The most comfortable jeans are not always easy to find. Whether you're simply looking to up the ante in your jeans wardrobe, or have always struggled with securing your dream denim, we have found jeans that deliver on both comfort and style.
Shopping for new jeans can be a minefield - each brand has slightly different sizing and cuts but once you find the best jeans for your body type, you'll find that the secret to your perfect denim style is unlocked. When looking for jeans, a comfortable fit is definitely one of the most important qualities on the list. 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.
I asked the woman&home team to tell me their experiences of the most comfortable jeans money can buy, before trying them for myself. From the best wide leg jeans to the best slimming jeans, these tried and true picks have been worn by our team for years - but would they pass the test from this denim expert? Find out below!
The most comfortable jeans, recommended by our team
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1. Lee Stella
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!"
And I have to agree, having tried a pair for myself. While the fabric is a 69% cotton 31% lyocell mix with no elastane, the fabric is surprisingly soft and has a good amount of give, allowing for a form fitting shape around the waist immediately before flaring gently over the legs for a flattering fit.
The best wide leg jeans should complement your existing wardrobe but it can be hard to think of how to style wide leg jeans after years of skinny and straight styles but our top tip is to keep your top half fitted in order to balance your silhouette. For work and more formal occasions, look for darker washes that will look great with one of your best trench coats and some heeled boots for a chic and timeless look.
2. Topshop Mom
Topshop's Mom Jeans have been a staple of women's wardrobes since they launched in 2013, making them one of the best mom jeans around. With their generous cut around the thighs and bum, they've long been one of Topshop's bestselling denim styles. While most of the pairs in the collection are made from rigid denim, this doesn't mean that they're uncomfortable - far from it! If you have a curvier figure, the newer variation - hourglass mom jeans - offers an extra two inches around the hip and thighs, meaning you can eliminate gaping waistbands and find your perfect fit.
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."
After just a few wears, I find the fabric softens and moulds to my body, creating an incredibly comfortable fit. For those who prefer elasticated fabrics or a looser fit, the collection of 33 variations now includes both oversized and stretch, as well as hourglass. With regular, petite and tall lengths, you're bound to find the ideal fit. Like Fiona, I am on the shorter side of life at 5'3", so opt for a petite length for an ankle grazing fit.
'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 inspired by this on-trend decade. Team this pair with a baggy white tee and chunky trainers, or opt for your best designer heels for dinner dates.
3. Levi's 501
501s are undoubtedly some of the most iconic jeans out there, and for very good reason. The original style has a straight cut that is slightly loose on the leg without being baggy, meaning they are an ideal all-rounder option. Over the years, Levi's have expanded the collection to include cropped, skinny and 90's-inspired styles that share the denim DNA of the original fit, meaning you can find your dream pair of this timeless jeans style - they're the perfect addition to your denim capsule wardrobe.
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."
As someone who prefers a slightly looser leg, I opted for the 90s style which offers a cool on-trend straight leg update to this classic style of denim. It's worth bearing in mind that Levi's 501s do not have elastane in their fabric, so need breaking in but once they've been worn a few times, the premium denim fabric will soften and fit to your body perfectly without over-stretching and loosing shape.
Pair with a baggy white shirt and one of the best wool coats for a casually cool ensemble.
4. Gap Vintage Slim High Rise
It's unlikely that any denim guide could ever be written without including a pair of jeans from Gap - The Vintage Slim High Rise jeans are a wardrobe secret weapon of mine. With 1% elastane in the cotton/polyester mix of the fabric, these jeans have just enough stretch to feel soft and supple but not so much that they cling like leggings.
Think of these as a modern take on the classic cigarette-cut trouser - sitting high on the waist and fitted through the hip and thigh, they have a slight straight leg that is both immensely flattering and comfortable, finishing at the perfect point on my ankle. The fitted cut makes them look smart but when I drop into a squat to test their softness, the jeans move easily with me and return to their original shape quickly with no sagging.
Versatility is a 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.
