“I’m a fashion writer and notoriously fussy about jeans – but this wide-leg pair has won me over”

Finding the perfect pair of jeans is no mean feat. Trust me, I get it. From navigating the seemingly endless washes, waistlines and leg lengths to discovering a pair that looks brilliant on the hanger but does absolutely nothing for you once it’s on, shopping for denim can feel like a never-ending pursuit. And given that jeans are arguably the hardest-working items in our wardrobes, I think we can all agree that finding the one is worth the effort.

Thankfully, as someone who writes about fashion for a living, I’ve had ample opportunity to put countless pairs through their paces. From  straight-leg styles to barrel silhouettes, baggy fits and everything in between, I’ve developed a comprehensive roster of denim styles I love, alongside a few that I certainly won’t be revisiting. And while I’m always open to trying something new, there’s one silhouette I find myself returning to time and time again: a really great wide-leg jean.

So, what makes them so good? For starters, the silhouette is pretty much perfect. Designed to sit at the natural waist, they feature a wonderfully full, wide leg that falls beautifully from the hips, creating that long, elongated shape I’m always looking for in my denim. They’re relaxed without looking shapeless and roomy without completely overwhelming your frame. It’s a difficult balance to strike, but Calvin Klein has managed it.

Of course, wide-leg denim is hardly a new proposition, but its staying power is precisely what makes it such a worthwhile investment. For autumn/winter 2026, the silhouette was back on the catwalks, with Givenchy, JW Anderson and Emporio Armani offering particularly polished takes on roomy denim. 

The fabric and finish are equally deserving of attention. Made from mid-weight cotton denim, these jeans have enough structure to hold their shape while still delivering that lovely, relaxed appearance. The light-blue wash has a subtle, vintage-inspired quality that makes them feel like a pair you have spent years wearing in, only without the years of searching. Nothing overly fussy or trend-driven, just really good denim done properly.

And perhaps my favourite thing about them is how wonderfully versatile they are. I happily wear mine with a white T-shirt, cashmere cardigan and loafers for an easy everyday uniform. Come the weekend, they’re equally good with trainers and an oversized jumper, while a crisp shirt and a tailored funnel-neck jacket make them feel instantly more put-together.

So, if you’ve been on the hunt for a pair of wide-leg jeans that look great, feel considered and will work with practically everything you already own, allow me to introduce you to my current favourites. Take it from someone who has tried on more denim than she’d care to admit: when you find a pair this good, you hold on to them.