Of all the closet staples that are essential to building a complete and well-rounded wardrobe, the perfect pair of jeans is both arguably t...

14 Highly Rated Pairs Of High-Waisted Jeans

Of all the closet staples that are essential to building a complete and well-rounded wardrobe, the perfect pair of jeans is both arguably the most important of the bunch — and the most difficult to find. Be it size, cut, or wash, there's a lot to consider as you set out on your search. Add to that the heated skinny jeans debate that's been ignited by Gen-Z, and landing on your ideal pair can seem impossible. But if there's one style that keeps coming up again, no matter the cut, trend, or generational divide, it's the high-waisted silhouette. It's as close as you get to timeless in the ever-shifting world of denim trends. But with so many high-waisted options to choose from, where do you even start?

Thanks to the internet, there's an expanding squad of fashion-minded shoppers out there who are happy to provide some guidance. From wide-leg to cigarette, from mega-retailers to DTC brands, from $30 price tags to $300, reviewers aren't holding back about what they like, loathe, or love about their jeans. So we took a deep dive into the pool of reviews to find the pairs with the highest approval ratings on the internet. Click through our roundup of the 14 pairs of high-waisted jeans that have got reviewers posting up a storm. But if you're a Gen-Zers, beware: there are some skinny jean styles ahead.


Welcome to Hype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. The product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Levi's Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans


The Everyday Jeans

The Ribcage Jean is Levi's highest high rise of them all. The 12-inch rise makes for a waist-defining fit with leg-lengthening powers you'll want to wear on repeat.

The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 106 reviews on levi.com

What They’re Saying: “I am in love with my new Ribcage Jeans! I have been looking for something other than skinny's and these are perfect. The high rise accentuates my curves in all the right ways! And the color Georgie is the perfect classic denim look I was going for! This is so my new everyday jean!!!” — Bella42678480, levi.com reviewer

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Levi's Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans, $, available at Levi's

Madewell The Curvy Perfect Vintage Jean


The Feel-Good Pair

Madewell is known for its best-selling Perfect Vintage Jean style, and this pair designed for curves is one of the most popular picks on the retailer's website. The stretch denim fabric has a retro-looking appeal with that broken-in feel that just can't be beat.

The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 75 reviews on Madewell.com

What They’re Saying: “This is the first pair of jeans that i've owned that make me feel good... Im about to turn 23 which means I am metamorphosing from teenagehood to womanhood. This is the first pair of jeans I have bought that fit without a belt and are comfy in all areas without compromising thigh, waist, and hip fits. I feel beautiful in these, and have not received the same quality in brands that cost $100 more than these. Also, these are not as heavy as the straight fitting vintage jeans they offer.” — SHELBY3, Madewell.com reviewer

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Madewell The Curvy Perfect Vintage Jean, $, available at Madewell

Everlane The ’90s Cheeky Jean


The Throwback Style

The '90s were the ultimate decade for denim, so any pair that effectively channels the sartorial greatness of that period is guaranteed to garner glowing reviews. Everlane's straight-leg pair features an extra high-rise waist and is kinder to the planet to boot. Modern denim product methods use a lot of water and sand to give your new jeans that already lived-in feel. Everlane works with factories that recycle water and use other byproducts from the process in construction.

The Hype: 4.44 out of 5 stars; 2,284 reviews on Everlane.com

What They’re Saying: “Soft and silky cotton jeans. These jeans fit true to size and maintain their shape during the day. I bought the light blue which is hard to find and I love the softness and color. They are flattering too.” — Luckypeach, Everlane.com reviewer

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Everlane The ’90s Cheeky Jean, $, available at Everlane

AG The Farrah High Waist Skinny Jeans


The Closet Staple

L.A. denim brand AG is a go-to brand for high-quality jeans that stand the test of time, both for the quality construction and timeless designs. This slightly faded dark-wash pair feature a comfortable fit and simple silhouette that'll complement all sorts of stuff in your closet for years to come.

