Best Jeans for Apple Shapes

I am not a fan of comparing women's bodies to fruit or geometry, but let's face it, there are different shapes of bodies and some of us (this includes yours truly) have their top half of the body fuller and more curvy than the bottom half. Known as an apple shape, our bodies can be hard to fit for several types of garments, especially jeans. As one of these bodies, I want to share my picks for the best jeans for us apple shapes.

What is an Apple Shape?

Most bodies that identify as apple have a full bust, shoulders, back, and midsection. The waist isn't defined, and an apple shape may have a flatter bum. The primary identifying characteristic is slimmer hips, thighs, and legs and a fuller top half of the body. Many apple shapes have straight figures when looking head-on, and a fuller figure from the profile which has them hesitant to tuck in tops to style a stomach.

I personally love being an apple shape. I like having a large bust, I have the build to be strong and build muscle, and an apple shape often has great gams. But shopping for jeans can be difficult for an apple shape:

• If it fits your waist, it's saggy in the bum
• If it fits your belly, it looks like jodhpurs at your thighs
• If it fits your waist, it strains over your belly
• If it fits your midsection, it's too loose in the legs or too tight in the waistband
• If it fits at 8 am when you don the jeans, by noon, they're sliding down all stretched out from sitting and walking

There is nothing wrong with any shape of any body, and I am not here to try to turn your body into some other fruit or geometric shape. I am here to help you find jeans that fit your apple shape and stay fitting and comfortable through the day. All “fruit” are beautiful, and deserve clothing that works with, not against their shape.

The Best Jeans for Apple Shapes

These are the denim brands I rely on for finding the best jeans for apple shapes. These brands are ones either I personally have had luck with for my apple shape, or have been recommended many times over by folks in the Wardrobe Oxygen community.

I will focus on brands first, and if the denim or fashion brand is known for an iconic style of jeans they carry regularly and is good for us apple shapes, I'll mention it. But these days, retailers keep changing their styles and even the fit of iconic styles, so I don't want to send you on a wild goose chase for a style that is no longer available or cut differently by the time you read this.

This list of apple-friendly jeans brands is in alphabetical order. If I missed your favorite, do share in the comments to keep this a valuable resource for all women. I will update this list as new brands come on the scene, your recommendations are tested, and if any of these brands or styles are discontinued.

Democracy Denim

Democracy Clothing's jeans are a cult favorite for being wallet-friendly and apple-shape-friendly. Democracy’s signature “Ab”solution® jeans have slimming panels, a hidden inner elastic waistband for a no-gap waist, mesh panels for tummy control, a curved back yoke, and strategically placed pockets to offer a “booty-lift.”

Democracy jeans come in Misses 0-18, Tall 0T-16T, petite 2P-16P, and plus 14W-24W. Because the jeans are so stretchy if in doubt, size down. You can find Democracy jeans on the brand website, Macy's, Nordstrom Rack, and Amazon.

Ginger + Dandelion

Ginger + Dandelion jeans have what they call Tummy Technology, which keeps their denim feeling great even if you are bloated or have a fluctuating figure. With a relaxed waistband, an inner panel that expands for the belly, and a smoothing panel, Ginger + Dandelion is a woman-founded and run small business that manufactures its jeans in Los Angeles. Ginger + Dandelion offers jeans in sizes 24/0-34/16.

J.Jill

J.Jill is a sleeper hit for jeans. Super soft, cool washes, and comfortable fit with essentially every style under $100, J.Jill also has an extensive size range. Every style at J. Jill is available in regular sizes 2-28, petite 00P-18P, and tall 4T-18T, and I find the fit relaxed and generous.

Judy Blue

I'll be honest: I have never tried Judy Blue jeans, but if you're on any social media platforms, you have probably heard of them and the brand's cult following. Super stretchy denim, unique wash techniques, and a body-hugging fit that keeps its shape all day make them so popular. Folks recommend going down one size from what you regularly wear in jeans to accommodate for the stretch.

Judy Blue is a Los Angeles woman-owned and run company, though the jeans are crafted in China. Judy Blue jeans are available in misses sizes 0-15, plus sizes 14W-24W, and petites 0P-15P. You can purchase Judy Blue jeans on the brand's website, at boutiques like Freckled Poppy, and on Amazon.

KUT from the Kloth

KUT from the Kloth is a woman-founded and designed Los Angeles-based fashion brand founded in 2007. Specifically designed as an affordable denim option for women over 30, KUT from the Kloth is a personal favorite for quality of denim, stretch with bounce-back, and styles that are on trend without looking passe in a season. Available in Misses 00-18, Petite 0-16, and Plus 14W-26W, Kut from the Kloth can be shopped at Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, Dillard's, Zappos, Evereve, Amazon, and the retailer's website.

