The Only Denim Brands I F*ck With
Few wardrobe staples inspire as much loyalty as a great pair of jeans. Once you find a brand that nails the fit, fabric, and proportions, it's hard to stray.
Of course, getting to that point usually requires kissing a lot of frogs. Over the years, I've tried everything from cult-favorite denim to under-the-radar labels and vintage pairs that required far too much optimism in the dressing room. Some became instant favorites. Others remained untouched in my closet for years.
While trends come and go, a select group of denim labels have earned permanent status in my wardrobe. From perfectly worn-in straight-leg styles to the wide-leg pairs I reach for on repeat, these are the brands that never disappoint.
Below, the only denim brands I f*ck with.
Agolde
If I could only recommend one denim brand to most people, it would probably be Agolde. The Los Angeles-based label has mastered modern denim, striking the perfect balance between trend-forward silhouettes and timeless wearability. Their jeans have just enough structure to feel substantial while remaining comfortable from the first wear. If you're looking for the ultimate straight-leg, baggy, or wide-leg jean, Agolde rarely misses.
Re/Done
Re/Done occupies a special place in my wardrobe. Founded with a mission to rework vintage Levi's into modern fits, the brand captures everything I love about old-school denim while eliminating much of the guesswork. The jeans have an authentic, lived-in feel that's difficult to replicate, and their rigid denim styles only seem to get better with age. If you appreciate vintage-inspired jeans but don't have the patience to scour thrift stores, Re/Done is worth every penny.
Levi’s
No denim list would be complete without Levi's. The heritage brand has been making jeans for more than 150 years, and for good reason. While the fit can require a bit of trial and error, styles like the 501 and Ribcage have earned cult status for their flattering proportions and vintage-inspired feel. Some of my favorite pairs in my closet are Levi's, including several well-worn vintage finds.
Zara
Zara may not be the first brand that comes to mind when discussing great denim, but don't overlook it. The retailer consistently produces fashion-forward silhouettes at accessible price points, making it an easy place to experiment with new cuts and washes without a major investment. I've discovered several surprisingly good pairs over the years that have held their own alongside much more expensive designer denim.