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 410 reviews on Nordstrom.com

What They’re Saying: “A closet staple - dark skinny jeans without any crazy wiskering and fading effects - these are perfect. I'm long-waisted so on me these really are more like a mid-rise, but they fit really well - no gaping at the waist (I have wide hips, booty, and small waist). Also - and this is key for us gals with volume on the lower half - the pocket placement is really really good. Pockets can make or break jeans, especially with a high-waisted cut, and these are perfectly placed. The fabric is also really nice - lightweight but with good stretch to hold you in. True to size - a little long but since they're skinny you can scrunch or roll them easily.” — lt007, Nordstrom.com reviewer

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AG The Farrah High Waist Skinny Jeans, $, available at Nordstrom

H&M Super Skinny High Jeans


The Super High-Riser

H&M is known for its ultra-affordable pricing, which is one of the biggest selling points for this $25 pair of jeans. Reviewers also love the tight fit (although many recommend sizing up for this reason) and the fact that they cover the belly button. When it comes to waists, this is about as high as it gets, folks!

The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 38 reviews on hm.com

What They’re Saying: “Love the fit! The high-rise, length and tightness around the ankles is perfect.” — Anonymous, hm.com reviewer

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H&M Super Skinny High Jeans, $, available at H&M

MOTHER The Insider Crop Step Fray Flared Jeans


The Worth-The-Splurge Style

Soft, stretchy but never without shape, these Mother jeans feature a 10" rise and a stylish flared silhouette. They may be more expensive than your typical pair of jeans, but according to a number of happy shoppers, this is an investment item you won't regret.

The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars; 17 reviews on Bloomingdales.com

What They’re Saying: “Great Fit: Always wanted a pair of Mother Jeans but the price point was high. I finally hit the bullet and decide to try one on and on my!! I wish I could live in these. Will jump on another pair if they ever go on sale.” — Yash, Bloomingdales.com reviewer

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Bloomingdales.com

MOTHER The Insider Crop Step Fray Flared Jeans, $, available at Bloomingdale's

Pilcro The Skipper Wide-Leg Jeans


The Skinny Jeans Alternative

If you haven't yet met Anthropologie's exclusive Pilcro label, let this be your introduction to the brand. These extra-high, hip-hugging jeans feature a wide-leg fit that's so good, they might just prove Gen-Z is onto something.

The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars; 59 reviews on Anthropologie.com

What They’re Saying: “My ongoing jeans dilemma, solved: I've had a frustrating time finding jeans that fit right for the past couple of years. These are worth every penny. I'm 5'3" and the length is fine (I was worried I might need a petite based on some of the other reviews about them being long). Pocket placement is flattering on the backside and they have a little stretch. They fit perfectly. I plan on getting a second pair." — Nicci25, Anthropologie.com reviewer

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Pilcro Pilcro The Skipper Wide-Leg Jeans, $, available at Anthropologie

Paige Hoxton Ankle Skinny Jeans


The Committed-To-Skinny-Jeans Style

For those of us who aren't ready to go full-on Gen-Z just yet, consider Paige premium denim as your solid source for top-selling skinny jeans styles. The Hoxton style is a favorite among Nordstrom Rack shoppers who praise its classic cut and easy fit.

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 11 reviews on NordstromRack.com

What They’re Saying: “New favorite pair of blues: Great cut makes for a great fit. Denim has nice weight to it as it is mostly cotton. Love that they are slim, but not clinging like sausage casing. Waist is mid-to-high without gap in small of back or looking like 'mom jeans'.” — Stellatex, NordstromRack.com reviewer

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PAIGE Hoxton Ankle Skinny Jeans, $, available at Nordstrom Rack

AGOLDE Lana Straight Jean


The Compliment Magnet

AGOLDE is a premium denim label with an undeniable contemporary-cool appeal. This best-selling pair on Revolve is no exception with reviewers raving about the ultra-relaxed fit that offers ample styling opportunities. Because of the looser silhouette, however, many suggest sizing down for a better fit.

