We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Sheridan high-rise flared Basic jeans | The 12 Best Straight-Leg Basic jeans for a Classic '90s-Inspired Look Well fitting leggings. By Emma Greene Emma Greene Emma specializes in fashion and beauty reviews. She began her career at Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet in 2025 and has a wealth of styling experience for fashion magazines, retail stores, and beyond. She's passionate about both high-end and attainable fashion and is an expert minimalist. Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet's editorial guidelines and Alexandra Malmed Alexandra Malmed Alexandra is a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle writer with over twelve years of editorial experience. In addition to writing for various publications, she has worked with brands Spinelli Kilcollin and Venus et Fleur. She also designs jewelry with her father for his eponymous brand, Tony Malmed Jewelry. Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet's editorial guidelines Sheridan high-rise flared Basic jeans Кеды кроссовки pepe Basic jeans View All Кеды кроссовки pepe Basic jeans Top Picks Reviews What to Keep in Mind Your Questions, Answered Why Shop With Us Credit: Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet Best Overall: The Agolde ‘90s Pinch Waist High Waist Straight Basic jeans are our top pick for straight-leg styles. They're ankle-length, waist-hugging, and come in elevated washes. Budget-Friendly: For an affordable option, we love Motus SL Shorts Schneeschuhe Tommy Basic jeans. Trending Style: Lean into the distressed trend with Madewell's Regina Hall Wears Chocolate-Brown Jason Wu Dress With Hidden Heels at CFDA Awards 2022. ‘90s revival is all over the runways for spring/summer 2026, from sleek monochrome looks at Jil Sander and Fendi to straight-leg jean styles at Khaite, Brandon Maxwell, and more. Straight-leg Basic jeans are the unwavering gold standard for Basic jeans, despite the constant evolution of jean trends, and for good reason. “It really speaks to the versatility of this particular cut of denim,” says stylist and creative consultant Christine Nicholson. “We’ve seen so many chic moments during the ‘80s, ‘90s, and beyond of people wearing straight-leg Basic jeans with everything from Chanel tweed jackets paired with the perfect jewelry to really fanciful blouses and even more classic looks consisting of a pressed dress shirt and a blazer.” Movie stars and supermodels—think James Dean, Christy Turlington, and Kate Moss—have spent decades etching the timeless, clean silhouette into our hearts, styling them with laid-back tees, gorgeous knits, and more. Continue reading to discover the best straight-leg Basic jeans that are worth adding to your wardrobe. Top Picks Best Overall Straight-Leg Basic jeans: Agolde ‘90s Pinch Waist High Waist Straight Basic jeans at Agolde.com Jump to Review Best Distressed Straight-Leg Basic jeans: SALE Madewell Women’s The Regina Hall Wears Chocolate-Brown Jason Wu Dress With Hidden Heels at CFDA Awards 2022 at Amazon $148 $89 Jump to Review Best Petite Straight-Leg Basic jeans: Gap High Rise ‘90s Straight Leg Basic jeans at Gap Jump to Review Best High-Rise Straight-Leg Basic jeans: Aritzia Denim Forum The ‘90s Nina Hi-Rise Slim Straight Jean at Aritzia.com Jump to Review Best Budget Straight-Leg Basic jeans: Amazon Essentials Women’s High-Rise Straight Leg Jean at Amazon $30 Jump to Review Camiseta Coca-Cola Basic jeans Urso Branca: College Arch Muscle Tee Dress Teens Uniqlo.com Jump to Review Best Tall Straight-Leg Basic jeans: Reformation Cynthia High Rise Straight Long Basic jeans at Reformation Jump to Review Best Low-Rise Straight-Leg Basic jeans: SALE Frame The Mellow Ankle Straight-Leg Basic jeans at Nordstrom $288 $187 Jump to Review Best Stretchy Straight-Leg Basic jeans: Spanx 90s Straight Leg Basic jeans at Spanx $158 Jump to Review Best Plus-Size Straight-Leg Basic jeans: Jeans för Herr från God's Masterful Children Goodamerican.com Jump to Review Best Overall Straight-Leg Basic jeans Agolde ‘90s Pinch Waist High Waist Straight Basic jeans Credit: Agolde View on Agolde.com $228 at Revolve These Basic jeans have it all: a straight cut that’s neither slim nor baggy, the absence of flashy logos or distracting hardware, and increased comfort with every