Amelia Yeomans
The best high waisted jeans are an essential part of any wardrobe. No matter your style, budget, height or body type, there is almost nothing that a staple pair of high waisted denim jeans won't work for.
Although the runways were packed with '90s trends signalling the return of the low rise waist, the best high waisted jeans still very much have a home in our wardrobes. The best jeans work for all occasions and a high waisted design will never let you down, offering a silhouette sculpting finish.
Regardless of whether you prefer a vintage-style mom jean or a timeless skinny jean, high-waisted jeans are concerned only with the fit of the waist and therefore are available in pretty much all leg shapes. You can even find plus size, petite or the best jeans for tall women with a high waisted cut. These are our favorite styles for all budgets and tastes.
The best high waisted jeans to buy now
With so many different styles to choose from, we’ve scoured the shops to find the best high waisted jeans out there, from budget-friendly to investment pieces you’ll wear time and time again.
With an extra high cut, the Weekday Rowe jeans are the perfect everyday staple and some of the best straight leg jeans. Taking high waisted cuts to the max, this style provides ample coverage without being at all bulky, for a streamlined finish, just one of the many reasons high-waisted jeans are our favorites. We love the light blue hue that will brighten up any look, and the 100% cotton composition ensures they will hold their shape. When it comes to how to style high waisted jeans, these will go with everything from the best trench coats to a casual pair of sneakers, for denim you can be sure to get wear out of for years to come.
Levi’s highest high rise helps define your waist and makes your legs appear longer, for one of the most flattering jeans. Finishing at the ankle, they’re perfect for petites and come in several different lengths. Also available in plus size, this is a silhouette that will look great on everyone. One of the most comfortable jeans, the button fly keeps you secure without any digging in - always a plus. Though slightly pricier than some other options, Levi's is one of the best jeans brands, and well worth the investment, as the quality speaks for itself.
Everlane denim is some of the best money can buy, and it's sustainably made too. Made from 98% organic cotton and 2% elastane, this style is designed specifically for hourglass body shapes with some added stretch to get the perfect fit. The ideal hue for smart casual outfit ideas, this pair of high waisted jeans looks gorgeous when styled with a crisp white shirt and some chunky boots.
Topshop jeans always tap into the denim trends, but still incredibly wearable. The Jamie silhouette is a classic shape that has been raved about for years, and we love the range of sizes that they're now available in. The ideal in between hue that is not too light or too dark, this is a pair of high waisted jeans that can be dressed up or down throughout the year. Channel this year's handbag trends and finish off your look with a mini structured bag.
Reformation might be famous for its dress collection, but its denim is worth a look, too. Fitted through the hip and bum, these have a relaxed leg for a comfortable fit that still holds its structure. One of our favorite sustainable clothing brands, each item lists its sustainability credentials, so you know exactly what impact your purchase is making. Though slightly pricier than some other denim, the high quality and ethical design process is worth it.
Good American jeans are some of the best high waisted jeans money can buy if you typically struggle with hip to waist ratio on denim. Making the best jeans for curvy women with sizes from 00 up to a US 30, finding trendy denim for your body type has never been easier. We love the flared leg shape for when we want to add a little something extra to our look without abandoning jeans altogether. Style with the best cowboy boots to truly embrace the bootcut style.
We love the raw, cropped hem of these jeans that makes them a perfect transitional piece for warmer weather, so add them to your spring capsule wardrobe stat. With a 24.5" inseam they will have just the right crop even on petites, which is something we always look for when shopping for the best petite jeans. Perfect for pairing with your best white trainers or some strappy sandals, the light blue hue will add a soft wash of color to more monochromatic outfits. Also available in standard and tall sizes, this is a pair of jeans that everyone will love.
A girlfriend jean is a less baggy version of the boyfriend, so ideal if you’re after a slim fit that is still loose in style. Sitting high on the waist, its relaxed fit works well for a low-key weekend look, and can be thrown on with absolutely anything. Team with Chelsea boots for smart-casual days in the office with one of the best designer tote bags to finish off the look.
Frame jeans, although expensive, make a great investment piece. One of the best designer jeans brands, it offers high quality denim and well crafted design, tapping into the latest trends for a look that is both directional and timeless. Style with a matching black denim jacket, or contrast with a cream linen blazer for an elevated denim jeans outfit, adding a slim fit belt to highlight the high waisted cut.
Mango is a great place to shop if you are on a budget but still want something that is trendy and modern. These high waisted culottes have a laid-back vibe thanks to the raw hem, but the high waisted cut keeps them smart and refined for dressing up when necessary. Play into the '90s fashion trends with a slightly slouchier cut, making these a great alternative to the best best baggy jeans, any of the six hues of this style will become an instant everyday staple.
Torrid jeans offer trendy plus size friendly jeans that won't break the bank. Petite friendly with a shorter inseam available, these tapered high rise jeans are ideal for pairing with a tight fitting tee or your best cashmere sweater this season. We love the subtle leg slit detail that adds a little something extra to this look without too much edge, making them ideal for nights out on the town or relaxed weekend brunch dates.
If you have enough blue and black denim in your spring wardrobe rotation, it might be time to inject some color. This gorgeous soft pink is one of the key fashion color trends this year, so there is no better time to experiment with the hue. With comfortable loose legs and a high waisted fit to cinch you in, these offer a chic and feminine fit. A perfect statement piece, this has spring outfit ideas written all over it.
How to choose the best high waisted jeans
When shopping for the best high waisted jeans, there are a few factors that are worth paying attention to:
- Cut: Consider exactly which high waisted style you're after. A wide leg high waisted jean will look very different from a skinny cut, so it is worth considering which areas of your body you want to highlight, or which style makes you feel your best.
- Fabric: If you like your jeans to be comfortable, you'll want to opt for a pair that has added stretch. On the other hand, if you like the look and fit of more rigid, thick denim, choose 100% cotton denim, avoiding high waisted jeans with elastane.
- Care: Learning how to wash jeans is the key to getting the most out of each pair, but if you wear your favorite jeans very regularly, make sure you have a pair that can be easily washed. Go for plain, cotton styles and avoid any leather panels or applique that may be more difficult to care for.
How do you wear high waisted jeans?
When it comes to styling high waisted jeans, the key to making the most of this style is to tuck in your top or opt for a cropped top. This doesn’t necessarily mean flashing your waist, just changing where the hem of your top finishes offers a more modern look. If you want something with a little more coverage, paper-bag waists looks great with a tucked-in tee and trainers, and a wide-leg jean works well with a bodysuit and mules. Add a belt if you want extra definition, as it will help cinch you in and highlight, or create a waist.
