Regardless of controversy surrounding jean brands and raging summer heat, there is no denying that having a quality pair (or pairs) of jeans is the key to putting together a quick outfit. 

We have seen jean trends change in what seems like minutes, but regardless of the latest craze, one thing is clear: a nice-fitting pair doesn’t go out of style. Low-rise, high-rise, flair, straight-leg, bootcut, skinny, wide-leg, baggy, mid-rise, cut-out, ripped, embroidered, rhinestones… even cowprint, there are so many options on the market. 

Finding the style and the brand that is right for you long-term is tough, and can be difficult to navigate. 

A suggestion to consider when investing in that perfect fit is if you can realistically see yourself wearing them on  many occasions and for years past the initial buy. 

I’ve fallen victim to placing jeans I saw on Instagram in my cart, just to realize I don’t even like high-rise on myself and it was just another micro-trending pair that would be replaced next month. Having a few timeless staples doesn’t mean not having unique ones in your collection, it just means filtering your personal closet to fit your style, NOT someone else’s idea of what is cool.

For those who spend most of their time working remote (so in athleisure or sweatpants most of the time, likely), it is still important to have some denim that makes you feel put-together and like yourself. 

So, without further justification, here are some options, based on peer review (a.k.a people I know and the cool girls I meet out) and research, to start your search just in time for fall!

Your Cute Jeans: Classic

While most of my collection consists of low-rise jeans, like you might have seen in the 90s/2000s on Gisele or Elena Gilbert in TVD, having a classic pair with no frills is like having a back-up plan when you need a quick matching outfit. 

Classic does not have to mean a certain style, because everyone has different preferences and bodies. A general way to cover your bases is to have a light-colored pair and a dark-colored pair in similar(ish) styles that you love on yourself, because that gives you the best foundation for the rest of your fit. 
These Abercrombie jeans, which multiple people I know have (and I own), are a great start.

They also have “curve love” options in most of their styles, and the jeans are super comfortable.

Another option, slightly pricier, is Reformation!

For example, here are some straight-leg dark jeans that can be dressed down or up depending on the circumstances. 

Your Cute Jeans: More Personality

For those craving a vintage feel but don’t feel like sifting through large thrift stores or online resellers (although, some of my best finds have been on sites like depop and therealreal), try these MOTHER jeans, which have a little bit of flare and  a great fit.

While MOTHER may not be the cheapest of these options, cute jeans that last sometimes take an investment. Everyone I know who owns a pair of MOTHER denim raves about them despite the price tag, so it is worth taking a look at.

If you are looking for baggy and more relaxed, these Citizen’s of Humanity jeans fit the criteria. 

Baggy jeans look great with a tiny top or a nice sweater, or just a plain tee! Citizen’s of Humanity has plenty of other great options, so it’s worth a browse. 

Skinny jeans are not everyone’s favorite, and have been known to go in and out of style, but brands like Frame have come out with new collections featuring the denim. While I would not necessarily say these are timeless, they go great under rain boots or a heeled knee-high!

Your Cute Jeans: Brand Overview

If you aren’t feeling any of the specific types above, or if you want to shop a wider variety, here are some brands that are well-loved:

 Jeanerica, Subdued, and Revolve are all awesome for looking at some fresh pairs!

Levi’s, 7 for all mankind, and Still Here are also fan favorites, and I have had mine for years.

Regardless of brand, the most important part about determining where to spend your money on is the style and fit you like on yourself, which is not necessarily in sync with the rest of the fashion world.

Happy Shopping!

P.S. – Posting schedule is now every Thursday!