I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier.

I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier.

      For a long time, I thought that high-quality, well-fitting jeans were only available at a steep price. This led me to spend quite a bit on denim from brands like Nili Lotan and Mother, even splurging on the highly sought-after $500 Khaite jeans. However, everything changed a month ago when I received Madewell's new Dean Easy Straight Jeans as a gift. I had never owned or tried on Madewell jeans before, but as soon as I unwrapped them, I felt they would be something special—the type of jeans I would wear weekly and be hesitant to wash for fear of ruining them. I was correct. They exceeded my expectations. Many others echo my thoughts, with fashion enthusiasts on TikTok singing their praises in reviews. One content creator remarked, "They're the best jeans ever" and noted that "they're just really flattering." (Image credit: @nikki.chwatt)

      What sets them apart? Let me explain further. The Dean Easy Straight Jeans are available in four different washes, each with its own distinct silhouette. The most popular one, which I received, is the Monessen Wash—a beautifully faded vintage blue featuring a subtle rip on the right thigh and a frayed hem. Typically, I avoid distressed denim and lean towards clean cuts that feel more polished and versatile, but these details felt different. The rip is positioned such that no skin is exposed, and the frayed hem is understated—just enough to create a relaxed vibe without appearing untidy.

      Madewell describes these jeans as "denim with zero stretch," which might imply stiffness, but they're quite the opposite. They're soft, exceptionally comfortable, and move with your body instead of against it. (Image credit: @nikki.chwatt)

      What I love most? The length is perfect for me—a rarity at my height of 5'1". Thankfully, Madewell provides the Dean jeans in standard, tall, and petite lengths, so women under 5'3" (like me) don’t have to worry about alterations. The petite option hits just above my ankle, making these jeans perfect for showing off my loafers and sandals during warm months or pairing with boots in the fall and winter. They are designed to sit at mid- to low-rise, depending on styling. I opted for a size up for a loose, low-slung fit that gives a relaxed, worn-in feel.

      Here's the interesting part: I haven't reached for my designer denim nearly as much since discovering these jeans. The Dean Easy Straight Jeans have officially claimed a spot in my closet and my heart. If you've been spending hundreds on the "perfect" jeans, let me help you save time and money. The best pair might be waiting for you at Madewell. Keep scrolling to shop them.

      Shop Madewell's Dean Easy Straight Jeans:

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      The Dean Easy Straight Jeans

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I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier. I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier. I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier. I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier. I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier. I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier. I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier. I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier.

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I have $500 jeans, but this pair under $150 appears and feels much pricier.

Have faith in me.