The Best Jeans For Women Over 50, According To Style Experts

You can’t go wrong with a classic. This flattering style from Levi’s has a mid-rise that sits at the waist, a stretchy denim that hugs your curves in all the right places and a bootcut silhouette that elongates the leg without a subtle effect. It’s intentionally designed to have a longer leg that almost grazes the floor and there are three inseams available—from 30 to 34 inches. 

This pair from Everlane is so soft, it feels like you’ve been wearing them for years. Thanks to an organic cotton-Lyocell denim blend, they have an airy, lightweight feel and a relaxed, slightly slouchy silhouette. The cropped leg—which can be worn cuffed or rolled down—is flattering for many body types without being too baggy. Fit note: Multiple reviewers said these run a bit large and might stretch out with wear, so considering sizing down if you prefer a tighter fit.

If you typically have to size up in jeans to accommodate your hips but are left with a too-baggy waist, this style could be the answer you’ve been looking for. It’s designed to hold in your midsection, hug your hips and lift your butt with a flattering, cheeky cut. The leg, cut straight from the thighs down, is comfortable without being too tight and “the proportion goes with almost any top and makes it very easy to style,” says Goldfaden. Note: Madewell also makes a non-curvy version.

Available in an impressive five lengths and up to a 37-inch waist, the Abercrombie’s Ultra High Rise Ankle Straight Jean elongates your legs and tucks in your midsection. The slimming (and affordable) pair comes in seven washes—from black to light and even a version with leather details. With its ankle-baring design, this pick makes a statement when paired with loafers, heels, sandals or sneakers. 

Everyone needs a great-fitting black pair of jeans and this option from Eileen Fisher is sustainably made of organic cotton and easy to style. It has a slim—but not super skinny—fit with a hint of stretch and a medium rise, making it a comfortable pick for all-day wear no matter the event. “When it comes to curating a versatile denim assortment, I suggest clients over 50 invest in a classic black pair,” says Shah. Note that many reviewers say this runs large and since the sizing isn’t numerical, check the size chart carefully before ordering. 

A white pair of jeans is a versatile addition to anyone’s wardrobe and this option from J.Crew is both functional and chic. It comes in three inseams, plus it has a touch of stretch to maintain its shape and add comfort for all-day wear without feeling too squeezed in. “I love a straight-leg white jean to pair with a colorful top or a great pair of heels for day-to-night dressing,” says Strah. 

With a high rise and slim leg, the Mom Oliver Jean from New York-based Mott & Bow is designed to flatter. The denim has added elastane—with a stretch factor of 18% to be exact—for comfort and mobility, while the relaxed fit through the thighs and tapered leg add a refined look that pairs well with just about anything in your closet. The Oliver is a heavier denim weight, so this pick is best for fall or winter wear. For a lighter fabric, consider the Mom Charlton that has the same great fit with an 11.5-ounce denim.

The Milo Jean, with its stretchy organic cotton and high waist, is sophisticated enough to wear to work and comfortable enough to wear all day. “If you have a more active day of travel or commuting, consider a dark wash, wider leg jean with stretch, paired with a t-shirt and blazer,” says Goldfaden. Another bonus: This pair has a hidden snap in the hem for easy length customization, like if you’re swapping your sneakers for a pair of heels.

With almost 50,000 pairs sold, the Carson Jean is a bestselling pick known for its wearability and “just the right amount of stretch,” as one reviewer says. The relaxed leg moves with you throughout the day and the cuff gives off a casual vibe, although these jeans can also be worn uncuffed with the raw hem for a more elongating look. This mid-rise pair is available in 12 washes from faded blue to buttery yellow.

Thanks to a unique blend of cotton and synthetic fibers, this pair from Just USA is both slimming and stretchy enough to maintain its shape after long hours of wear. “These dark wash, bootcut jeans are the perfect affordable option and are great for a variety of occasions,” Strah says, “especially when you want an elevated look.” Try pairing it with a heel for a casual-chic statement for an event.

With a mid-rise—it hits right below the navel—and an ultra-soft lyocell-cotton blend denim, the Kye Mid Rise Ankle Straight Legs are comfortable and flattering for many body types. The cropped length looks chic with sneakers or heels, and the lighter weight denim has a nice relaxed drape, making it a great pick for mild temps or travel. One reviewer says this pair is “so comfortable I forget I’m wearing jeans.” 

The team behind Alex Mill are vintage denim obsessives and this made-in-Los Angeles pair is inspired by an iconic classic pair. It feels soft, like a broken-in favorite, while looking polished enough for work or a dinner out. With a zip fly, medium rise and a slightly slim leg, these jeans have a hint of stretch that forms to your curves and keeps you comfortable.