The best jeans for women over 50 are comfortable, stylish and—perhaps most importantly—classic, so they never seems like they belong to “another generation.” Plenty of modern denim brands also focus on silhouettes that provide support and flatter a variety of body types. Ahead, we researched the market and spoke to Emiko Strah, Stitch Fix stylist, and Shelby Goldfaden, director of merchandising at M.M.LaFleur, for tips on how women over 50 can pick out the best jeans.
From an iconic style like Levi’s Classic Bootcut Jeans to an affordable option like Abercrombie’s Ultra High Rise Ankle Straight Jean, here’s everything the experts highly recommend for the best jeans for women over 50. As Goldfaden puts it, “Fashion should get more fun as you get older, not less.”
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Editor’s Picks, At A Glance
- Levi’s Classic Bootcut Jeans
- Everlane The Super-Soft Relaxed Jean
- Madewell The Curvy ‘90s Straight Jean
- Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise Ankle Straight Jean
- Eileen Fisher Organic Cotton Denim Slim Jean
- J. Crew Classic Straight Jean
- Mott & Bow Mom Oliver Jean
Shop All The Best Jeans For Women Over 50
Stretchy Bootcut Option
Levi’s Classic Bootcut Jeans
You can’t go wrong with a classic. This flattering style from Levi’s has a mid-rise that sits at the waist, a stretchy denim that hugs your curves in all the right places and a bootcut silhouette that elongates the leg without a subtle effect. It’s intentionally designed to have a longer leg that almost grazes the floor and there are three inseams available—from 30 to 34 inches.
Supreme Softness In A Relaxed Fit
This pair from Everlane is so soft, it feels like you’ve been wearing them for years. Thanks to an organic cotton-Lyocell denim blend, they have an airy, lightweight feel and a relaxed, slightly slouchy silhouette. The cropped leg—which can be worn cuffed or rolled down—is flattering for many body types without being too baggy. Fit note: Multiple reviewers said these run a bit large and might stretch out with wear, so considering sizing down if you prefer a tighter fit.
Stylish Cut For Hourglass Figures
If you typically have to size up in jeans to accommodate your hips but are left with a too-baggy waist, this style could be the answer you’ve been looking for. It’s designed to hold in your midsection, hug your hips and lift your butt with a flattering, cheeky cut. The leg, cut straight from the thighs down, is comfortable without being too tight and “the proportion goes with almost any top and makes it very easy to style,” says Goldfaden. Note: Madewell also makes a non-curvy version.
High Waisted Option That Tucks And Lifts
Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra High Rise Ankle Straight Jean
Available in an impressive five lengths and up to a 37-inch waist, the Abercrombie's Ultra High Rise Ankle Straight Jean elongates your legs and tucks in your midsection. The slimming (and affordable) pair comes in seven washes—from black to light and even a version with leather details. With its ankle-baring design, this pick makes a statement when paired with loafers, heels, sandals or sneakers.
Sustainably Made With A Focus On Comfort
Everyone needs a great-fitting black pair of jeans and this option from Eileen Fisher is sustainably made of organic cotton and easy to style. It has a slim—but not super skinny—fit with a hint of stretch and a medium rise, making it a comfortable pick for all-day wear no matter the event. “When it comes to curating a versatile denim assortment, I suggest clients over 50 invest in a classic black pair,” says Shah. Note that many reviewers say this runs large and since the sizing isn’t numerical, check the size chart carefully before ordering.
Timeless Summer Basic
A white pair of jeans is a versatile addition to anyone’s wardrobe and this option from J.Crew is both functional and chic. It comes in three inseams, plus it has a touch of stretch to maintain its shape and add comfort for all-day wear without feeling too squeezed in. “I love a straight-leg white jean to pair with a colorful top or a great pair of heels for day-to-night dressing," says Strah.
Ankle-Grazing Slim Silhouette
With a high rise and slim leg, the Mom Oliver Jean from New York-based Mott & Bow is designed to flatter. The denim has added elastane—with a stretch factor of 18% to be exact—for comfort and mobility, while the relaxed fit through the thighs and tapered leg add a refined look that pairs well with just about anything in your closet. The Oliver is a heavier denim weight, so this pick is best for fall or winter wear. For a lighter fabric, consider the Mom Charlton that has the same great fit with an 11.5-ounce denim.
Wide Leg For Work And Beyond
The Milo Jean, with its stretchy organic cotton and high waist, is sophisticated enough to wear to work and comfortable enough to wear all day. “If you have a more active day of travel or commuting, consider a dark wash, wider leg jean with stretch, paired with a t-shirt and blazer,” says Goldfaden. Another bonus: This pair has a hidden snap in the hem for easy length customization, like if you’re swapping your sneakers for a pair of heels.