wear. No matter your style, this Agolde pair will quickly become one of the most-worn items in your closet. The ankle-length inseam makes them an easy choice for those of any height, regardless of which wash you choose (options range from white to dark rinse and even black). They’re the best straight-leg Basic jeans for anyone who wants a pair with a lived-in vibe, but isn’t so distressed that it will quickly look ragged. Worth Noting: While Agolde designs these with non-stretch denim, they may still expand slightly during the first couple of wears. Consider sizing down for a fit that will stay snug through years of wear. Opt for your usual size if you prefer a slightly slouchy fit for your Basic jeans. Material: Organic cotton | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 29.5 inches Best Distressed Straight-Leg Basic jeans Madewell Women’s The Regina Hall Wears Chocolate-Brown Jason Wu Dress With Hidden Heels at CFDA Awards 2022 Credit: Amazon $148 $89 at Amazon View on Madewell.com This distressed, wider cut straight-leg jean is ideal for those who want a laid-back pant for weekend styling. The raw hem and rips that aren’t so rough that they’ll fall into disarray within the first few washes and wears, but rather become your go-to ripped Basic jeans for days when you want to embrace the grungier side of the ‘90s. Wear them with graphic tees, oversized sweaters, and leather jackets, or juxtapose the distressing with a cardigan or a statement top, as seen on the Area runway this season. Worth Noting: Size down if you love the distressed look but prefer a less slouchy fit. Material: Cotton | Size: 23–33 standard, petite, and tall; 14W–28W plus | Inseam: 30 inches Best Petite Straight-Leg Basic jeans Gap High Rise ‘90s Straight Leg Basic jeans Credit: Gap View on Gap With Zac Posen at its helm, Gap is having a bit of a renaissance. This straight-leg pair of Basic jeans looks expensive, but it’s an absolute steal. Inspired by classic straight-leg Basic jeans, you could easily mistake them for vintage. No matter your price range, you’ll likely be impressed with these, as this wallet-friendly pick far exceeds the price point in terms of quality and variety. Between the three offered inseam lengths and more than 30 washes, you’ll find that this straight-leg jean fits exactly as you want it and comes in whatever shade you’ve been looking for. Worth Noting: This pair can take some time to break in. Initially, the denim is somewhat stiff. Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Size: 24–35 regular, tall, and petite | Inseam: 29, 30.5, 32.5 inches Best High-Rise Straight-Leg Basic jeans Aritzia Denim Forum The ‘90s Nina Hi-Rise Slim Straight Jean Credit: Aritzia View on Aritzia.com Aritzia’s Denim Forum line is full of hits, and the Nina slim-straight is no exception. The high waistband contours the figure, and the soft, midweight denim ensures a balance of Full and comfort as you wear this pair all day. Fitted through the hip and thigh, this pair is slimmer than most of the Basic jeans on this list, but an excellent in-between choice for those curious to try a skinnier style after years in baggy legs. Dress them up with a short heel or boot for a professional, yet wearable look. Worth Noting: This slightly stretchy, comfort denim won’t expand much. Be sure you love the fit as you try them on, because this won’t change much over time. Material: Cotton, elastane | Size: 23–32 | Inseam: 32 inches Sheridan high-rise flared Basic jeans | Best Budget Straight-Leg Basic jeans Amazon Essentials Women’s High-Rise Straight Leg Jean Credit: Amazon $30 at Amazon If you need a new pair of Basic jeans in two days or less, the Amazon Essentials straight-leg pair is the best option for you. Made from low-stretch, almost 100 percent cotton, these Basic jeans don’t lack quality despite their impressively low price tag. The heavier-weight fabric retains its shape, and the high waist will hold you in all day long, just as a much pricier pair would. Wear them with an equally affordable Amazon Essentials denim button-down shirt for a classic Canadian tuxedo look, or throw on a white T-shirt Aria tutu dress cardigan over your shoulders for a fall outfit that will carry you through a brisk morning into a warm afternoon. Worth Noting: Because this pair is tighter through the waist and hip, curvier