The most comfortable jeans are not always easy to find, but once you do, stock up. Whether you're simply looking to up the ante on your jeans wardrobe, or have always struggled with securing your dream denim, we have found jeans that deliver on comfort and style.
When you think of the best jeans, a comfortable fit is surely one of the most important qualities on the list. However, this can be surprisingly difficult to come across. With the range of brands, silhouettes, denim fabrications, and leg lengths available, striking the balance of a flattering fit as well as unmatched comfort often feels like an impossible mission.
Thankfully, the woman&home team has decided to divulge their absolute favourite pairs, and what in their opinion are the most comfortable jeans money can buy. From the best high waisted jeans to the best mom jeans, these tried and true picks have been worn by our team for years, so you can be absolutely sure of a dreamy fit that you will never want to stray from.
The most comfortable jeans, recommended by our team
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Our shopping writer, Hannah Holway, said:
"The material of these jeans is super stretchy (you can literally pull at it and see how far it stretches), and not stiff at all, but they're still thick jeans that feel like true denim. Plus, the high waist is really flattering but not so high that it digs in when I sit down. I love the length and the wide leg, and would definitely invest in more pairs of Lee jeans as they're probably one of the comfiest pairs I've had for a while!"
The latest denim trends tell us that wide, baggy styles are firmly in fashion, and we couldn't be happier. Designed with comfort in mind, styles like the Stella A-Line will never fail you. This true black colour is ideal for more formal dressing, whilst the trendy shape adds some interest. Style with the best trench coats and some heeled boots for a chic and timeless look.
Our beauty editor, Fiona McKim, said:
"My preference for very high-waisted jeans rarely translates to comfort (I'm an expert at the stealthy post-lunch button pop) but these are the exception. They're a nice, thick yet soft denim in a looser, '90s style and are generously cut around the thighs and bum - usually my pain points with non-stretchy jeans. They come in loads of washes, many of which I own, and are cropped at the ankle, which is ideal for us average-height women with unfairly short legs."
'90s fashion trends are all the rage this year, and there's no easier way to incorporate the style into your wardrobe than with some staple jeans. Team this pair with a baggy white tee and chunky trainers, or opt for your best designer heels for dinner dates.
Our lifestyle editor, Tamara Kelly, said:
"I wear these jeans on days when I'm working from home and I love them. They're not stretchy, but they don't have the usual denim harshness that a lot of jeans have - they don't feel as starchy, which gives a more comfortable fit. I also love the button fly fastening that sits comfortably and doesn't dig in at all."
501s are undoubtedly some of the most iconic jeans out there, and for very good reason. With a straight cut that is slightly slouchy without being too baggy, they are an ideal all-rounder option. Pair with a baggy white shirt and one of the best wool coats for a casually cool ensemble.
Our shopping writer, Hannah Holway, said:
"I practically live in these jeans, so I can definitely attest to their comfort level. I love that they can be dressed up or down - the ‘70s-style waistband with double buttons means I can make my outfit a bit more chic with a crop top, or style it down with an oversized tee or jumper. They’re called straight-leg, but I’d definitely describe the legs as wide, and they’re such a flattering shape while also being supremely comfortable."
Versatility is another key feature that we want our comfortable jeans to have, and these fit the bill. Ideal for incorporating into new season outfits or throwing on with the best hoodies, these will go with anything.
Our deputy fashion editor, Charlie Bell, said:
"I love H&M jeans. I have a pair of their vintage straight jeans. They are super affordable and really flattering. A slightly less extreme mom fit sitting high on the waist, the relaxed leg makes them more comfy than regular skinnies. They're easy to dress up too."
If you are weighing up different types of jeans and want one style that will work for anything, the best straight leg jeans will never fail you. As versatile as skinny jeans but with a little more leg room, they are flattering without being too restrictive. Opt for this ripped pair for casual occasions, and invest in a staple blue pair for dressing up on smarter days.
Our social media producer, Lauryn Berry, said:
"For years I thought I couldn't buy jeans at Zara as they were always way too long or caused awkward gaps at the waist. But finally, on a random shopping trip, I found these cropped flared jeans and fell in love with the fit and the wash. They're super stretchy and comfortable but still look like a classic pair of jeans that can be dressed up or down. I'd practically given up on jeans until I found this pair! I love the crop as it's perfect for wearing with Chelsea boots or trainers. I also love that they feature recycled cotton for a very decent price."
