Blue jeans will forever be our first love where denim is concerned, but we, the Who What Wear team, have opened our hearts (and our wardrobes) to their sibling style: black jeans.
You might think there’s no beating the versatility of true blue denim, but with black being as neutral as it gets, this variation goes with absolutely everything. Not only that, but the darker wash gives every outfit a smarter feel. And with party season in full swing, we’re looking for every opportunity to make our everyday staples feel after-dark appropriate.
If you don’t already own a pair, you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find the black jeans our editors consider to be the best of the best, from high-street iterations to investment styles. But first, check out the outfits influencers are assembling around this foundational item—if you weren’t convinced this is a buy worth adding to your wish list, expect to change your mind in no time.
Rock your black jeans for the festive season like Anouk by adding a cosy fair isle knit.
“Citizens of Humanity are my go-to for all things denim and they’ve elevated the simple black jean into something fashion-forward with the avant garde horseshoe fit. Don’t be put off by the voluminous silhouette, once they’re on they nip the waist and the wide cuffs balance out the hips, ideal for a pear shape like me!” – Remy Farrell, Shopping Editor
“My favourite pair of black jeans are actually a recent purchase from Nudie. I’m in love with the brown block detail, and the high-waisted fit is so flattering.” – Jerrylyn Saguiped, Affiliates Manager
“Zara jeans are like Marmite. You either love them, or you hate them. I fall firmly in the love camp, having worn Zara’s denim for over 10 years. My body shape and size has changed (a lot!) in those years, but I still find the brand to be the best on the high street. Don’t get me wrong, there are times when the sizing drives me a little mad, but 9 times out of 10 I find the cut, length and fit works really well for my body shape. I have straights, paperbag styles and flares in an array of solid blacks and washed iterations. And considering I wear them probably 3 or 4 times a week, I’d say they are my hardest working wardrobe staple!” – Poppy Nash, Managing Editor
“I am absolutely obsessed with my Levi Ribcage jeans, and have them in multiple colourways. The multi-button aspect of the jeans makes your hips look slimmer and makes me feel like my waist is smaller. I only wear high-waisted jeans, and they are super high and really comfortable.” – Sophie Cookson, Insights Manager
“I have a new favourite pair after a long, long search! Mother has introduced a petite range called Lil Mother and the fit is perfect for my 5ft 1inch height and hourglass figure. Their jeans are always fantastic quality and ultra-comfortable so I cannot recommend these highly enough.” – Hannah Almassi, Editor-in-Chief
You won’t find better jeans for the price.
The forward seams make these look more expensive than they are.
Together with the matching jacket, this is an ultra-cool look.
This shape is so current.
Tapered denim is a trend that shows no sign of going anywhere.
You’ll find these so easy to style.
This slim-leg fit is super sleek.
We’re always so impressed by Arket’s denim, and this straight-leg pair is no exception.
This culotte-style pair will look especially good with ankle boots.
In my opinion, this is the perfect washed black shade.
Top-to-toe chic.
Frame denim is designed to last for years, especially if you pick a trend-defying cut like this one.
It’s not just us who rate Weekday denim—influencers love it, too.
A fab pair of washed-black jeans.
These are next on my hit list!
Icons for a reason.
We all love M&S denim!
For the perfect Parisian look, pair your black jeans with loafers and stripes.
Baggy jeans are still a huge trend; opt for a black pair to make your cream knitwear really pop.
We love how Abi has styled her black denim with a statement top.
Rachael gives her washed black straight-legs a Parisian spin with a beret and two-tone pumps.
Monikh makes me instantly want to wear my black jeans with washed grey hues.
Black skinnies are back, as demonstrated by Aïda with her chic trench coat look.
Monochrome outfits always look put-together, especially if you mix textures like Lydia.
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