I've said it before and I'll say it again, good denim doesn't have to cost a fortune, and there are plenty of pairs of jeans on the high street right now to prove me right.
I've scoured the shops, both online and in-store, and I can confirm that lots of the best jeans cost less than £100, without compromising on fit and cut.
There are some classic styles like straight-leg and flared jeans, as well as some more trend-led printed and ripped trousers.
I've rounded up some of my favourite high street denim brands below and included lots of information on what fit is right for you.
Which jeans are right for me?
When it comes to jeans, it's all about the fit. Baggy jeans are all the rage at the moment, but if you're looking for a more subtle approach, you can't go wrong with a pair of dad jeans.
Of course, we can't forget about mom jeans. This style hit the denim scene a while ago, and it looks as if it's going nowhere. They're the perfect mix of skinny and baggy, and can easily be dressed up with heels and a blazer, or dressed down with trainers and an oversized shirt for an off-duty look.
If you are a straight-leg jean girl through and through, not to fear, we've included our favourite slim-fitting pairs too.
For autumn/winter, we're still seeing plenty of cargo-style denim, which looks great worn with a relaxed blazer and chunky boots.
No need to worry about leg lengths, as lots of high street stores have started their own petite and tall denim ranges, so there really is a style to suit everyone.
Where to shop for the best high street jeans
There are so many good quality high street jeans available. I've included our favourite brands below, from H&M, Mango, Zara and more. While we know that some of these brands might not be the most sustainable options around, here at Marie Claire UK we believe in conscious consumption and ensuring that every piece you buy becomes a closet staple that you can wear for years to come. When it comes to staples, there's nothing more timeless than a pair of jeans. Let's face it, most of us wear jeans every day, so below we have specifically selected classic styles we know you’ll keep forever.
If you're looking for the right items to pair with your brand-new jeans, don't forget to check out our roundups of the best trench coats, best designer handbags and the best sunglasses to transition your wardrobe into the new season.
The best high street jeans to buy now
Sometimes simple is best and that's why I've chosen these CARHARTT jeans, which are cut just above the ankle. They'll go with everything from a sweatshirt and dad trainers to a sequin top and heels.
Materials: 100% cotton
Size range: 24inch- 32inch
Mango's expanded its denim offering to offer more plus sizes, although not all jeans are included. I love this subtle black hue and the classic straight leg.
Materials: 80% cotton and 20% recycled cotton
Size range: 4-26
These wide leg jeans are made from 5% recycled materials. This pair of denim is part of Gap's water-saving Washwell program. Compared to conventional wash methods Washwell has saved millions of litres of water since 2016.
Materials: 100% cotton.
Size range: 25inch- 33inch
H&M's cargo jeans are the perfect way to dip into the trend. If you want to avoid looking like a member of All Saints circa the 90, team it with heeled ankle boots and a relaxed blazer.
Materials: 100% cotton (21% recycled).
Size range: 4-22
The faded wash and slight baggy leg on these jeans tap into the Y2K trend. They're made from an organic cotton and recycled cotton rigid denim, made according to the circular design guidelines of EMFs Jeans Redesign project.
Materials: 100% cotton
Size range: 23inch- 34inch
It's easy to see why the fashion set can't get enough of ARKET jeans. There are so many styles to choose from, from the classic to the not so classic, like these low and loose jeans.
Materials: 57% cotton and 43% lyocell
Size range: 25inch- 33inch
If you didn't know, Kate Middleton has often been spotted in & Other Stories jeans, and if it's good enough for a royal, then it's good enough for us. The pleated running down the middle of those jeans make them smart enough to be worn at work too.
Materials: 80% organic cotton, 20% recycled cotton
Size range: 24inch- 32inch
Zara jeans are so affordable, and the quality is also unmatched (I have several pairs in my wardrobe that are still going strong after several years and washes). These mom jeans are next on my list for autumn/winter.
Materials: 99% cotton and 1% elastane
Size range: 4-18
COS jeans are slowly but surely achieving cult status amongst denim fans, and for good reason. They are durable and well cut, like these tapered jeans, a great alternative to slim jeans.
Materials: 100% Cotton
Size range: 24inch-32inch
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