:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Universal-Standard-Etta-High-Rise-Straight-Leg-Jeans-ba1464bf01eb4e9eb5cefaee0040bc8b.jpg)
Why We Love It: Universal Standard designed these classic, straight-leg jeans for those with less than a 10-inch difference between their waist and hips (if you have more, try the brand’s Donna High Rise Curve Straight Leg Jeans). Made with a hint of stretch, the Etta has a truly straight fit from the hip all the way down the legs and is easy to style in various ways. “I’d wear the Distressed Washed Indigo with a blazer—maybe in the season’s poppy red—for daytime or the black pair with a matching black corset for a night out,” Chan says.
What Our Experts Say: “These jeans are a great option for everyone thanks to the fact that they come in Universal Standard’s epic size run of 00 to 40 and in 31- and 28-inch inseams,” says Chan. “Also, they have a shape that accommodates larger sizes well. None of those typical issues that come with sizing plus-size garments up from a size 4 pattern here.”
Size: 00–40 regular and long | Material: Cotton, polyester, rayon, elastane
Why We Love It: If we had to choose one jean silhouette to wear for the rest of our lives, a high-waisted, straight-leg cut would be at the top of the list. This one from H&M is price-conscious and has a curvy fit that offers extra room through the hips and thighs, keeping the pants’ slimmer legs from clinging too tightly while still minimizing any gaping.
Styling Tip: Show off your waistline by tucking in a top—whether that be your favorite T-shirt, button-down shirt, or silky blouse—and accessorizing with a waist belt. You can also easily wear these jeans in all four seasons as long as you style them correctly for the weather. For example, throw them on with a tank in the summer or a turtleneck in the cold months. Of course, you can always layer on a good blazer or motorcycle jacket in transitional weather.
Size: 0–22 | Material: Cotton, spandex
Why We Love It: Much to stylist and content creator Derria Underwood’s excitement, ‘90s-style denim has returned to style in the last few years. She explains that the vintage-fit silhouette normally sits higher on the waist, giving looks a nostalgic feel. Madewell’s curvy version has a snug fit through the hips and thighs and a higher rise in the back for a curve-enhancing lift. This pair also has the brand’s Magic Pockets, which help hold the midsection in. And yes, these straight-leg jeans are also on the wish list of digital creator and stylist Michelle Blashka.
What Our Experts Say: “For $128, you get the perfect, basic pair of jeans, which will quickly become an everyday staple,” Blashka says. Styling it is simple, especially if you take an understated approach. Underwood’s formula? “A simple, white, button-down shirt with a white tank underneath.”
Size: 23–34 standard, 23–33 petite and tall; 14W–28W plus | Material: Cotton, elastane
Why We Love It: Lee, an iconic American brand, has produced denim for over 100 years. Sitting just below the waist, this style is relaxed around the seat and thigh area, and its modern technology makes it stand out. The pants have an elastic waistband that’s flexible yet nonbinding, meaning it won’t dig into your midsection. It’s a game changer for those who find regular waistbands uncomfortable.
Styling Tip: Wear these straight-leg jeans with a slouchy sweater and loafers in the fall and spring.
Size: 0–18 | Material: Cotton, rayon, polyester, spandex
Why We Love It: Gap’s High Rise Cheeky Straight Jeans went viral on TikTok, and, in our opinion, they’re worth the hype. Gap offers them in various washes and sizes, including tall and petite, and their fit enhances the backside. Like many cheeky jeans, which are meant to show off the bum, this pair’s back pockets are slightly higher than the ones on regular, five-pocket jeans. The high-rise shape is fitted through the hip and thigh before extending into a straight leg.
Styling Tip: Choose a modern, Canadian tuxedo and pair it with a denim button-down, baseball cap, penny loafers, and trench coat for a cute weekend look that’s no-frills but super stylish.
Size: 24–35 standard, 23–30 petite, 27–33 tall | Material: Cotton, recycled materials, elastane
Why We Love It: Sitting just below the belly button, these mid-rise jeans are snug at the hips and thighs before widening into a boot shape. A modern version of the style that Blashka has loved for years, this Old Navy pair is a classic, and you can’t go wrong with it. “I used to style mine back in the ‘90s with sleeveless turtlenecks, my super fitted, vintage leather blazer, and black booties,” she says. And you know what? That outfit combo works equally well in 2024.