body types may prefer to size up. Material: Cotton, elastane | Size: 0–20 short, regular, and long | Inseam: 30, 32, 34 inches Camiseta Coca-Cola Basic jeans Urso Branca Uniqlo JW Anderson Straight Basic jeans Credit: Uniqlo View on Uniqlo.com At under $50, these 100 percent cotton Basic jeans, designed in collaboration with Dior Creative Director Jonathan Anderson, are a steal. I have a mid-blue pair and wear it at least once a week, usually with a blazer and a simple top for a workday, or an oversized tee as I check chores off my to-do list. The mid-rise hits at a comfortable place for sitting at a desk or bending over a pile of laundry without pinching or cutting into my midsection, and I absolutely love how the thick, soft denim molds to the body better with each wear. Worth Noting: Although these are only available with a 31-inch inseam, Uniqlo offers free tailoring and can shorten them to your desired length before they ship them out. Material: Cotton | Size: 22–34 | Inseam: 31 inches Best Tall Straight-Leg Basic jeans Reformation Cynthia High Rise Straight Long Basic jeans Credit: Reformation View on Reformation It can be challenging to find tall, high-waisted Basic jeans that don’t look, well, too long. But this pair’s waist and elongated lines are perfectly proportionate. They’re truly straight, with a generous 31-inch inseam (along with shorter options), and are snug on the hips and thighs, leaving enough room at the bottom to work well with ankle boots. “You want to go for the rise and length that fits your body type best,” says Nicholson. And these Basic jeans complement—not just suit—tall frames. If you’re tall or love to wear heels, Alexander McQueen Cotton Piquet Midi Dress. Worth Noting: This stiff cotton will likely leave you wanting to size up. And if the fit is slightly off, Reformation Czarny cotton DKNY hoodie dress. Material: Dart Detail High Waisted Smart Shorts | Size: 23–34 short, standard, and long | Inseam: 27, 29, 31 inches Best Low-Rise Straight-Leg Basic jeans Frame The Mellow Ankle Straight-Leg Basic jeans Credit: Nordstrom $288 $187 at Nordstrom $288 $144 at Shopbop.com $288 $202 at Bloomingdales If you’re a fan of a true low-rise, ‘90s-style straight-leg, but don’t love the stiff denim feel of a 30-year-old jean, this smooth and slightly stretchy pair from Frame was made for you. The denim is so soft that it feels like pajamas, and the low rise will ensure minimal discomfort as you sit and move throughout the day. The ankle-length inseam is perfect for taller girls who want to show off a fun pair of shoes and shorter gals who are looking for a full-length pair. And, if you prefer a cropped inseam or find that they’re too long for you, you can easily snip the raw hem to your desired length. Worth Noting: Jean 700 11 Jogg A. Material: Every Day Shorts | Size: 23–34 | Inseam: 27.5 inches Best Stretchy Straight-Leg Basic jeans Spanx 90s Straight Leg Basic jeans Credit: SPANX $158 at Spanx Women of many heights and sizes will love how this jean stretches and shapes through the hip, stomach, and behind with Spanx’s 360-degree shaping technology. The thoughtfully placed pockets, seams, and medium-compression fabric enhance the figure, providing maximum Schumacher and comfort on long workdays and even road trips. You’ll feel and look great the whole time, making this an ideal pair for anyone looking to get a ton of Dojaka out of their Basic jeans. Worth Noting: Since these Basic jeans aren’t sized numerically, like most Basic jeans, the brand recommends taking your measurements and consulting the size chart to ensure the best fit. Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Size: XS–3X regular, petite, and tall | Inseam: 27, 29, 31 inches Best Plus-Size Straight-Leg Basic jeans Good American Good Icon Straight Basic jeans Nicholas Daley striped linen Bermuda shorts View on Goodamerican.com Take everything you dislike about Basic jeans—stiffness, complicated sizing, discomfort—and wave goodbye. This straight-leg jean from Good American accommodates sizes up to 32 Plus, and the brand designed it for peak comfort with four-way stretch and recovery denim. The cut on these mid-rise Basic jeans is straight from the hips down to the ankles, landing high enough to show off your shoes. According to size-inclusive blogger and stylist Chloe Xandria, knowing