As we hit the peak of the summer months and start thinking about transitional dressing for early fall, it’s time to introduce the freshest denim trends for the upcoming season, which of course includes the best white jeans for women. However, they’re a timeless denim staple that have prevailed over the old-set rules over when they can and cannot be worn, so don’t put them away once Labor Day weekend wraps. They truly work regardless of season: you can wear white jeans in the spring and fall, but also well into the colder months—hello, winter whites! And these days, anything goes when it white jeans (raw hems! drawstring waistbands!) and no shade, from ecru to ivory to bone, is off limits.
Vogue’s Guide to the Best White Jeans for Women:
White denim may have risen to popularity in the 1960s, a mod crowd favorite regularly worn by stylish individuals of the time period, such as Françoise Hardy and Jane Birkin, but we’ve seen an increase in styles with varying fits and hues across the runways and peppered throughout the seasonal offerings of our favorite denim brands. From tried-and-true straight-legs, to effortless baggy jeans, and even flares and bootcuts, white jeans have come a long way in terms of fit, construction, and even fabrication. Today’s pairs truly run the gamut.
Since it’s hard to pinpoint just one, as fit and style can be quite specific based upon individual preferences and body types, we have categorized all of our favorite white jeans by cut, style, and detailing. Below, find the Vogue editor-approved list of the best white jeans available currently.
The Straight-Leg
Simplicity is not dead. Think of the slim straight-leg as your go-to; in shades of white, it feels fresher than your everyday blue jeans. We prefer ours to have a relaxed fit, mid-rise, and less stretch for a vintage-inspired feel that pairs perfectly with everything in your capsule closet, such as your favorite knit or a really good T-shirt.
The Wide-Leg
Easy and breezy, wide-legs just might be the perfect pair for any personal style. We can’t help but think of outfit ideas that have them belted at the waist with a sleek tank or white button-up shirt, then finished off with a retro sneaker, leather boot, or sleek flat shoe.
The Low-Rise
If you’ve been bitten by the Y2K denim bug, low-rise styles might be your current obsession. Trendy or not, these low-slung styles aren’t going to be falling out of fashion anytime soon. They are all classic fits that have a forever feel—from the loose, weekend-worthy silhouettes to something stiffer with a little more structure.
The Slim Fit
Bridging the gap between skinny and straight, a slim-fit jean gives off a distinctively clean look that feels a bit more polished. Whether styled with a button-down and ballet flat, or a blazer and boots, these can easily be taken from the office to after hour drinks in a heartbeat—choose between an ankle or full-length inseam depending on your height and the look you’re going for.
The Curved Barrel
A barrel jean is recognizable by its relaxed fit and distinct, curved leg. When going the white denim route, be sure to choose a pair made from 100% cotton. Look for utilitarian details that will set yours apart, such as unique, seam construction or pocket detailing. They should have a rugged feel (think weightier, and less see-through) that is effortlessly easy in nature.
The Baggy
Pump up the volume. These silhouettes might be borrowed from the boys, but there is no argument that baggy jeans are the most comfortable fit on our list. Featuring a loose waist and even looser leg, choose from extra-long hemlines and a range of shades that will really make yours truly standout.
The Pleated
Pleated jeans and those with front-creasing have risen in popularity the past few seasons; when done in a bleached white or an écru tone, it really has a fresh spin. Think of these as your slightly dressier fit, that can be worn to the office and beyond. Just be sure to try on with your preferred, everyday shoe styles, to find the winning hem length.
The Flared
Bootcut and flared styles are packed with retro references. Call it the Bella Hadid effect, but there is something so flattering about the silhouette. Whether you prefer something with stretch or on the stiffer side, our edit has both.
The Cropped
For the petites out there, or anyone who loves a slightly shorter hemline, this grouping of cropped jeans doesn’t disappoint. Take your pick from kick-flares to straight-leg silhouettes, all with a shortened hem length. Any shade preference works—below you will find varieties, from eggshell to optic white, all feeling totally right.