I've tried on 100s of jeans in the name of research, these are the best Zara jeans right now and they're all under £30

The best Zara jeans are a hero of the high street. Stylish, affordable and long-lasting, a great pair will become the lynch pin to some of your most-loved looks. And having tried on hundreds of jeans in my career, I know exactly what to look for when it comes to the best denim pieces.

Most importantly, regardless of the latest denim trends 2025, you need to learn which are the best jeans for your body type. This will help you whittle down the styles to shop, and help you direct your efforts to the styles that will flatter your shape.

From barrel leg jeans to skinnies, culottes and everything in between and of course, the best Zara jeans cover them all; and I've tried to make sure that my top 6 Zara jeans offer a little something for everyone, whilst calling out true hero pieces.

The 6 best Zara jeans to invest in

Image 1 of 2

The best straight leg jeans are a wardrobe staple. One of the most universally flattering fits, these classic beauties pretty much go with anything and everything in your wardrobe.

They're so popular with Zara's customers that this year they're available in a staggering nine different washes, including a directional pastel pink and butter yellow. Check out our Zara size guide if you're unsure what size to order and keep in mind that with darker washes such as Indigo, Black and Grey you may need to size up due to changes in the fibres that occur during the dyeing process.

What Antonia said:

"At only 5'3", I've previously been wary of jeans and trousers in Zara as they can come up long but this straight leg style falls just below the ankle and with a raw hem, they can easily be cut to the right length. One thing to consider when shopping at Zara is which collection you're buying from, as each has slightly different sizing. This particular pair came from the Basic collection, so I knew to try my regular size.

According to the website this style comes up slightly smaller in the fit, which I found to be true when I tried them on in comparison to other styles. Made of 100% cotton, these straight leg jeans are more rigid than other styles as there's no elastane in the denim. While they're initially stiff, after a few wears this style should mould to your body to create the perfect fit.

The high-waisted style was both flattering and comfortable, while the straight leg was just ever so slightly looser on the thigh, creating the perfect straight line in profile. As someone with slightly heavier thighs, this is often not the case for me so this was another bonus of this particular pair!"

Image 1 of 2

If you're 5'4" or under and searching for the perfect petite fit denim, cropped jeans are an excellent choice as the shorter hem length should fit true to your stature and negate the need for alterations.

Not petite? You can still wear a pair of cropped jeans as the ankle-skimming style is ideal for showing off your latest footwear purchases, as well as offering instant leg-lengthening properties.

What Antonia said:

"I'm often wary of trying on Zara's TRF range. Designed for their younger customers, the fit tends to err on the smaller side of sizing, but slipping these cropped flares on, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I fit into my usual size. Not only was the fabric super soft and stretchy, meaning they moulded to my body, but the slightly cropped style stopped exactly on my ankle bone, my preferred length. If, like me, you're slightly bottom heavy, the gentle flare helps to balance pear shapes, creating a flattering silhouette and lengthening legs.

With a cropped length, this style is also great for framing statement shoes or flashing your favourite ankle boots. If you're looking for a smart-casual outfit, you can't go wrong teaming these jeans and a blazer with a pair of cool loafers or trainers for an easy day-to-night look."

Image 1 of 2

If you're looking for a timeless and flattering cut, why not consider a pair of bootcut jeans? The style has returned to favour in recent seasons and for good reason as they're a flattering style of slimming jeans. With a very slight flare on the lower leg, this cut helps to balance proportions and works well with a range of footwear.

For further leg lengthening properties, look for styles with a high waist that will flatter your figure by drawing the eye up the body. Dark wash jeans are also slimming as they create the illusion of a leaner silhouette - if you're wondering how to style bootleg jeans, this classic cut works with virtually every item in your wardrobe, from printed shirts and high heels for a night out to your best sweaters and trainers for casual days.

What our tester said:

"These bootcut jeans immediately caught my eye as they had a trouser-like appearance, making them more office-appropriate than most jeans. In a darker wash and slightly textured denim, they also feature an on-trend contrasting deep orange stitching and have been pressed to create a crease down the front of the legs; they also lacked the typical whiskering detail at the hip crease, making them feel like they're a great option if you've been wondering 'can jeans be business casual?'

