The 22 Best High-Waisted Jeans of 2024, Expert Approved

Why We Love It: Of the infinite amount of high-waisted jeans out there, this style from Madewell is hands down our top pick—it has “perfect” in the name, after all. Designed to flatter a wide range of body types and heights, this wide-leg style is crafted from the brand’s premium Cone denim, which combines the holds-you-in structure of rigid vintage denim with just the right amount of stretch to hug curves. Complete with the brand’s tummy-smoothing Magic Pockets, they’re available in a wide range of sizes and inseam lengths. What’s more, the rise also varies across each size category, ensuring a perfect navel-grazing fit, no matter your height.

Who It’s For: Thanks to inclusive size, inseam, and rise offerings that cater to petite, standard, tall, and plus body types, we’d say these are an all-around winner for everyone. The subtle stretch and smoothing structure make these an especially great pick for anyone with curves.

Material: Cotton, elastane | Size: 23–33 petite, standard, and tall; 14W–24W plus | Inseam: 27.5 (petite), 29.5 (plus), 30 (standard), 33 (tall) inches

Why We Love It: Jeans that truly “wow” don’t have to cost a fortune. Case in point? These wide-leg jeans from Old Navy. Designed to sit at the belly button and fit loose in the thighs, these are made from nicely stretchy cotton-blend denim that hugs and enhances your curves. Of course, we also appreciate that its inclusive size range includes petite, regular, and tall inseam lengths to ensure you get the perfect fit and length.

Who It’s For: Anyone looking for a curve-loving pair of jeans that won’t break the bank will appreciate the comfortable stretch of these Old Navy jeans—and, of course, the under-$40 price tag, too.

Material: Cotton, polyester, spandex | Size: 2–18 petite, 0–30 regular, 4–18 tall | Inseam: 29 (petite), 31 (regular), 34 (tall) inches

Why We Love It: First off, if you’re going to splurge on a pair of jeans, make sure they’re showstopping and actually splurge-worthy! Certainly not for the faint of heart, this bedazzled pair from Self-Portrait is crafted from mid-weight cotton for a rigid, non-stretch fit with a wide leg that, despite the obvious glitz, still gives these jeans a relaxed feel. Pair with your favorite tee or tank to tone down the sparkle, or throw them on with a blazer and bralette for a sleek, night-out look.

Who It’s For: If you’re looking for jeans that’ll be the star of your outfit, these sparkly jeans are sure to please. However, we’d love them even more if the size offering was a little more inclusive.

Material: Cotton | Size: 24–30 | Inseam: 31 inches

Why We Love It: The brand’s Curve Love line has gone viral for its gap-eliminating waistband, engineered with an additional 2 inches at the hips and thighs to comfortably hug curves. These high-waisted wide-leg jeans are incredibly comfortable, fitting relaxed at the waist and hips before easing into a wide, full-length leg shape. Curve-loving features aside, it’s also offered in an inclusive size range and three inseam options, all at an affordable price point.

Who It’s For: Given their many size and inseam options, these are great for curvier bodies of all shapes, heights, and sizes.

Material: Cotton, Tencel, polyester | Size: 24–34 | Inseam: 28.5 (short), 30.5 (regular), 32.5 (long) inches

Why We Love It: Another pick from López, these high-waisted sailor jeans are a great pick for petites because they come in two inseam options, including 27.5 inches. “I love Everlane jeans because they have a little give to them, so these are great for curves, hips, and booty,” she says. The subtle stretch ensures they’ll keep their shape throughout the day, and the A-line, slightly wide-leg silhouette won’t overwhelm a petite figure, which more exaggerated styles can potentially do. Also great? They’re made from regenerative cotton, a cotton-growing method that aims to improve the environment and the sustainability of the textile industry.

Who It’s For: The shorter inseam option makes these great jeans for petite figures, especially those with curves, given the slight stretch. The brand notes that this style runs small, however, so you’ll want to size up.

