The Must-Have Denim Brands: From Classic Cuts to Contemporary Cool

Denim has a way of sneaking into every woman’s wardrobe, regardless of her personal style. It’s the piece we turn to for Sunday brunches, late-night drinks, and everything in between. But the right pair of jeans is more than just a staple — it’s an investment. This season, the conversation around denim is all about fit, quality, and versatility, with a renewed emphasis on sustainability and craftsmanship.

Whether you prefer a tailored high-rise cut or a relaxed vintage-inspired fit, denim is as enduring as it is adaptable. Brands like Haikure and Triarchy are redefining what eco-conscious denim can look like, combining environmental responsibility with high-end design. Meanwhile, Khaite, Slvrlake, and Toteme have mastered the art of creating modern luxury jeans that feel as good as they look.

Comfort is another non-negotiable, and labels like Citizens of Humanity, DL1961, and Frame have honed fabrics that move with you while maintaining impeccable structure. For those seeking timeless appeal with a touch of heritage, there’s no overlooking the enduring classics: Levi’s, Re/Done, and Icon Denim LA breathe fresh life into iconic silhouettes. And for denim that blurs the line between laid-back and elevated, Rails, Paige, and Grlfrnd offer standout pieces that fit right into an effortlessly stylish wardrobe.

From the durable designs we live in to the directional silhouettes making waves on runways, these are the brands setting the tone for autumn. Ready to find your perfect fit? Let’s dive into the denim darlings you’ll want to wear on repeat.


Haikure

For those craving sustainable denim with a stylish twist, Haikure offers a standout solution. Hailing from Italy, this brand has quickly become a favourite among the fashion elite for its effortlessly cool, eco-conscious approach to jeans. Known for using organic and recycled materials, Haikure crafts its pieces with an eye for contemporary design and timeless wearability. The brand’s signature Bethany jeans—slouchy, boyish, and impeccably tailored—are perpetually in demand, often selling out almost as soon as they hit the shelves. Haikure’s mastery lies in its ability to blend functionality with high fashion, delivering weighty, non-stretch denim that drapes perfectly over point-toe heels or sleek ankle boots. From wide-leg cuts to versatile cargos, these jeans are the epitome of conscious luxury, ensuring you look good while doing good.

HAIKURE - Hurley wide-leg organic jeans - £315 - Buy here

HAIKURE - Bethany high-rise wide-leg jeans - £242 - Buy here


Toteme

Toteme encapsulates Scandinavian minimalism at its best, offering elevated denim essentials that are as versatile as they are refined. Founded in 2014 by Swedish duo Elin Kling and Karl Lindman, the Stockholm-based label draws inspiration from the everyday lives of modern women. Toteme’s jeans are designed to be worn season after season, boasting crisp white denim, vintage washes, and clean, structured cuts that exude understated luxury. Perfect for building a capsule wardrobe, Toteme’s denim is beloved for its ability to merge practicality with elegance—think perfectly tailored high-waist styles and relaxed fits that pair seamlessly with the brand’s chic blouses and structured outerwear. Whether styled with trainers for a casual look or heeled boots for a polished ensemble, Toteme’s jeans are timeless staples worth investing in.

TOTEME - Faded-wash wide-leg high-rise organic-cotton denim jeans - £290 - Buy here

TOTEME - High-rise straight-leg organic jeans - £290 - Buy here


Icon Denim LA

Icon Denim LA brings the effortless cool of Los Angeles to every stitch, offering a wardrobe of denim staples with a contemporary edge. The brand’s designs channel the laid-back yet chic vibe synonymous with the West Coast, making them a go-to for those who value comfort and style in equal measure. Whether it’s high-waisted cuts, exaggerated flares, or perfectly faded washes, Icon Denim LA’s jeans feel inherently modern while nodding to vintage aesthetics. Crafted with premium materials and an eye for detail, these jeans are as much about the lifestyle they represent as the clothing itself—easy, timeless, and undeniably iconic.

Icon Denim LA - Stella - €179 - Buy here

Icon Denim LA - Poppy - €185 - Buy here


Khaite

Khaite, pronounced “Kate,” has transformed denim into an art form. Founded by Catherine Holstein in 2016, this New York-based brand has become synonymous with quiet luxury, delivering jeans that blend bold silhouettes with unparalleled craftsmanship. Whether you gravitate towards light-wash wide-legs, structured skinnies, or high-waisted shorts adored by the likes of Hailey Bieber, Khaite offers styles that feel equal parts refined and relaxed. Each piece is made from premium fabrics, ensuring durability and a fit that flatters the body’s natural contours. Khaite’s denim isn’t just about wardrobe essentials—it’s about creating investment pieces that transcend trends and age gracefully, making them favourites among style icons from Rosie Huntington-Whiteley to Sofia Richie.

