Don't let their relaxed vibe fool you — boyfriend jeans can be one of the most difficult denim items to shop for. Finding the perfect pair means finding just the right blend of fit, texture, and wash, which can sometimes feel impossible. Still, even with all these variables at play, our experts agree that finding the perfect boyfriend jeans is more of an art than a science. But with brands offering more size ranges, fits, and washes than ever before, the task of finding your perfect pair means kissing lots of frogs to find your denim-clad prince. That's why, with the help of our experts, InStyle took on the task of finding the best boyfriend jeans for every body, budget, and style. We decided that the Good American Good Boy jeans, with its updated fit, inclusive size range, and unique details, proved to be the best boyfriend jeans of all the ones recommended and tested. Ahead, our picks for the perfect pairs of boyfriend jeans. What We Love: The great fit and a classic wash comes in an inclusive size range. What We Don't Love: Good American's take on the boyfriend jean is a little more tailored than what we'd normally look for in the style. Since launching in 2016, Good American has quickly become the new standard for all things denim. Founded by Emma Grede and Khloe Kardashian in 2016, this premium denim brand counts stars like Megan Fox, Ashley Graham, and Gabrielle Union among their die-hard fans. Their take on the boyfriend jean features small but unique details, like the distressed waistline and notched ankle, that don't take away from the classic look of the jeans. The fit also blends the worn-in look expected of boyfriend jeans with a tighter, yet unoppressive, silhouette to complement curvier shapes. But bear in mind, this updated take on the boyfriend jean won't afford the wearer the classic slouchy style or feel of a typical boyfriend jean. Instead, we chose this jean for its deceptively soft fabric that somehow doesn't sacrifice structure or stretch- so your butt will look and feel good all day long. Price at time of publish: $139 Size: 00-28 | Wash: Light wash | Details: Split hem "Target's Universal Thread is basically Rachel Comey without the price tag," says Amy Leverton, trend consultant and author of Denim: Street Style, Vintage, Obsession. The low budget denim features many high-end-looking styles to give your outfit an extra oomph, like patched and topstitched knees but at a fraction of the price. Unlike other affordable pairs that contain a high percentage of spandex, these only feature a mere two percent; jeans with a lot of spandex can cause a pair to lose their shape over time, but many prefer it to get a better fit, especially over curves. With such a small amount of spandex included, this pair has just enough to ensure a comfortable fit, while maintaining that rigid denim look. Price at time of publish: $36 Size: 00-26 | Wash: Black, medium, white, railroad stripe | Details: Cuffed hem, patches What We Love: A versatile fit with perfect pocket placement. What We Don't Love: None of Re/Done's jeans feature an inclusive size range, including this pair. Any detail-oriented person will appreciate this take on the boyfriend jeans."You have to pay a lot of attention to the pocket size and placement," says Leverton about this pair of Re/Done jeans. "That can really make or break how good your butt looks." Most of the time when shopping for jeans, pocket placement varies for each brand and size. But meticulously placed pockets and seam lines on this pair give it a universally flattering look. InStyle senior fashion commerce editor Chloe Anello owns multiple pairs of these jeans and swears by them. "I didn't want to believe the hype, but they truly are worth the splurge. You can feel the time and consideration that went into each pair as soon as you put them on," she says. "I prefer all my denim to be rigid because I think it looks better over time than those made from a blend of stretch material." She adds that the lack of stretch is definitely noticeable, but the brand accounts for that with the fit, and it molds to your body over time, giving you the perfect slouchy fit. They run true-to-size, yet if you're unsure, we recommend sizing up. Plus, if you're on the tall side — Anello is five-foot-nine — these have the right amount of length. Price at time of publish: $285 Size: 23-32 | Wash: Dark, medium, black, white | Details: High rise, some have knee rips What We Love: The cotton-spandex blend makes these jeans feel comfortable and lived in from the moment you put them on. What We Don't Love: According to experts, sizing can be inconsistent. Madewell always impresses us with their wide range of denim styles — and they didn't disappoint with