The right type of jeans for men is a foundation piece that works with everything from casual shirts to dress shirts and sneakers to dress shoes. Yet, finding jeans that actually fit well is one of the biggest challenges guys face when shopping. You might ask yourself, “What are athletic fit jeans?” or struggle to understand why some cuts feel perfect while others bunch, sag, or squeeze in all the wrong places.
Your body type, lifestyle, and personal style all play a role in determining which jeans will make you look and feel your best. When you find the right pair, everything else falls into place.
Step 1: Know Your Fits: Slim, Straight, Relaxed, and More
Slim fit jeans sit close to your body from hip to ankle, creating a modern, tailored silhouette. Styles like Joseph Abboud’s Slim Fit Comfort Stretch Jeans work best for guys with slimmer builds or those who prefer a fitted look.
Straight fit jeans are the same width from knee to ankle. Balancing comfort and structure, this cut creates a clean line that works on every body type.
Relaxed fit jeans offer the most room through the seat, thigh, and leg, prioritizing comfort above all else. Despite the extra room, quality relaxed fits should appear intentional, not sloppy.
Athletic fit jeans offer an innovative solution to a common problem many men face. They have extra room through the seat and thigh to accommodate muscular builds and taper below the knee for a fitted look through the calf and ankle.
Men’s Slim Fit Jeans
Men’s slim fit jeans are defined by a modern, tailored silhouette that fits closely through the seat and thigh and features a slight taper from the knee down to a narrow leg opening. This style is particularly flattering for men with slender or average builds, as it accentuates a lean frame without appearing overly tight. When selecting a size, aim for a snug but not restrictive fit; you should be able to pinch about an inch of fabric at your thigh. For enhanced wearability, look for stretch denim jeans. Blends with a small percentage of elastane or spandex, like the Joseph Abboud Slim Fit Comfort Stretch Jeans, offer essential flexibility and help the jeans retain their shape throughout the day. These jeans with comfort are incredibly versatile: dress them down with a simple t-shirt and sneakers, or elevate them for a smart-casual look with a button-down shirt and blazer.
Step 2: Choose the Right Rise for Your Body and Comfort
Rise affects comfort, how your proportions appear, and how well your men’s jeans work with different shirt styles. Low rise jeans sit below the hipbone, creating a modern appearance. They work well with fitted tops and can make your legs look longer.
A mid rise offers the perfect balance for most guys. These jeans sit at or just below the natural waist, providing comfortable coverage while maintaining a modern look.
High rise jeans sit at or above the waist, offering maximum coverage and a vintage-inspired aesthetic. This rise works well for taller men and those who prefer a classic, tailored appearance.
Low-Rise Jeans
Low rise jeans for men are characterized by a waistband that sits well below the navel, typically resting on or just above the hips. The front rise measurement usually falls between 7 to 9 inches. This style is best suited for men with shorter torsos or those with a slim to athletic build, as it can create the illusion of a longer upper body. The main advantage is a modern, fashion-forward look. However, a potential downside is reduced coverage, which can lead to the dreaded “plumber’s gap” when bending over. To avoid this, ensure the jeans fit well in the seat and consider wearing a belt. Low rise jeans pair exceptionally well with untucked, fitted shirts like the Egara Slim Fit Crewneck T-Shirt or a casual polo, creating a clean, contemporary line. This rise can be found in various fits, from slim to relaxed, allowing for different style expressions.
Mid-Rise Jeans
Often considered the universal standard, mid rise jeans have a waistband designed to sit at your natural waistline, just at or slightly below the navel. With a typical front rise of 9 to 11 inches, they are the default choice for most men because they offer an ideal balance of comfort, coverage, and style. This rise provides ample security, preventing unwanted exposure when sitting or bending, and is versatile enough for nearly any occasion. A key advantage is their compatibility with both tucked and untucked shirts. For a polished, business casual jeans look, a mid-rise pair allows you to neatly tuck in a dress shirt. Conversely, they look just as good with a casual untucked tee. Jeans like the Lucky Brand Classic Fit Bootcut Regular Jeans exemplify this versatile rise, working well for a wide range of body types and outfits.
Mid-Rise Jeans FAQs
Mid-rise jeans are the most common type, with a waistband that sits at your natural waist, typically just below the belly button. They offer a classic and comfortable fit.
Yes, mid-rise jeans are flattering for most body types. They help balance proportions by not shortening or overly elongating the torso, providing a clean and classic silhouette.
They are incredibly versatile. You can tuck in a dress shirt for a smart look, wear them with a casual t-shirt, or pair them with a polo. They work with nearly any top and footwear combination.
The top of the waistband on a pair of mid-rise jeans should sit right around your navel or just a finger’s width below it, comfortably enclosing your hips.
Step 3: Pick a Wash That Matches Your Style
Dark wash jeans offer maximum versatility, easily transitioning from casual to business-casual settings. They’re perfect with button-down shirts, blazer jackets, and dress shoes.
Medium washes are perfect for weekend activities and casual outings. Lucky Brand medium wash jeans work well with t-shirts, polos, and casual sweaters.
Consider light wash jeans for a relaxed, vintage-inspired look perfect for spring and summer. Light washes work well with darker tops, creating contrast in your outfits.
Black denim is a sleek, modern alternative to traditional blue jeans. With the right shirt, you can easily dress up a pair of black Joseph Abboud jeans for evening events when regular blue jeans just won’t cut it.
Step 4: Find the Fabric Blend That Works for You
When it comes to modern jeans, 100 percent cotton denim has the most authentic, traditional feel. It breaks in over time, developing character and fade patterns unique to your wear habits. Pure cotton also offers exceptional durability.
