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FYI

The Madewell Perfect Vintage Straight Jean, which we previously recommended as a great option, has unfortunately been discontinued.

A great pair of jeans is truly a magical staple. No other closet essential is as adaptable, enduring, or indispensable. They serve as a reliable friend and tireless multitasker—the hardest worker in your wardrobe, always ready to deliver comfort and style for any occasion. However, finding the perfect pair can be challenging: your jeans must fit properly, feel great, withstand frequent wear and washes, and—most importantly—enhance your silhouette.

We focused on the timeless, versatile, and wearable straight-leg silhouette. After researching hundreds of options and testing 43 pairs—navigating gaping waistbands, comical lengths, sagging bottoms, and more—we discovered that jeans aren’t one-size-fits-all. To refine our selection, we enlisted a panel of six testers with varying sizes and style preferences, ultimately identifying six standout winners. Our picks include a universally adored ankle-length jean, an effortlessly chic premium pair worth the investment, a well-priced ’90s throwback, an indulgently soft and stretchy option available in a wide range of sizes, a cool rigid denim high-rise, and an enduring American classic.

Levi’s Premium Wedgie Straight Fit Women’s Jeans (“Christina” wash), a unanimously adored ankle-length jean; model is 5-foot-2 and wearing a size 24 waist and size 26 inseam.

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The research

A crowd-pleasing ankle-length jean: Levi’s Premium Wedgie Straight Fit Women’s Jeans

A chic, comfy pair that justifies its price: AYR The LaLa

A classic-looking, inexpensive pair that punches above its weight: Gap ’90s Straight Jeans

Decadently soft and stretchy: Paige Cindy

A cool high-rise with zero stretch: Agolde 90’s Pinch Waist High Rise Straight

Iconic for good reason: Levi’s Premium 501 Original Fit Women’s Jeans

Why you should trust us

How we picked and tested

Other good women’s jeans

The competition

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A crowd-pleasing ankle-length jean: Levi’s Premium Wedgie Straight Fit Women’s Jeans

Our testers had mixed opinions about many of the jeans we tried—this is reality, not the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. However, the Levi’s Premium Wedgie Straight Fit Women’s Jeans stood out as a universal favorite. They’re not only stylish and comfortable but also flattering on a variety of body types. Plus, their affordability makes them a refreshing choice in today’s market.

They’re current without being overly trendy. Our panelists awarded the Wedgie jeans the highest scores for style among all the jeans we tested. Featuring a high rise (10.875 inches in standard sizes), a close fit through the hip, and a bit more ease through the thigh, these jeans taper subtly to an ankle that’s slim but not tight.

You can elevate the contemporary shape of the Wedgie jeans with a heel or dress them down with a sneaker. “These make you feel confident that you’re part of the current jeans landscape without chasing fleeting trends,” noted one tester. “They’d look equally stylish whether you’re 25 or 75.”

The Wedgie jeans accommodate a variety of shapes effortlessly. The closer-fitting waist and relaxed thigh are flattering on different body types. A size 28 tester with straighter hips appreciated how these jeans enhanced her hourglass shape without sacrificing comfort. Our curvy-hipped, size 32 panelist, who typically faces challenges with jeans gapping at the waist, awarded them a perfect score for fit, saying, “I wasn’t tugging to keep them in place.”

Model is 5-foot-3, wearing the Levi’s Premium Wedgie Straight Fit Women’s Jeans (“Christina” wash) in a size 32 waist and 28-inch inseam. 

They’re booty-flattering. The Wedgie name is no accident: According to Levi’s, it designed these jeans to “lift and flatter your backside.” The close-fitting crotch seam does indeed give you a bit of a derriere-defining wedgie, and the back pockets are angled inward toward the waist. “It creates that perfect, upside-down heart look to your butt,” said one panelist.

They come in three inseams. You can choose a 26-, 28-, or 30-inch inseam, so lots of people can find their desired length; we think the Wedgie pair looks best hitting at the ankle. (The 26-inch and 30-inch options were deemed “perfect” by our 5-foot-2 and 6-foot-0 panelists, respectively.) But plus sizes come in the 26-inch inseam only, which is unfortunate; our 5-foot-10 tester tried a size 16W and said the length was “like something Oliver Twist might wear.”

The Wedgie pair has even stitching and a durable button fly.

