You know those pieces that quietly earn a permanent spot in your closet – never too trendy, never too basic, just consistently good? That’s how I (we*, basically our entire Team) feel about Levi’s jeans. They’ve been part of The Mom Edit DNA for years now, and for good reason: they’re affordable, super well-made, and they just… get better the more you wear them.
This weekend, Levi’s is having a 30% off + free shipping sale! So if you’ve been thinking about new jeans…now’s the time.
I Tried 13 Pairs Of Levi’s Jeans – Here’s How They Actually Fit
So I did what any denim-lover/researcher with a slight obsession + an overflowing bedroom floor would do: I ordered a big stack of Levi’s most popular & most-raved-about styles and tried them all on. The goal was to compare fit, rise, stretch (or lack thereof), and leg shape – especially as someone who leans looser, mid-rise, and easy over rigid, narrow jeans.
The Levi’s Jeans I Tried On:
- 501 ‘90s Lightweight
- 501 ‘90s Ankle
- XL Baggy Straight
- XL Baggy Straight Linen + Denim
- Low Loose
- Cinch Baggy
- Ribcage Bell
- Ribcage Straight Ankle
- Ribcage Wide Leg
Where To Shop Levi’s:
- Levi’s – currently a 30% off + free shipping promo going on!
- Nordstrom – jeans for the entire fam, marked down from time to time
- Free People – for classics + cool girl styles
- Shopbop – often included in their sales
- Zappos – most are 20%-30% off
- Amazon – often on sale
- Nordstrom Rack – large markdowns up to 75% off
Most of these are 100% cotton (aka no stretch), and while that can feel intimidating, I found a few hidden gems that break in beautifully and get better with wear. Below I break down the key details: how they fit, where the rise hits, how rigid the denim really is, and which ones I’d actually wear out the door. BTW, I usually size-up in their jeans (like many other Levi’s fanatics).
*A Quick Note On Sizing: I’m 5’6″, usually a size 28/29 in jeans (depending on the brand and stretch), and I prefer a relaxed fit in the leg and a rise that doesn’t dig in when I sit. My sweet spot: mid-rise with room for thighs. I sized up to a 30 in all of these!
Levi’s 501 Jeans
The 501s are a true straight-leg with a slightly looser fit through the hip and thigh, and a higher rise that hits right around the belly button – structured without feeling stiff. The denim is thick (with minimal stretch) so they hold their shape throughout the day (no sagging knees or stretching out). The leg falls straight from the hip with a subtle taper, making them easy to cuff or wear long over sandals, sneakers or in my case, flats. They have a classic five-pocket design, button fly, and that signature Levi’s rear-pocket placement that gives a nice lil lift. A solid everyday jean – especially if you’re looking for a clean, straight silhouette in a more rigid denim.
1. Levi’s 501 ‘90s Lightweight Jeans
Levi’s 501 ‘90s Lightweight jeans (30w x 32l)
Fit: Relaxed through the leg with a true straight shape
Rise: High-rise (sits just on my belly button)
Fabric: 79% Cotton, 21% Lyocell (Lenzing TENCEL™ Lyocell)
My Thoughts: This one’s a cult favorite. The ‘90s fit is that perfect blend of vintage and modern (structured but not tight, slouchy without looking messy). I sized up for more ease and love how they drape below the knees.
Levi’s 501 ‘90s Lightweight jeans (30w x 32l)
Wash I Tried: “Fun Flare”
2. Levi’s 501 ‘90s Ankle Jeans
Levi’s 501 ’90s Ankle jeans (30w x 27)
Fit: Similar to the 501 ‘90s Straight but cropped
Rise: High-rise
Fabric: 100% cotton
My Thoughts: A solid option if you want something less overwhelming than a full-length jean (or wanna show off your shoes haha). They hit at just the right spot.
Levi’s 501 ’90s Ankle jeans (30w x 27)
Wash I Tried: “Sweetest Taboo”
3. Levi’s 501 ‘90s Ankle Printed Jeans
Levi’s 501 ‘90s Ankle Printed jeans (30)
Fit: Straight, same cut as the OG ‘90s
Rise: High
Fabric: 100% cotton
My Thoughts: These are FUN – a little wild + a little retro. Love with stripes.
Levi’s 501 ‘90s Ankle Printed jeans (30)
Print I Tried: “Ophelia Floral”
Levi’s Loose-Fit Jeans
Levi’s baggy jeans are all about volume, but each with its own twist. The Baggy XL is the loosest; super wide through the leg with a mid rise that feels purposefully oversized (I loved it in both the rigid cotton and the extremely soft denim-linen blend). The Low Loose has a similar vibe but with a slightly cleaner fit + lower rise; roomy but less extreme, and it comes in both a classic button fly and a cool zip fly option. The Cinch Baggy adds a subtle built-in waist tab for a little shape at the hips + back without losing that slouchy feel.
4A. Levi’s XL Baggy Straight Jeans
Levi’s XL Baggy Straight jeans (30w x 31l)
Fit: Ultra-slouchy, full-on baggy
Rise: Mid-rise
Fabric: 100% cotton
My Thoughts: Ohhh how I LOVED these. I have a similar pair (Levi’s Baggy Dad Jeans) that I wear constantly (and swear are the same shape ?) so I knew I’d like ’em. Super roomy and comfortable and this black wash is good. Shana also loves.
Levi’s XL Baggy Straight jeans (30w x 31l)
Wash I Tried: “Influential Lady”
4B. Levi’s XL Baggy Straight Linen + Denim Jeans
Levi’s XL Baggy Straight Linen Blend Jeans (30)
These are 85% Cotton, 15% Linen and the same exact fit as the pair above, but in the freaking softest denim material ever. I couldn’t believe how comfy these were. Like, almost PJs. If I didn’t have a really similar pair I would’ve kept in a heartbeat.
