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Stretchy jeans are taking over all other denim styles right now: shop the 7 best pairs that don’t dig in
It's cosy season after all
The biggest denim search term right now is stretchy jeans, which is understandable as we all prepare for a cosy autumn.
There’s no point investing in all those soft, oversized knits if we’re going to be pairing them with denim that digs in. A smart, more rigid jean has its place, of course, especially when we’re trying to tread the smart/casual divide - look to this season’s indigo styles if that’s what you’re after - but we want something that’s both flattering and a little forgiving for everyday.
Hence the rise of the stretchy jean. These styles tend to feature an elastic fibre, such as elastane, Lycra or Spandex, which is blended with cotton to create a supportive, hugging shape with a little bit of give for optimum comfort. Most styles will include around 2-4% of elastic fibres - any more and you’re getting into jegging territory and no one’s ready for that. You also risk saggy denim from over- stretching.
Note that the original Levi’s 501s were 100% cotton, so they had zero stretch, but will conform to your shape over time. Traditionalists (denim masochists?) may prefer to go this route but if you want a little more flexibility (for things like bending comfortably), these are the best stretchy jeans to shop now.
Good American Vintage Wide Crop Denim Jeans
Good American Vintage Wide Crop Denim Jeans
This is the most expensive pair on our list, but we've included them because anyone who owns a pair is a big fan. They are 99% cotton and 1% elastane, so they have a little flex in them and they're made to support your curves (Good American was co-founded by Khloe Kardashian after all). They're very comfy and flattering, and the blue denim, wide-leg cropped style won't date.
Embrace the return of the classic 90s bootcut jean with Hush's mid-rise style. 'Very comfy with a good amount of stretch' is how one wearer describes them and they're a jean that can be easily dressed up or down – we like them with a plain white tee and cashmere jumper, plus a pair of kitten heel boots. They also come in a mid or dark blue denim.
Mango's Sienna jeans are another favourite in the GH office. These ones are 98% cotton and 2% elastane so they have a tiny bit more elasticity. They also come in 8 different shades (including wine and chocolate) and the kick flare is great for wearing with a pop sock and loafer or a kitten heel. At least 20% of the cotton is recycled, too.
M&S' stretchy jeans are built a little different, as the brand uses polyester in the mix, too. This is to add stability to the fibres, boosting durability. The Sienna range is more flexible and sculpting than the brand's other denim, so the fabric moves with you. Reviewers say the jeans are comfy without losing their shape.
If you're more of a barrel-leg kind of gal, this Whistles style feels high quality and they have stretch in the name. They're actually have the same 99% cotton/1% elastane split as other styles in this list. You can get them in three blue shades as well as grey.
Gap Dark Blue High Waisted True Skinny Jeans
Gap Dark Blue High Waisted True Skinny Jeans
The classic skinny needs a bit more stretch, hence why these Gap jeans have 6% elastane to 94% cotton, the highest amount of stretch in our list. Reviews say they're really comfy but it's worth trying on to get the right size if you can.
If you want a pair of relaxed wide-leg, comfy jeans, White Stuff's have a good balance of stretch and flattering fit. They come in three leg lengths and from sizes 6 to 24, as well as coming in four different shades of denim, offering lots of variety.
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