I Stalked Nordstrom to Find the Best Pairs of Jeans: 21 I Stand Behind

This pair of jeans might be the most iconic on this list. With a high-waist and slim-fit that hugs in all the right places, these Levi's jeans top our best high-waisted jeans list— in fact, they might top our list for the best jeans of all time. 

"Love the fit of these jeans, they’re on of my go to pairs. Beautiful quality denim that’s a classic. You can’t go wrong with these ones!" — Nordstrom review

These Madewell jeans are loved for their comfy fit and universal wash. Plus, they're on sale— what's better than that?

"Just got these from the Anniversary Sale. They are soft, comfortable, and true to size. I also like that they aren’t super long. I have short legs and usually need to get things hemmed, but these are just right. Can’t wait to wear these all through fall." — Nordstrom review

For an ultra-tight, extra high-rise fit, you can't go wrong with Levi's classic Wedge fit. Like the name suggests, the higher cut and tighter fit near the top holds everything together and keeps you looking snatched throughout the day. 

"These are nice pair of jeans to have in a capsule closet. Feels very secure and sturdy but also comfortable." — Nordstrom review

This Paige pair might be the most trend-forward pair of jeans on this list. Thanks to their ultra-trendy wide-leg cut, deep indigo wash, exaggerated pockets and contrast stitching, the Anessa jeans might be some of my personal favorites on this list.

"I love these jeans! The exact right rise and shape to give an itty bitty waist. The wash is elegant and makes them look expensive. Love the details on the hem and pockets." — Nordstrom review

Fans of ultra-wide-leg jeans will definitely be a fan of this pair. With an exaggerated, long-line cut and a classic not-too-blue, not-too-grey wash, this pair will live in your closet forever.

"I love these. The style and cut are so flattering on me! I have bought 2 pairs in white, the khaki color, a yellow pair and now millstone in the denim. Soft, comfy perfection!!" — Nordstrom review

Ever since J.Crew's cooler, younger sister has entered the conversation, Madewell jeans have been popping off. Take their cult Super Wide Leg Jeans, for example, which influencers (and this editor!) raves about. 

"I was hesitant about the wide-leg jean trend but so glad I tried these! ... I like that the denim is not heavy, so it will be perfect for spring and summer. After a full day of wear they stretch a bit in the waist but mostly keep their shape." — Nordstrom review

Tight but not constricting is the consensus for these beloved Good American jeans. With three distinct washes in this shape alone, there's a tone for everyone if you're looking to dip your toes back into the skinny jeans world. But don't let the idea of a dated silhouette fool you—everyone and their mother are wearing these jeans, according to the dozens of five-star reviews they have on Nordstrom.

"I have been buying jeans on here since the first launch. N let tell u the material is amazing!!! That’s what legit sold me. It’s stretchy, they last for such a good time, soo many sizes. Ugh I’m just in love with every pair. Definitely a staple in my wardrobe." — Nordstrom review

Mother, known for their brand of cool girl-approved jeans, is by far some of the top rated on Nordstrom. Thanks to this form-fitting pair that's just the right shade of blue, it's no wonder these are a best-seller. 

"If you’re debating whether or not to purchase these, don’t think twice. They’re worth every penny. These jeans are the perfect color blue, buttery soft, not too thick/not too thin, and true to size." — Nordstrom review

At almost 500 reviews, this pair of skinny jeans has to be one of the most bought on Nordstrom, hands down. And, if you take a peek at the wave of 5-star reviews this pair from AG has, it's not hard to tell why. Reviews rave about how comfy and well-fitting these are, especially if you're on the shorter side.

"I don't want to tell everyone I love them - they will sell out too fast. They fit like a glove and are comfy from the first time you put them on." — Nordstrom review

These jeans are the perfect mix of vintage and modern-day aesthetics, with a classic wash and effortless low-rise cut that would make anyone jealous.

"Perfect fit, perfect length. Denim is so soft. I would buy another pair if they came in another color." — Nordstrom review

If you're looking for a pair of low-rise jeans that have minimal slouch while still maintaining a cool, slightly oversize fit, look no further than these tried-and-true Agolde jeans a few Who What Wear (and, clearly, Nordstrom customers) swear by.

