Why I’m Finally Spending More on Denim (and Feeling Good About It)

 
 

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Fall always reminds me to get practical about what’s in my closet. I want to open my wardrobe and know everything works together—no second-guessing, no “this almost goes.” Denim felt like the best place to start.

I’ve worn jeans from Zara and H&M for years, usually under $50, and they’ve done the job, until they didn’t. After a few washes, the fit would shift, or the knees would lose shape. Replacing them every couple of years started to feel like a cycle I didn’t want to keep repeating.

This season, I decided to look for a pair that would actually last. I ended up with Banana Republic’s
”The Icon Classic Wide-Leg Jean": structured, comfortable, and surprisingly easy to style. The higher price tag gave me pause at first, but the difference in quality is noticeable. They hold their shape, pair with everything, and feel like the foundation of a more refined closet.

I’m not on a mission to overhaul my wardrobe overnight. I’m just refining it piece by piece, focusing on quality where it counts. A good pair of jeans doesn’t just simplify getting dressed; it anchors everything else you wear.

If you’re in the same place (wanting fewer but better options), start with denim. Find a fit that feels timeless, skip the trendy distressing, and focus on wash, structure, and versatility.

Denim Worth Considering

A few brands that balance fit, quality, and longevity:

  • Banana Republic – polished silhouettes with premium stretch

  • Aritzia (Denim Forum) – flattering fits that hold their shape

  • Agolde – structured, vintage-inspired styles

  • Reformation – sustainable denim that doesn’t compromise on fit

  • Citizens of Humanity – timeless cuts and durable fabric

  • Everlane – simple, well-made basics

  • Madewell Premium – classic fits that last season after season

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