Comfy, Relaxed Fit In Many Colors
With almost 50,000 pairs sold, the Carson Jean is a bestselling pick known for its wearability and “just the right amount of stretch,” as one reviewer says. The relaxed leg moves with you throughout the day and the cuff gives off a casual vibe, although these jeans can also be worn uncuffed with the raw hem for a more elongating look. This mid-rise pair is available in 12 washes from faded blue to buttery yellow.
Dark Wash To Elevate Your Look
Thanks to a unique blend of cotton and synthetic fibers, this pair from Just USA is both slimming and stretchy enough to maintain its shape after long hours of wear. “These dark wash, bootcut jeans are the perfect affordable option and are great for a variety of occasions,” Strah says, “especially when you want an elevated look.” Try pairing it with a heel for a casual-chic statement for an event.
Lighter Weight And Relaxed Silhouette
AGOLDE Kye Mid Rise Ankle Straight Leg Jeans
With a mid-rise—it hits right below the navel—and an ultra-soft lyocell-cotton blend denim, the Kye Mid Rise Ankle Straight Legs are comfortable and flattering for many body types. The cropped length looks chic with sneakers or heels, and the lighter weight denim has a nice relaxed drape, making it a great pick for mild temps or travel. One reviewer says this pair is “so comfortable I forget I’m wearing jeans.”
Inspired By A Classic Vintage Pair
The team behind Alex Mill are vintage denim obsessives and this made-in-Los Angeles pair is inspired by an iconic classic pair. It feels soft, like a broken-in favorite, while looking polished enough for work or a dinner out. With a zip fly, medium rise and a slightly slim leg, these jeans have a hint of stretch that forms to your curves and keeps you comfortable.
Relaxed Slim Fit
Available in six stylish washes and three lengths, Boden’s Girlfriend Jean has a flattering mid-rise and a hint of stretch that’s ideal for all-day wear. The relaxed-slim silhouette isn’t too tight on the skin, while the cotton-lyocell blend is soft to the touch, adding to its wearability. The legs can be worn long—the inseam lengths range from 28 to 32 inches—or cuffed for a laidback, casual look.
Stretchy Style With Built-In Lifting Tech
NYDJ Marilyn Straight Leg Jeans
NYDJ was founded in 2003 to create denim for all ages and body types—hence the brand’s former “not your daughter's jeans” acronym—and the bestselling Marilyn offers flattering style versatility. It’s made from a stretch cotton blend complete with a proprietary "Lift Tuck" technology that uses a criss-cross panel to flatten your front and provide lifting support in the rear. Expect a sleek look thanks to its high rise and stretchy, long leg.
Bootcut Designed For Mobility
Lee Ultra Lux Comfort with Flex Motion Bootcut Jean
A bootcut jean can do wonders for elongating and slimming the leg, and this bestseller from Lee not only lengthens, it also allows for movement without cutting into your waist. The Ultra Lux Comfort waistband is designed for flexibility and stays in place without gapping while the Flex Motion denim is super stretchy. As one reviewer put it, this pair is “snug where I want them without being overly tight.”
Waist-Flattering With A Breezy Leg
Good American Good Waist Raw Hem High Waist Crop Palazzo Jeans
With a waist-snatching, high-rise fit and a wide cropped leg, these palazzo jeans from Good American make an effortless—and fun—statement without sacrificing comfort. The denim is buttery-soft and stretchy for a full range of mobility. You can easily dress them up or down, but if you want to keep your look from leaning too casual, Goldfaden recommends pairing “a lighter wash denim with frayed hems with a more polished top.” While the stretch denim is designed to retain its shape during wear, multiple reviewers recommend going up a size for the best fit.
Straight Leg With Stretch
With a 28-inch inseam and an 11-inch rise, the Olsen High Rise Classic Straight Leg from Studio Blue offers a flattering fit with plenty of coverage. It has a tiny bit of spandex added to the denim for extra comfort and a slightly cropped leg for a modern silhouette. This pair is “perfect for pairing with a tank and sneakers for a casual everyday summer look,” says Strah.
Slims And Lengthens With A Flared Leg
For an ultimate leg-lengthening effect, the Beverly Jean from Veronica Beards slims and tucks with a fitted waist and thigh that flares out at the knee. The premium cotton Italian denim has an added 8% stretch for a comfortable, flattering silhouette while the five pockets, belt loops and zip fly nod to classic denim design details. Try pairing this with tall heels (note that 34-inch inseam will probably require an alteration for shorter heights).
Classic Denim Details With a Relaxed Wide Leg
The pair from Buck Mason boasts the timeless denim features we all know and love: Think classic five-pocket styling, copper rivets, a button fly and 100% cotton denim twill. While it doesn’t have the added stretch like some of our other picks, it’s pre-washed for a comfortable, lived-in feeling. One other note to keep in mind is the standard inseam is 32-inches which might be long on most, but Buck Mason offers free hemming up to 28 inches.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
To narrow down our list of the best jeans for women over 50, we researched bestselling styles from both well-known and emerging brands—focusing on fit, silhouette and comfort—that work for a variety of body types.