Material: Cotton | Size: 23–33 | Inseam: 27.5, 29.5 inches

Why We Love It: For the ultimate high-rise jeans, López recommends Levi’s fan-favorite Ribcage jeans, designed with an extra-high 12-inch rise. This wide-leg iteration has a super flattering fit as it’s engineered to define the waistline and lengthen the look of your legs without hugging them tightly. The 100 percent cotton (including 5 percent recycled cotton) construction exudes that lived-in vintage look we all know and love. Choose from nine washes and colors, from black to distressed light-wash denim.

Who It’s For: These come in an inclusive range of sizes with three inseam options, making them a great fit for most body types and heights. However, petite people may find slimmer Ribcage styles more flattering on their frames.

Material: Cotton | Size: 24–34 | Inseam: 30, 32, 34 inches

Why We Love It: Today’s mom jeans are a far cry from the dowdy originals of the ‘80s and ‘90s, and this style from American Eagle proves it. These have a 50/50 construction, fitting rigid in the front and stretchy in the back, ensuring a curve-hugging and tummy-smoothing effect that’s flattering, not frumpy. Despite their booty-enhancing back half and a Comfort Stretch waistband, they still have that worn-in look of vintage 100 percent cotton denim. It doesn’t hurt that these come with a super reasonable price tag, too.

Who It’s For: With sizes starting at 000 through 24, five inseam options ranging from extra short to extra tall, and added stretch in all the right places, these cater to various body types and heights.

Material: Cotton | Size: 000–24 | Inseam: 25 (x short), 27 (short), 29 (regular), 31 (long), 33 (x long) inches

Why We Love It: Denim trends may come and go, but straight-leg is timeless and classic, never succumbing to the warp-speed trend cycle. Reformation’s Cynthia is the perfect everyday jean, fitted in the waist, butt, and hips with a relaxed leg and an extra-high 12-inch rise. They’re made from a blend of recycled and regeneratively grown cotton for a sturdy yet comfortable fit. What’s more, the brand will alter your jeans at no cost! Take your pick from six colors and prints, ranging from classic blue to zebra print.

Who It’s For: Anyone looking for a simple straight-leg style that will get them plenty of mileage. The 29-inch inseam is perfect for mid-height people, but they also come in a cropped 27-inch inseam for petites and a 33-inch inseam for taller people.

Material: Cotton | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 27, 29, 33 inches

Why We Love It: Love the look of retro flares but prefer a stretchy, curve-enhancing fit over the rigidity of vintage denim? Meet your new favorite jeans. Good American is renowned for its ultra-comfortable, stretchy styles, and the 11-inch rise on this style brings its sculpting prowess above the hips, including a gap-proof waistband and tummy-smoothing technology. They softly mold to the body for a comfy, flattering fit.

Who It’s For: Anyone with curves will appreciate the body-hugging and booty-shaping abilities of these flares. Just keep in mind that the shortest inseam is 33.5 inches, which may be too long on petite figures. These also come in an extra-long 37-inch inseam, though those options are currently waitlisted.

Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane, rayon | Size: 0–15 standard, 16–32 plus | Inseam: 33.5, 37 inches

Why We Love It: Inspired by denim of the ‘70s, these slimmer-than-usual wide-leg palazzo jeans are made from super stretchy denim for a relaxed, comfortable fit, while the raw-edge hem adds a sense of cool. They come recommended by fashion and personal stylist Mimi Tyko for their versatility. “These jeans can be styled in multiple ways to elevate your outfit, whether with sneakers and a tucked-in tee for a casual day or with heels and a formal top for a night out,” she says.

Who It’s For: According to Tyko, these are a good pick for pretty much everyone—they’re wide, but not too wide. “The wide-leg style elongates the legs, making them flattering for all body types,” she says. Remember that the 31-inch inseam may need to be hemmed to fit a petite person, losing the raw-edge hem.

Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 31 inches

Why We Love It: These stretch jeans aren’t just softer and more comfortable than their rigid 100 percent cotton counterparts, but they also won’t get baggy or loose throughout the day. The Palma, part of Citizens of Humanity’s Soft Stretch collection, is designed to hold its shape all day long. “These are a great classic high-rise straight style that is so comfortable and flattering, you’ll want to wear it every day,” says the brand’s Women’s Design Director, Lisa Yu. “The fabric is supremely soft, and the stretch makes these jeans a joy to put on.” Given their classic and universally flattering straight, ankle-length silhouette, these are guaranteed to get you plenty of wear and can easily be dressed up or down.

