I Tried on More Than 50 Pairs of Jeans This Autumn—These 7 Are Definitely Worth the Hype.
Welcome to The Great Try-On. With autumn firmly set in motion, we took the chance to sample the best new arrivals from some of our favorite brands, documenting the journey along the way. We believe the best way to shop online is to first see an item in real life and read honest reviews about fit, style, and quality. We hope our try-ons guide you to your best purchases of the year. As a denim enthusiast, I knew this was my time to shine when I was given the task of trying on the best jeans available right now. My love for denim began years ago with the iconic Topshop Joni jeans. Though I've moved on from the skinny-jean trend, my loyalty to denim remains strong; you’ll typically find me in them whether I'm at the office, out for dinner, or just running errands.
So, what keeps me hooked? Since jeans have evolved from skin-tight to relaxed and roomy, I now value them for what they truly are: the most versatile trousers in my closet. Despite their sometimes undeserved reputation, the right pair is undeniably comfortable, endlessly wearable, and adaptable to almost any occasion (except weddings—I might still hesitate). Even with over 20 pairs already in my collection, the excitement of trying a new style hasn't faded.
For this denim exploration, I left no option untried. H&M, Zara, and COS offered affordable choices that hit the mark with sleek cuts, versatile washes, and fresh silhouettes. Then there were the premium brands—Reformation, Agolde, and Frame—where I discovered styles worth investing in for years of wear. I tried various silhouettes: 90s-inspired straight legs, roomy wide legs, and fashionably baggy cuts. Rest assured, every wash was tested.
So, which pairs made the final selection? Continue reading for my insights.
**The Best Jeans of Autumn 2025, Tried and Reviewed by an Editor**
1. **H&M Wide-Leg Jeans**
I must confess—in my long-standing love for denim, H&M was a brand I often neglected. But once I noticed that almost every stylish colleague of mine had a pair of H&M jeans, I knew it was time to give them a try. After pulling several styles, this wide-leg model immediately caught my eye.
From the moment I tried them on, I was convinced. The fit is impeccable: relaxed but not baggy, with a contemporary wide-leg silhouette that's effortlessly chic. The denim offers just the right amount of structure, and the light wash adds a premium feel that could easily be mistaken for designer. It’s no surprise the fashion crowd loves them—these jeans are so good I'll be wearing them constantly, and no one would suspect they’re from a high street brand.
Additionally, they come in various colors, allowing you to diversify your denim collection without overspending. Alongside this mid-blue wash, I noticed options in black, white, and darker indigo shades. Each option conveys a slightly different vibe: the blue wash is relaxed and versatile, the darker hues provide a sharper look, and the black or white pairs are ideal for when you want to dress up a bit. The value for money is evident—these are the jeans you'll want in multiple colors.
2. **COS Bay Jeans**
Although I adored the COS Column jeans for quite some time, I generally prefer more relaxed fits. So when I discovered the COS Bay jeans, I realized I had found something special. Technically characterized as “barrel-leg,” the style is discreet, combining wide-leg and baggy elements, resulting in a flattering and extremely comfortable fit. Surprisingly, they even hit perfectly at my ankle on my 5'2" frame (a rare find for petites).
Endorsed by our Shopping Editor, Florrie, the Bay jeans check all the boxes. They are available in various shades—from rich brown to crisp white to a vintage-inspired light blue wash—making them a versatile, mid-priced denim investment worth making. If you're seeking a fresh alternative to classic wide-legs, this is it.
3. **Agolde '90s Jean**
I’ll admit, during my six years in the fashion industry, I had never before tried on a pair of Agolde jeans. I know—it's surprising. Eager to do my research, I tested five of the brand’s top sellers, and while each had its strengths, my heart ultimately favored the '90s jeans.
Honestly, I’m not usually a fan of straight-leg styles, but in a bid to channel that iconic Rachel Green aesthetic, I thought it was time to expand my denim horizons. I have no regrets. The fit is precisely what you want in a straight leg—slouchy yet defined, structured and comfy. They sit high on the waist, contour over the hips, and cascade into a full-length cut that instantly elevates any outfit.
Their versatility truly impressed me. They pair wonderfully with
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I Tried on More Than 50 Pairs of Jeans This Autumn—These 7 Are Definitely Worth the Hype.
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