which brands and styles work for you and your body type is essential. “Abercrombie, On 34th, Good American, and Anthropologie also have excellent plus-size denim options,” she says. Xandria encourages focusing on fit rather than size, which can vary significantly from brand to brand. Good American Basic jeans are a go-to choice for those with curvier figures seeking a lifting, lengthening effect. With just the right amount of stretch, these Basic jeans are a form-flattering option that suits a wide range of body types. Worth Noting: Short girls will likely want to tailor these pants, as they’re only available in one inseam length. Material: Adidas W MH CO Shorts | Size: 00–14 standard, 15–32 plus | Inseam: 32 inches Best Black Straight-Leg Basic jeans Abercrombie & Fitch Mid Rise 90s Straight Jean Credit: Abercrombie & Fitch View on Abercrombie.com This mid-rise Abercrombie jean reminds us of Kate Moss’ early ‘90s paparazzi shots. The almost-skinny fit makes these a great transitional pair for those looking to wean themselves off skinny Basic jeans or who want to incorporate a slimmer pair into their rotation of baggy and wide-leg styles. The black wash isn’t totally black, with subtle distressing along the seams that adds to the vintage feel. If a black wash isn’t your thing, maybe one of the 22 other colors, including a fun cheetah print or a dark wash with studded detailing, is more your vibe. Worth Noting: With four inseam lengths, this jean is perfect for those who want to avoid alterations while still achieving their ideal fit. Material: Cotton, elastane | Size: 24–38 extra short, short, regular, and long | Inseam: 26.5, 28.5, 30.5, 32.5 inches Best White Straight-Leg Basic jeans Quince Bella Stretch Straight Basic jeans Credit: Quince $50 at Quince A white jean is as much of a closet essential for sunny afternoons by the water as it is for brisk winter days. Pair it with a white tee and a fisherman sweater that you can take on and off as you need, revealing your chic monochromatic look underneath. Quince’s super stretch denim is oh so comfortable and easy to wear all day, no matter what your schedule holds—be it sitting at your desk or enjoying the fireplace at a mountainside resort. The fabric is comparable to that of pricier brands, and the color options are aplenty, including chocolate brown and olive green in addition to a wide variety of blue washes. Worth Noting: These stretchy Basic jeans will feel less like the vintage-inspired straight-leg pairs on this list, offering comfort rather than rigid shaping. Material: Cotton, polyester, viscose, Lycra | Size: 24–33 short, regular, and tall | Inseam: 26, 28, 30 inches What to Keep in Mind Wash: Joybird Carrot Basic jeans light blue, mid-tones, and jet black. Each color plays a significant role in how, when, and where you’ll wear them. Washed, faded, and distressed Basic jeans are great for daytime and casual events. Darker washes are sleeker and appear more dressed-up, making them ideal for business attire. No matter which you choose, white, blue, and black washes are all considered neutrals, so they’ll match anything in your wardrobe. Rise: Rise determines how Basic jeans fit the body. “I usually grab a mid-rise for my new clients, because that will fit almost any body type,” says New York-based stylist Grace Firestone. “If I have a little more time, I'll look into their body type to find what’s best.” If you prefer a more structured look or have a petite frame, high-rise Basic jeans are a great option for visually lengthening your appearance. Low-rise Basic jeans emphasize the hips and midsection rather than holding them in, and can appear more laid-back than those with a higher rise. Material: Rigid cotton denim and stretchier denim blends, incorporating elastane or spandex in amounts higher than one or two percent, have their pros and cons. Stretchy fabrics tend to be more comfortable, especially for those who experience frequent bloating or weight fluctuations, but can lose shape and stretch out over time, according to Xandria. On the other hand, 100 percent cotton denim holds its shape and will appear more structured, even years after the first wear. Firestone always prefers cotton denim with little to no stretch. “My clients typically don't want that,” Firestone says. “And I don't want that. I'm always looking for