What Our Experts Say: “My first well-cut jeans actually came from Old Navy,” says Blashka. “While I don’t love that it no longer offers larger sizes in its store, they’re a great resource if you’re okay with the ‘buy and return’ game—and you really can’t beat its prices. I love the dark wash of these jeans, and the bootcut gives you a subtle flare to balance your curves.”
Size: 0–30 standard, 2–18 petite, 4–18 tall | Material: Cotton, polyester, recycled cotton, spandex
Why We Love It: “Levi’s is my top brand when it comes to denim because it has various styles, lengths, and colors,” Underwood says. Her favorite? This baggy pair of jeans with a “dad fit.” If you’re wondering how much she loves it, well, she has two pairs. Made with plenty of room through the hips, the mid-rise silhouette is subtly baggy without overwhelming your frame or having excess fabric. As for styling, we love putting together looks that align with the pair’s relaxed feel. Wear this style with a cropped top, a loose button-down, and sneakers for an easy weekend look. If you want to take things in a more polished direction, try tucking a fitted turtleneck in, topping it with a smart blazer, and finishing the look with a leather belt and boots.
What Our Experts Say: “These are the perfect, relaxed denim jeans,” says Underwood. To get an oversized fit, she recommends sizing up. However, you may need to try multiple sizes to find your ideal pair.
Size: 23–34 | Material: Cotton, Tencel lyocell
Why We Love It: Hear us out: Pull-on jeans can be totally stylish. If you shy away from denim that doesn’t have a traditional button-fly waistband, this pair will change your mind. Their smoothing, booty-lifting properties are reason enough to take these jeans for a test drive. A functional waistband and back pockets give this cropped, kick-flare silhouette a classic denim-like structure. If you throw on a belt with them, no one will know the difference. Between their impressive size range and three inseam options, we’re sold.
Styling Tip: Wear the style with everything from roomy T-shirts to chunkier sweaters during colder months.
Size: XS–3X standard, petite, and tall | Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane
Why We Love It: A signature for Joe’s Jeans, the Honey Bootcut has long been a customer-favorite style. Now, the same amazing fit comes in a curvy option. This dark wash pair is high-waisted, making it easy to dress up or down. The combination denim fabric has a touch of stretch, so you’ll be comfortable all day or night. With a classic, five-pocket design and a zipper in the front, these jeans are a no-brainer.
Styling Tip: Wear these jeans with your favorite button-up blouse for a casual work look, or style them with a silky camisole for a night out.
Size: 23–34 | Material: Cotton, polyester, Tencel lyocell, spandex
Why We Love It: Designed to be curvier through the hip with a narrower waist, the Amazon Essentials skinny jean is a fan favorite. Customers love this mid-rise jean’s proportions, as its built with plenty of stretch to give it a favorable fit, thanks to a little elastane. The classic, five-pocket design has a shank button closure and is offered in three inseam lengths: standard, short, and long. It also comes in dark and medium denim.
Styling Tip: Wear the dark wash to the office with a blazer and ballet flats. Then, swap it for the medium wash for more casual occasions, such as weekend brunch or sports games.
Size: 0–20 | Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane
Why We Love It: The Mol is the brand’s lightweight take on the beloved classic, straight silhouette, the Molly (named after La Ligne’s cofounder, Molly Howard). “For some plus-size shoppers—ahem, me!—‘curvy’ isn’t actually the ideal fit, because we do not, in fact, have curvy hips,” Chan explains. “I prefer a jean that’s much straighter through the hips, bum, and thighs, so I rejoiced when I first tried on La Ligne’s The Molly Jean.” Made from 100 percent cotton, Chan likes the super luxe look and feel the non-stretch denim gives the Mol Jeans, which can effortlessly transition from day to night.
Styling Tip: We can envision this pair with pointy ankle boots and a silk blouse for a date night or with sandals in the summer.
Size: 23–34 | Material: Organic cotton
Why We Love It: We love a slouchy pair of jeans, and this relaxed boyfriend pant from ASOS’s Curve line is the perfect cut. The design sits loosely around the hips and has a comfortable low rise. The straight-leg style offers a lengthened look and provides a very modern, easy, lived-in feel, and gives you plenty of room across the thighs and calves. The denim fabrication is made from 100 percent cotton, making these jeans soft and lightweight. Because they’re available in three different lengths, finding the right fit is easier than ever.
