I’m Stocking Up on These 12 Denim Essentials From Madewell, Levi’s, and More — Starting at $26

Jailynn Taylor
·4 min read
6

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From butt-flattering jeans to easy-to-style button-ups.

<p>J.Crew / Madewell / Reformation </p>

J.Crew / Madewell / Reformation

Being a former fashion designer, I always had so much respect for the denim designers on my team. It takes a lot to make a quality denim piece, and an eye for detail is non-negotiable. The denim has to either have tons of stretch or none at all, depending on the need of the fit. The wash and distressing are the signature that helps brands stand apart, and the cuts, seaming, and silhouettes can make or break a design. But one thing is certain: When a denim piece is done right, it’ll stand the test of time in your closet.

So ahead of the seasonal shift to spring, I rounded up 12 quality denim pieces including jeans, jumpsuits, maxi skirts, jackets, and more from Levi’s, Spanx, Madewell, J.Crew, and more.

12 Editor-Picked Spring-Ready Denim Styles:

Madewell Denim Carpenter Maxi Skirt

<p>Madewell</p>

Madewell

If you are looking for quality denim and don’t know where to start, my go-to for years has been Madewell. They always give a fresh take on its denim styles, for example, this Denim Carpenter Maxi Skirt stands out because of its unique contrast seaming. The retailer’s mid-rise skirt comes in a rich blue wash and is available in sizes 23 through 33. It’s made from 100 percent cotton, sits right at the natural waist, and falls to the ankle depending on height. It also features two spacious front and back pockets, a carpenter's loop for added utility, and a back slit that stops a few inches above the back of the knee so you can move with ease.

Levi's Ultimate Western Shirt

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

There were two consecutive springs and summers where denim button-up shirts were my weekly uniform. They are easy to dress up or down and can go with just about anything. They even make for great lightweight outerwear on cooler spring days, and after coming across Levi's Ultimate Western Shirt, I may be making the denim style my transitional uniform again.

The classic-fit button-up shirt comes in 16 washes including, light, medium, and dark blue, white, black, and even two-toned ranging from size XS through 4XL. It’s made from a lightweight and breathable cotton-polyester blend, making it great for layering or standing alone as the temperature starts to rise. It has two functional patch-flap pockets at the front that are large enough for essentials like your keys or wallet. There's a traditional button-front closure and the body has a relaxed fit and falls at the mid-thigh.

Spanx Wide-Leg Jeans

<p>Spanx</p>

Spanx

I am a bit biased when it comes to recommending Spanx Wide-Leg Jeans, but they are just so versatile, comfortable, flattering, and most importantly, it's from an Oprah-loved brand. The pull-on jeans come in a dark indigo wash, plus sizes XS through 3XL with regular, petite, and tall inseam options. The fabric is stretchy and acts more as an internal shaping panel at the midsection to create a smooth figure. They sit at the natural waist and open up to a true wide-leg fit, starting at the hip. One thing to note is that the jeans run a bit long (the petite inseam starts at 30 inches), so they are best worn with a heel if you’re on the shorter side.

It doesn’t have a traditional zipper and button closure, but because of this, they easily can be slipped on and off and have a seamless finish. There are also two functional back pockets that are contoured to flatter the bum.

Shop more denim styles in preparation for spring, below.

Levi's Boyfriend Jeans

<p>Amazon</p>

Amazon

Reformation Kendi Denim Midi Dress

<p>Reformation</p>

Reformation

J.Crew Relaxed Chambray Shirt

<p>J.Crew</p>

J.Crew

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