Cotton-elastane blends add just enough stretch to improve comfort without sacrificing that authentic denim feel. The small amount of stretch helps jeans maintain their shape while providing flexibility for active lifestyles.
Cotton-polyester blends often include elastane as well, creating jeans that resist wrinkles and maintain their appearance. These blends work well for guys who prioritize easy care, though they may not develop the same character as pure cotton over time.
Step 5: How to Style Your Jeans for Any Look
Casual weekend looks call for relaxed styling that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing style. Medium wash straight or relaxed fits pair perfectly with t-shirts, casual button-ups, or comfortable crew necks. Add sneakers to complete the laid-back aesthetic.
Dark wash jeans in slim or straight fits create the perfect foundation for elevated casual looks. A blazer worn over dark jeans and a crisp dress shirt creates a look that’s polished but not stuffy.
Business casual environments often allow jeans, but choosing the right style and styling approach makes all the difference. Stick with a dark wash in clean, tailored cuts. Avoid distressing, fading, or overly casual styling when dressing for professional environments.
Men’s Work Jeans
For demanding environments, men’s work jeans must prioritize durability and function. Look for options crafted from heavyweight denim with features like reinforced stitching at stress points and rivets for added strength. Relaxed or athletic fits are often preferred as they provide unrestricted mobility for physical tasks. Darker washes are not only practical for hiding dirt and stains but also maintain a more professional appearance on a job site. For maximum utility, consider stretch denim jeans that incorporate a small amount of elastane; this provides crucial flexibility without compromising the fabric’s toughness. Pair them with a durable top like the Weatherproof Vintage Classic Fit Vertical Dobby Button Up Shirt and sturdy work boots for a complete, reliable outfit.
Summer Jeans for Men
Wearing denim in warmer weather is all about choosing the right fabric and fit. The best jeans for summer are made from lightweight denim, typically in the 8-10 oz range, which feels significantly less heavy than standard 12-14 oz denim. Look for breathable fabric blends, such as cotton-linen or cotton-Tencel, which wick moisture and promote airflow. Light washes in shades of blue, white, or ecru not only reflect heat but also fit the season’s aesthetic. Opt for a relaxed or straight fit to allow air to circulate. Style your summer jeans with a short-sleeve polo or a simple tee and complete the look with a pair of clean, white Lacoste Powercourt Sneakers for an effortlessly cool and comfortable warm-weather outfit.
Travel Pants & Jeans
The ideal travel jeans combine comfort, versatility, and practicality. Key features to look for are performance stretch fabrics that allow for freedom of movement during long flights or train rides, and wrinkle-resistant blends to keep you looking sharp upon arrival. Some travel-focused designs even include hidden zippered pockets for securing passports and valuables. A pair of dark-wash slim or straight-fit stretch denim jeans is the ultimate travel companion. They are versatile enough to be dressed down for a day of sightseeing or dressed up for a dinner meeting. For seamless airport-to-business-meeting transitions, pair them with a crisp, non-iron shirt like the Michael Kors Slim Fit Passport Dress Shirt for a look that’s both comfortable and polished.
Men’s Designer Jeans
Men’s designer jeans represent an investment in superior quality, fabric, and craftsmanship. These garments often feature premium denim sourced from renowned mills, higher-end fabric treatments for unique washes and textures, and distinctive detailing like custom hardware or signature stitching. While they come at a higher price point, designer jeans make sense in a wardrobe for their exceptional fit and durability, often lasting for years. They are perfect for occasions where you want to make a refined impression. To style them, lean into their elevated nature by pairing them with other high-quality pieces, such as a fine leather belt like the Johnston & Murphy Contrast Stitch Leather Belt, a tailored sport coat, and polished dress shoes or premium sneakers.
Retro Jeans
Retro jeans capture the timeless appeal of vintage denim through classic cuts and authentic finishes. Styles like the iconic bootcut, which flares slightly from the knee down, or the traditional straight-leg with a high rise, evoke aesthetics from past decades. These jeans often feature authentic-looking fades, whiskering, and lighter washes to replicate a naturally worn-in feel. The key to wearing retro styles today is balance; blend them with modern pieces to avoid a costume-like appearance. For instance, a pair of Lucky Brand Classic Fit Bootcut Regular Jeans looks sharp and contemporary when paired with a modern slim-fit polo and clean sneakers, grounding the vintage-inspired silhouette firmly in the present.
Top Jean Styles for Men
- Slim Fit: Best for slender to average builds. Wear for a modern, tailored look that works well in smart-casual settings.
- Straight Fit: The universal choice, great for all body types. Wear for a classic, clean line that’s never out of style.
- Athletic Fit: Ideal for muscular legs. Wear to get room in the seat and thigh with a tapered leg for a sharp, non-baggy finish.
- Bootcut: Suits most body types, especially those wearing boots. Wear for a subtle flare that balances proportions.
- Tapered Fit: Good for those who like a roomier thigh but a slim ankle. Wear for a contemporary silhouette that highlights your footwear.
- Relaxed Fit: Best for larger frames or prioritizing comfort. Wear for maximum room and a laid-back, casual vibe.
Jeans That Fit Your Life and Your Style
Finding the right jeans isn’t about following trends. It’s about understanding what works for your body, lifestyle, and style preferences. The perfect pair should feel like a second skin while making you look effortlessly put together.
Buying the right types of jeans is an investment in your everyday confidence. When you love the way you look and feel in your jeans, your style shines through naturally. For more style advice, like how to wear a polo shirt or how to match a tie with a shirt, visit our blog.