The denim is both sturdy and comfy. The blend of 99% cotton and 1% elastane in the “Christina” wash provides structure while allowing enough give for a comfortable fit right from the first wear. “These move nicely whether walking or sitting, and they don’t feel stiff or restrictive,” noted one panelist. (It’s worth mentioning that the Wedgie also comes in several washes made from 100% cotton, which have no stretch and tend to run smaller; one Walletrays staffer was dismayed to discover that her usual size in stretch Wedgie jeans didn’t fit when she purchased a second, all-cotton pair.)

They’re a true bargain. Priced around $100, the Wedgie jeans offer exceptional value. The stitching is even, and the button fly—which is sturdier and easier to replace than a zipper—functions smoothly. One tester shared that she has owned her Wedgie jeans for about six years: “If that isn’t a testament to their quality in the age of fast fashion, I don’t know what is!”

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Flaws but not dealbreakers

• In plus sizes, the Wedgie pair comes in limited wash options and only a 26-inch inseam.
• Button flies require dexterity.

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• Testers with more defined waists found these jeans true-to-size; otherwise, consider sizing up.
• If you opt for a no-stretch (100% cotton) model, we recommend sizing up from your usual Levi’s size.

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Specs

• Material: 99% cotton 1% elastane; also available in 100% cotton
• Sizes: 23 to 34; plus sizes 14W to 26W
• Inseams: 26, 28, or 30 inches (standard sizes); 26 inches (plus sizes)
• Rise: 10.875 inches (standard sizes); 13 inches (plus sizes)

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A chic, comfy pair that justifies its price: AYR The LaLa

At around $250, AYR’s The LaLa jeans are definitely on the pricier side—yet four out of five of our testers said they’d happily pay full price for this standout pair. Here’s why: These jeans are effortlessly chic and ultra-flattering, boasting a soft, lived-in feel. “The second I put them on, I knew these would be going into heavy rotation,” shared one panelist.

The cut fits and flatters. These jeans made me feel, in a word, snatched. They scored the highest marks for fit from our testers, tied with the Levi’s Wedgie pair. The rise is high—10.75 inches on the “High Five” wash we tried—and they hug the hips and thighs, and then they finish with an easy, straight cut from knee to ankle. Intended to graze the top of the foot, The LaLa comes in two inseam lengths: short (28 inches) and regular (30 inches).

The waist of these jeans sits just above the belly button and dips into a subtle, visually cinching V. Spin around, and you’ll see that the yoke (the V-shaped section at the back) is cut unusually deep to enhance a curvier backside—or create the illusion of one.

Model is 5-foot-10, wearing AYR’s The LaLa (“High Five” wash) in size 34 Regular (30-inch inseam).

They have a laid-back look that effortlessly elevates any outfit. The LaLa jeans exude a chic, relaxed vibe, making them perfect for travel. “This was the pair I took on the road with me for a two-week trip,” said one panelist. “They go with everything.” However, another tester, who is also a fan, pointed out that these jeans lean more casual: “These are not paint-the-town-red jeans.”

Their fabric is undeniably luxe. Uniquely among our picks, this pair is crafted from a blend of 59% cotton, 40% Lyocell—a more sustainable rayon renowned for its softness, strength, and breathability—and 1% elastane. (The fabric content can vary by wash.) All our panelists were impressed by its quality and comfort. “It feels really high-end, broken-in, and soft,” remarked one tester. Another, who typically prefers rigid denim, expressed surprise: “I’m shocked by how much I like this fabric—the stretch works here.”

Compared to our other picks, The LaLa’s denim is lighter and drapier. “It has a super-appealing weight,” noted a tester. “Not too thick, not too thin.”

This pair has an especially deep yoke (the V-shaped panel in back) to flatter your backside.

They’re exceptionally well made. The stitching is neat and closely spaced, the seams lie flat, and the bar tacks (dense zigzag stitches that reinforce high-stress areas) are the best we found on any pair. The YKK zipper locks securely, and peek-a-boo rivets (which reveal a subtle touch of denim) add to the vintage-style aesthetic.

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Flaws but not dealbreakers

• They’re expensive.
• The largest waist size is 34.

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Fit need-to-knows

• These jeans run true-to-size; size up if you want a slouchier look, size down for a more tailored appearance.

