Of all the denim available right now, roomy pairs have the strongest hold on the zeitgeist. The best wide-leg jeans go beyond baggy styles with a loose and stretchy fit; be it a high-waisted style in a premium fabric or an of-the-moment low-rise fit, the trendiest denim of the moment offers plenty of leg room. The proof is all around us: Jennifer Lawrence and Katie Holmes are fans of the look, and it was also spotted on the fall-winter runways at labels like Coach and Stella McCartney.
Finding the right pair for you starts with pinpointing the details you’re looking for, then centering your search around them. Ahead, you’ll find our editors’ very favorite loose-legged styles, meticulously categorized by their defining features, including rise, cut, and embellishment. You’ll also pick up some tips for making these high-quality picks work in as many outfits as possible. Ready to find your new favorite pair? Simply scroll down.
The best wide-leg jeans for women, at a glance
The best high-rise wide-leg jeans
Unless you’re super-tall or long-waisted, a higher rise looks best with the longest possible full-length inseam you can get away with; this creates visual balance against the extra fabric up top. That said, this silhouette can make you look several inches taller when the proportions are properly calibrated, especially if you pair it with a pair of heels (or heeled boots).
The best mid-rise wide-leg jeans
In a Venn diagram of waistband lengths, this comfy silhouette lands smack dab in the crowd-pleasing middle. It’ll suit those who don’t like the way a super-high cut looks or feels, but also offers an extra insurance policy against showing midriff. Because the rise isn’t extreme in either direction, this one is also an excellent choice for petite shoppers placing an order online. The well-balanced proportions make the purchase less risky when there’s no option for a try-on.
The best low-rise wide-leg jeans
The latest take on low-rise is nothing like the tight and stretchy skinny jeans you remember from 2011, or the straight-leg shapes that were everywhere in 2018, for that matter. Effortlessly hip-slung, these styles hit an inch or two below the navel to evoke a sense of ease—especially when paired with a slightly cropped top that hits just above the waistband. It’s a subtle choice that makes a big difference, so don’t be surprised if people notice you look extra-good, but can’t quite explain why.
The best embellished wide-leg jeans
Looking for a wide-leg style that’s a vibe all on its own? Leggy palazzo jeans and denim trousers with distressing, embellishment, or a bold print will do the trick. Even better, most of these selections feel special enough to dress up a bit, which means you can enjoy their comfortable fit while going out at night in lieu of, say, a constrictive dress. If you’re looking to make a big statement, consider something with full-on crystals or in a leopard motif; for a more subtle look, try a pair with studded metal trim along the seams.
By Alison Syrett Cleary
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