Styling Tip: In the spring and summer, style these jeans with a T-shirt and sneakers for an easy weekend look. In the fall, add a chunky cashmere cardigan.
Size: 14–24 | Material: Cotton
Why We Love It: These jeans are not for regular moms—they’re for cool moms (or those who dig the ‘80s and ‘90s “mom vibe”). With a tapered leg, this pick is for those who want a sturdy pant that still nips your waist with a bit of stretch. The two muted stone washes are also versatile enough to take you through a variety of daily activities.
Styling Tip: Pair these jeans with a graphic T-shirt and a crossbody bag for a more casual look, throwing on an oversized blazer and chunky, comfortable heels to transition to a night on the town.
Size: 23-34 straighter and curvier | Material: Organic cotton, recycled elastane
Why We Love It: “Good American is known for its curve-enhancing denim,” Underwood says. “I can attest that the denim definitely keeps women with curves in mind, which is important.” Both Underwood and Blashka recommend the Good Curve High-Waist Straight-Leg cut. Blashka is a fan of the style’s stretch, with a soft straight-leg fit that hugs your body just so. This version comes in classic blue, but we’re leaning into the whiskered, faded, black wash with a raw-cut hem for something fresh.
What Our Experts Say: “I love the washed black—you never have to worry about fading because it’s supposed to be faded—that would look so good with a little, black, cashmere turtleneck or an oversized, off-the-shoulder sweater,” says Blashka. “These are screaming to be styled with heels or flats to show off the raw hem detail.” Underwood agrees on the boot and sweater combo. “The best way to style this pair of jeans is with a cute ankle boot and an oversized sweater,” she says.
Size: 00–30 | Material: Cotton, recycled polyester, recycled cotton, polyester, elastane
Why We Love It: As expected, Loft’s curvy fit denim is designed to enhance curves. The high-waisted, 12-inch rise has a soothing effect, hugging the hip and thigh just so. This style boasts a high level of stretch, flexibility, and shape retention. The flare is available in a 29-inch inseam and a 31.5-inch inseam to accommodate two height ranges.
Styling Tip: In the summertime, we love these with a white T-shirt, a straw basket bag, and flat sandals à la Jane Birkin. Come fall and winter, pair them with a suede jacket, turtleneck, and heeled boots for a retro-inspired look.
Size: 24–34 regular and petite | Material: Cotton, elastane
Why We Love It: “Madewell’s Curvy denim line is similar to its hit standard-size line, but it’s designed for bodies that fall into the hourglass category,” Chan explains. “Specifically, these beauties are designed with a 2-inch smaller nip in the waist. So if you always have a gap in the back waist of your jeans, these are for you.” With a full size range and three inseam options, it’s a winner for everyone. Crafted with ISKO stretch denim, the fabric’s ability to bounce back is incredible, and the specialty dye ensures that the black color keeps after lots of wear and washes. Another bonus is the brand’s use of recycled materials (the recycled polyester is made from post-consumer plastic). Regarding styling, lean into the pair’s elegant wide-leg cut and dark wash by coordinating a monochrome outfit.
What Our Experts Say: “I’d wear the jet black wash with a matching black leather boot and longline, black wool coat for a strong, chic feel,” Chan recommends. For work, you could also don them with a structured blazer.
Size: 23-33 standard, 23-33 petite, and 23-33 tall | Material: Cotton, elastane
Why We Love It: If you’ve experienced gaping with super high-waisted jeans, give Everlane’s curvy line a whirl. With hourglass shapes in mind, this pair of jeans has a great fit and high-quality fabrication. Choose from two inseam lengths (27.5 and 29.5 inches) and multiple washes (we love the rich Coal hue). The secret is the brand’s two-piece contour waistband, which accentuates the natural waist while providing sculpted-looking hips. True to the brand’s sustainability ethos, the fabric is made almost entirely from organic cotton in a factory that reduces water use through the production process.
Styling Tip: Wear these Everlane jeans during any season. Tuck a T-shirt or button-down into the waistband, add a cute belt, and pile on layers based on the weather.