- The publication of this article was overseen by deputy editor Kari Molvar, who has written about fashion and lifestyle topics for over 20 years.
- This article was written by Forbes Vettedcontributing writer Becky Eaton, who regularly writes about fashion and footwear for Forbes Vetted.
- In addition to testing products ourselves and reading real customer reviews, we also consult fashion experts. For this article, we tapped the expertise of Emiko Strah, Stitch Fix stylist, and Shelby Goldfaden, Director of Merchandising at M.M.LaFleur, both of whom provided insight into how to shop for jeans for women over 50, helpful styling tips and specific denim picks.
- Our articles are constantly reviewed and updated to ensure all product information and pricing is accurate. It was last updated in August 2024.
What To Consider For Best Jeans For Women Over 50
Fit
As you’re likely well aware, the body changes as we age. “It’s part of what makes us beautiful and interesting,” says Goldfaden. “With that change, you might find that the silhouettes that used to make you feel most confident also evolve.” For instance, there’s a chance that the low-rise denim style of your twenties might fit—or feel—a little different today. We recommend taking the time to try on different denim fits or work with a stylist to see what silhouettes suit you best.
“Finding a style that complements your shape is so important,” says Strah. “My clients over 50 often gravitate towards a mid-rise style as it provides support around the midsection and offers comfort without restriction.” She suggests petite sizes try a high-rise denim in a slimmer silhouette that hits at the ankle to elongate your legs. Likewise, curvier body types might prefer a “mid-rise bootcut style to perfectly complement your hourglass figure.”
Wash
Many jeans come in multiple washes and it can be tricky to know which way to go once you’ve nailed down your ideal fit. “I recommend sticking to classic washes like dark or medium, which not only provide a slimming effect but are versatile to mix and match with,” says Strah.
That said, “your lifestyle can dictate the type of denim you want to wear,” says Goldfaden, “and you may find you need a few different options.” A lighter wash like Madewell’s The Curvy ‘90s Straight Jean or white jeans like J.Crew’s Classic Straight Leg can be added to the mix for warmer months and more playful looks, or a dark wash like NYDJ’s Marilyn Straight Leg can be nice for more active days when you’re on the move. A classic black pair of denim like Eileen’s Fisher’s Organic Cotton Denim Slim Jean is also an excellent staple in your fashion arsenal, especially for dressier events where a lighter wash might be a little too casual.
Comfort
Like all of our fashion and footwear picks at Forbes Vetted, comfort is key. “Regardless of your age, the number one factor in buying any piece of clothing, including jeans, is whether you’re comfortable wearing it,” says Goldfaden. “If your waistband is digging when you sit or the fabric is so stiff that you find yourself aching to head home and switch to yoga pants, that will show up in your body language around others.”
Strah also recommends adding “choosing the right amount of stretch, especially for those who prioritize all-day comfort.” Consider a relaxed pair like Carve Design’s Carson Jean or Good American’s High Waist Palazzo Jean that have added stretch for ultimate, easy-wearing comfort and mobility.
What Kinds Of Jeans Should Women Over 50 Wear?
“It’s important to choose jeans that make you feel most confident,” says Strah. “The perfect pair of denim is a staple piece in your closet that you reach for time and again and can be dressed up or down for a range of occasions.” She recommends trying on high-waisted, straight-leg or bootcut jeans to achieve a leg-elongating fit. Goldfaden also loves a straight leg with a high rise as a “more fashion-forward way to channel ‘90s style” or a wide leg that “offers comfort and can make your legs look super long, especially when worn with a fitted top.”
Can A Woman Over 50 Wear Skinny Jeans?
If you feel confident, go for it! “An outfit is all about proportion, so when wearing skinny jeans, we recommend wearing a looser top to counterbalance the narrow shape,” says Goldfaden. Strah also suggests “styling skinny jeans with a tunic or slightly oversized knit in the fall and winter, which will offer a bit more coverage around the midsection. The key is a balanced silhouette that matches your personal style yet still feels age-appropriate,” she says.
There’s also slightly relaxed skinny fits “that have the same silhouette but don’t squeeze the body,” says Goldfaden. If you love the look of skinny jeans but not the feeling on your legs, try on a few skinny-straight pairs to see what you you feel most comfortable in.
How Should Women Over 50 Wear Jeans?
There’s countless ways to style a denim look, whether it’s with a classic white tee or a pair of dress sneakers or heels. “Once you find a pair of jeans that meet your wash, silhouette rise and stretch criteria,” says Strah, “don’t be afraid to play around with a ruffled blouse, cuffing the hem, or accessorizing with bold jewelry to give the outfit a touch of personal flair.”
What To Avoid When Buying Jeans For Women Over 50?
Denim trends come and go, but Strah recommends “avoid[ing] overly distressed jeans, low rises, light or acid washes and overly tight or baggy fits,” she says. “Look for a mid-to-high-waisted pair of jeans that hug the silhouette while still offering support and comfort.”
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