their extended sizes that launched in 2018. Because they designed this pair with plus-size bodies in mind, the jeans fit through the thighs and waist while still maintaining that baggy boyfriend fit. That said, though, Marcy Guevara-Prete, plus-size style expert and owner of The Plus Bus, advises us to "ignore the size on the tag" because it's fairly inconsistent. "I sometimes size up almost 2 sizes to get my desired fit, especially in a relaxed cut," she adds. But if you're particularly worried, Madewell's special cotton, tencel, and spandex blend can help close the gap for those in-between sizes without sacrificing durability or fit. Size: 22W-28W | Wash: Medium | Details: High waist What We Love: The detailed distressing gives these jeans an organic look. What We Don't Love: Distressing can vary between pairs. Just as with their Good Boy jeans, Good American pays attention to the small distressing details, winning it this category. "I want to look like I found these at the bottom of a thrift store bin," says Guevara-Prete of these Good American jeans. "Good American jeans tend to look very 'ripped by accident,'" she says. Details, like chewed hems and a slightly ripped waistband, lend itself to that accidentally teared look that Good American has mastered. Keep in mind, as with all pre-distressed jeans, the rips can vary from pair to pair, especially regarding where the rips fall on each individual's shape. Price at time of publish: $155 Size: 00-26 | Wash: Medium, light, white, black | Details: High waist, some have thigh and knee rips What We Love: Each pair made from recycled materials and organic cotton is Fair Trade Certified. What We Don't Love: The rips look a bit manufactured, rather than natural. The boyfriend jeans from J.Crew have what we like to call a goldilocks fit — they're not too slouchy, yet not too tight; the jeans hit the perfect slouch middle ground. "Boyfriend jeans should hug, but not suffocate the hips," says Chloe Cole, owner and curator of Anachronista Vintage. J.Crew tweaked their design to feature a just-right mid-rise that actually accentuates your best features (a PSA for anyone who thinks boyfriend jeans are unflattering). J.Crew manufactured these jeans using certified Fair Trade Certified practices as well as 100 percent organic cotton, which tends to be a more sustainable choice. For further styling around this perfect slouch "consider pairing with a cropped top that has a feminine touch," says Cole. Size: 23-32 | Wash: Light | Details: Knee rips What We Love: A low rise that doesn't sacrifice comfort. What We Don't Love: Reformation only offers the jeans in one wash. The return of low rise has been controversial — to say the least — but if you're going to do it, you might as well do it right. "We've entered an era where anything goes," says Leverton. "People are choosing what to wear based on what they feel most comfortable in and that's a really great thing. What you do with it, and how you wear it can determine how trendy you make it." This pair by Reformation gives us everything we could want in a low-rise boyfriend jean: a perfect muted wash, clean details, and a relaxed fit throughout. Even when styled as a vibey Y2K throwback (sans a Razr phone, though), they still can look classic. Price at time of publish: $148 Size: 23-32 | Wash: Medium | Details: Low rise What We Love: You can choose from a dozen different washes, each with their own unique distressing details What We Don't Love: Sizing can be hit or miss. Mixing high rise and slouch can be a tricky task when it comes to denim — you don't want the pair to add too much volume to your hips or gap at the waistline. These AGOLDE '90s Jeans have managed to create a perfect formula that gives you a relaxed look without sacrificing silhouette. And, with a dozen washes to choose from, you won't have trouble finding the perfect pair for your closet. Their unique wash options, along with their formulated fit, make these worth the pricier tag. Price at time of publish: $198 Size: 24-32 | Wash: Black, white, dark, light, medium, gray | Details: High rise, some have knee rips and raw hems As with any type of jeans, fit is a personal choice that can't be dictated by trend or style advice. When it comes to boyfriend jeans, some prefer slouchy with a low rise, while others only want a slightly-relaxed fit complemented by a high rise. Of course, there's no right or wrong way to choose which one is right for you, but consider experimenting with different fits to find the one that suits you most. Also, keep in mind that the jeans you leave the store with might not be the jeans you have in a year or two. With patience and a lot of wear, denim conforms to your body, giving you a