Finding Your Perfect Jeans
Finding jeans that actually fit well is weirdly difficult. I went through probably six or seven pairs last year before landing on ones I genuinely liked. The fit has to be right, they need to look decent after washing, and ideally they won’t cost a fortune. That’s a lot to ask from a pair of pants.
After all that trial and error, I’ve got some thoughts on what works and what doesn’t.
The Picks
1. Levi’s 501 Original - The Classic
These have been around since 1873, which is either comforting or terrifying depending on how you look at it.
The 100% cotton construction means no stretch at all. Some people love that, some find it restrictive. I personally appreciate the button fly once you get used to it - feels more substantial than a zipper. The sizing is remarkably consistent too, which can’t be said for a lot of brands.
The downside is the break-in period. First few wears can feel pretty stiff. But they do get softer and more personal over time, which is kind of the appeal.
Good for anyone who likes a traditional straight-leg look and doesn’t mind sacrificing some flexibility.
2. Madewell Perfect Vintage - A Favorite Among Women
These have developed a pretty devoted following, and I think it’s deserved.
The high-rise actually sits where it’s supposed to without digging in awkwardly. The stretch cotton blend means they’re comfortable for all-day wear. And the relaxed fit through the hip and thigh is forgiving without looking sloppy.
The size range is genuinely inclusive, which matters.
One thing to note - if you prefer a more fitted silhouette, this might feel too relaxed for your taste. It’s definitely a specific vibe.
3. Bonobos Stretch Washed Chino - For the Comfort Crowd
Technically these are chinos, not jeans. But they fill the same role in a lot of wardrobes, so I’m including them.
The comfort level is hard to overstate. Multiple fit options mean you can find something that works for your body. They come pre-washed, so they’re soft right away instead of requiring weeks of breaking in.
The color selection is huge if you want to branch out from indigo.
Just know what you’re getting - these aren’t traditional denim, so if that matters to you aesthetically, look elsewhere.
4. A.P.C. Petit Standard - For the Denim Enthusiasts
If you’re the type who reads about fabric weights and fade patterns, you probably already know about these.
The 14oz Japanese selvedge denim is no joke. Stiff at first - and I mean really stiff - but that’s kind of the point. Over months of wear, you’ll develop fade patterns that are completely unique to how you move and live. It’s like breaking in a leather jacket.
The construction quality is excellent, as you’d expect at this price point.
The investment is significant, both in money and patience. If you’re not willing to commit to the whole raw denim experience, these probably aren’t for you. But if you are, the results can be pretty remarkable.
5. Target Goodfellow & Co - The Budget Option
I’ll admit I was skeptical about jeans from Target. But these genuinely surprised me.
For the price, you get stretch cotton that’s comfortable enough, decent fits, and reasonable construction. Nothing fancy, but nothing embarrassingly cheap either.
They won’t last as long as the premium options on this list, and some of the details feel a bit generic. But if you need multiple pairs without spending much, or you’re hard on clothes and don’t want to feel bad about replacing them, these work.
Quick Comparison
| Jeans | Material | Fit | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Levi’s 501 | 100% cotton | Straight | [Check Price] | Classic style |
| Madewell | Stretch | High-rise | [Check Price] | Women |
| Bonobos | Stretch | Multiple | [Check Price] | Comfort |
| A.P.C. | Selvedge | Slim | [Check Price] | Denim nerds |
| Goodfellow | Stretch | Multiple | [Check Price] | Budget |
A Quick Denim Primer
Types of Denim
Raw/Dry - Unwashed and unfaded from the factory. Develops unique wear patterns over time. Requires patience and a willingness to not wash your pants for longer than feels normal.
Washed - Pre-faded and pre-softened. Ready to wear immediately. No surprises.
Selvedge - Refers to the self-finished edge of the fabric. Generally indicates higher quality manufacturing. Usually pricier.
Stretch - Cotton blended with elastane or similar. More comfortable, less traditional.
Fits to Know
Skinny - Very fitted throughout. Had a moment in the 2010s but still works for some.
Slim - Fitted but not tight. Probably the most broadly appealing fit right now.
Straight - Consistent width from hip to ankle. Classic.
Relaxed - Roomy throughout. Comfortable but can look sloppy if too baggy.
Wide leg - Fashion-forward at the moment. Definitely a statement.
Rise Options
Low-rise - Sits below the natural waist. Less common now than it was.
Mid-rise - Sits at or near the natural waist. Most versatile.
High-rise - Sits above the natural waist. Very popular currently, especially for women.
Caring for Your Jeans
Raw Denim
The guidance I’ve seen suggests wearing them at least 50 times before the first wash. That sounds excessive, but raw denim purists swear by it. Spot clean what you can. When you do wash, turn them inside out, use cold water, and air dry.
Stretch/Washed Denim
Machine wash cold, tumble dry low or air dry. Skip fabric softener - it can break down the fibers over time.
Final Thoughts
For most people buying jeans, Levi’s 501 is a solid default. There’s a reason they’ve endured this long.
If you want to go down the raw denim rabbit hole, A.P.C. Petit Standard is worth considering, assuming you’re prepared for the commitment.
If budget is the main concern, Target Goodfellow delivers more than you’d expect for the price.
Check the links above for current pricing - these fluctuate pretty regularly.