Good morning. Today we’re diving into all things denim, including:
Over the past three years, our style experts have tried nearly 70 pairs of women’s jeans — suffering through gaping waistbands, comical lengths, and sagging bottoms — to find 12 of the very best pairs. After our latest round of testing, we’ve added several new styles to our guide, including a low-slung relaxed pair that’s beloved by the fashion girlies and high-rise jeans with pin-straight legs. Our ultimate guide to women’s jeans→ We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more ›
In the debate between 100% cotton jeans and denim made with a little bit of stretch, our style experts have some pretty strong feelings:
Here’s a hill I’ll die on: 100% cotton denim is superior to stretch alternatives. Sure, stretch denim offers instant gratification by skewing the break-in period and giving the illusion of a perfect fit from the first wear. But I’ve found the synthetic fibers tend to lose elasticity more quickly and cling in unflattering ways. Non-stretch denim, on the other hand, has historically been prized for its durability and breathability. Over time, these jeans will mold uniquely to your body, providing a custom fit and a tailored aesthetic that stretch simply can’t replicate. The denim nerds are right — classic cotton jeans are the only way to go.
Hear me out: Big cotton wants you to suffer in uncomfortable jeans. A single percentage of added stretch can create rugged, long-lasting jeans that look and feel just like pure cotton, but are comfortable on the first day and keep their shape for years. While some people (ahem, my colleague Frances) say 100% cotton jeans break in beautifully, I’d argue that, by the time they finally fit right, they look as ragged as a dying star. To those who say tradition and beauty require sacrifice, I say this: If stretch denim had been around a century ago, cowboys and miners would have flocked to it. It’s the greatest expression of jeans.
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After testing 83 pairs, our style experts found a lineup of good-looking, well-made, and classic men’s styles. Some standouts? A ’90s throwback with an easy fit, a slightly stretchy pair, and some truly standout designer jeans. Timeless, comfortable, flattering→
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