Of all the wardrobe staples, I'm most discerning when it comes to jeans. As someone who relies on denim all year round I have high expectations when adding a new pair to my arsenal. Most of us can agree that trying on jeans is feat in itself, with so many styles and cuts to decipher, deciding on the length we're after and finally finding the perfect size.
I've definitely found a few really great go-tos along the way, but like a lot of us I'm still always on the lookout for a better pair. One benefit of working amongst seriously fashionable people I turned to the Who What Wear team to get suggestions on where to find a great pair of high-street jeans. As ever, the team came through.
The verdict was that Marks and Spencer jeans are seriously impressive. And thinking about it, that wasn't the first time I'd heard this opinion from fashion insiders. Since M&S is our favourite place for other wardrobe basics like underwear and affordable cashmere, I thought it was worth giving the brand's jeans a try.
After road-testing a number of styles in store, I totally understand the hype. From the ultimate sculpting skinny jeans to stylish wide-legs, you might be surprised to know that M&S's denim section basically does it all. Of course, we all have our own preference when it comes to the ol' blues—so I've highlighted a few personal favourites below that suited my shape and style best (I'm 5'2 and a size 8-10, by the way.)
For me, the straight jeans were possibly the best I've come across, and trust me when I say I've tried my fair share. Of the styles I scoured through, two wide-leg styles immediately caught my eye as a great cut and currently a popular silhouette. I know I'll wear these more into the office with a heeled boot, or out to dinner or a date night. As I know there are still die-hard skinny jeans fans around, I settled on a pair with a high-rise waistline and come in a plethora of washes and shades. Whilst I tend to stick to straight or wide leg styles, the seriously chic cut of the flare leg style has me reconsidering.
The best thing about the entire M&S denim range, though, is that they come in different length options. So, if you're petite (like me) or taller you can choose from Short, Regular or Long to suit your shape. Most are also available from sizes UK 6-24, which is useful—and if your size is sold out now, the good news is they re-stock regularly. So keep an eye out.
What I've found is that when it comes to skinny jeans and straight style I prefer mine to sit just above my ankle, so opt for the short length. Whereas when putting wide leg styles and flared jeans to the test, I chose the regular length. Above all, I found all of the jeans to be really, really comfy while still holding their shape—something not even expensive denim brands can seem to crack. With most styles coming in at under £40, it's hard to argue with the M&S denim superfans. In fact, I just might be one of them now.
Keep scrolling to see and shop my favourite pairs.
1. AUTOGRAPH STRAIGHT HIGH RISE JEANS
Style Notes: I've tried a lot of straight jeans in my time, and these might be the best I've found. I tried this pair in a size 10 short, and was immediately drawn to the seriously soft denim and comfortable fit that could easily lead me to wearing them all day long.
Choose from short, regular and long lengths.
2. SLIM FLARE HIGH RISE JEANS
Style Notes: Standing at only 5'2" I always thought flared styles would look disproportionate on me, but this pair changed my mind. Not only are they incredibly comfortable, but the shape felt chic and flattering all at the same time. Here I tried the size 10 regular.
This shape looks great with boots.
A shade that will easily pair with the rest of your wardrobe.
I'm all for a double denim moment.
A similar style that is definitely worth seeing.
3. WIDE LEG JEANS
Style Notes: A classic wide leg style has become a favourite amongst fashion people, and this pair is a real contender. The soft cotton has a stretch to it, making this pair a hardworking addition to any forever wardrobe. Here I tried the size 10 regular.
There's no denying the modern appeal of wide-leg jeans.
Wear through all seasons.
The contrasting black and white is endlessly elevated.
This deeper blue shade feels particularly elevated.
4. THE IVY SKINNY JEANS
Style Notes: Whilst straight and wide-leg styles are dominating right now, there's no denying that skinny jeans are a classic. I tried the size 10 short here as I tend to look to shorter lengths for straight and skinny jeans. The cotton has stretch to it so if a versatile pair of skinny jeans is on your wish list, I'd recommend this pair.
Ready for all your everyday adventures.
A true wardrobe hero.
Wear with sandals, loafers, trainers, heels and more.
M&S knows that style is personal, so this pair comes in an array of washes.
Made with responsibly sourced cotton.
The jeans that nice tops were made for.
If you find blue and black jeans are always on repeat, add in a grey pair to revitalise your looks.
SHOP MORE M&S JEANS:
The bigger the better, I say.
The unique silhouette is what pulled me in.
This whole look is pure perfection.
Go bold with an extra wide leg palazzo jean.
There's no denying how versatile black jeans are.
I always come back to the chic mom silhouette.
From work to weekends, you'll wear these on repeat.
A seriously chic take on denim.
The Sienna jeans are also a brand favourite.
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