For many of us (including this editor), the thought of completely giving up jeans during the summer months is unthinkable. Given that they're such a wardrobe staple for most, replacements don't come easy. But fret not—we made it our mission to seek out the most lightweight, warm weather–friendly (and stylish, of course) denim to wear all summer long—even on the most sweltering of days.
To help us out, we tapped an expert at celeb-favorite denim brand AG (Alexa Chung and Emma Roberts are big fans). Women's bottoms designer Sophia Huynh gave us the scoop on the best fabrics to look for when shopping for summer jeans that will keep you cool. She says, "The right fabric-and-silhouette combo is imperative for staying cool during the summer."
"Look for lightweight fabrics that are primarily made out of plant-based fibers like cotton, linen, or Tencel, which absorbs and releases moisture quickly—allowing your body to 'breathe,'" Huynh explained. "Avoid synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, which trap in heat and may make you sweat! Search for silhouettes that are off the body and cropped in length."
Keep scrolling to shop 24 cool pairs of the best summer jeans to wear this season and beyond!
You're going to appreciate this wide leg so much in a few weeks.
Jeans that are 100% cotton have a rigid look that you just can't beat.
Style these with sandals or sneakers.
Can't go wrong with a classic crop.
For those who prefer an extra-high rise.
There's a reason Topshop's affordable jeans have a cult following.
These are beloved by our team.
A favorite of Hailey Beiber.
A light wash always helps, too.
No sticky legs here.
I'm into these subtle rips.
Style these with your simplest tanks and sandals for a '90s feel.
People rave about Slvrlake's London cut.
With 99% cotton comes extra breathability.
Who doesn't love an under-$100 find?
Definitely summer-ready.
It doesn't get more comfortable than this.
You can't go wrong with Re/Dones.
Rigid is my favorite quality in denim.
Just add a crop top.
Sorry for all the Agolde, but they're just too good.
Rips also do wonders for breathability.
These are also—you guessed it—100% breathable cotton.
10% linen means you'll be (at least) 10% less sweaty.
This post was published at an earlier date and has been recently updated.
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFWLet's dive in.
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears TodayA true fashion icon.
-
Not Into Trends? Renée Zellweger's Winter Outfit Combo Is 100% ClassicJust as you are.
-
Emma Chamberlain's World: Her Warby Parker Collab, Two-Phone Rule, and Spiciest Fashion Takes"I just want to bring the most joy to people."
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