personalized look that can't be purchased right off the bat. Unfortunately, the denim industry still has a long way to go when it comes to sizing consistency and availability. Ignore the number on the tag and go with your gut. When trying on boyfriend jeans, grab or order as many sizes in your range as you can, using the mirror as your guide instead of the size. If something looks and feels good, then they're right for you — it's that simple. At the end of the day, a great pair of any type of jeans isn't about a brand or style — it's about patience. Boyfriend jeans come in a variety of washes, but the perfect worn color might come through after a few washes and wears. At the same time, if you're picky about a non-manufactured distressed look, you might be better off buying non-distressed jeans and waiting for nature to take its course. First off, don't be intimidated by the style. Simple rules can help guide you into making them work for your aesthetic — and truthfully, they look good on everybody and with everything from a basic white T-shirt to a statement jacket. Because they tend to have a boxy fit, Cole prefers to "pair them with something with a feminine touch, like a tight fitted crop." But if you're trying to avoid the boxy look altogether try this tip from Leverton: "I like a real tapered silhouette on my boyfriend jeans so if the hem is still a bit wide or if I want to make a straight leg more 'boyfriendy' I fold the inside hem in before rolling it, this creates a really nice tapered look." When going down the route of distressing boyfriend jeans yourself, choosing the right fabric to start with is key. "Non-stretch (or rigid) denim looks more authentic and wears down more beautifully," says Leverton. Once you have your pair selected, simply grab sandpaper or a razor and rub it back and forth on the place you want to distress. Sandpaper will also soften your jeans which can give your wash a more worn-in look. Remember, patience is key. Try to distress over time, instead of all at once, and after each wash when the fabric is newly broken down. Our Picks
Best Overall: Good American Good Boy
Best Value: Universal Thread Boyfriend Jeans
Best Splurge: Re/Done 90s Low Slung
Best Plus Size: Madewell The Plus High-Rise Slim Boyjean
Best Distressed: Good American Good 90s Jeans
Best for Petites: J.Crew Petite Slouchy Boyfriend Jeans
Best Low Rise: Reformation Addison Low Rise Relaxed Jeans
Best High-Rise: AGOLDE '90s Jeans
What to Keep in Mind
Fit
Sizing
Composition and details
Your Questions, Answered
How do you style boyfriend jeans?
How do you distress boyfriend jeans yourself?
FAQs
What body type do boyfriend jeans look good on? ›
Boyfriend Jeans
These are perfect for people with an inverted triangle shape – with smaller hips than shoulders, as well as oval and rectangle. Because of the baggier fit around the thighs, this will streamline your silhouette.
Boyfriend-cut jeans are meant to be oversized but should still highlight your specific shape. The thighs and waist should be slightly loose but not so baggy that they're falling down. Those with taller frames may enjoy the way extra wide-leg boyfriend jeans look.
How to look classy in boyfriend jeans? ›Boyfriend jeans look great with a pair of heeled boots because of their relaxed leg. Why not have a fun heel peeking out from underneath? If you can wear jeans to your office, a heeled boot is an excellent way to dress the pants up without sacrificing comfort.
What is the best length for boyfriend jeans? ›Boyfriend jeans have a loose fit, which can easily morph into sloppy. Keep the look tidy by rolling them up loosely to a crop length. They should sit a few inches above your ankle, but this isn't a hard-and-fast rule. Go with the length that feels right, based on your height and the choice of shoes.
Do boyfriend jeans make you look thinner? ›For the most slimming effect, look for a pair of straight leg boyfriend jeans with slim cuffs that end just above the ankle, which will highlight the thinnest part of your legs. Dark wash jeans with a decent amount of stretch in the fabric are also a great choice for you.
What jeans look best on each body type? ›- Rectangular body type – Straight fit, low-rise jeans. ...
- Inverted triangle body type – Straight-fit jeans with large pockets. ...
- Triangle body type – Loose jeans with wide legs. ...
- Trapezoid body type – Slim-fit, low-rise jeans. ...
- Oval body type – High-rise, straight-cut jeans.
Although boyfriend jeans are meant to be slightly oversized, you shouldn't be swimming in them. They should fit loosely around your thighs but not loose enough that you can fit another person in there. Just as a loose shirt can slim you, so can the right pair of boyfriend jeans.
