Gen-X Approved: Your Guide to Finding The Perfect Pair of Jeans
If you're seeking jeans that offer dreamy fits, nostalgic vibes, and modern classics, you're in the right place — here are TueNight’s top 10 picks.
We know exactly what we want in jeans, but finding that perfect pair can be a real challenge. That's why we've handpicked these Gen-X Approved selections, recommended by our incredible community of women over 40.
There are a gazillion types of jeans these days — from skinny (are we still allowed to wear those? Yes!) to acid wash (whut, 90s) to flare to wide leg. How to know which are the best? Our ultimate jean guide is here to help you find your next go-to pair.
Note: Each one of these is independently selected by either you, TueNighters, or us, the editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
Universal Standard: Perfect Fit, Ultimate Comfort
In the darker, on-trend indigo for fall, we’re still rocking skinny jeans. The Seine line is as comfy as they come, featuring a flattering high waist and invisible built-in stretch.
TueNight Crew Fave: With jeans available from sizes 00 to 40, Universal Standard is one of the fashion industry’s most inclusive brands. From their annual Denim Drive with Blue Jeans Go Green recycling program, to their work with Dress for Success and First Step via Fit Liberty, and co-fundraisers with Planned Parenthood, we also LOVE the brand’s philosophy of giving back at every opportunity.
Old Navy: Classic Boyfriend Jeans
These are classics for a reason — affordable denim favorites with an everyday, casual profile. Not too trendy for us gals who want others to notice our brain not our booty. (Ok, maybe the booty too.)
TueNighters are saying: “These jeans are my all-time favorites. The boyfriend cut is incredibly comfortable, and I appreciate the versatility of being able to roll up the ankles in warmer weather or tuck them into a boot. I've owned multiple pairs in different washes for several years.” — Liz
Levis: Ribcage Jeans
We know not all of you are fans of the ultra high rise but this soaring 12-inch rise has become an obsession for waist-defining and leg-lengthening styles. This fit not only shows off your figure but has that edgier, cropped vibe.
TueNighters are saying: “I love these jeans!” — Stacy London
Pistola: Relaxed Fit, Carpenter Ankle
Slightly boxy, these jeans gently hang on your hips with a mid rise. The laid-back light wash adds versatility, whether you dress them up with heels or boots, or keep it casual in Birks and a white tank.
TueNighters are saying: “I love Pistola’s quality, fit and hint of edge — they’re made for Gen-X gals like us.” — Margit
Madewell: Mid Rise Flare, Zero Bagginess
Madewell make some of TueNighters most favorite jeans. These mid rise cropped numbers boast a kicked-out flare leg and the sorcery of Magic Pockets™ that hold you in effortlessly. Crafted from premium stretch Candiani denim, they hug your body and bounce back like a pro, ensuring zero 3 pm bagginess.
TueNighters are saying: “Madewell curvy, LOVE!” — Whitney
Old Navy: Affordable, Stylish, Must-Have Jeans
The Wow Jeans are affordable, chic and on-trend. We dig the slight ruching at the top and the satisfying length that hits just at the ankle.
TueNighters are saying: “High-Waisted Wow Jeans in Straight and Slim feel like a transition width — not skinny jeans but not super wide. I did buy a pair of (mid-rise) wide legs from them too on a whim; they make me giggle when I wear them.” — Leigh Ann
JCrew: Vintage Straight Leg Jeans
With a straight cropped leg, and premium Japanese denim from Kaihara, these jeans have a darker rinse coolness.
TueNighters are saying: “I love the color of these jeans for fall, they look fabulous with boots and a crisp white shirt. A little more elevated than the jeans I normally wear.” — Margit
Not Your Daughter’s Jeans (NYDJ): Sleek, Figure-Flattering Jeans
A favorite of Oprah’s, Tiktok, and so early to the plus-size scene, NYDJ's jeans offer sleek, figure-elongating construction and, with a black-coated finish, they have a more sophisticated appearance that's perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.
TueNighters are saying: “NYDJ are quite good.” — Marilyn
Revtown: Mom Cropped Comfort
Was it Tina Fey and Amy Pohler who introduced the idea of Mom Jeans in that SNL sketch? No matter, they’ve definitely taken hold in their roomy awesomeness. Designed to sit way high on the waist, with a relaxed fit through the hips, that opens to a perfectly tapered leg. Those vintage vibes, but cut for comfort.
TueNighters are saying: Highly recommended by Diane via Instagram.
Stitch Fix: Tailored Denim, Delivered To You
We’re big fans of Stitch Fix here at TueNight — they typically do a great job of matching our style with their affordable personal styling service and they do a great job with denim. No matter your size or price preferences, you’ll receive hand-selected pieces from your Stylist including women’s jeans, accessories & more.
TueNighters are saying: “It’s often tough to find interesting plus size jeans and Stitch Fix has simply found some of the best jeans for me.” — Margit
AG and Mother Jeans. I'm the queen of online second hand. The key to buying successfully on sites like Poshmark is to know your size. My favorite recent obsession is buying another brand of jeans I wore in 2002. Blue jean jacket to match.
I want Meg Ryan's jeans from the 1995 film French Kiss. They're basically a loose tent of jeans held up by a black belt and accessorized with Doc Martens. They're the jean equivalent of writer-soft-pants and can be found here... https://www.missmoss.co.za/2014/01/french-kiss/ I guess what I'm saying is I'm ready for my crone-up, Mr. DeMille, lol???