As far as shopping experiences go, finding a great pair of jeans on the high street used to be tough (IRL or online). But over the past few years, there’s been an influx of styles, lengths and shapes to suit every body shape. It’s no longer good enough that “cheap” jeans should feel cheap, so (thankfully) gone are the days of ill-fitting, saggy pairs made of fabric that quickly wears away.
In fact, there’s so many impressive, good-quality affordable styles out there right now. But for this round up of the best high street jeans I wanted to really do the research and dig down into the brands not just loved by me, but by my fellow editors and industry insiders, too. As well as the denim styles you all love (I only have one body after all, and different figures suit different jeans).
I put the question of where to buy the best high street jeans out to the Who What Wear team, and then to our audience through the powers of social media. There were a handful of brands that were mentioned several times, and a number of pairs in particular that came out clear winners— some were already my go-tos for everyday denim outfits, and others I instantly added to my list to try next.
All of the brands and pairs mentioned had a few things in common, though. First, they were all classic—no embellishments or gimmicks here. Mostly, they tended to be high-rise and straight-leg. Although, there were a few wide-leg and skinnies creeping in there too. Below, I’ve made a concise list of the brands that came out on top, along with the most-recommended pairs. Keep scrolling to see and, more importantly, shop…
Style Notes: With some of the best-quality jeans on the high street, Arket is always reliable in terms of denim. Its could-be-vintage washes look classic for everyday. I personally love the regular cropped jeans (their cropped styles are perfect for petites) and the stretch styles are some of the comfiest jeans you can find, period.
The brand also has more unique styles that could easily pass for designer, like these wide-leg jeans.
Washed black jeans never fail to look cool.
According to my research, so many editors swear by this specific pair of jeans (including me).
Style Notes: & Other Stories has just added so many new cuts to its jeans collection. The straight, cropped and flared iterations look extra premium.
French girls are obsessed with these jeans specifically.
The ultimate straight-leg jeans loved by celebrities (Kate Middleton is a fan), influencers and editors alike.
The hem detail looks really expensive.
Style Notes: While Levi’s Ribcage jeans were by far the most popular among our readers, there are plenty of options to choose from, including the iconic 501s.
These jeans are selling fast, run don’t walk.
I own this particular pair and really rate the vintage-style fit.
All their classic styles come in plus sizes too.
Style Notes: Marks and Spencer has some great jeans. Expect classic styles with denim that has a bit of stretch. There are also options for petite and long lengths which is game-changing.
These look so expensive IRL.
This new premium style is a hit with our editors.
The perfect straight-leg blue jean.
Style Notes: One reader described H&M jeans as “surprisingly good quality and fit” and I would have to agree. There is a range of great silhouettes, one of which you can see on Jessica Skye here.
H&M has really honed its denim offering this year.
Looser styles are still going strong.
This is H&M’s best-selling pair of jeans this year through our site.
Style Notes: Weekday is one of our go-to destinations for affordable basics that are well fitting and good quality, and the brand’s jean selection is just that.
If you love vintage jeans but don’t have the time to find the perfect-fitting pair, this is the next best thing.
These come in 14 colours. Yes, you heard that right.
I love white denim looks all year round.
Style Notes: With a focus on classic colours and timeless cuts, Mango’s denim selection seldom rotates, which is great when you find the pair you want to wear over and over.
A lot of Mango’s jeans also come in extended sizes.
This is the coolest style of jeans going—loose and low rise.
The cut, the colour—these are my dream jeans.
Styles Notes: Who What Wear’s Hannah Almassi swears by Uniqlo trousers, and especially jeans. They’re perfect for petites as they come up quite short.
These are so affordable!
A classic pair you’ll wear on repeat for years.
For those who love a skinny jean.
Style Notes: Did you know that Zara has a great selection of high-street jeans? Find a variety of colours and fits to suit your style.
I’ve seen so many influencers raving about Zara’s jeans recently.
