Unless you’ve been hibernating this winter, you’ve probably heard the controversy surrounding Gen Z and the demise of skinny jeans. Whatever your stance may be about that, it doesn’t matter today because we’re here to talk about a denim style that every generation wholeheartedly embraces and will never fade away: straight-leg jeans. It’s safe to assume that pretty much everyone has at least one pair in their closet. It’s certainly the case with fashion editors.
As a fashion editor myself, I can confirm that straight-leg jeans are as essential as wardrobe essentials get, but not just any straight-leg jeans. There are a handful of styles that have a cult following for a reason—they’re the best of the best (and not to toot our own horns, but we would know). Keep scrolling to find out which straight-leg jeans are in the cool club, and shop them for yourself, of course.
Reformation Cynthia Jeans are its classic, straight-leg style that they make in a variety of washes every season. The fit is great, they’re comfortable, and they look like a designer pair but without the designer price tag.
I’m pretty sure every Who What Wear editor owns Agolde jeans, and the ’90s style is one of our favorites. They’re slouchy without being too slouchy—just like a cool vintage pair.
Ever since the world discovered Levi’s Ribcage Jeans, they’ve had a justifiable cult following. I challenge you to find a more high-quality, more stylish pair of jeans for under-$100.
All Re/Done jeans have long been a celebrity and fashion crowd go-to brand, but the style that remains a favorite is the Stovepipe Jeans. They’re an excellent choice if you prefer straight-leg jeans that are more on the slim side, and want both stretch and 100% options to choose from.
L.A.-based label Grlfrnd Jeans are another longtime celebrity favorite. They make lots of cool skinny jeans, but I recommend the brand’s Mica jeans for that coveted straight-leg fit.
A newer one on the scene, & Other Stories Favorite Jeans have become a fast editor favorite (no pun intended). They’re affordable and come in both full and cropped lengths. There’s nothing not to love about them.
If you want to invest in a pair of really epic straight-leg jeans, look no further than Slvrlake London Jeans. The made-in-Los Angeles jeans are of the highest quality and look like an authentic vintage pair you’ll want to hang on to forever.
Perhaps the most classic of the bunch, Levi’s 501 Jeans have earned their cult status over the years. These no-frills jeans are the OG straight-leg jeans, so of course editors are loyal to them.