Who It’s For: Anyone looking for an extremely comfortable everyday pair of jeans that looks super polished. The 27.5-inch inseam means these will hit at the ankles, though they’ll fit like regular jeans on those who are more petite.

Material: Cotton, lyocell, polyester, elastane | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 27.5 inches

Why We Love It: Like straight-leg, bootcut jeans are one of those timeless, always-in-style denim silhouettes that’ll be a mainstay in your wardrobe. Tyko recommends this style from Joe’s Jeans, which provides a high (but not ultrahigh) 10-inch rise, crafted in stretchy denim that allows for plenty of comfort and movement. They look sleek and sophisticated, but they’re so comfy you’ll literally want to live in them. “These jeans offer a balanced, slimmed look while adding length to your legs,” says Tyko. “The relaxed fit at the ankle and subtle flare make them versatile for both casual and elegant settings.”

Who It’s For: Designed with a 34-inch inseam, these will fit slightly too long on petite bodies and are better suited for mid-height and taller people.

Material: Cotton, elastomultiester, elastane | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 34 inches

Why We Love It: Denim is a notoriously polluting sector of the fashion industry, so we appreciate Australian label Viktoria & Woods’ commitment to the environment, conscious design, and high-quality fabrics and natural textiles. Cut from premium, rigid denim, the Prince is designed with unique slide splits that set it apart from the average distressed jeans, while the vintage wash and relaxed fit add a casual-cool feel to any outfit. That doesn’t mean you can’t dress them up, of course—throw on a pair of kitten heels and your favorite slinky cami for an effortless night-out look.

Who It’s For: If you’re looking for perfectly distressed, vintage-look jeans made with quality denim and eco-friendly practices, you’ve met your match.

Material: Cotton | Size: 0–10 | Inseam: Not listed

Why We Love It: According to Yu, one notable denim trend for fall ‘24 is the trouser jeans, especially in darker washes. An elegant take on wide-leg jeans, this pair from Citizens of Humanity is relaxed yet has a gorgeous, structured shape. “These are a beautifully cut high-rise wide-leg with trouser details and menswear-inspired pleats—they’re super sleek and chic in the dark Eden wash,” she says. Crafted from a rigid cotton and lyocell blend, these keep their shape beautifully yet boast a soft, vintage hand feel.

Who It’s For: You want a relaxed pair of jeans that feel more elevated than a classic wide-leg. Just keep in mind that the wider leg and longer inseam may overwhelm more petite figures.

Material: Lyocell, cotton | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 32 inches

Why We Love It: “The barrel leg jean is everywhere right now; each brand is taking its own approach to the silhouette, from slight to exaggerated,” says Bloomingdale’s Fashion Director Janelle Lloyd. Her pick? This high-rise style from Agolde. “These make any outfit instantly cooler.” These have a gorgeous rigid fit thanks to their 100 percent cotton construction, giving the bow-legged design some structure. We also love the look of the raw-edge hem at the ankles, giving these a subtle vintage feel.

Who It’s For: Designed with a 30.5-inch inseam, these will be the perfect length on most people, hitting just at, below, or slightly above the ankle, depending on your height. However, this style may overwhelm a more petite frame, given the extra fabric.

Material: Cotton | Size: 23–32 | Inseam: 30.5 inches

Why We Love It: Despite the resurgence of baggy, low-slung ‘90s denim, we can say that the humble skinny jeans are and always will be, a timeless classic. DL1961’s Farrow is designed to make you look absolutely snatched. Constructed with the brand’s Instasculpt technology, they conform to your body for the perfect fit, smoothing and sculpting along the way. We also appreciate the brand’s commitment to sustainably-minded production, and this particular style is made with a blend of botanic fibers and elastane technology for a soft, stretchy feel that uses less than 10 gallons of water to create.

Who It’s For: Anyone looking for skinnies that’ll smooth and sculpt. Cut with a 28-inch inseam, these have a slight crop that hits at the ankle for most.