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 114 reviews on Revolve.com

What They’re Saying: “Super cool relaxed look. Have received countless of compliments from this pair of jeans and have recommended them to my friends. Though pricier than hat if usually pay, I believe these will last me a long time and have a timeless look.” — Nat, Revolve.com reviewer

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Agolde Lana Straight, $, available at Revolve

Gap High Rise Vintage Slim Jeans


The Perfect Fit

According to shoppers who snagged this best-selling cigarette style, these jeans are not too tight but not too loose either, featuring low-stretch denim that's snug at first but soon forms to your shape. Plus, they're part of Gap's water-saving Washwell program which has saved millions of liters of water since 2016.

The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars; 48 reviews on Gap.com

What They’re Saying: “Love the high rise as I can wear my cropped tops without showing my skin. Not too skinny either. Love love love. Fit is very true to size.” — Cheryl L., Gap.com reviewer

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Gap High Rise Vintage Slim Jeans, $, available at Gap

RE/DONE High Rise Rigid Stove Pipe Jeans


The Don't-Give-A-Stretch Style

Sometimes, good things are worth waiting for. These non-stretch RE/DONE jeans take some breaking in, but once they do, your favorite jeans better watch out. Reviewers report that once they do, they will quickly become your new go-to pair.

The Hype: 4.6 out of 5 stars; 6 reviews on Shopbop.com

What They’re Saying: “These jeans are somewhat rigid but still comfy and are so flattering- genuinely my new [favorite] jeans." — laurennnn, Shopbop.com reviewer

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RE/DONE High Rise Rigid Stove Pipe Jeans, $, available at Shopbop

Amazon Essentials High-Rise Skinny Jean


The Best Bargain

If you're in need of new jeans but don't want to pay a hefty price, this casual, comfortable, and classic pair from Amazon Essentials won't cost you more than $35.

The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars; 2,257 reviews on Amazon.com

What They’re Saying: “I NEVER write reviews, but I had to give a review of these jeans. They are amazing! I got them yesterday and couldn’t wait to wear them today. They are the most comfy pair of jeans I own. I like the high rise because I have 'junk in the trunk' and when I am moving around they don’t slide down. I am definitely ordering more pairs! The best part is the bargain price!” — Jennifer, Amazon.com reviewer

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Amazon Essentials High-Rise Skinny Jean, $, available at Amazon

Free People Riley Slit Skinny Jeans


The Fashion Person Pick

While the high-rise, button-front silhouette of these slim-fitting jeans makes them timeless, the ankle slit makes them totally on-trend right now — perfect for shoppers looking to amp up the fashion in an otherwise classic look.

The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars; 9 reviews on FreePeople.com

What They’re Saying: "LOVE LOVE LOVE: Absolute best jeans I’ve ever purchased. So stretchy and flattering! I bought the black and just ordered the blue denim too. So comfortable and love the side slit. I sized down one size and they’re still so roomy probably could have gone down two sizes!” — kaylamckeown, FreePeople.com reviewer

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FreePeople.com

Free People Riley Slit Skinny Jeans, $, available at Free People

Levi's 721 High Rise Skinny Jeans


The Pair With Over 18k Reviews

We couldn't help but put a second pair of Levi's jeans on this list after finding a style on Amazon with more than 18,000 reviews. These form-flattering jeans earned their crowd-pleasing status due to their undeniable comfort and versatility. Plus, they're ideal for tucking into your best pair of booties come fall.

The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars; 18,021 reviews on Amazon.com

What They’re Saying: “I never thought I would get high-rise jeans. I always thought of them as mom jeans (I am a mom but still too young for mom jeans). These are great. Love the fit and they go with so many of my tops. I wear them cuffed and regular. They look super cute with them cuffed and my converse. And the pockets sit at a nice point on my tush, not too low or too high. I would say they fit true to size, I wear a size 4 (27) in most jeans and that is what I ordered and they fit. Not super stretchy like some jeans, they hold their shape all day (that's what I really like). I have a pair of the 311s in the non-jean material and they have a little too much give (really nice soft material though) but these are better if you're looking for jeans that maintain their shape.” — Flo, Amazon.com reviewer

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Levi's 721 High Rise Skinny Jeans, $, available at Amazon

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