There’s no doubt that high-waisted jeans are a staple for many. The silhouette is sleek and impossibly chic. Well, so are mid-rise jeans, and you may even end up liking them more. If you’re not interested in something super high but also don’t want an option that’s particularly lower (sorry, Y2K lovers!), this cut may be a go-to for you. It’s basically a no-fail and will never go out of style. There is a variety of silhouettes offered with a mid-rise, from classic straight to trendier barrel jeans. Add a pair to your current wardrobe and you’ll be reaching for them more than you think.
To showcase some of the best mid-rise jeans out there, we scrolled through all of our favorite sites, including Nordstrom and Shopbop, to uncover the standout styles. Below, you’ll find a range, including light-wash picks, distressed options, and more. Keep scrolling for more shopping inspiration.
“These pants fit like a glove! They have a lot of stretch and the color is perfect to go with many different outfits. I liked how they weren’t so high-rise. I have a hard time with those ones because then the waist never fits. I got so many compliments on them. For reference, I’m 5’4” and 115 lbs and got the 25R.”— Abercrombie reviewer
Madewell makes incredible basics, but they’re especially known for their denim. This baggy pair fits perfectly above the waist and has a relaxed and easy fit.
If Who What Wear editors had to pick a favorite denim brand, it would be Agolde. We would classify the brand’s ’90s jeans as the best overall.
If you’re on the taller side, we’d recommend Reformation’s jeans.
Don’t sleep on Zara’s denim. Sometimes, we gravitate towards them over our designer pairs. Plus, this medium wash will look great paired with all your fall knitwear.
Out of all of Levi’s styles, the 501 is the ultimate classic. The mid-rise and straight silhouettes make for the perfect ’90s-inspired look.
“These were exactly what I was looking for. It’s hard to find mid-rise these days and I’m just not into high rise. The fit is great, true to size, and very flattering. I love the straight leg and the wash is super versatile dressing it up with a cute top and heels or down with a t-shirt and sneakers.”— Gap reviewer
Are you sensing a theme here? A lot of these mid-rise jeans are ’90s inspired, and the style of that era just exudes class. Proof that with these jeans, you’ll always look good.
Made from 100% cotton, these H&M jeans are perfect for those who want a more comfortable and softer denim instead of a rigid pair.
“I LOVE these jeans, the mid-rise is great, they’re supremely flattering, and I will wear them til they come apart at the seams.”— Madewell reviewer
If you’re able to splurge, Khaite’s denim has proved to be worthy of the hype.
“I never do reviews but these checked all the boxes for me! I had been looking for baggy jeans but never liked the way they fit. I have bigger thighs and a slimmer waist and these for perfect—baggy in the thighs but fit my waist and hips great. I am a 30in waist and 42in hip and I purchased a size 10. I am considering also getting the 8 for a slightly more fitted look! Great jeans!”— H&M reviewer
The fashion set is all over barrel jeans recently, so of course Zara would release their own version. It’s more understated than others on the market, and is just incredibly chic.
If you’re looking for luxe-like jeans at an under-$100 price point, Mango is your destination. This pair is proof.
Another splurgy-worthy brand for denim has to be Tibi, especially if you prefer a loose and baggy fit.
“I love these jeans, so comfortable and versatile. this is my second pair and my favorite style of Abercrombie jeans. I’m waiting for more washes to become available. It’s the perfect amount of baggy, not too loose not too tight the fit is perfect.”—Abercrombie & Fitch reviewer
Switch things up from your black and blue denim with this chocolate brown pair from Reformation.
In the denim world, Levi’s will always be reliable. This pair fits nicely at a mid-rise level, but is roomy and slouch at the hip and thigh for maximum comfort and ease.
A black pair of denim looks classy, but a washed grey pair adds an easy level of interest without jumping into another color range
Instead of pairing a button-down with wide-leg trousers, opt for floor-length jeans like this one from Favorite Daughter.
We understand that not all of you may have given up skinny jeans, and that’s totally okay. Wear what makes you feel comfortable! Mother has a variety of mid-rise skinny styles to choose from.
