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MY FAVORITE PAIRS OF JEANS

When it comes to essentials, nothing tops the list quite like a great pair (or six) of denim. It’s the go-with-everything item that simply never goes out of style. I wish I could tell you that there’s one single pair I call my very favorite but that’s just not the case. I have a couple of tried-and-true standbys (these and these), but the truth is I’m always on the hunt for the next best pair.

I have a pretty good rotation going right now with a mix of old favorites joined by a few newcomers like this wide-leg pair from Totême. (As the weather gets cooler, I’ll add these skinny jeans into the mix as they are the perfect pair over which tall boots slide on nicely.) Below, a look at the current lineup.

(Tip: Shopbop is having their Style Event promotion today so no matter what your denim of choice is, you can most likely score it on major sale over there. Check out the selection here and enter STYLE at checkout.)

BEST KICK-FLARE

Khaite makes some of the best jeans out there. The quality is always tip-top and the denim magically get better and better the more wear they get. The Vivian style is one I reach for on both casual and dressy occasions. With a super high waist and an ever-so-slight flare at the ankle, these jeans are flattering and look good with pretty much any shoe.

KHAITE VIVIAN JEANS

BEST ALL-AROUND

These have had a long-standing spot in the rotation. They’re a perfect everyday jean for me. The length is ideal (just slightly above my ankle), the wash is that perfect medium blue, and they have no stretch (my preference), but remain quite comfortable. I love them so much I have two pairs so I always have one available.

CITIZEN OF HUMANITY CHARLOTTE JEANS

BEST SLIM-STRAIGHT

These are a newer addition to the lineup. I have had such great luck with Citizen that I decided to give these a try. Similar to the Charlotte style, they’re cropped at the ankle, but these have a slimmer-cut to the straight leg style.

CITIZEN OF HUMANITY JOLENE JEANS

BEST WINTER-WHITE

A perfect shade of cream, these high-rise jeans are a classic cut that look good with flats or heels. Tip: They run slightly small. Size up.

KHAITE ABIGAIL JEANS

BEST WIDE-LEG

I have been a fan of Totême denim since my first pair five years ago. I’ve never had a pair from the brand that I didn’t love – including this wide-leg pair that I kind of bought on a whim. I have been pleasantly surprised at how often I wear them – with flats, with sneakers, with heels, all of the above.

TOTÊME WIDE-LEG JEANS

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