16 of the best high-waisted jeans, tested by style editors

Low-rise jeans may be back on trend, but high-waisted jeans are an undisputed classic. They look effortlessly sophisticated, lengthen your legs, and pair perfectly with a tucked or cropped T-shirt. Below, we've rounded up our favorite waist-cinching, belly-button-grazing, high-rise jeans to take you from work to nights out, and everything in between. 

Our top overall pick are Levi's Wedgie Icon Jeans. They've got just enough stretch to still maintain their shape and a slightly cropped hem you can show off your shoes in. If you're looking for something less structured, associate style editor Gabrielle Chase recommends the AG Kora Wide Leg Jeans. "This is the softest denim I've ever felt. They don't even feel like I'm wearing jeans, they're that comfortable. And their light-and-loose fit is perfect for warm weather," she says. 

We also have lots more coverage on jeans for specific body types — see our guides to the best petite jeans and the best plus-size jeans for more picks from authors with firsthand experience at finding the perfect fit.

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• Best overall Levi's Wedgie Icon Jeans They’re called “icon jeans” for a reason. A universally flattering slim fit makes these jeans so beloved.
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• Best budget Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Wide-Leg Jeans Made with a stretchy cotton blend, this pair is available in a wide size and color range for under $50.
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• Staff Pick Best petite Abercrombie and Fitch High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean With short and extra-short inseams to choose from, these jeans are a winner for petite body types.
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• Best skinny Warp + Weft MXP High Rise Jeans Don't underestimate the practicality of dark wash skinny jeans — they're perfect for tucking into boots.
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• Best straight-leg Madewell The 90's Straight Jean A great straight leg jean works for any occasion. This one comes in a variety of lengths and washes too.
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• Staff Pick Best wide-leg AG Jeans Kora The softest denim we've tested yet. This light and flowy pair is perfect for warm weather.
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• Staff Pick Best baggy Everlane The Baggy Jean Baggy jeans are back. We love Everlane’s iteration with its roomy waist and wide leg for a comfy, loose fit.
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• Best crop Madewell Petite Kick Out Crop Jeans These cropped jeans with a slight flare feel high-quality and feature Madewell’s smoothing Magic Pockets™.
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• Best flare We The Free Jayde Flare Jeans Free People is a go-to for bohemian wares, like these high-rise flares with flattering, retro accents.
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• Best luxury SLVRLAKE London High Rise Straight LA-made, GOT-certified, and designed to last a lifetime, this jean boasts a perfect fit that is simply splurge-worthy.
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• Sale Best statement Favorite Daughter The Carly Cargo For a bold and baggy fit that hits to the floor, these cargo jeans are as stylish as they are practical.
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• Best stretch Universal Standard Joni High Rise Slim Leg These extra-stretch jeans from Universal Standard have 2% elastane for a flattering and comfortable fit.
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• Best plus size Good American Power Stretch Pull-On Flare Jeans Be free of uncomfortable zippers and buttons with this stretchy curve-hugging flared jean.
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• Best on Amazon Levi's 720 High Rise Super Skinny Jeans When you need great jeans fast, order these on Amazon. They have over 10,000 five-star ratings.
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• Staff Pick Best selvedge Levi's Made in Japan Barrel Women's Jeans An exaggerated curved hem gives these barrel jeans a uniquely roomy leg and stand-out shape.
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• Best color selection Rails Getty Wide Leg This leggy silhouette come in a variety of colors and washes, from classic blue to an on-trend lilac.
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