My Fall Denim Edit: 4 Jeans Styles I Wear on Repeat
Jeans are the starting point for my outfits most days. They’re easy to style and, yes, comfortable. With so many cuts and washes available, it can feel as though a new “must-have” pair comes along every week. But the best jeans are the ones you actually enjoy wearing, and I find that three or four pairs can cover just about anything. Today I’m sharing the four tried-and-true styles I reach for most often.
What Makes Jeans Comfortable Enough to Wear All Day?
Comfort is non-negotiable for me. If I can’t wear a pair of jeans all day without thinking about them, I’ll pass. I travel with jeans and have even worn some pairs on long flights. Here’s what I look for:
- A little stretch. I usually skip rigid denim. Even 2% elastane can make a difference.
- Room to move. Jeans don’t have to be baggy, but a slightly more relaxed fit, even in slim or bootcut styles, feels comfortable and current.
- The right size from the start. Some jeans loosen up with wear, but they shouldn’t feel constricting when you first put them on. Don’t feel you have to squeeze into the smallest size possible.
- An easy closure. This is a newer consideration for me. With a bit of arthritis developing in my hands, some button flies are difficult to fasten, so I stick with zip flies.
Here are the styles I’m reaching for most often this fall…
Barrel-Leg Jeans: A Little Personality
My sizes: Sweater – XS, Jeans – 8 Petite
These Ruti barrel jeans (both lighter and dark washes) have been mainstays in my wardrobe for the last couple of years, and I don’t see myself retiring them anytime soon! The shape adds that little soupçon of quirkiness that makes my outfits feel like me. Use code SUSAN15 for 15% off at Ruti.
For a more subtle barrel shape, check out Ruti’s “Classic Barrel” style, these “Miro” jeans from Citizens of Humanity, and the “Comfort Stretch” darted barrel jeans from Madewell.
Straight-Leg Jeans: The Versatile Pair
My sizes: Sweater – XS, Jeans – 29
When I want to wear a longer or more voluminous top, a straight-leg jean can help balance the proportion. This one is a new favorite from Paige, and available in several washes. The ankle length is petite-friendly!
I also still like the Palma jeans from Citizens of Humanity.
Knit Jeans: Denim Looks, Pajama Comfort
When I first saw these Miramar jeans on a friend, I couldn’t believe they were actually a lightweight terry cloth! They are as comfortable as wearing pajamas, and lightweight enough for warmer days. This style is also a petite-friendly length. They run large, so I’d suggest going down a size. More Miramar styles here, and for darker wash knit denim, check out these from Eileen Fisher.
Wide-Leg Jeans: An Easy Way to Dress Up
My sizes: Cardigan – XS, Jeans – 8 Petite
For a more dressed-up look, I love these Ruti Palazzo jeans. The dark, even wash reads as navy, and the palazzo shape hints at a trouser. (I had mine shortened just a bit, as I mostly wear flats.) These have a good bit of stretch and a nice, soft feel.
The Frame “Slim Palazzo” style is also a good one, and available in several washes. (In Petites, too!) The J.Crew Trouser Jeans are also a good option at a budget-friendlier price.
The cardigan was a gift from the team at Alex Mill, and I love it! Beautiful cashmere and an easy-to-wear style.
I don’t think there’s one jeans style everyone needs to own. These four work for the way I dress now, and they’re each comfortable enough to wear all day. Which style do you find yourself reaching for most often lately?
Stay in touch
Sign up to be notified of new posts and updates from une femme d’un certain âge.
I have to thank you Susan for the EF jean recommendation! I got the medium which appeared to be my size ( usually 10, sometimes 8), but these do run large! I kept them, though, to wear around the house and ordered the small which are perfect. These were so comfortable and put together with my khaki Betty cardi (again, thanks) or a moss green alpaca cardi from Poetry, an English firm with a great catalog of mostly natural fiber clothes and only 2 stores in the US.
Ayr, the LaLa, the only jean for me, never could wear low-rise, being slim but broad pelvis, dislike any legs but straight. Fortunately several colors available – and made in Los Angeles.
I’ve NEVER had a pair of “button fly” jeans – I can’t risk not being able to open them in time! You nailed that one, Susan!
I’m curious why you’ve never mentioned NYDJ. They are simply fabulous and priced well.
Hi Linda, I think NYDJ are a good option for many people. I stopped wearing them a few years ago, as I found other brands and fits I preferred. But I probably should take another look.
I love my Miramar jeans—thank you for recommending them! They look authentic and are so comfortable. I was surprised by how comfortable they were even in warm weather. I noticed you have the Veronica Beard Natalia. How do they compare with the VB Penrose? The Penrose is my go-to when I want an attractive sneaker for walking.
Hi Linda, I find the Natalia’s have a similar fit and feel to the Penrose. Very comfortable!
Jeans are my go-to trousers too. I have two favourites but I think a third one is coming.
Greetje
I am petite and like a straight leg or slightly slim fit in a jean. Dark wash, grey, and black are my style. I was in a major department store years ago coming out of a dressing room with a pile of jeans. I must have looked discouraged. Another customer came up and said ‘Try this brand from a shopping channel that I have found luck with’. So I did and have been wearing this brand for at least 15 years now. They have a bit of stretch but not too much. I still have to have them shortened at times. I appreciate your outfit alternatives and look forward to reading your comments. I review my jeans every season and have just relegated a pair to the gardening/housework style and ordered a black pair with a baby boot cut.
I’ve pretty much given up on jeans. They constantly change the cut, color, fabrics. I just don’t want to bother. I also think they aren’t flattering on me. (You look great in them. Susan!) I will wear linen slacks and cotton slacks but as a petite sized woman, jeans never fit me right.
This email couldn’t have been better timed. Just yesterday I tried on a pair of wide leg jeans that felt a bit snug in the waist. The sales associate said that it takes 4 wears and then they’ll feel perfect lol. I then asked to try the larger size and she told me I had “sad tutt( but with a b)”! I left without the jeans and you’ve given me permission to not settle for a pair that aren’t right from the start. Thank you!
My go to’s are practically the same as yours. The Miro, my favorite fit and style by far, the Palma, my second favorite, the Slim Palazzo, and the Pistola Lexi if I want a mid rise. I like the Miramar Andie Ankle and Mother Kick It Ankle also. All but the Miramar come in petite sizing which I prefer to fussing with altered hems if I can avoid it.
Your blog posts and the comments are always so thoughtful and helpful!
Hi Susan, I love your posts. I was wondering if you have experience with Jenny Kane sweaters. I’m considering an “Ivory” sweater during their fall sale and wondering if that color skews warm, neutral, or cool in your opinion. Many thanks!
Hi Christine, I have the Jenni Kayne cotton fisherman sweater in Ivory. It’s warm, creamy off-white. I think the quality is excellent and it’s held up well over the years.
Susan—I know you’ve shown the Land’s End cropped button down shirt, but when I search I can’t find the post with you wearing it. Can you please share your size? I would like to purchase but wondering if I need the regular or petite size. I am 5’ about 106 lbs. and usually a 4 or 6 petite. A small in their sizing is a 6-8. When the range is 4-6 it’s a better fit. Please help. Thanks
Hi Rose, I’ve found the XS Petite is a perfect fit. (I’m usually a 4-6 in tops.)