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Specs

• Material: 59% cotton 40% Lyocell 1% elastane; fabric composition may vary by wash
• Sizes: 24 to 34
• Inseams: 28 or 30 inches
• Rise: 10.75 inches; rise may vary by wash

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A classic-looking, inexpensive pair that punches above its weight: Gap ’90s Straight Jeans

Of all the ’90s-style jeans we tried, the Gap ’90s Straight Jeans—long, slim, and stick straight—felt most faithful to that era. Testers were pleasantly surprised by their well-engineered, body-conscious fit, especially considering their modest price. “I haven’t worn Gap jeans since the actual ’90s,” marveled one. “Now I will.”

They’re slim and curve-hugging. The high, 11-inch rise hits at the natural waist; the jeans stay snug around the butt and thighs and then go into an elongating, full-length straight leg. Their shape is similar to that of Levi’s 501s, but with a closer fit throughout. One curvier-hipped panelist, size 30, said that “these are some of the only jeans that didn’t give me significant waist gapping in the back.”

Model is 5-foot-10 and wearing the Gap ’90s Straight Jeans (“Medium Indigo” wash) in size 33 Regular.

They come in three full-length inseams. The three lengths—short (29 inches), regular (30.5 inches), and long (32.5 inches)—are meant to fall past the ankle. The short was still too long on our 5-foot-2 tester. At 5-foot-6, I thought the regular was just right, and our 5-foot-10 tester also liked the regular, which hit around her ankle. Our 6-foot-0 panelist got the long version and said, “These are actually a little too long, which never happens!”

They’re made from a flexible denim blend. With a mix of 88% cotton, 11% polyester, and 1% elastane, the ’90s Straight Jeans are thin and flexible, with a slightly rough though not unpleasant texture. They feel snug when you first put them on, but they relax with wear. “After a few hours, they got more comfortable,” confirmed one tester. (Not to worry: They don’t get baggy or lose their shape.)

Unlike our other picks, these jeans don’t have bar tacks reinforcing the hips, and the stitching isn’t as closely spaced. 

They’re a bargain. With a list price of about $80, the ’90s Straight Jeans are the least expensive of our picks—and they often go on sale for 30% to 40% off. Granted, they’re not as well-made as our other recommendations: Their fabric is thinner, their stitching isn’t as closely spaced, and they don’t have bar tacks reinforcing the hips. But in style and construction, they easily outshine other budget jeans and many pricier pairs, too.

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Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The shortest inseam (29 inches) may still be too long for people who wear petite sizes.
• The largest waist size is 35.
• These jeans aren’t as high quality as our other picks.

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Fit need-to-knows

• These jeans run true-to-size.

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Specs

• Material: 88% cotton 11% polyester 1% elastane
• Sizes: 24 to 35
• Inseams: 29, 31.5, or 33.5 inches
• Rise: 11 inches

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Decadently soft and stretchy: Paige Cindy

Note: As of August 2024, the Paige Cindy jeans were sold out in plus sizes on Paige’s website. According to a brand representative, plus sizes will be back in stock in late October 2024.

If you’re straight-leg curious but still love the figure-hugging stretch of skinny jeans, give the Paige Cindy pair a try. These jeans are snug and flattering on top, featuring a wider leg opening for a stylish twist. Their premium denim is outrageously soft and comfortable, and they come in a wide range of sizes, including plus sizes. Yes, you can find many less expensive options out there—but in our experience, cheap stretch denim tends to be both unflattering and flimsy.

They’re skinny on the top and straight on the bottom. The Cindy jeans cling to your curves through the 10.5-inch rise (on standard sizes), hip, and thigh, then relax past the knee into an ideally ankle-length straight leg. “I like the form-fitting top with a wider ankle—I can wear them with a boxy top without looking sloppy,” noted one tester.

The fabric is incredibly comfy. Testers raved about the Cindy pair’s blend of 93% cotton, 5% polyester, and 2% spandex. “These are the dreamiest! They have a brushed, almost velvety texture,” exclaimed one panelist. Another quipped: “Who even wears jeans at home, lounging on the sofa? Me, in these, apparently.”

Walletrays staff writer Kaitlin Mahar shared that she often reaches for her Cindy pair just to hang around the house. “They’re truly so comfy that they feel like wearing jeggings without the cutting-off-my-circulation part.” She also loves to wear them when an outfit calls for a slim jean, effortlessly pairing them with boots or stilettos.