"As a 90s teen these jeans are legit. Oversized as stated but fitted at the waist. I’m tall and they had the perfect length. A little boxy and stiff when first worn but relaxed and got more fitted as worn." — Nordstrom review

Just like the name suggests on this vintage-looking pair of Levi's the Naughties Low Rise Bootcut jeans favor the bold fashion person who takes inspiration from retro Y2K silhouettes. With an exaggerated low cut and maximalist flair, these jeans almost feel like a well-loved, worn-in pair you'd find when going thrifting. According to reviews, though, it's best to size up if you don't want a super tight fit.

"Those are my measurements and the jeans fit perfectly. I think this is my new favorite pair." — Nordstrom review

As a proud owner of Madewell's best-selling Kick Out flare cropped jeans, I can attest that they're that good. Although I have both a dark wash and a black wash pair, nothing beats the original best-selling jeans. If you're looking for a modern take on a flare with a subtle jut-out above the ankle, this pair might be calling your name.

"I read the reviews and sized down by 1 size, and took a chance to try these. Wow! These were absolute perfection the minute I put them on! Such a great find! Love everything about these- quality, comfort, and look! The length is right at my ankle. Love these! Try them if you can!" — Nordstrom review

Reviews of this pair of Good American jeans call out how well they fit—notably, the length and in the hips, where customers rave about how they fit in "all the right places." With a slightly more dramatic flare than the Madewell pair from above, I'm convinced I need to add these to my cart ASAP. 

"Perfect fit! No alterations needed! Very comfortable and the jeans make my legs look longer." — Nordstrom review

After seeing this pair of jeans go viral on TikTok, I know it's not just me who thinks these jeans are *it.* Just take it from this review:

"So much better than I thought they would be! Comfortable, flattering, and true to size." — Nordstrom review

Shopping for jeans as a plus-size person can, frankly, be trauma-inducing. From too-tight fits to clunky, awkward styles, it's been a nightmare to find a pair of chic, well-fitting jeans— that is, until now. I own these Madewell jeans and they're constantly the pair I reach for first. But if you won't take it from me, take it from this Nordstrom customer who feels the exact same way. 

"Love these jeans. Flattering and with only a touch of stretch they won't get saggy. Appreciate that they are stylish high-waist, wide-leg jeans... A little short for my 5'10" self, but with booties, they will look great." — Nordstrom review

Not only is Good American known for being co-founded by Khloé Kardashian, but the denim-first brand is known for its radical size inclusivity, with most of its styles expanding well past the traditional 14–20 plus-size range. This size 14 customer had this to say:

"I'd been searching for a great wide leg jean and these are definitely the one." — Nordstrom review

If the oversize pockets and chic wash don't have you convinced yet on these Madewell jeans, maybe the fact that they're a hidden favorite will.

"I’m 5’ 3” and these jeans hit just above my feet so the inseam is great for shorter people! Also the jeans are just ever so slightly stretchy so they have a little give which is always appreciated." — Nordstrom review

Ask anyone on the Who What Wear team and, most likely, they'll tell you that they own a pair of these faded black Levi's jeans. After swooning over them for years, I decided to take the plunge and get them. Suffice to say, I wish I got them sooner. Not only do I love them along with the rest of our editors but the internet does, too.

"The fit is perfect if you have a little more booty. It is a rigid Jean but it’s super comfortable and “gives” a little after wearing. The high waist is on trend and the wash is super cool for an edgier look for this 55+ woman! Great value for the price." — Nordstrom review

I'll let this review do the talking:

"These are going to be my go-to jeans. The rise is high enough to be modern without being too high, the leg width is not too skinny or too wide, they are true to size, and the wash is a nice, plain classic wash—no whiskering or distressing. Just classic all around. They fit true to size. I’m 5’9” and they’re a perfect ankle length. They work with strappy sandals or ankle boots or Chucks, like I’m wearing today. I like these so much I’m tempted to order a backup pair!" — Nordstrom review

The faded-in wash on these straight-leg Mother jeans is nothing short of cool girl–approved. With a slight crop perfect for showing off platform sneakers or kitschy anklets, this pair of jeans has to be one of the most trend-forward on this list, by far.

"I own 20+ pairs of Mother jeans and this is my new favorite. I’ve been looking for a pair of dark wash jeans to pair with blazers and this wash is the perfect amount of worn-in... Overall these are super flattering on the thighs and booty and the straight leg hits at about ankle length for me at 5’4” which makes them perfect for wearing with sneakers and flat sandals. Get them!" — Nordstrom review