A Denim Study

Favorite fits, washes, and brands.

I started my career in merchandising with Gap Inc. and American Eagle Outfitters, so I’ve always had a special place in my heart for denim — and probably always will!

When I think about what makes a great denim collection, it comes down to having a range: a balance of washes from light to dark, fits from relaxed to more structured, and enough variety to support how you actually want to feel day to day. For me, I’ve found the sweet spot to be about 8–10 great pairs.

Denim is about sensibility. Do I want to feel casual, polished, or hip? How is my body feeling today — do I want room, or need a little containment? Oh, you know that plus/minus five-pound reality.

I also like to stay current, and right now I’m into slightly lower rises and wider legs across the board. For my 5’3” curvy frame, Agolde and Citizens of Humanity are my most reliable favorites. I usually prefer denim with less stretch too because I like some structure.

Some days I start with the jeans and build from there. Other days I begin with the top and choose the pair that balances it.

Let’s start with my absolute favorite pair of the moment:

1. Citizens of Humanity Ayla Wide Leg Crop

Citizens Ayla Jeans- wearing size 26

This is easily my most worn pair right now. I’ve had them for just over a year and still reach for them constantly. The medium blue wash gives them such an easy, casual feel, and the oversized wide leg is great — they’re wider than a barrel, which I actually prefer. They help lengthen the legs. Also a big plus is that they work with nearly every sandal or shoe I own.

I love them so much that I also have the lighter wash, which feels especially right for cool summer vibes.

2. Agolde Low Curve Wide Leg Jeans

Agolde Low Curve Jeans- wearing size 25

I recently picked these up because I need a white wide leg option for spring and summer. They’re similar in shape to the Ayla, but full length, so I may trim an inch off the bottom. I’m generally not a huge fan of an overly frayed hem so I cleaned these up after snapping photos.

One note: always size down in white denim — the fabric tends to be more forgiving and stretch out over time. I also think it’s worth having one fitted white pair in a collection too, these have been in my closet for a few years now.

3. Agolde Ren Wide Leg Jeans

Agolde Ren Jeans- wearing size 26

These are a core pair for me. I love the vintage wash because it goes with almost everything. I end up wearing them at least once a week.

They sit higher at the waist and aren’t quite as wide through the leg, which makes them feel slightly more polished and easy for everyday wear. The clean hem helps too.

I also own them in a darker wash….another everyday option.

4. Agolde 90s Straight Jeans

90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans- wearing size 26

I originally bought these to wear with boots, but realized I don’t love how dark denim and dark boots feel together on me….unless I’m balancing with a lighter colored top.

I actually prefer them with some skin showing like this, so I may cut an inch off the hem to make them more wearable with sandals and flats. They have a little more edge than what I usually wear, which is stretching me stylistically. I like a good challenge though!

5. AYR Legend Jeans

AYR Legend Jeans- wearing size 27s

I just got this pair because I’ve seen so many people raving about them and had to try! The darker medium wash has a rich feel, and although they do have more stretch than I usually prefer, I understand why people love them: they really do hold you in and lift you up. The short length works great on me, even with a slight heel so they’re definitely a keeper. I know I’ll get a lot of mileage out of them.

A few last thoughts….

• If you’re in the market for denim shorts, the Agolde Parker’s are my go-to.

• I really want to try some wide leg pink jeans this season! Haven’t seen the perfect pair yet…manifesting them. Let me know if you see any.

• And I’m still very loyal to Levi's. My favorite pair for going out is high-rise, dark washed, and perfect with heels.

If I were building a denim collection from scratch, I’d prioritize:

• A wide leg casual medium wash

• A more polished medium wash

• A wide leg white wash

• A polished dark wash

Hope this is helpful if and when you’re in the market for a new pair! I like to keep my eye on Shopbop’s denim page because I think they do a good edit.