Those with shorter legs know the struggle of trying to pin down a pair of flared jeans. Finally, your search is over. This budget pair of comfortable jeans from Zara ticks all the boxes without compromising on wearability. Take inspiration from how to style bootcut jeans and incorporate this pair into your wardrobe with ease.
Our shopping writer, Kenedee Fowler, said:
"Hate the feeling of stiff jeans that are uncomfortably tight around your waist? If so, I definitely recommend snagging a pair of American Eagle jeans. I’m a huge fan of all of their jeans, but if I had to choose a pair I can wear with just about any top, it would be the Next Level High-Waisted Jegging.
These high-waisted jeans are soft, have great stretch, and are still in great shape even after having them for three years. And don’t worry about figuring out if you need to size up or down. One thing I love about American Eagle jeans is that they’re true to size. People would always ask me why am I still wearing these jeans after coming home when I can just change into sweats, but they are so comfortable it doesn't even feel like I'm wearing jeans."
For the best skinny jeans that are also extremely comfortable, these come top of the list. With the same comfort levels as jogging bottoms, there is really no going wrong.
Our fashion writer, Amelia Yeomans said:
"Good American jeans really are some of the absolute best you can get. In terms of quality, styles, size range, trendiness, and comfort, few brands beat it. Although on the pricier side, I can confidently say that each pair is well worth the money. I often find flared jeans to be on the tighter side - especially around the waist - but I have no such issue with these. With just the right amount of stretch to be comfortable jeans without losing definition, they're one of my go-to pieces."
We find that the most flattering jeans are those that fit you well and make you feel confident and comfortable, which this Good American pair does brilliantly. They also feature advanced stretchy recovery, so they won't lose their shape even after being worn in. Channel the spring/summer fashion trends 2023 and style with a matching tranquil blue blouse.
Our fashion editor, Rivkie Baum, said:
"These coated black jeans from straight-to-market fave River Island double up as my most comfortable jeans. With a great amount of stretch, the high waist lifts and contours curves, while the slick coating is a great replacement for leather pants. Offering the comfort and casual feel of denim, but the added luxe of a coated fabric, these feel lighter weight than rigid denim styles making them a great all-year wear. The skinny leg fit also ensures I can slip them on with everything from trainers and heels to the latest boot trends."
River Island makes some of the most affordable jeans on the market and provides a mix of trending and classic styles. With some cuts available in petite, maternity, main and plus size ranges, the brand is inclusive in its design process. Largely focussing on stretch denim styles, the staple cuts aim to sculpt, lift and contour your curves for a flattering finish.
Our news writer Emily Smith said:
"I've always struggled to find jeans that fit my wider hips and stay comfortable when I'm sitting down. I found out about A&F curve love range which is designed for more curvier figures and I'm never going back. They're extremely soft anf have a slight stretch so are extremely comfortable to move and sit in, I need them in every colour way immediately."
Abercrombie & Fitch has really upped its denim game in recent seasons and thanks to its extended size selection its accessible for more people too. This cut of jeans comes in a phenomenal array of colourways, washes and wears, so if you find these are your most comfortable jeans, stock up.
Is there such a thing as comfortable jeans?
"In short", says fashion editor, Rivkie Baum. "Yes, you certainly can find comfortable jeans. The key to finding the most comfortable jeans is both fit and fabric. Opting for denim with the addition of elastane will ensure your jeans have some stretch, helping them move with you throughout the day, as 100% cotton denim can feel quite rigid.
Fit is important too, but this will come down to individual preferences. If you prefer a pair of jeans to sculpt and support your shape, your most comfortable jeans maybe high waisted, as these will come up and over your stomach and ensure the front fly zip and button don't dig into your middle. Equally, if you find a jeans leg quite constricting, look for looser silhouettes, such as a pair of baggy jeans, boyfriend jeans or girlfriend jeans that do not hug your leg".
With over fifteen years' experience, Rivkie is an accomplished fashion editor, writer and stylist. Covering international fashion weeks, and styling photoshoots all over the world, Rivkie loves translating the trends in an accessible way to make fashion available for all budgets.
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