Size: 23–35 | Material: Organic cotton, elastane
Why We Love It: We love the wide variety of washes this Citizens of Humanity pick comes in, but we’re especially partial to the Tularosa shade, as you can easily dress the sky blue up or down depending on your mood. Designed to sit high on the waist, the trouser bottom and relaxed fit make your legs look endless. The style is also available in a 30-inch inseam (shorter than the 33-inch inseam) for those who don’t need as much length.
Styling Tip: We recommend tucking your tops—anything from T-shirts to tanks, button-downs, and turtlenecks—into the waistband to really show off the pair of jean’s super high-waisted design. Top your look off with contrasting black accessories, like a strappy kitten heel and a small shoulder bag.
Size: 22–34 | Material: Organic cotton
Why We Love It: It’s tricky to find a great pair of white jeans. If the denim is too thin, they might look see-through. If it’s too rigid and heavy, they might be uncomfortable. Thankfully, NYDJ has struck the perfect balance. This stretch jean has a patented crisscross panel that helps flatten the stomach, and its signature Lift Tuck technology smooths your front and lifts your curves in the back. Even though these straight jeans have a traditional five-pocket design and button closure, they’re so comfortable that they almost feel like a pull-on style.
Styling Tip: For a twist on the classics, we’d wear these pants with a black T-shirt, black leather sandals, and a denim jacket.
Size: XXS–XL, 0X–5X | Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane
Why We Love It: Abercrombie & Fitch’s answer to the demand for a curvy fit? Curve Love, a line made for those with a smaller waist-to-hip and butt ratio. The brand designed each pair of jeans in this collection to have an additional 2 inches in the hips and thighs, minimizing waist gaping. This ‘90s style features built-in stretch and a slimmer fit at the top, billowing to a wide-leg silhouette. It’s also one of model and content creator Catherine Li’s favorites.
What Our Experts Say: “This is the jean I get the most compliments on,” says Li. “It is a higher waist, medium wash with destroy features on it.” Although she loves the distressed feel, she adds that you can get it in plain denim as well. “I typically style this with a tucked-in T-shirt, sneakers, and statement jacket,” she notes. “It’s a staple. My go-to for comfortable looks.” Alternatively, you can dress these jeans up with kitten heels for a night out.
Size: 23–37 | Material: Cotton, elastane
Why We Love It: DL1961 is known for its responsible fabrications and mindful production processes. Using sustainable fibers and saving 1,490 gallons of water per pair of jeans are just a couple of the ways it excels in the eco-friendly space. What’s more, the fit is hard to beat. DL1961’s denim has high-retention and sculpting properties due in part to the comfortable stretch fabrics. They even have a line focused on hourglass body shapes. The Coco Curvy is a straight-leg, mid-rise jean that has a little extra room through the hips, seat, and thighs. It’s worth noting the 34-inch inseam as well. It may be overwhelming on petite frames, but it’s nothing that your local tailor can’t fix.
Styling Tip: Make this a part of your office uniform with a crisp button-down shirt and comfortable block heels.
Size: 23–34 | Material: Cotton, spandex, elastane
Why We Love It: These crossover jeans caught Blashka’s eye thanks to their of-the-moment, modern design. “Fashion denim is especially hard to find in larger sizes, so I would be excited to try the Katie High Rise Crossover Jeans from Universal Standard,” she says. “I look for special design details, like the crossover waistband, for a little extra flair.” Available in an inclusive size range, this soft and stretchy pair of jeans is fitted through the waist and hips but has a tapered leg that ends just above the ankles.
What Our Experts Say: “Just add the perfect white T-shirt—tucked in, of course—with an oversized, black moto jacket, and you’re good to go,” Blashka says.
Size: 00–40 | Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane
Why We Love It: J.Crew serves a diverse range of body types, including petite and tall buyers, and this curvy-fit design has a longer rise, a narrower waist, and a contoured waistband ideal for an hourglass shape. Customers love the soft cotton fabrication and the slim, wide-leg cut’s comfortable, relaxed fit. The cropped length allows you to show off a variety of cute shoes.
Styling Tip: Pair these jeans with a denim jacket during the day. Then, show off the waistline with a fitted tank, heels, and statement jewelry at night.