5. H&M Slim Mom High Ankle
Our deputy fashion editor, Charlie Bell, said:
"I love H&M Mom jeans. They are super affordable and really flattering. Sitting high on the waist, the relaxed leg makes them more comfy than regular skinnies. They're easy to dress up too."
I have a love-hate relationship with most Mom Jeans but trying on H&M's ankle grazing style, I'm instantly sold. With a slight elasticity to the fabric, they are more comfortable than the rigid denim that many pairs are made from. While I find that I fit the size 10 with no problems, the area around the zipper bunches oddly on me, creating an unflattering look.
However, this is quickly remedied by sizing up to a 12 - with a slight difference in the waist, I haven't gained more length so they still fit perfectly in the leg but the area across my body sits far more comfortably. Let this be a reminder that sometimes it's good to try more than just your regular size for the best fit!
If you are weighing up different types of jeans and want one style that will work for anything, the best mom jeans will never fail you. As versatile as skinny jeans but with a little more leg room, they are flattering without being too restrictive. This classic light wash will work all year round
6. Zara Mini Flare
Those with shorter legs know the struggle of trying to pin down a pair of jeans but finally, your search is over. This budget-friendly pair of comfortable jeans from Zara ticks all the boxes without compromising on wearability or style. With a stretchy fit, they instantly hug my body in all of the right places. Additionally the mini flare is incredibly flattering - particularly if you want to balance a bottom-heavy silhouette.
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."
Featuring a cool patch pocket detail across the hips that gives them an on-trend Seventies style look, I never thought I would like a pair of cream jeans so much and they're surprisingly versatile all year round - for winter, try teaming them with pieces in similar tones such as beige, camel and conker brown for a wardrobe refresh.
Take inspiration from how to style bootcut jeans and incorporate this pair into your wardrobe with ease.
7. M&S Carrot Ankle Grazer
One of the runaway hero styles of 2024 has undoubtedly been barrel leg jeans - this updated version of many a denim fan's beloved boyfriend jeans sees the loose silhouette updated with a wide leg shape on the leg that tapers in gently at the ankle, creating a barrel or carrot shaped leg - also sometimes referred to as the horseshoe jean. With a high waist that sits on the narrowest point of your torso, this shape is not only super flattering but SO comfy.
And I'm not the only one who thinks they're great!
Our Digital Fashion Editor, Caroline Parr, said:
"I normally go for much stretchier jeans than these, but I was immediately sold when I tried them on. The shape is incredibly flattering (they're a more subtle take on the barrel leg trend), but I did find they came up quite short, so I opted for the longer length. To me, the litmus test for comfy jeans is wearing them for long days of working from home when I could actually get away with wearing leggings. I've worn them every day since I bought them and there was no breaking in time at all!"
One of our favourite British clothing brands, M&S have hit the nail on the head with their take on this denim trend. The cotton rich denim has a very slight stretch to it, meaning that the waistband sits comfortably, rather than digging in and the fabric is far more flexible than some other brands take on this style. The length is also slightly cropped, meaning that they sit at the perfect point to flash a little bit of ankle - they'll look great with trainers or boots as part of your best autumn outfits and sandals in the warmer summer months.
Like wide leg jeans, this on-trend style is best worn with a fitted top to balance the oversized shape - try teaming it with your one of your best wool jumpers and boots for a chic and cosy look.
8. Good American Skinny
I'm a huge fan of Good American jeans - the brand founded by Khloe Kardashian and Emma Grede in 2016. With their inclusive sizing ranging from a UK 2-28 and clever cuts, these are some of the comfiest jeans I've come across - and I've tried on a LOT. Like many of the best designer jeans, they have a higher price point than many of the brands featured here but these are jeans that you won't regret investing in.
I tried the Good American Good Leg Skinny Jeans which feature the brand's innovative SoftTech denim, making them the some of the softest jeans I've ever wriggled into. With 2% elastane, the stretchy fabric moulds to my body without feeling too clingy, but still feels structured enough to suck me in and support my curves. Conducting the all-important and very scientific squat test, I can confirm that they move with me but return to their shape immediately once I'm stood up again. The brand's signature no-gap waistband is also a massive plus, fitting perfectly at the waist without digging in. I could happily sit in these jeans for hours!
