There are few things in fashion that feel as timeless and reliable as denim. Finding the perfect pair of jeans makes getting dressed exponentially easier, but the journey to track down ‘The One’ is often a Herculean effort. Knowing which denim brands to consider is a start, so we’ve rounded up our favorites to help you get started.
When it comes to buying denim, it’s best to stay true to your personal preferences: don’t get caught up in the latest fad trend unless you really feel good about it. For many, the denim dream is the perfect high-waisted, straight-leg jean, while for others, skinnies will never go out of style. Boyfriend jeans, crew legs and (for the brave) low cuts are also on offer, regardless of the season. The thing that unites us all? We want our jeans to wash well, keep their shape and feel comfortable day and night.
Fortunately, there are now plenty of specialized denim brands that take these crucial elements into account. Every brand listed here ticks the boxes when it comes to fit, silhouette and level of stretch, delivering jeans that are sure to please. We can’t take away the pain of trying on countless pairs, but we can steer you toward the labels that won’t let you down. Check out our guide to the very best denim brands in the world here.
The denim brands that help you find your forever jeans
Frame
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When Frame founders Jens Grede and Erik Torstensson launched their brand in 2012, they had one goal: to create the perfect skinny jeans. With fans like Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Gigi Hadid and Karlie Kloss, it’s safe to say they’re doing it right. Inspired by the easy elegance of French style, today the label offers much more than just skinny jeans, extending to classic and fashionable garments that will prove to be true sartorial workhorses.
Good American
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Good American was born from a simple mission: to bring stylish, flattering denim to everyone, regardless of body shape. The brand from co-founders Emma Grede and Khloe Kardashian has since become famous for its inclusive, high-quality designs that are available in every size (00-32 Plus). Although the label has evolved to include ready-to-wear and accessories, the carefully designed jeans are still the star players.
Mother
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Mother Denim’s aesthetic is inspired by 1970s California, relaxed pieces that are always a pleasure to drive around in. The LA-based label is no longer limited to just jeans, and its wider ready-to-wear collection is full of covetable pieces that are perfect for wearing with denim or as a standalone. Mom also has a real heart, and her regular celebrity collaborations help a variety of charities, from Doctors Without Borders to The Loveland Foundation.
Paige denim
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LA brand Paige has been a favorite among discerning denim fans since its launch over twenty years ago. Creative director and co-founder Paige Adams-Geller was a former fit model before turning to design, which means she knows a thing or two about a good cut. The label’s denim is also known for its comfort, often made from stretch fabrics that shape and support. Flattering and timeless, these are jeans you’ll truly live in.
Agolde
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If you are looking for the perfect pair of vintage jeans, but don’t have time to scour second-hand stores, Agolde is the solution. One of the first premium denim names, the label looks at iconic denim styles from the past and then adds its own contemporary twist to create experimental, yet versatile yarns. Famous for its attention to detail and comfortable fit, Agolde has a strong environmental consciousness and invests in production methods that reduce pollutants, such as laser technology, ozone machines and eco-friendly washing techniques.
Levi’s
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There’s a reason why Levi’s jeans are worn by princesses, editors and Hollywood stars. The cult 501s are undoubtedly the most famous denim style in the world and have been worn by everyone from 1990s Winona Ryder to James Dean and Diana, Princess of Wales. Budget-friendly and built to last, Levi’s simply knows how to make attractive jeans that will stand the test of time.
7 For all humanity
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A pioneer in luxury denim, 7 For All Mankind changed the game when it launched in LA in 2000. Combining premium details with laid-back cool, the label was perhaps the first dedicated brand to see jeans through a high-end lens. The company’s dedication to intricate stitching, high-quality materials and perfect fit has made it one of the most sought-after fashion brands on the market.
APC
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Although APC is now a clothing brand with a wide range of categories from dresses to shoes, it first rose to fame with its classic jeans in raw denim. A French label through and through, the focus is on understated, casual elegance and everyday pieces. Look for impeccably crafted, classic silhouettes that will never lose their appeal.
Citizens of humanity
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Each pair of Citizens of Humanity jeans is checked by 40 experienced professionals to ensure the highest denim standard. The LA-based design team scours the world’s vintage markets for inspiration to create modern takes on classic styles. The brand refuses to compromise on quality, which has helped it maintain its cult appeal and earn the approval of style experts including Kendall Jenner and Amal Clooney. The brand has also started the barrel trend, which will dominate this year (and produce a surprisingly flattering silhouette).
Boyish
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Denim is a major problem for the planet, with one pair of jeans requiring up to 1,800 liters of water. Boyish Denim meaningfully addresses this problem by partnering with ethical factories, using fewer harmful chemicals during the dyeing process, and using one-third the amount of water normally required. The label also works exclusively with recycled fabrics and materials to create its attractive vintage-inspired collections.
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