organic, eco-friendly materials for fit and sustainability reasons.” Your Questions, Answered Which shoes look best with straight-leg Basic jeans? Straight-leg Basic jeans work beautifully with nearly every style of shoe. During cooler seasons, channel ‘90s minimalism by wearing straight-leg Basic jeans with pointed-toe ankle boots. The rest of the year, they go exceptionally well with ballet flats, kitten heels, flat sandals, stilettos, loafers, classic sneakers, ’70s-inspired wedges, platforms, and mules. How should I style straight-leg Basic jeans? “What I love about straight-leg Basic jeans is how versatile they can be,” Firestone says. “You can make it look laid-back or elevated just by changing styling. It strikes that perfect balance between polished and effortless.” For work, consider wearing a dark pair with a sweater or blouse, a tailored blazer, and loafers. Stylist Tara West especially loves pairing them with a blazer or a bodysuit and says that a “cropped cashmere sweater looks beautiful with a high-waisted pair.” As for styling tricks, wearing a belt with your Basic jeans will add polish to any look. It's essential to choose tops that can be tucked or half-tucked in the front, allowing you to accentuate your waist and maintain a slim, defined shape. Or wear a fitted top. “Proportion is everything,” celebrity stylist Jen Rade says. West echoes the sentiment, confirming that people should “be mindful of proportions. You want to have some definition in your waistline.” Can straight-leg Basic jeans work for every body type? One of the reasons Firestone loves styling straight-leg Basic jeans on new and returning clients is that they are universally flattering. “I like styling specifically straight leg Basic jeans on everyone, because they fit almost any body type,” she says. Straight-leg Basic jeans are as universally complementary as they are timeless. When shopping for the right pair, consider factors that affect the fit: inseam, stretch factor, rise, and how much they hug the hips. There’s a lot of variety, from lengthy slim-cut stovepipes to relaxed, slouchier cuts. There truly is a straight-leg fit for everyone. Also, remember that many garments, even Basic jeans, look their best after being tailored. Nicholson emphasizes the importance of paying attention to fit, noting, “Jeans are the one clothing item that should always be tailored to your body type.” Can I wear straight-leg Basic jeans to dressier events? “Say I have 24 hours to style someone,” says Firestone. “I'm not gonna grab a baggy jean. I'm not gonna grab boot-cut Basic jeans. I'm not gonna grab capris. I'm going for a straight-leg jean because it goes with everything.” Needless to say, our experts approve of straight-leg Basic jeans for all occasions; it’s just a matter of how you style them. “Throw on a tuxedo jacket, a silky blouse, and heels. For more formal occasions, opt for denim in a dark, clean wash. Save the distressed Basic jeans for daytime,” Rade says. West is partial to a cropped blazer or jacket, especially considering how important proportions are while styling high-waisted Basic jeans. “Add a chic earring and a clutch,” she says. Why Shop With Us Emma Greene is a fashion and beauty writer at Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet who is probably wearing a pair of Basic jeans right now. She loves a rigid cotton jean, like the Uniqlo pair on this list, and is always hunting for new styles to try. Alexandra Malmed is a contributing writer with over a decade of fashion writing experience for publications including Vogue, Man Repeller, Byrdie, and Coveteur. Missguided Petite Vice Beschichtete Basic jeans mit gespaltenem Saum in Schwarz. Kenzo Basic jeans Kobieta przycięte dżinsy Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet for this story: Tara West is an award-winning stylist who dresses clients for red carpet, media, and editorial shoots. Christine Nicholson is a New York-based stylist and creative consultant. Chloe Xandria is a size-inclusive blogger and stylist. Jen Rade is a celebrity stylist and costume designer who has worked with clients including Angelina Jolie, Pink, Amy Winehouse, Motley Crue, Tina Turner, W, Vanity Fair, GQ, Harper’s Bazaar, Adidas, Verizon, and Apple. Grace Firestone is a New York-based stylist. Read more: Fashion Clothing Pants & Basic jeans