KHAITE - Jacob wide-leg jeans - £318 - Buy here

Khaite - Danielle Straight Jeans - £430 - Buy here


Triarchy

Sustainability is at the heart of Triarchy, a denim brand that prioritises the planet without compromising on style. Relaunched in 2016 after a sustainability overhaul, the Canadian brand uses innovative techniques to create eco-friendly denim, from water-saving processes to the elimination of plastic-based elastics. The result? Jeans that hug the body in all the right places while significantly reducing their environmental footprint. Triarchy’s collection features everything from high-waisted skinnies to relaxed, vintage-inspired fits, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail. By choosing Triarchy, you’re not just investing in a pair of jeans—you’re supporting a brand that’s rewriting the rules of conscious luxury.

Triarchy - Gerri Barrell Leg Jean - $365 - Buy here

Triarchy - Ms. Fonda High Rise Wide Leg - $298 - Buy here


Citizens of Humanity

Citizens of Humanity has built a reputation for delivering premium denim that feels as good as it looks. Each pair is meticulously crafted by a team of 40 artisans, ensuring impeccable quality and fit. Known for their innovative silhouettes, such as the now-iconic barrel-leg jeans, Citizens of Humanity combines vintage inspiration with a modern edge. Whether it’s a sleek high-rise skinny or a slouchy wide-leg style, these jeans are as versatile as they are stylish. Loved by celebrities like Rihanna and Kendall Jenner, the brand is also committed to sustainability, employing eco-friendly practices to minimise water and energy usage during production.

Citizens of Humanity - Miro barrel-leg relaxed-fit high-rise denim jeans - £340 - Buy here

Citizens of Humanity - Ayla raw-hem cropped wide-leg denim jeans - £320 - Buy here


Levi’s

Levi’s is more than just a brand—it’s an institution, the very blueprint for denim as we know it. Founded in 1853 by Levi Strauss, this iconic label revolutionised workwear and casual fashion with its durable, practical designs. The 501 Original is perhaps the most recognisable jean in history, having adorned cultural icons from James Dean to Princess Diana. Today, Levi’s remains as relevant as ever, blending heritage craftsmanship with modern trends. The Ribcage Jean—a high-rise silhouette designed to cinch the waist—is a modern favourite among the fashion set. Sustainability is also at the heart of Levi’s ethos, with innovative Water<Less™ techniques reducing water usage across production. Whether you’re exploring vintage treasures or investing in contemporary cuts, Levi’s offers timeless styles that adapt effortlessly to any wardrobe. No denim collection is complete without at least one pair of these enduring classics.

Levi’s - 501 cropped straight-leg high-rise denim jeans - £120 - Buy here

Levi’s - Ribcage brand-patch wide-leg high-rise denim jeans - £110 - Buy here


Re/Done

Re/Done is where nostalgia meets modernity. Launched in 2014, the LA-based brand breathes new life into vintage denim, reimagining pre-loved Levi’s jeans for today’s discerning fashion lovers. Each pair is meticulously deconstructed and reconstructed, ensuring a tailored fit that flatters contemporary silhouettes. From high-waisted skinnies to relaxed straight legs, every Re/Done piece celebrates individuality and sustainability. The brand's eco-conscious practices extend beyond its vintage roots, incorporating water-saving dye processes and repurposed fabrics into its collections. Re/Done isn’t just about jeans—it’s a movement, connecting the past and present while creating jeans that feel truly one-of-a-kind. Whether styled with a crisp white tee or paired with a blazer for a smart-casual look, Re/Done’s designs offer a unique blend of vintage charm and modern edge. Perfect for those who value craftsmanship and exclusivity in their wardrobe.

Re/Done - Mid Rise Wide Leg Crop - £290 - Buy here

Re/Done - Levi's High Rise Wide Leg Crop - £485 - Buy here


DL1961

DL1961 is setting the standard for sustainable luxury denim. Founded in 2008 and family-owned, the brand takes a scientific approach to denim-making, controlling every stage of production to reduce waste and maximise quality. Each pair of DL1961 jeans uses upcycled fibres and advanced waterless technology, resulting in denim that feels as good for the planet as it does to wear. Styles like the Hepburn Wide Leg and Florence Skinny highlight DL1961’s ability to combine comfort, style, and innovation seamlessly. The brand’s premium fabrics sculpt the body without losing shape, ensuring jeans that stand the test of time. Beyond aesthetics, DL1961 is committed to ethical production, transforming textile waste into durable, versatile denim. With a celebrity following that includes Gigi Hadid and Kaia Gerber, DL1961 proves that sustainability and style can coexist in perfect harmony. These are jeans you’ll reach for time and time again, knowing they’re crafted with purpose and care.

