I Tried on More Than 50 Pairs of Jeans for Autumn—These 7 Are Definitely Worth the Buzz
Welcome to The Great Try-On. With autumn in full swing, we took the opportunity to try on the latest arrivals from some of our favorite brands, documenting the experience along the way. We believe that seeing an item in real life and reading honest reviews about fit, style, and quality is the best way to shop online, so we hope our try-ons guide you to your most successful purchases this year. As a devoted denim enthusiast, I felt it was my moment when assigned to try on the best jeans currently available. My love for denim began years ago with the iconic Topshop Joni jeans. Although I've moved on from the skinny jeans era, my passion for denim remains strong—it's rare to find me in anything other than denim, whether I'm at work, dining out, or running errands.
So, what keeps me coming back? Ever since jeans evolved from skin-tight to relaxed and roomy fits, I've come to appreciate them as the most versatile pants in my wardrobe. Despite their sometimes undeserved reputation, the right pair can be incredibly comfortable, endlessly wearable, and adaptable to almost any occasion (weddings aside—though I might be tempted). With over 20 pairs already in rotation, the excitement of trying on a new style hasn’t diminished.
For this denim exploration, I covered all bases. Brands like H&M, Zara, and COS provided affordable options that checked all the boxes, boasting sharp cuts, versatile washes, and fresh silhouettes. Next, I explored premium labels—Reformation, Agolde, and Frame—where I discovered investment-worthy styles meant to last for years. I tried all silhouettes: 90s-inspired straight legs, roomy wide-legs, and baggy cuts worthy of an off-duty model. It’s safe to say that no wash was left untested.
So, which pairs stood out? Continue scrolling for my verdict.
**The Best Jeans of Autumn 2025, As Tried And Reviewed By an Editor**
**1. H&M Wide-Leg Jeans**
I have to confess—in my long-standing love for denim, I often overlooked H&M. However, when I noticed that nearly all of my stylish colleagues owned H&M jeans, I decided to investigate. After pulling several styles from the racks, this wide-leg pair immediately caught my attention.
From the moment I tried them on, I was convinced. The fit is just right: relaxed but not baggy, with a wide-leg silhouette that feels contemporary and effortless. The denim has a perfect balance of structure, while the light wash gives them a premium look that could easily compete with designer brands. It's no surprise that the fashion crowd swears by them—these are jeans I'll wear repeatedly, and no one would guess they're from a high street brand.
Additionally, they come in various colors, allowing for a diverse denim wardrobe without overspending. Alongside the mid-blue wash, I noticed options in black, white, and darker indigo shades—each providing a slightly different vibe: the blue feels relaxed and versatile, the darker shades offer a sharper look, and the black or white selections are ideal for when you want to elevate your outfit. The value for money is undeniable—these are jeans you'll want in more than one shade.
**2. COS Bay Jeans**
While the COS Column jeans had my affection for a long time, I usually lean towards more relaxed fits. When I discovered the COS Bay jeans, I knew I had found my match. Technically labeled as "barrel-leg," the shape is subtle—more like a wide-leg-baggy hybrid—and the result is both flattering and incredibly comfortable. To my surprise, they hit perfectly at the ankle on my 5'2" frame (a rare win for petites). Also approved by our Shopping Editor, Florrie, the Bay jeans check every box. They’re available in a range of colors—from rich browns to crisp whites to a vintage-looking light blue wash—making them a mid-priced denim option worth considering if you’re after a stylish alternative to traditional wide-legs.
**3. Agolde '90s Jean**
I’ll admit, despite my six years in fashion, I had never tried Agolde jeans before. I know—shocking. Determined to do my research, I tested five of the brand's best-sellers. While each had its strengths, my heart ultimately settled on the '90s jeans.
I’m generally not a fan of straight-leg jeans, but in an effort to channel that iconic Rachel Green vibe, I decided to expand my denim preferences. I did not regret it for a moment. The fit is everything you want from a straight leg—loose but not shapeless, structured yet comfortable. They sit high on the waist, glide over the hips, and finish with a full-length cut that instantly adds a cool factor to any outfit.
What really sold me is their versatility. They pair just as well with trainers and a simple tee for
Other articles
I Tried on More Than 50 Pairs of Jeans for Autumn—These 7 Are Definitely Worth the Buzz
The definitive denim download.
