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.
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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
Shop levi.com
Levi's Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans, $, available at Levi's
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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
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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
Shop Everlane.com
Everlane The ’90s Cheeky Jean, $, available at Everlane
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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
Shop Nordstrom.com
AG The Farrah High Waist Skinny Jeans, $, available at Nordstrom
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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
Shop hm.com
H&M Super Skinny High Jeans, $, available at H&M
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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
Shop Bloomingdales.com
MOTHER The Insider Crop Step Fray Flared Jeans, $, available at Bloomingdale's
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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
Shop Anthropologie
Pilcro Pilcro The Skipper Wide-Leg Jeans, $, available at Anthropologie
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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
Shop NordstromRack.com
PAIGE Hoxton Ankle Skinny Jeans, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
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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
Shop Revolve.com
Agolde Lana Straight, $, available at Revolve
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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
Shop Gap.com
Gap High Rise Vintage Slim Jeans, $, available at Gap
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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
Shop Shopbop.com
RE/DONE High Rise Rigid Stove Pipe Jeans, $, available at Shopbop
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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
Shop Amazon.com
Amazon Essentials High-Rise Skinny Jean, $, available at Amazon
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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
Shop FreePeople.com
Free People Riley Slit Skinny Jeans, $, available at Free People
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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
Shop Amazon.com
Levi's 721 High Rise Skinny Jeans, $, available at Amazon
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