I Tried On 20 Pairs of Straight-Leg Jeans to Find the Best-Fitting Ones

While skinny jeans will forever remain a staple in my closet and baggy jeans are the cool new kid on the block, it’s straight-leg jeansthat are unquestionably the hardest-working item in my wardrobe, which begs the question—why do I only own two pairs of the rigidly good stuff? Granted, I wear these two pairs a lot, but still, as a fashion editor, this is not okay. With plenty of superb new styles on the market right now, combined with my lackadaisical approach to washing my jeans regularly (I know I’m not alone), I’d say it’s officially time to add a fresh crop of straight-leg jeans to my arsenal.

The vintage-inspired silhouette has been around for some time now, but the subtle nuances in style and shape can vary greatly. So I tried and tested a plethora (20, to be exact) of brands and styles to find the five best-fitting and most flattering pairs. If you’re on the hunt for a fresh new pair of straight-leg jeans, read on to check out my absolute favorites to invest in right now. (For reference, I am 5’7” and usually wear a size 27.)

One of my absolute favorites in terms of fit and overall look. The high waist sits perfectly on my torso, and while I tend to favor jeans with a little stretch (the Charlotte is crafted from non-stretch denim), these are surprisingly super comfortable and incredibly versatile.

Fellow Who What Wear editors Lauren Eggertsen and Anna LaPlaca have already expressed their adoration for the newest straight-leg Levi's on the market. (They're called Ribcage for a reason!) On the hanger, these look bulky, but once I put them on, they were unexpectedly slimming and flattering. If you love a high rise and a slightly wider straight-leg opening, these are for you.

I love the relaxed, slightly looser fit of Boyish's vintage white-wash denim. Talk about comfortable! I could see myself wearing these with sneakers, low-heel ankle boots, or sandals. They're the perfect weekend jeans.

These seem to fall in the realm between a straight-leg and baggy silhouette, which is absolutely perfect for my frame. The high waist and slightly larger leg opening are extremely flattering and very on-trend.

These classic high-waisted vintage jeans are a favorite among the fashion crowd. They are quickly becoming my go-tos to wear with cropped sweaters and low-heel ankle boots.

Slvrlake's jeans are such incredible quality.

I love everything about these jeans. 

This $30 price tag is calling my name. 

We love this light vintage wash.

This fit looks especially comfy.

You can't go wrong with a pair of Good American jeans. 

Cream-colored jeans look so good styled with similar tonal hues.

Yep, this is exactly how I would style these jeans. 

A high-rise silhouette elongates the legs.

These also come in four other colors. 

Sleek and simple. 

Paige denim is always so comfortable.

A great pair of black jeans is essential. 

These are giving me French-girl vibes.

Don't sleep on H&M's excellent denim selection. 

The styling options are endless with these classic jeans. 

This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated. 

Next, French women always wear this jeans-and-flats outfit formula. 

from Who What Wear