Material: Tencel lyocell, cotton, polyester, Lycra | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 28 inches

Why We Love It: Bored of your basic blue jeans? Opt for light-wash denim to refresh your wardrobe. This relaxed, straight-leg pair is endlessly versatile, pairing perfectly with cropped tees and workwear blazers alike. “The high-rise relaxed fit with an extended inseam gives a chic, modern vintage attitude,” says Agolde Design Director Mizue Koda-Jones. The faded wash and ever-so-slight distressing at the ankle add to its vintage appeal, as does its heavyweight, non-stretch build with a soft, pre-loved-inspired hand feel. Bonus points for the fact that it’s made from 100 percent regenerative cotton!

Who It’s For: If you love vintage denim but don’t love the hunt, you’ll appreciate this jean’s vintage-inspired details.

Material: Cotton | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 32 inches

Why We Love It: When you want your jeans to be the main character of your outfit, you can’t go wrong with EB Denim’s Frederic Barrel. Cut with an on-trend bowed barrel leg, the ultrahigh waist style features a generous 12-inch rise and is accented with the brand’s signature triple-seam detailing on the knees. The coolest part of all? They feature an adjustable tie hem, so you can wear them loose or gathered at the ankle. Take your pick from eight washes and colors, but to stick with the statement-making theme, we’d have to recommend Forest, a unique green-tinged, faded wash.

Who It’s For: Are you in the market for jeans that are also a conversation piece? These are a solid choice.

Material: Cotton | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 32 inches

Why We Love It: There’s something about dark-wash denim that feels more polished and put-together than the average blue jeans. This style from celeb-loved brand Icon Denim LA features an easy, timeless straight-leg silhouette with a cropped ankle and contrast stitching for a versatile wardrobe staple you’ll reach for repeatedly. Most of all, it’s constructed from a cotton and elastane blend for subtle stretch, making for an overall flattering and comfortable fit.

Who It’s For: Thanks to their dark wash, classic cut, and overall simple design, these jeans will get you plenty of mileage. They make a great base for casual and dressed-up looks alike.

Material: Cotton, elastane | Size: 23–32 | Inseam: Not listed

Why We Love It: The old-fashioned “rule” of no white after Labor Day is dated, and we think white denim deserves a spot in your wardrobe all year long. We have our eyes set on this straight-leg style from buzzy Swedish label Toteme, which offers a twist on the evergreen style—quite literally: They’re designed with slightly off-centered twisted seams that accentuate the classic relaxed fit. Seams aside, they’re just as versatile as your average straight-leg jeans, pairing well with casual tees and workwear blouses and blazers alike. And yes, these might not be a true stark white, but ecru is much easier to keep clean—we know from experience.

Who It’s For: You want versatile white (okay, off-white) jeans you can dress up or down year-round. The 27.5-inch inseam makes these ankle jeans for most, but they’ll fit shorter figures like standard straight-leg jeans.

Material: Cotton | Size: 23–32 | Inseam: 27.5 inches

Why We Love It: The great thing about inky black jeans? You can essentially treat them like trousers, making them a great pick for dressier occasions or the office (should your work dress code allow for denim). The Kimmie is an incredibly versatile body-hugging straight-leg jean engineered with the brand’s sculpting technology for a curve-enhancing look. The supportive, stretchy material makes them a solid choice for casual outfits like a tee and sneakers, but the slim, polished fit looks incredibly sleek with a heeled bootie and blazer.

Who It’s For: Consider these if you want a goes-with-anything pair of black jeans you can wear to the office, after-work drinks, or even just to run errands—they’re that comfortable.

Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: Not listed

Why We Love It: Do you dream of jeans that boast the comfort of sweatpants? Us, too. This high-rise style from Just Black Denim does just that, crafted from buttery-soft, four-way stretch denim for a cozy fit that’s so comfortable you could sleep in it. The 11-inch rise hits just at the navel for a flattering look, while the light wash and slightly distressed hem have a light and airy summery feel (though you can certainly wear them year-round, too). Pair with your favorite baby tee and sneakers for a cute, casual look.

Who It’s For: You want jeans that are soft and stretchy enough to comfortably wear from morning to night. Taller folks, just keep in mind the cropped ankle may be a little too short on your frame.

Material: Cotton, polyester, spandex | Size: 24–31 | Inseam: 28 inches