Model is 5-foot-2, wearing the Paige Cindy (“Mel” wash) in size 24 waist and 28 inseam. 

The quality is truly on point. At around $230, these jeans are definitely an investment. However, good stretchy jeans are worth the price. The cheap, poorly made stretch denim found in other pairs we tested felt insubstantial (think jeggings) and quickly lost its shape, while the Cindy’s material boasts a pleasant weight and structure. Plus, these jeans are exceptionally well constructed, featuring even stitching, a securely locking Talon zipper, and attractive detailing at the pockets. One tester concluded, “These are some nice-ass jeans.” (Note, however, that stretchier jeans—even high-quality ones—do tend to stretch out more over time and even between washes.)

They fit beautifully on a variety of body types. Testers of different sizes praised the Cindy pair’s fit, largely due to their stretchiness. “They’ll continue to fit well even if your weight fluctuates a bit,” noted one tester. Our petite, curvy tester (5-foot-3, size 32) shared, “I didn’t feel like I was squeezing into these, or like there was much gapping.”

If you’re between sizes, we recommend ordering the smaller size, as a snugger fit in stretch denim is more butt-lifting.

We tried the “Mel” wash, which has a destroyed hem. Some testers loved this detail; others found it too “shipwrecky.”

They’re the most size-inclusive of our picks. The Cindy pair comes in lots of sizes, with plus sizes up to 26W—a rarity, especially among premium denim brands. (As of our August 2024 update, the plus sizes were temporarily unavailable on the Paige website; according to a brand rep, they will be restocked by late October 2024.) These jeans are also available in three inseam lengths: 26, 28, or 30 inches, although many washes are available only in the 28-inch length. Paige has maternity sizes, too.

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Flaws but not dealbreakers

• They’re expensive.
• In their style and cut, they feel less timeless than our other picks.
• Stretchier denim tends to stretch out and is sensitive to heat from the dryer.

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Fit need-to-knows

• These jeans run slightly large. If you’re between sizes, we recommend sizing down for the best fit. A snugger fit will enhance the flattering look and provide that comfortable stretch you want.

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Specs

• Material: 93% cotton, 5% polyester, 2% spandex
• Sizes: Waist sizes range from 23 to 34; plus sizes from 16W to 26W; also available in maternity sizes
• Inseams: Options of 26, 28, or 30 inches
• Rise: 10.5 inches for standard sizes; 13.375 inches for plus sizes

This thoughtful sizing and material blend ensure a comfortable and flattering fit for a variety of body types!

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A cool high-rise with zero stretch: Agolde 90’s Pinch Waist High Rise Straight

Jeans made of 100% cotton—without a hint of stretch—offer the most authentic and long-lasting wear. Among all the rigid denim jeans we tested, the Agolde 90’s Pinch Waist High Rise Straight pair emerged as our panel’s undisputed favorite. These jeans read like a cool boyfriend style that has been tailored with a cinched-in waist, perfectly capturing those off-duty model vibes. Despite the fabric’s satisfying heft, they feel broken-in and comfortable from day one.

They’re undeniably cool. The 90’s Pinch Waist pair features a distinctive silhouette with a nipped-in waist that sits extra high; the 12.75-inch rise hits even our 6-foot-0 tester an inch or so above the belly button. The wider leg cut looks effortlessly stylish and unforced. “They’re just slouchy enough,” raved one panelist.

However, despite the roomier leg, this pair is cut narrow through the hips, which some curvier-hipped testers found a bit constricting.

Model is 5-foot-3, wearing the Agolde 90’s Pinch Waist High Rise Straight (“Navigate” wash) in size 30.

Even without any stretch, they feel surprisingly good. Unlike our other picks, these jeans contain no elastane. However, while some rigid denim requires a lengthy break-in period, the 90’s Pinch Waist pair feels pleasantly worn-in right from the start—and will continue to soften with wear.

Not everyone loved the stretch-free fabric, though. “The denim is on the heavier side and stiff enough that I didn’t have full range of motion,” complained one tester. “It was tough to get a leg over my bike.”

They come in just one inseam length. With a 29.5-inch inseam, the 90’s Pinch Waist pair is designed to be a full-length style, making it our only pick to offer just one inseam.

On my 5-foot-6 frame, these jeans grazed the top of my foot. For our 6-foot-0 tester, they landed just above the ankle. “The length works shockingly well,” she reported. “It looks intentional, and I can wear them year-round with different shoes.” If you’re petite, you might find them too long, but hemming is always an option.