How to style boyfriend jeans over 50? ›The key to wearing boyfriend jeans at an older age is to minimize the distress on the jeans. Also, adding classic pieces such as a button-down, tweed jacket and a blocked-heel flat brings the look together and makes it feel more age-friendly.
Can you wear boyfriend jeans over 50? ›Can women over 50 wear boyfriend jeans? Absolutely! This is a great style for women over 50. They are fitted to show some shape but looser in the legs so it's comfortable, not so constraining.
What shirt do you wear with boyfriend jeans? ›One of the easiest everyday outfit for boyfriend jeans is to wear it with your white t-shirt. A plain white t-shirt, just like a white button-down, is a wardrobe staple. It goes with everything you can think of in terms of outerwear or even bottoms.
Are boyfriend jeans in style 2023? ›
Are boyfriend jeans out of style in 2023? Mom jeans may have been in the fashion spotlight for a while, but boyfriend jeans are definitely making a comeback. Low-waisted jeans with loose legs were all over the runways and celebrities such as Gigi Hadid and Dua Lipa are often snapped in their baggy boyfriends.
Are boyfriend jeans bigger than mom jeans? ›Typically, Boyfriend jeans widen at the hips and stay loose to the ground creating a baggy straightened fit. Mom jeans are high-waisted, opening up at the hips and then tightening slightly at the thighs, creating a slim cut until the higher ankle.
Should I wear boyfriend jeans if I'm short? ›Though tricky to wear for girls with short legs, it's still a very viable jean choice. The trick is to choose boyfriend jeans that are tighter and more form-fitting so that you have a slimmer and sleeker line of view. We know that boyfriend jeans have to have leg cuffs, so do cuff these jeans as narrowly as possible.
What style of jean is most flattering? ›Mid-Rise. This is the most figure-friendly rise out there; comfortable for all body types, and a bit of a secret weapon for all of us who want a little more structure around our midsection. Mid-rise jeans are also really compatible with just about any top length, which makes them a great go-to all around.
Why boyfriend jeans are the best? ›Boyfriend jeans are a more relaxed, wider-leg jean that sit, mid-rise, on the hips instead of the classic high waist 'mom' style. Managing to be both comfy and chic, no mean feat in the denim world, they've cemented their status as a cult favourite.
What body type looks best in high-waisted jeans? ›- Rectangle body shape/ The straight body shape.
- Apple body shape.
- Pear body shape.
- Hourglass body shape.
- Diamond-shaped body.
- Top hourglass shape.
- Long-rise body type.
- Short rise.
In terms of hiding belly fat, high-waisted jeans could become your new best friend. Simply put, high-rise jeans help you hide belly fat by covering and smoothing the area. Wide Leg: In response to the skinny jeans phenomenon, wide-leg styles have become more popular as a way to offer something different.
Which jeans for belly fat? ›Mid-rise and high-rise jeans help to cover your belly. These jeans are the most flattering shape if you have concerns about your tummy. Avoid wearing low-rise jeans. These don't cover your belly and tend to cause a “muffin-top”— bulges of skin—which may make you feel uncomfortable.
Are mom jeans or boyfriend jeans better for pear shaped body? ›Yes! Mom jeans can work wonderfully on a pear shaped body if they have a small amount of stretch. The beauty of mom jeans is that they have a high waist which helps hug your curves. And, while the leg on mom jeans does taper, they do not have a super skinny fit which isn't the most flattering on pear shapes.
Are boyfriend jeans like mom jeans? ›While a mom jean usually has a tapered cut, a boyfriend-style jean tends to have a straight cut. Although boyfriend jeans can be full length, they can also be worn cropped with either a cuff at the bottom or have a ragged hem. Boyfriend jeans are actually meant to be worn looser than a mom jean.
Are boyfriend and girlfriend jeans the same? ›
Boyfriend jeans have a relaxed fit with tapered legs; girlfriend jeans are lower-rise than mom jeans but not loose from the knee down; and mom jeans feature a higher rise and looser fit.
Are girlfriend jeans the same as boyfriend jeans? ›Girlfriend Jeans
This feminine version of the boyfriend is just that: more feminine. Girlfriend jeans are cut to sit higher on the hips and have a slim straight leg fit. Designed to hug your curves, the girlfriend style will emulate the boyfriend style but still show off your shape.