DL1961 - Taylor High Rise Barrel Jeans, Endless Sea Vintage - £258 - Buy here

DL1961 - Hepburn High Rise Wide Crop Jeans, Mediterrranean - £216 - Buy here


Slvrlake

SLVRLAKE is rewriting the rules of denim by focusing on craftsmanship and fit above all else. Founded by British couple Louise and Gary Edgley and based in Los Angeles, the brand is named after LA’s Silver Lake neighbourhood, embodying its creative and modern spirit. SLVRLAKE eschews flashy embellishments, instead perfecting minimalist styles that feel effortlessly tailored. Their high-rise jeans are particularly beloved for their ability to elongate the legs while providing a universally flattering fit. Using premium fabrics that prioritise durability and comfort, SLVRLAKE ensures every piece is an investment in timeless style. The brand’s dedication to quality has made it a favourite among fashion insiders and celebrities seeking elevated essentials. Whether you’re after a pair of vintage-inspired straight legs or a sleek, dark wash, SLVRLAKE offers jeans that seamlessly bridge the gap between casual and polished.

Slvrlake - High rise flared leg jeans - £294 - Buy here

Slvrlake - Beatnik straight-leg cropped jeans - £280 - Buy here


Frame

FRAME, the brainchild of Swedish entrepreneurs Jens Grede and Erik Torstensson, was born in Los Angeles but infused with Parisian elegance and Scandinavian minimalism. Launched in 2012 with the mission to create the perfect skinny jean, the brand has since expanded into a full-fledged luxury label known for its precision tailoring and trend-forward designs. FRAME’s Le High Straight remains a perennial favourite, offering a universally flattering slim-leg fit, while their Le Palazzo channels '70s-inspired glamour with dramatic wide legs. Beyond jeans, the brand offers a full range of ready-to-wear essentials, including effortlessly chic blouses and tailored blazers. What sets FRAME apart is its ability to create jeans that feel polished enough for the office yet relaxed enough for weekend outings. With a commitment to sustainability and an eye for detail, FRAME is the ultimate choice for those seeking versatile, high-quality denim that transitions seamlessly from day to night.

Frame - Le Sleek embellished cropped high-rise straight-leg jeans - £400 - Buy here

Frame - Le High flared-leg organic-cotton Le High flared-leg stretch-denim - £270 - Buy here


Grlfrnd

GRLFRND is not just a denim label; it’s a love letter to the icons of fashion. Each style is named after a supermodel, paying homage to figures like Cindy Crawford and Joan Smalls while capturing their timeless appeal. Known for their durable fabrics and lived-in finishes, GRLFRND jeans age like fine wine—becoming softer, more comfortable, and beautifully distressed over time. This Los Angeles-based brand celebrates vintage-inspired silhouettes with a modern twist, offering everything from perfectly high-waisted skinnies to slouchy boyfriend cuts. Their edgy yet sophisticated aesthetic makes them a favourite among influencers and off-duty models alike. Whether paired with heels or sneakers, GRLFRND jeans promise effortless cool with every wear, making them a wardrobe staple for those who want to blend a touch of nostalgia with contemporary fashion.


Paige

PAIGE is where comfort meets style, redefining the concept of premium denim. Founded in 2004 by former fit model Paige Adams-Geller, the brand prioritises expert tailoring and innovative fabric technology, resulting in jeans that sculpt and flatter every silhouette. PAIGE is particularly loved for its ultra-soft, stretch-infused denim, which offers both form-fitting designs and easygoing wearability. Styles like the Hoxton Straight bring a contemporary spin to classic cuts, while the Sasha High Rise delivers a waist-cinching, leg-lengthening effect. Beyond its jeans, PAIGE has expanded into a full lifestyle brand, crafting chic wardrobe staples like leather jackets and laid-back knits. The LA-based label has become a favourite among celebrities and fashion editors for its ability to combine timeless designs with modern sensibilities, making it the go-to for anyone seeking versatility and sophistication in their denim.

Paige - Sasha wide-leg high-rise stretch-denim jeans - £290 - Buy here

Paige - Arellia Workwear double-face high-rise barrel-leg denim jeans - £315 - Buy here


Rails

Rails may have made its name with ultra-soft plaid shirts, but its foray into denim has redefined the label as a true head-to-toe lifestyle brand. This Los Angeles-based label embodies the laid-back West Coast ethos, blending timeless cuts with high-quality fabrics. Their Topanga Straight Leg jeans are a standout, striking the perfect balance between structured and relaxed. Crafted from substantial yet flexible denim, these jeans keep their shape wear after wear, offering an ideal fit at the waist and a just-slim-enough leg silhouette. Rails denim pairs seamlessly with the brand’s signature tops, creating effortless looks that transition from casual brunches to evening outings. Rails’ understated designs appeal to those who appreciate subtle elegance, making it a must-try brand for anyone building a capsule wardrobe filled with essentials that never go out of style.

Rails - Gety High Waist Jeans, Tidal Wave - £198 - Buy here

Rails - Sunset Crop Jeans, Black Pearl - £198 - Buy here


Deyvid Dimitrov
London-based content creator and editor of Goldfoil magazine.