This Agolde pair has a nipped-in waist and a sturdy button fly. 

They’re made to last. The 90’s Pinch Waist jeans “feel expensive and durable,” remarked a panelist, noting the neat and sturdy hems, seams, and bar tacks. They feature a button fly, which is typically longer-lasting than a zipper. One tester joked, “These buttons are doing the work to hold me in.” This attention to detail ensures that these jeans will stand the test of time!

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Flaws but not dealbreakers

• They’re pricey.
• The non-stretch denim can feel constricting, particularly on curvier hips, though it breaks in.
• They don’t come in plus sizes, and they have only one inseam option.
• Button flies require dexterity.

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Fit need-to-knows

• These jeans run true to size; however, curvier testers noted that the fit around the hips felt snug. This attention to fit ensures a flattering look, but it may be worth considering if you prefer a bit more room in that area.

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Specs

• Material: 100% organic cotton
• Sizes: 22 to 34
• Inseam: 29.5 inches
• Rise: 12.75 inches

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Iconic for good reason: Levi’s Premium 501 Original Fit Women’s Jeans

Since debuting in 1873, 501s have been synonymous with jeans. They’re so foundational, in fact, that some folks—including a number of our test panelists—may have taken them for granted. However, the Levi’s Premium 501 Original Fit Women’s Jeans have endured for a reason: They’re comfy, classic, flattering, and affordable. The 501 jeans look just as cool today as they did on Marilyn Monroe in the ’60s and Cindy Crawford in the ’90s.

They’ll never go out of style. Regardless of the current silhouette trend, the 501s are always in fashion. With a navel-grazing 10.75-inch rise (on standard sizes), they offer a close fit at the waist and a full-length straight leg that’s neither too loose nor too tight. “Compared to the [Levi’s] Wedgie, they’re longer and slimmer, giving them a more retro feel that translates to staying power,” remarked one tester.

Model is 5-foot-6, wearing the Levi’s Premium 501 Original Fit Women’s Jeans (“Hollow Days” wash) in size 18W and 30-inch inseam.

They’re built to flatter. The 501 jeans do various favors with their fit. Remarked our 5-foot-10, size 33 tester: “They’re snug at the hip and waist—and they look damn good.” The legs are visually elongating, while the rear construction lifts and enhances your tush with a deep yoke (the V-shaped back panel) and pockets that are placed high on the butt and angled inward.

They come in lots of sizes, though finding the right one can be tricky. These jeans come in standard sizes and plus sizes up to 24W. Notably, our testing panel was all over the place when it came to fit. Two curvier panelists, sizes 18W and 32, went down one size from their usual, while two others, both size 27, sized up to 28.

They’re long, with three inseam options. The 501 jeans are available with 28-, 30-, and 32-inch inseams. Our 5-foot-2 tester had to cuff the 30-inch version by about 5 inches (the shorter inseam was out of stock). On me, at 5-foot-6, the 30-inch jeans hit the top of my foot. Our 6-foot-0 tester described the 32-inch pair as “just about perfect.”

The 501 jeans are well constructed, with a button fly.

The denim feels both comfortable and durable. These jeans are crafted from a sturdy blend of 99% cotton and 1% elastane. While this is the same fabric composition as the Levi’s Wedgie pair, the 501s appear a bit heavier and less stretchy. “That wouldn’t ordinarily be an equation for comfort,” said one panelist, “but these are surprisingly comfy, even though I haven’t broken them in yet.” (They also come in several 100% cotton washes, which lack stretch and offer a slightly different fit and feel.)

They truly feel like a steal. The 501 jeans are well constructed, featuring thick thread, even stitching, and a durable button fly. Five out of our six testers agreed that they would gladly pay full price for the 501s. One panelist remarked, “I’ve wasted a lot of money over the years on unflattering, overpriced jeans, when the answer has been right under my nose the whole time—for less than $100.”

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Flaws but not dealbreakers

• Even the shortest inseam (28 inches) tends to run pretty long, and that version is often out of stock.
• Finding your perfect size can require some experimentation to get the right fit.
• Button flies require dexterity.
• The front pockets are long, adding bulk in front.