En español | EAre you ever too old to wear jeans? That question has been popping up on social media lately, so let's shout out a firm "No!" Choose jeans with the right fit, fabric, wash and proportions for your body, and then wear them in a contemporary way that suits your style and preferences.
How to wear boyfriend jeans over 60? ›Boyfriend jeans give the effect of a small waist, a curvaceous body and long legs. You can pair these jeans with tucked-in bodysuits or simple t-shirts. You can also pair them with high heels for a trendy look or wear them with white sneakers for a casual day.
How to wear boyfriend jeans if you are curvy? ›As you're on the hunt for a new pair of boyfriends (or boyfriend), look for jeans that have at least a mid to high-rise to accentuate your curves and keep that cool and casual look of boyfriend jeans going. Let your jeans play up your curvier shape and track down boyfriend jeans that have a slightly tapered ankle.
Can a 60 year old man wear jeans? ›In your 60s, it's best to let your sophisticated and classic style do the talking. Here are a few examples of chic and casual outfits that are suitable for men in their 60s: Dark, well-cut jeans with a nice T-shirt under a cardigan. Tailored chinos with an untucked button-up.
Can a 70 year old man wear jeans? ›Straight leg denim jeans that fit well in the waist and rear are flattering for most men over sixty. Chinos are dressier than jeans but not as formal as dress trousers; fitted chinos look better on mature men than relaxed styles.
Can a 60 year old woman wear ripped jeans? ›You don't have to ever stop wearing ripped jeans. You can wear ripped jeans over 50, ripped jeans over 60, and even ripped jeans over 70 – you just need to be aware of the number of rips. Make sure you look appropriate for your age and that you're not trying to look 20 or 30 years young!
Should 60 year old woman wear skinny jeans? ›Skinny Jeans – We say YES to skinny jeans at any age. Choose skinny jeans that are flattering to an older woman's figure like these from NYDJ. Cold Shoulder Tops – Uncover part of your shoulders without going sleeveless. This cute top looks great on women of any age.
What's the difference between boyfriend jeans and baggy jeans? ›The Boyfriend jean is meant to be worn slouchy and relaxed. However, this doesn't mean that boyfriend jeans always have to be worn extra baggy. In fact, more and more, new iterations of the boyfriend fit are being created – slimmer, more tapered versions that are still relaxed and slouchy but with a sleeker fit.
Can I wear an oversized shirt on a boyfriend jeans? ›
This again is a great idea to match up your oversized shirt with baggy or wide-leg boyfriend jeans. It can instantly give that boost to your style which you need to rock your day. An oversized shirt is the most comfortable and easiest to style with your bottoms.
Can I wear boots with boyfriend jeans? ›For cooler months, simple leather ankle boots or low boots will look fab with your boyfriend jeans. Roll them up to show off your ankles and make your outfit more casual.
Are skinny jeans out for 2023? ›Skinny Jeans, Skinny Pants & Leggings Are Back in For Fall 2023.
What was the new boyfriend jeans? ›In fact, more and more, new iterations of the boyfriend fit jeans are being created – slimmer, more tapered versions that are still relaxed and slouchy but with a sleeker fit. When it comes to being comfortable, no jean has your back quite like the boyfriend fit jeans.
What is the trend pants in 2023? ›Cargo pants are the look of choice for 2023 with baggy legs, long hems, and maximum pocket space. While the trend has definite early '00s roots, the waists are higher than their super low-rise counterparts at the turn of millennium—which comes as welcome news to most.
Are dad jeans and boyfriend jeans the same? ›— Boyfriend Jeans: Low rise, loose & cropped straight leg. — Dad Jeans: High rise, loose straight leg. — True straight leg jeans with a low, mid, or high rise. While the rises and hemlines differ, the one thing all of these jean types do have in common is this: they're all a bit tricky to style (especially with boots).
Why are they called boyfriend jeans? ›The style can be traced back to the 1960s, when Marilyn Monroe wore her boyfriend's loosely-fitting jeans that highly contrasted with her feminine looks in favor of a masculine aesthetic. Modern boyfriend-style clothes are often designed to look unisex and fit most women.