When it comes to dark wash jeans, it's important to make sure that you care for them properly to avoid the dye from running.

Part of the Signature Denim collection that falls within the older Zara Woman collection, these had a slightly looser fit than other styles, with a slim leg and more room around the body and upper thigh. While they weren't my favourite pair, they would be a good option for someone who loves jeans but needs a smart pair to wear to the office.

Unlike most jeans, this pair did not have a traditional hem or raw cut favoured by Zara - instead, they were tack-stitched, ready for adjusting to create the perfect length."

Image 1 of 2

Mom jean outfits have become a real denim wardrobe staple. With a high waist and a relaxed leg that tapers slightly at the ankle and with a slightly cropped length, this retro-inspired style has certainly found its spot in the modern wardrobe.

What Antonia said:

"Previously, I'd always discounted mom jeans as not quite right for my body shape, but trying on this pair from Zara, I've changed my mind. Made of rigid denim, this retro style is surprisingly flattering - it held me in at the waist, creating definition before gently relaxing through the leg which is perfect for those days when you want a slightly looser fit.

While the ankle was just a touch too long when I first put them on, a quick flip of the hem and suddenly they were perfect, pulling in just a touch more at the ankle to create a slightly more exaggerated shape that was even more flattering.

Available in five different washes, including black, I think these might be the best Zara jeans that I tried - I'll definitely be adding a pair to my wardrobe!"

Image 1 of 2

Palazzo jeans have seen a surge of interest in the last year, following on from the trend for wide leg jeans and barrel leg cuts. However, with a Palazzo jean the flare starts at the waist, skimming over thighs to create a much looser shape.

This relaxed silhouette is particularly flattering as it highlights the waist before flowing gently outwards over the legs. Look for styles that have a high, fitted waist - not only will this draw attention to the narrowest point of your torso but they extended upper shape will make your legs appear longer.

What our tester said:

"After spending my teens dragging wide leg skater-style jeans through puddles and dirt, I was somewhat wary of trying a pair of Palazzo jeans but in the name of research, I reached for a pair of Zara's Palazzo pants and was pleasantly surprised.

Unlike my teenage denim, this pair had a high waist that helped balance the ultra wide hems and appeared to add inches to my legs - no mean feat.

The soft cotton blend of the fabric also meant that they felt far more lightweight than I expected, making them ideal for the summer months. I would wear these with heels to avoid the hems dragging or perhaps get them shortened slightly but otherwise, I might just be a convert to Palazzo jeans."

Image 1 of 2

Wide leg jeans returned to the forefront of denim fashion in 2024 and for 2025, the cut is still going strong. If you're wondering how to style wide leg jeans, there are elements to consider and it's important to find the best wide leg jeans that will flatter your body shape.

For example, if you're petite it's best to look for a pair that isn't too wide to avoid being swamped in fabric and keep at least some of your top half fitted to balance the proportions of your lower body. If you do opt for a roomy style on top, look for boxy cropped cuts that finish at the waist and will highlight the area to create a break in the swathes of fabric. If you have fuller thighs, you may want to look for a palazzo style which offers more fabric and will skim your curves.

What our tester said:

"Since last year, I've definitely become a convert to wearing wide leg jeans and this pair will be making their way into my wardrobe too.

Made from 99% cotton with just a touch of stretch, these Zara wide leg jeans have a good weight to them, which stops them from swishing around my ankles too much and means they hang nicely, keeping their shape. Additionally, they are the perfect length for me when worn with a kitten heel, which helps me add a few inches to my petite height.

Rather than flaring from the knee, this pair widens straight from the hips, creating a flattering straight line which skims over lumps and bumps, avoiding clinging at the top of the thigh and gives them a contemporary feel."

How we tested the best Zara jeans

When trying on each pair of jeans, we asked our fashion writer to assess the fit, fabric quality, shape, sizing, and length. Jeans are an essential component of a capsule wardrobe, so getting the perfect pair is high on our priority list. Ideal for planning new-season outfits styling with baggy tees in warmer weather, there is no end to how a great pair of jeans can be styled.

