Top 10 Designer Jeans

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: Queue up some Destiny’s Child, because these are the jeans of your ‘90s dreams. Ripped and faded to perfection, we’re already fantasizing about pairing these with platform sneakers and a graphic tee.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: These are loose fit, meaning they’re designed for a slouchy look. So if you vacillate between two different sizes, our bets are on the smaller one for this style in particular.

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: Skinny jeans have gotten some flack as of late, but we’re confident that you’ll receive nothing but positive feedback when wearing these. They’ve got a flattering high rise and slightly distressed hems, and they come in several different denim washes.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: There are going-out jeans and there are running-errand jeans. Miraculously, these are both thanks to the good amount of stretch.

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: Nordstrom calls these jeans “perfectly casual-cool”, and we have to agree. Super straight jeans like these are possibly the most classic of denim styles, and they look dang good with a pair of mules.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: These jeans are available in a variety of washes and versions, including some with ripped knees. Also, they’re made in the USA with denim imported from Italy—multiculturalism at its finest.

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: A little bit of fringe goes a long way, as evidenced by these Mother The Insider jeans. Plus, the short inseam (26”) makes for a great opportunity to show off a pair of statement heels.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: Whatever your wash of choice is (acid, dark, faded), we’re confident there’s a version of these jeans in it.

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: “Distressed” is an adjective that’s only positive when it refers to jeans. One look at this ripped pair from Citizens of Humanity makes it clear why: they’ve got just the right amount of grunge to give your ‘fit a little attitude.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: These jeans feature a straight-leg silhouette with ripped knees and a faded wash. Oh, and the denim isn’t very stretchy, so make sure you account for that when choosing a size.

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: Not only do these jeans come in one of the most stylish silhouettes we can imagine, but they also come in a variety of styles, including a ripped version, a dark wash, a light wash, and a black denim style.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: Unlike the RE/DONE pairs above, these do have a little bit of stretch thanks to the elastic fabric blend they’re crafted from.

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: Where are all of our bootcut fans at? If you’re present, this one’s for you. With a light wash and distressed edges, these are sure to be your new pair of statement jeans.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: Once again, we’ll reiterate that RE/DONE’s denim is rigid, which helps give it that popular ‘90s look, but it can be uncomfortable if you don’t opt for a size that gives you a little extra room.

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: These invoke the elation you get when you find a pair of vintage jeans at the thrift store, only better, because you can ensure you purchase them in your perfect size.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: Vintage quality denim has little give, and that’s true for this pair of jeans as well. In fact, RE/DONE recommends sizing up if you’re worried the rigidness of your usual size will be uncomfortable.

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: Something about these feels familiar, almost as if you know they’re going to be your new favorite pair of jeans before even trying them on. The slightly frayed hem adds a grungy vibe that will look fantastic with a pair of your favorite booties.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: If length is somewhat of a concern for you, you should know that these have a shorter inseam (27”) than your typical jeans. That’s great news for all of the shorties out there, and for the rest of us: more space to show off your shoes.

WHY THEY MADE THE LIST: If your ex left you with a pair of jeans similar to these, at least that relationship was good for something. The rich blue wash and relaxed fit give these a classic denim feel that will complement every top in your closet.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO NOTE: Some reviewers recommend sizing down due to the purposefully roomy fit these have.