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Fit need-to-knows

• In our tests, sizing feedback was inconsistent, but overall our curvier testers preferred to size down, while straighter-hipped testers sized up.

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Specs

• Material: 99% cotton 1% elastane; also available in 100% cotton
• Sizes: 23 to 34; plus sizes 14W to 24W
• Inseams: 28, 30, 32 inches
• Rise: 10.75 inches (standard sizes); 13 inches (plus sizes)

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Why you should trust us

While researching this guide, I consulted Vanessa Friedman, chief fashion critic at The New York Times, and stylist and TV personality Stacy London for advice on choosing jeans that would stand the test of time and flatter different bodies. To learn more about denim, I spoke with Preeti Arya, PhD, an assistant professor of textile development and marketing at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology. I also surveyed 33 Walletrays staffers about their jeans preferences.

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How we picked and tested

From a sea of contenders, six pairs of straight-leg jeans emerged as favorites.

There are more women’s jeans available than we could ever hope to test. To narrow the field and enable true comparisons, we focused specifically on one style: the straight-leg. This approach allows us to evaluate the fit, comfort, and overall quality of this classic silhouette effectively.

As the name implies, straight-leg jeans are cut straight from the knee down, providing a consistent and flattering silhouette. This design ensures a timeless look that complements a variety of body types and styles, making them a versatile wardrobe staple.

We further focused on jeans with a mid- to high rise—9 inches or higher—and minimal to no distressing. Additionally, the jeans had to be mainstays, meaning they are perennially available styles that come in at least one classic blue denim wash. This criteria ensures a blend of timelessness and versatility in our selection.

I selected 43 pairs to test personally (5-foot-6, size 27). From this initial selection, the 10 most promising styles advanced to testing by a panel of six Walletrays staffers, ranging in height from 5-foot-2 to 6-foot-0 and in jeans sizes from 24 to 20W. Each tester wore every pair for at least one full day—often for several days—ensuring thorough evaluation. Not every panelist was able to test all pairs due to size availability, but this diverse group provided valuable insights into the fit and comfort of each style.

Throughout, we focused on the following attributes:

• Fit: We specifically sought out jeans that would accommodate a range of body types. All our selected picks are available in waist sizes from at least 24 to 34, with three styles offered in plus sizes. Additionally, most jeans come in multiple inseams, ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit for everyone.
• Style and Cut: Straight-leg jeans should embody both a current and classic aesthetic, ensuring they remain timeless while flattering a variety of body shapes. This versatility makes them a go-to choice for a wide range of outfits and occasions.
• Fabric: All the jeans in this guide are made from denim, a durable cotton twill featuring warps (lengthwise yarns) dyed indigo and wefts (horizontal yarns) that remain undyed. Recognizing that some people love jeans with stretch while others prefer a rigid feel, we included both types in our selection. Regardless of the material’s content, all fabrics had to be appealing to the touch and comfortable to wear, ensuring a satisfying experience for every style preference.
• Comfort: Our panelists carefully rated the comfort of each pair, noting their experiences while wearing the jeans both seated and in action. This evaluation ensured a thorough understanding of how each style performs in real-life scenarios, providing insights into fit, flexibility, and overall wearability throughout the day.
• Quality and Construction: We prioritized jeans with even stitching, sturdy bar tacks (the dense zigzag stitches that reinforce belt loops and other high-stress areas), and high-quality buttons, rivets, and zippers. Additionally, we assessed how well the fabrics stood up to regular wear and laundering, ensuring that each pair not only looks good but also offers lasting durability and performance.

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Other good women’s jeans

If you’re looking for a stretchy, inexpensive option, the Gap High Rise Cheeky Straight Jeans are both cute and comfortable, featuring 2% elastane for added stretch. Priced even lower than the Gap ’90s Straight Jeans, they come in five inseam lengths, ranging from 25.5 to 32 inches. While we didn’t find them particularly “cheeky”—lacking the butt-lifting magic of Levi’s Wedgie, Levi’s 501, and AYR’s The LaLa—they do offer a substantial feel. We appreciated the button fly and the high, 11-inch rise, although they tend to lose their shape and become a bit baggy in the seat by the end of the day.