Regardless of the price tag, you want to be sure that any purchase made is a good one, so we used our findings to determine if each pair of jeans is worth it.

How to choose the best Zara jeans for you

There are several factors that come into choosing the right Zara jeans for you. Here is what I recommend considering before purchasing, and what to look out for.

• Your body shape and height: Many Zara jeans don't cater properly to curves or petites. Consider the leg length you will need, as well as which cut of jeans will work for your particular body type. I recommend that petites opt for cropped styles, and those with curvier figures will probably find most success with flared or bootcut styles. The brand doesn't really cater for size 16+, which is something to consider when shopping.
• Your desired fit: With hundreds of jeans available to shop online at Zara, you need to know the fit you're after. From straight to skinny, Zara has it all. The site gives you the option to filter by cut, so this is the best way to shop efficiently.
• What occasion you will wear them for: Despite the versatility of denim, each occasion requires different styles and washes. If you want to find some new jeans for work, a dark indigo or black pair of jeans will always look smart and sophisticated. Whereas if you're shopping for casual wear, light blue washes have endless fashion appeal. If you're unsure, most Zara jeans come in multiple hues, so you can buy your favourite cut in a couple of different colours so you have something for every event.
• The material: Typical denim is 100% cotton, which is nice and breathable for year-round wear. However, they won't offer much give, so it's important to get the right size. If breathability is your top concern, choose a pair of Zara jeans made from pure cotton. On the other hand, several styles on the Zara site are made with a blend of cotton and elastane. This is what you should be looking out for if you like your denim to have some added stretch and movement.

How to wash Zara jeans

All of the Zara jeans I have tested out can be machine washed, meaning it couldn't be simpler to clean them. For best results, try to only wash your denim a minimum of every 10 wears, spot washing stains where necessary - try rubbing the denim on either side of the mark together to break down the stain first, which will often be enough if your jeans are made of rigid or low elastane denim.

When machine washing your Zara jeans, turn them inside out before washing and opt for a cool washing temperature. This will help to prevent any dyes from running and creating streaks in the wash of the denim.

It's best to air dry rather than tumble dry to avoid changing the shape or size of your Zara jeans. Make sure to give them a good shake and reshape before hanging them up dry. For more tips on looking after your denim, check out this guide on how to wash jeans.

Best Zara jeans - verdict

Overall, I was very impressed with the Zara jeans offering. Affordable and good quality, there are several pairs here that I would love to have in my collection. However, as is often the case with high street stores, those with curves may need to spend a little more time experimenting with different styles to get the desired fit. But for the price point, trendy styles and quality, I can definitely recommend Zara denim.

FAQs

Are Zara jeans any good?

Overall, the quality of Zara jeans is very good. Many of the styles on offer are 100% cotton, whilst others are typically cotton mixed with elastane to give some extra stretch and create a form fitting silhouette.

Most pairs that Itested felt sturdy and comfortable, and I would happily add a number of these pairs to our own wardrobes. Considering the price point, you are getting a good product for an affordable cost.

Do all Zara jeans run small?

As with most jeans, the fit completely varies depending on the style and the denim composition as well as your own body shape and height but for the most part, Zara jeans sizing is similar to other high street brands.

However, when you're hunting out the best Zara jeans for you, it's also important to remember that Zara's sizing varies slightly between the three ranges of Basic (true to size), Woman (runs slightly larger) and TRF (runs slightly small). With this in mind, it might be helpful to try two sizes if you're unsure of how Zara jeans will fit you.

Unlike many other high street retailers, most Zara jeans do not come in multiple lengths - rather, the brand tends to offer a slightly longer length that can be tailored to fit you precisely, either at home or by a professional. If you're petite, look for a cropped style that should finish at the right point.

How much do Zara jeans cost and are they worth it?

Zara jeans typically cost around £30, which is an affordable price for denim. Considering the quality, which I was impressed by - I would say that almost every pair is worth the price tag. The denim used in all of the jeans felt of a high quality and pieces were well made, with neat seams and consistent stitching.

As long as they are well cared for, there is no reason that Zara jeans shouldn't become some of the longest lasting jeans in your wardrobe.