Levi’s XL Baggy Straight Linen Blend Jeans (30)
Wash I Tried: “Stop Flaxing”
5A. Levi’s Low Loose Jeans
Fit: Loose through the hip and leg
Rise: Low-rise (but not early-2000s low haha)
Fabric: 100% cotton
My Thoughts: Surprisingly wearable. I didn’t expect to like a low-rise, but these sit SO comfortably on the hips without feeling like they’ll fall off. Great for casual days.
Wash I Tried: “Living The Good Life”
5B. Levi’s Low Loose Zip Jeans
Levi’s Low Loose Zip Jeans (30)
The same Levi’s Low Loose Jeans style – but with a zipper fly! I was just really interested in how this one would look and I actually loved it. The zip stayed zippered (my initial fear was that it’d fall) and it was just as comfy as the button fly. Can’t decide on which I loved more.
Levi’s Low Loose Zip Jeans (30)
Wash I Tried: “Treat Me Nice”
6. Levi’s Cinch Baggy Jeans
Levi’s Cinch Baggy Jeans (30w x 31l)
Fit: Baggy through the leg with a cinched waist
Rise: High-rise with a defined waistband
Fabric: 100% cotton
My Thoughts: This one felt like a hybrid between fashion and utility. The cinched waist adds shape without being tight, and the leg has a cool carpenter-jean energy. I’d style these with a fitted tank or cropped jacket come fall.
Levi’s Cinch Baggy Jeans (30w x 31l)
Wash I Tried: “Chasing Dreams”
Levi’s Ribcage Jeans
The Ribcage fit is Levi’s highest rise – and you feel it (in a good, secure way). It really hugs the waist and creates a long, leggy shape that works across a few styles. The Ribcage Wide Leg has a clean, structured fit up top with dramatic volume through the leg (super flattering with something fitted or cropped). The Ribcage Straight Ankle is a great everyday option; still high and structured, but with a slim-straight leg that hits right at the ankle (easy to dress up or down). And the Ribcage Bell adds a subtle retro flare that balances the high rise beautifully.
7. Levi’s Ribcage Bell Jeans
Levi’s Ribcage Bell Jeans (30w x 32l)
Levi’s Ribcage Bell Jeans (30w x 32l)
Fit: Fitted through the hip, dramatic bell flare
Rise: Super high-rise (hits above my belly button)
Fabric: Mostly cotton, slight stretch – 99% Cotton, 1% LYCRA®
My Thoughts: More of a statement jean. The bell shape is bold but flattering (especially with something tucked in). A fun one to break out for date night or weekend plans. Also the wash is just gorgeous.
Wash I Tried: “Romantic Story”
8. Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans
Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans (30)
Fit: Slim through the hip, straight cropped leg
Rise: Super high-rise
Fabric: 99% cotton, 1% elastane
My Thoughts: I get the Ribcage hype. The tiny bit of stretch makes these a lot more comfortable than other rigid denim, and they’re super versatile (good for work, weekend, or anything in between).
Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans (30)
Wash I Tried: “On My Honor”
9. Levi’s Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans
Levi’s Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans (30w x 32l)
Fit: Wide throughout the leg, clean and flowy
Rise: Super high-rise
Fabric: 100% cotton
My Thoughts: If you love a wide-leg trouser, you’ll love these. They’re more polished than the Baggy Dad or Cinch Baggy, and I’d absolutely wear these to the office with a pretty blouse.
Levi’s Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans (30w x 32l)
Wash I Tried: “Polar Perimeter”
Levi’s really does denim better than most – especially when you’re looking for something that feels cool but wearable. I’ll always reach for a looser leg and a mid-rise when I can find it, but trying on this range reminded me that even a super high-rise or dramatic bell shape can be fun when the fit is right. I loved like… ALL OF THEM. ?!
The next Levi’s on my list to try…
Have a favorite Levi’s style I didn’t try? Let me know in the comments. Hope this helps!!!
Xo, Abby (@abbycheeka on Instagram)
Oh hey Pinners….
Over the past year I’ve fallen hard for the Wedgie Ankle- low stretch (haven’t been able to get the no stretch) and slightly slimmer leg than the rib age. Would love to try the Wedgie slim BUT I love the tutor fly of the OGs.
I’ve tried all the Levi’s and none of them fit me perfectly enough to purchase…bummer. The only time I loved the fit was back in the 70/80’s.
OMG, you are doing god’s work here. This is time of year I always want to get a new pair of jeans, and I was just on the levi’s site the other day trying to figure out which styles and sizes would work. Thank you for breaking it down!!!
I bought a pair of wedgie jeans online and I’m so disappointed in the fit. Also baffled. I wear a 28 usually, sometimes a 29. (Hips and big booty). So I got a size 30 and they’re still like TIGHT tight. The front is like way above my belly button (11.5 rise) and the butt is flattened Maybe they’re supposed to fit this way? I’ll try some of these options instead. Maybe just not for curvy girls?
You are my hero!! Where can I get the low loose BUTTON FLY?!? I checked your link and seems to only be the zip fly. I have searched everywhere!
I have the 100% cotton XL baggy jeans in a 26. I am looking at the ones that are a blend with linen, do you think the sizing is the same? Looks like they run a bit big, reviews are saying to size down.
The sizing was around the same for me! They’re so soft & comfy – definitely a tiny bit more wiggle room but not enough to size down for me.