Size: 23–37 standard, 23–32 petite, 25–32 tall | Material: Cotton, elastane
Why We Love It: As you probably assume based on its name, this style boasts a straight-leg, but it’s also cropped at the ankle for the best opportunity to show off cute shoes. The super high, 14-inch rise defines the waist, makes the hip area appear slimmer, and lengthens the legs. Fit-wise, they run a bit wider through the leg but are quite straight from the hip. Plus, the tiniest bit of elastane gives a touch of stretch to the overall elasticity, making them comfortable.
Styling Tip: Tuck a crisp white button-down shirt into the waistband and slide on loafers for a casual Friday work look. Or, grab a turtleneck, puffer jacket, and Chelsea boots for an easy winter-appropriate outfit.
Size: 16W–24W | Material: Cotton, elastane
What to Keep in Mind
- Design: “Style is the number one detail curvy women should consider while shopping for jeans, because you want to make sure that the denim will look good,” Underwood says. “Most curvy shapes look great in high-waist or mid-rise denim, along with wide-leg denim to help elongate the body and give the illusion of a longer torso.” However, all the experts agree that style should be based on preference. “There are no fashion rules, and people can really wear whatever they feel most comfortable in,” Blashka says.
- Composition: Clothing composition is key while shopping for denim. “As a curvy woman, I stand clear of denim that is 100 percent cotton unless it’s a jacket of some sort,” Underwood says. “If there is elastic in the composition of the denim, I know that there’s a chance that the jeans won’t be as comfortable.” Blashka also looks for elasticity. And although many appreciate the qualities, not everyone is a fan of stretch denim. “There are a few brands that offer more of a limited stretch, which I prefer,” says Li. “The cut can sometimes look unflattering after a while or by the end of the day.” Chan is also on the non-stretch team. “Most of the time, curvy and plus-size jeans are made with stretch fabrics because as people are larger in size, their bodily projections vary more drastically. Some folks, like me, are widest through the midsection, and others are widest through the hip,” she explains. Although they’re challenging to find, there are non-stretch, 100-percent cotton options out there.
- Body Type: “In the case of shopping for curvy women, it’s important to know what body type you’re shopping for so that you can accentuate and highlight the right things,” Underwood says. Knowing your measurements will also help narrow down the options for your best fit.
Your Questions, Answered
What does a curvy-fit mean?
There’s some discrepancy when it comes to what a curvy fit actually is. As Chan previously mentioned, it greatly depends on the brand and its sizing and language. Many people assume that a curvy fit is a cut with a smaller waist-to-hip ratio or one that provides more room in the hips, thighs, and butt. “Curvy fit does not necessarily mean plus size,” says Blashka. “Curvy fits typically have smaller waists (so there is less gaping at the waist), and more room in the seat, hips, thighs, and sometimes more room in the calf area as well.” She recommends curvy fits for hourglass or pear-shaped bodies.
What is the best way to care for denim?
All of our experts have different washing styles. “I know some people like to dry-clean their denim, but personally I wash on cold or warm inside out and air dry,” says Blashka. “Sometimes I’ll put them in the dryer for a few minutes or steam them to get the stiffness out.” She does discourage using high heat dry in case of potential shrinking. In terms of frequency, Underwood recommends limiting washes as much as possible. “A tip I follow is washing my denim after two or three wears to prolong the quality. Washing your denim on a gentle or delicate cycle and using color-preserving detergent is key to keeping the vibrancy of the denim,” she says. “Also, make sure that you lay your jeans flat to air-dry instead of using the dryer.”
Chan has another tip for readers: “I stick to a good ole wash and hang-dry,” she says. Of course, always consult the care label.
Why Shop With Us
Full-time freelance writer and fashion editor Kristina Rutkowski has been covering all things style, trend, and shopping for over 10 years. Living in New York City, she is often able to see and try out brands firsthand, directly through the designer showrooms, which has provided ample research opportunities for this story. She’s covered the denim market throughout her editorial career and is always on the hunt to find the best-fitting jeans.
For this story, she also spoke to experts to discuss what to look for when selecting a pair of denim jeans. They included model and size-inclusive fashion expert Lauren Chan, plus-size model and fashion content creator Catherine Li, fashion stylist and content creator Derria Underwood, and digital creator Michelle Blashka.
link

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/is-best-jeans-for-curvy-women-tout-df8e2debaa4846dc8e6af76f6cead86d.jpg)