Our senior 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. 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 best jeans for your body type 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.
9. River Island Molly
River Island makes some of the most affordable jeans on the market and provides a mix of trending and classic denim styles. With some cuts available in petite, maternity, regular and plus size ranges, the brand is inclusive in its design process. The brand's Molly jeans are designed to sculpt, lift and contour your curves for a flattering finish.
Available in six washes, I opt to try the classic black. Over-dyed darker washes often need a larger size as the fibres can tighten together in the dyeing process but taking my regular size, these are pleasantly stretchy and slip on with no problems, thanks to the 2% elastane included in the fabric composition. Wiggling around, the jeans follow my every moment with ease with the additional bonus of a clever sculpting cut that lifts and flatters my figure and no digging in at the waist.
The skinny leg fit also ensures I can slip them on with everything from trainers and heels to the latest boot trends.
10. Abercrombie and Fitch Curve Wide Leg
Abercrombie & Fitch has really upped its denim game in recent seasons and thanks to its extended size selection it is now accessible to more people too. The brand's Curve Love collection has become a bestselling hit - with two additional inches across the hips and thighs, the collection guarantees a great fit for those with more junk in their trunk.
Our Digital Lifestyle 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."
Like Emily, I also sometimes struggle to find wide leg jeans that are both comfortable and flattering but the lightweight denim of this pair is so soft that I don't even notice that they're non-stretch at first.
The thinner fabric and clever skimming cut means that I avoid the dreaded upper thigh strain that I've found trying similar styles from other brands. While I usually change out of my jeans the second I get home, I could definitely see myself reaching for these on those days when I'm lounging at home!
FAQs
Which jeans fabric is most comfortable?
When you're looking for the most comfortable jeans, fabric is just as important as the cut of the jeans. Soft, stretchy denim is instantly the most comfortable as it will move with your body and doesn't require breaking in, so look for jeans that contain lycra or elastane in the fabric.
If you're a fan of rigid jeans, don't worry, these are still some of the most comfortable jeans but need a little more work and dedication - the more you wear them, the softer they will become and the fabric will gradually mould to your body for the ultimate fit. Be warned though - washing these jeans can mean that you'll lose the custom shape so it's best to spot wash them or pop them in the freezer from time to time for a refresh and to see off any bacteria gathering in the fabric!
Is it better to size up or down in jeans?
When it comes to sizing in the quest for the most comfortable jeans, don't be surprised if you find yourself fitting a pair that varies from your regular fit by one or two sizes as there are a number of factors that could influence what you pick. Dark and over-dyed styles are often tighter due to the dyeing process shrinking and tightening fibres, which means they'll take longer to loosen up as you wear them.
The amount of stretch in the denim fabric might also affect your sizing choice - rigid styles without stretch might need more wiggling and jumping to get them on initially but will gradually 'give' to create the perfect fit.
When it comes to stretchy styles, it's important to factor in just how much the style of jeans might stretch out after a few wears, so you may want to size down to avoid sagging that can occur.
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".
How to find the most comfortable jeans
While there is no exact formula for finding the most comfortable jeans as so much is down to personal preference, there are certain factors you can consider before purchasing.
Stretch denim will virtually always be more comfortable than rigid denim as it will move and flex with your body, making it a good option for those who are on the move - look for a higher lycra or elastane percentage that will help stop them digging in uncomfortably at the waist and upper thighs.
Equally, lightweight, thinner denim will be softer than thick traditional denim fabric such as Selvedge which has no stretch to it.
Even the wash that you choose can affect how comfortable your jeans are - light and mid-blue washes will have been treated less, leaving the fabric soft while dark and over-dyed washes such as Indigo and Black will have fibres that have been shrunk in the colouring process, meaning that the weave is tighter and allows for less movement.
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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