How to Find Your Denim Style

High-Rise

A high-rise jean sits at or above the natural waist. If you want to define your waist or create a longer-looking leg, this is the pair for you.

A few pairs worth trying are Frame Denim’s The Slice Flare, L’Agence’s Selma High Rise Sleek Baby Boot, and AG's Mari High Rise Straight. Each offers a different leg shape, so you can choose between a flare, a subtle bootcut, or a classic straight leg without giving up the higher rise. For fall, our stylist Eme also suggests Frame’s The Collegiate jean, highlighting its longer inseam.

When it comes to styling, try a tucked-in tee or button-down to show off the waistband. A cropped sweater is another option, especially with a wider leg or flare that balances the shorter top.

Mid-Rise

If you prefer your jeans to sit between your hips and natural waist, mid-rise denim is your go-to. It’s a versatile everyday option and works across a range of leg shapes.

For a casual outfit, try AG’s Farrah Boot with a graphic tee. The flared leg gives a simple top a little more shape. If you prefer a straighter cut, AG’s Mari Mid Rise Slim Straight has a cropped hem that puts your shoes on display. Wear them with ballet flats for an understated look or sneakers for everyday errands.

You can also go beyond standard denim and try a pair with unique detailing like Closed’s Nikka Jeans. These wide-leg jeans feature buttons down the side that are both playful and elegant. 

Low-Rise

As the name would suggest, low-rise jeans sit lower on the hips. They have a more relaxed, fashion-forward feel than other rises and are especially relevant with wider silhouettes.

Before choosing a pair, pay attention to how the waistband fits. Low-rise jeans should sit comfortably on your hips without digging in or slipping down as you move. Try sitting and standing in them, too! Since cuts vary by brand, focus on how the jeans fit rather than automatically sizing up or down.

Whether you’re a long-time low-rise fan or trying them for the first time, you can’t go wrong with Moussy’s Asheville Remake Flare. They have a vintage-inspired feel, flared silhouette, and stretch for added flexibility. You can also try Re/Done’s The Lean Jean or AG’s Sandra Low Rise Straight for a sleek, refined look.

Straight-Leg

Straight-leg jeans have a consistent, streamlined leg, giving them a classic shape that works with a variety of tops and shoes. They’re a useful option if you want something more relaxed than a skinny jean but less dramatic than a wide leg or flare.

For a lighter wash with a vintage feel, try Re/Done’s Blondie Jean. Prefer darker denim? DL 1961's Halle Straight, High Rise Instasculpt Jean offers a dark-wash alternative.

Straight-leg jeans also transition easily into fall outfits. Wear them with brown suede heels, like Sam Edelman’s Hazel Pump, and Smythe’s One Button Blazer in plaid. The combination of denim, suede, and tailored fabric adds texture without making the outfit feel too formal.

Skinny/Slim

Though they may not dominate every trend cycle, skinny jeans still have a place in a well-rounded denim wardrobe. Their close fit through the hips and legs makes them a natural match for longer layers, roomier tops, and boots.

For a relaxed contrast, pair them with an oversized blouse like the MKT Studio Chams top or a blazer. As the weather cools, tuck them into ankle booties or tall boots like Sam Edelman’s Haisley Boot.

Fabric can make a difference in how skinny jeans feel throughout the day. Moussy’s Glocester Skinny Long features stretch that allows the denim to move with you. L’Agence’s Marguerite High Rise Skinny uses modal-infused stretch denim to create a smooth fit. Both are worth considering if you like a close-fitting jean but don't want to sacrifice comfort.

Boot-Cut

Bootcut jeans fit close through the thigh, then flare slightly from the knee to the hem. That subtle change in shape helps create the appearance of a longer leg, especially when you wear them with heels or boots.

For a classic high-rise option, L’Agence’s Selma High Rise Sleek Baby Boot hugs the hips and thighs before opening into a slim bootcut hem. DL1961’s Claira Straight Boot Mid-Rise Contoured Instasculpt 32" Jean offers a similar leg shape in a softly faded blue wash. The contoured waistband and stretch denim keep it comfortable and make it a strong everyday option.

Bootcut jeans are particularly easy to style with footwear that adds a little height. Try the Claira with Oncept’s Winslow Ankle Boot for a Western-inspired look, then add Twinset’s Knit Printed Sweatshirt for a relaxed mix of vintage-inspired pattern and classic denim.

Flare

Want to dress up your denim look? Flare jeans are known to make a statement. With a wider opening that starts at the knee, they have a more dramatic silhouette than your typical bootcut styles.

You can bring a little personality to your denim rotation with Ramy Brook’s Helena Flare Jean, or go with a more pared-back look in FRAME’s The Icon Long. The Icon has a mid-rise fit and an extra-long 34-inch inseam that emphasizes the elongated line of the flare.

For a night out, style either pair with Oncept’s Nashville Ankle Boot, letting the hem fall over the boot for a long, uninterrupted line. Layer on FRAME’s Denim Utility Jacket to keep the look relaxed. Its structured denim and oversized pockets balance the wider leg without competing with it.

Wide Leg

Wide-leg jeans fit loosely through the entire leg, creating a more generous silhouette than straight-leg or flare styles. Their modern shape makes them a strong foundation for an elevated outfit, especially when you balance the volume with a fitted top or structured jacket.

Twinset’s Wide Leg Jean brings an easy feel to black denim. The soft stretch cotton and lightly washed finish keep the look casual, while the wide leg gives it a more considered shape. Try them with a slim ribbed top and L’Agence’s Maelle Pump for a sharp contrast between relaxed denim and a pointed-toe heel.

For a more classic blue-jean look, Frame’s The Collegiate pairs a high-rise waist with a wide leg and a washed finish that feels comfortably lived-in. A fitted knit, such as Liviana Conti’s Turtleneck, keeps the proportions in balance without adding bulk.

Barrel Leg

With a curved shape through the leg that tapers toward the ankle, barrel-leg jeans bring a fresh perspective to everyday denim. Their fuller silhouette has plenty of personality on its own, making them a great choice when you want to move beyond your usual straight-leg or skinny styles.

The softly structured Frank & Eileen Brennan Barrel Leg Jean has a vintage look, a defined waist, and an ankle-length hem, creating a balanced silhouette that feels easy to wear. Style them with Kennel & Schmenger’s Drop Mule to highlight the tapered hem.

For a more architectural take, Closed’s Tori-X Jean stands out with its signature X-pockets and offset side seam. Made from rigid cotton denim, it will soften and mold to your shape with wear. Add ba&sh’s Nalo Jacket for a modern utility-inspired outfit.

Cropped/Ankle

Sometimes a small change in length makes all the difference. Cropped and ankle-length jeans end at or above the ankle, drawing attention to your footwear and giving an outfit a lighter feel. They’re especially useful during transitional weather.

Nothing looks as effortless as a mid-rise, straight-leg jean with a cropped hem, like AG’s Mari Crop. Pair it with Oncept’s Essex for a relaxed, low-profile finish that keeps the outfit light.

Cropped denim can also be a chance to play with color and proportion. DL1961’s Kristy Capri Slim has a high rise, a tapered leg, and a soft blush-pink wash that offers a subtle alternative to blue or white jeans. The shorter length pairs well with a statement shoe, while Theory’s Leather Crop Trench brings structure and texture through the top half.

Let a Professional Stylist Help With Your Jeans Journey

Now you know the basics of the various denim rises and leg shapes—and how to style them. If you’re still unsure which pair (or pairs!) will work best for you, schedule an appointment with one of our professional stylists by calling Garbarini at 303-333-8686 or email info@garbarinishop.com.