Can I wear heels with boyfriend jeans? ›Ankle-Strap Block Heels
Block heels are one of the best shoes to wear with boyfriend jeans because they provide comfort while still allowing you to look fashionable and stylish – perfect for casual wear or when you need to be on your feet for a long time.
roll up and leave 1/2″ of ankle between the boot and your pant. You can fold over twice to have a narrow cuff or one large fold. Be aware, the wider the cuff, the shorter your legs will look. If you cuff your jeans, wear a shorter top to help elongate the look of your legs.
What jeans look best with boots? ›- Straight-leg jeans: Straight-leg jeans have a straight up-and-down fit through the entire leg. ...
- Skinny jeans: Skinny jeans are tight-fitting throughout the leg, from the thigh down to the ankle. ...
- Bootcut jeans: Bootcut jeans flare out slightly at the ankle.
Which type of jeans is best for chubby girl? ›
High-Waisted Jeans: When it comes to rise, high-waisted jeans are a great cut for curvy and plus-size women.
Do boyfriend jeans look good on hourglass figure? ›Boyfriend jeans are your friend. They'll balance out the ratio from your shoulders to your knees and fall perfectly on your curvy hips. The relaxed fit also elongates legs if you're on the shorter side.
Do boyfriend jeans look good on curvy? ›If you're new to the trend, this style of denim is known for its loose fit and cuffed hems, resulting in a seriously laid-back look that you can wear anywhere. If you have a curvier figure, don't think for a second that these jeans aren't for you! Here's how to track down the perfect pair of boyfriend jeans.
Are boyfriend jeans good for curvy figures? ›Boyfriend jeans are designed in a way that it fits at the hips but has a relaxed cut through the legs. Because of their comfortable wear, they are a go-to choice for every fashion enthusiast. Boyfriend jeans can also work well for the curvy figure and give you a more comfortable fit.
Does boyfriend jeans fit slim girls? ›A cropped boyfriend jean is a great solution for shorter legs. Keep in mind that it may even fit as a regular-length jean if you're on the petite side, which could actually be great. Try a cropped boyfriend jean with a baby flare for an on-trend look that's flattering on most figures.
Do boyfriend jeans look good on big thighs? ›Boyfriend Straight Jean
Reviewers are raving about how well these jeans fit their thick thighs. Inseams are offered from extra short to extra tall so everyone can have their perfect fit.
Typically, Boyfriend jeans widen at the hips and stay loose to the ground creating a baggy straightened fit. Mom jeans are high-waisted, opening up at the hips and then tightening slightly at the thighs, creating a slim cut until the higher ankle.
Do boyfriend jeans look good on apple shape? ›Apple's tend to have slim legs so go for straight leg, skinny, or crop styles. The Girlfriend style could be an option as it's a slimmer version of the boyfriend jean. Avoid jeans that hide your leg shape, as they can make you look frumpy and shapeless such as a Mom Jean.
What jeans should people with lower belly fat wear? ›Mid-rise and high-rise jeans help to cover your belly. These jeans are the most flattering shape if you have concerns about your tummy. Avoid wearing low-rise jeans. These don't cover your belly and tend to cause a “muffin-top”— bulges of skin—which may make you feel uncomfortable.
Who has the most curvy body in the world? ›- Kate Winslet. ...
- Scarlett Johansson. ...
- Jennifer Lopez. ...
- Jessica Simpson. ...
- Kelly Brook. ...
- Nigella Lawson. ...
- Jennifer Hudson. ...
- Myleene Klass.
What jeans look best on an hourglass figure? ›
Generally, simple and clean styles such as classic bootcut or straight leg are best for the hourglass-shaped body. Wide-legged, loose-fitting, and slightly tapered jeans styles also work well. Jeans should be mid- or high rise to elongate the legs.
What is the difference between girlfriend jeans and boyfriend jeans? ›Boyfriend jeans have a relaxed fit with tapered legs; girlfriend jeans are lower-rise than mom jeans but not loose from the knee down; and mom jeans feature a higher rise and looser fit.