If you’re seeking premium stretch jeans with a mid-rise, AYR’s The Pop is an outstanding option. Similar to the Paige Cindy pair, it features a body-hugging fit through the waist and thigh, complemented by a straight leg. The Pop’s 9.875-inch rise is about an inch shorter than that of the Cindy pair, and it’s available in inseams of 25, 27, and 29 inches (though, unfortunately, it doesn’t offer plus sizes, topping out at size 34). The bar tacks are sturdy, the finishes are impeccable, and the denim is both resiliently stretchy and substantial. However, we found ourselves preferring the decadent softness of the fabric in the Cindy pair, which adds an extra touch of comfort.

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The competition

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Under $100

As promised, the TikTok-famous Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jean made my tush look great. (It also comes in a “Curve Love” fit.) But these jeans were pouchy and unflattering in front, and the wash looked cheap.

The Good American Good Legs Straight Jeans and the Jen 7 High Rise Slim Straight Jeans were ultra-stretchy and thin—more like lightweight jeggings than jeans.

Oddly, the H&M Straight Regular Jeans had excess fabric at the inner thigh.

Though cute, the baggy ankle-length Levi’s Premium Ribcage Straight Ankle Women’s Jeans aren’t as classic as Levi’s 501s or as versatile as the Wedgie pair.

The 8.75-inch rise on the Lucky Brand Mid Rise Sweet Straight jeans felt too early-aughts for our taste.

The Old Navy High-Waisted OG Straight Jeans are typically priced around $50 and come in sizes from US 00 to 30. But the long, low back pockets were unflattering, and the flimsy zipper jammed.

The Warp + Weft Ase High Rise Straight pair fit nicely, but the fabric felt thin and flimsy.

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$100 to $200

The cut of the Agolde 90’s Mid Rise Straight pair is comfy and relaxed, offering a laid-back fit. However, it’s not as elongating or waist-cinching as the Agolde 90’s Pinch Waist design, which provides a more tailored silhouette. This makes the Mid Rise Straight a great option for those seeking comfort without sacrificing style, though it may lack that flattering, sculpted effect.

The Cos Symmetry Jeans ran notably small, which may require sizing up for a more comfortable fit. Additionally, the zipper had issues staying up, which could detract from the overall wearability and satisfaction with the jeans. These factors make them less reliable for those seeking a consistently flattering and functional option.

The relaxed-fit Ética Tyler Vintage Straight jeans felt cheap, with thin denim and a jangly button.

Everlane’s The Way-High Jean offers great quality and also comes in a Curvy Way-High version. Alas, the loose fit in the seat and thigh made my butt look long and featureless.

The dirty-looking fade of the Lucky Brand High Rise Zoe Straight jeans was unappealing.

The Madewell Stovepipe Jeans were so stretchy that they were bagging out in the seat after just a few hours.

With uneven stitching and a zipper that didn’t lock properly, the Mott & Bow Slim Boyfriend Ridge Jeans felt cheap and flimsy.

The Reformation Cynthia High Rise Straight jeans lifted and flattered my tush. But the stretch style didn’t have good elastic recovery, and the button fly on the rigid version was hard to use.

The top button on the Sézane Brut Sexy jeans popped off during testing.

The Universal Standard Etta High Rise Straight Leg Jeans pair goes up to sizes US 40 (7X) and runs extremely large. It had a sticky zipper and loose threads; testers also disliked the “frumpy” cut and dark blue denim wash.

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$200 to $300

The lightweight AG Saige High-Rise Straight Leg Denim pair didn’t feel premium enough, and the button was difficult to use.

Though the well-constructed Citizens of Humanity Charlotte High Rise Straight jean was a personal favorite of mine, the other panelists weren’t fans. Most testers complained that the zero-stretch style felt too tight in the thigh or gapped at the waist.

The DL1961 Patti Straight High Rise Vintage jeans look similar to AYR’s The LaLa pair, but the material is thinner and not as soft.

The Mother High Waisted Hiker Hover pair was pouchy in the front, and we found that it wasn’t high-quality enough for the price. Meanwhile, the Mother Mid Rise Dazzler Ankle—a stretchy pair cut similarly to the Paige Cindy—failed to dazzle, with its glitchy zipper, itchy tag, and insubstantial fabric.

The saggy, booty-flattening backsides of the Paige Stella Straight and the Rag & Bone Harlow Full Length Straight both served up dreaded cases of pancake butt.

The Re/Done High Rise Loose pair has a cool, relaxed fit and a longer, 32-inch inseam. But the hips were overly balloony, and the button fly was tricky.