight-leg jean is a longstanding classic, and if you're wondering which pair is sitting at the top of my list right now, it's these from COS.
If you've ever thought that great jeans automatically come with a designer price tag, COS is here to prove that wrong. It's a brand that has produced some of our editors' favourite styles, from the best-selling Arch jeans to the wide-leg Tide, and we're already noticing the Column rising in popularity.
Whilst some straight-leg pairs verge towards more fitted, COS's pair is true to the cut, skimming your thighs and continuing to hold the shape all the way to the ankle. The denim itself feels light, with a soft 100%-cotton composition, and the fit, as with all the brand's denim styles, is true to size. At 5'2", the length is slightly long on me, and if you're of a similar height, you might want to ask your local dry cleaner to take an inch or two off the hem. Personally, I quite like the puddling effect the longer length creates.
Plus, this pair comes in a range of washes and shades, and with a comfortable fit, great cut and soft denim, you can expect to see these feature heavily in my outfits from now on.
Keep scrolling to shop the COS Column jeans and find more editor-approved jeans below.
Shop the COS Column Jeans:
Deep-indigo shades are a key denim trend for spring 2025.
This is a pair that won't lose its shape over time.
For those who love a true blue.
The faded black is ready to be dressed up or down.
This shade is so unique, and there's a matching jacket too.
Shop the matching Oversized Raw Denim Jacket (£115).
Shop More Editor-Approved Jeans:
A subtle take on the barrel-leg cut.
With a slight stretch and cropped hem, I frequently spot editors wearing this pair. Here, I'd recommend sizing up.
These are a consistent best-seller for H&M.
It's hard to choose a favourite pair of Reformation jeans, but I keep coming back to the Cary jeans. Find eight shades to choose from.
There's a reason that Levi's 501 are an iconic pair decades later.
A pair that quickly sells out thanks to its classic cut, serious high rise and great quality.
From a brand that knows all about great denim comes this elevated kick-flare pair.
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