Lands' End

2010 Alison would never imagine that 2025 Alison owns not one but multiple pairs of Lands' End jeans. In fact, I am wearing a pair of high-waisted wide-leg jeans from Lands' End as I type this! High quality denim with the perfect amount of stretch, on-trend cuts made more classic, and a fit that works with the body of a grown-ass women left me pleasantly surprised and turned me into a fan. Lands' End jeans come in misses sizes 00-18, misses sizes 2-18, tall sizes 6-18, and plus sizes 14W-34W plus several styles offer multiple inseam lengths.

I find a lot of the Lands' End silhouettes similar to Madewell. If you're an apple shape like me, and Madewell never seems to fit correctly, check out Lands' End. While you may see Lands' End jeans sold at a range of retailers, know they are being sent directly from Lands' End, and you will have to deal with Lands' End for returns. Therefore, I highly recommend shopping directly from Lands' End to get the best customer experience (and likely a better price because LE often has sales).

NYDJ

NYDJ is the OG GOAT for great jeans for apple shapes. With Waist-Match, a hidden satin elastic band keeps your waist in place preventing gaping or drooping. Internal mesh compression panel, curved yoke, and higher placed pockets lift and curve the rear. Plus, NYDJ has innovative textiles that use recycled fabrics, hold color saturation, stretch up to three sizes, sculpt and compress, and always keep their shape.

With Misses, Petite, and Tall in sizes 00-18 and Plus sizes 14W-28W, there is a great range of shapes, sizes, and lengths. Since I started Wardrobe Oxygen in 2005, I have been a fan of the ‘Marilyn' jeans from NYDJ, which is a classic straight leg with a slightly high waist that I find looks good on a beautiful range of bodies and those of us with apple shapes.

NYDJ jeans are sold at major retailers like Nordstrom, Macy's, and Dillard's, but you will find the best selection of sizes, washes, and styles on the NYDJ website.

Old Navy

Personally, I am not a fan of Old Navy jeans. Actually, let me rephrase that. I try a pair of Old Navy jeans and they fit amazing and I tear off the tags and wear them and by noon I look like I'm wearing a denim diaper with legs. Everything gets stretched out and I'm yanking up my waist each time I stand. But I seem to be in the minority because if you do any research about the best jeans for apple figures or ask the Wardrobe Oxygen community, folks will recommend Old Navy every time, and specifically call out the Old Navy “Wow” jeans.

Old Navy's WOW jeans are a budget offering from the already wallet-friendly retailer. Softer and stretchier than most of their jeans, the ON WOWs are thicker than a jegging, but still very flexible and comfortable. Many say to size down, including me. I find they stretch out and need to be wet or washed or dried to reshape. But these jeans are a great price (between $20-$35) and come in a fantastic size range (00-30 with three inseams, Tall in 4-18, and Petite in 2-18). I look forward to comments that share why Old Navy, and specifically the WOW jeans are so good for apple shapes!

PAIGE

Do you remember in the 2000s when premium denim was all the rage? Back then I bought a pair of PAIGE jeans and was floored by the fit and quality in comparison to jeans from Express, Gap, and the thrift store. Paige Adams-Geller, started out as the top fit model in the industry where she learned the details that go into achieving the perfect fit. When she launched PAIGE in 2004, she ensured every item was comfortable, flattering, high-quality and would stand the test of time. 

PAIGE continues to be premium denim, meticulously tested for quality and longevity. With stretch and a shape that is excellent for apple shapes, these aren't the cheapest jeans on the list but may be the ones that last in your closet the longest. PAIGE jeans are available in Misses and Petite 23-34 and Plus sizes 40-52. PAIGE jeans can be found at retailers like Nordstrom and Shopbop, but the best selection is on the PAIGE site.

Talbots

Talbots has been my favorite place to buy jeans for many years. I find the cut to be straighter than many other retailers, the denim quality stellar, the design and washes on trend, and I appreciate the extensive size range (misses 2-18, petite 0-16, plus 14W-24W, and plus petite 14WP-24WP).

Torrid

Torrid carries a line of jeans called Bombshell jeans. These jeans are higher rise, slim from waist to thigh and come in a range of cuts and styles. I am partial to the wide leg, straight leg, and flare leg for us apple shapes. Torrid jeans come in sizes 10W-32W with three inseam lengths.

Wit & Wisdom

Wit & Wisdom denim has what they call Contour Shape Technology, which provides each pair of their jeans with a hidden elastic waistband to keep your jeans in place, inner mesh panels for gentle tummy control, intentionally larger back pockets, and a sculpted yoke to show off your rear assets best.

Made with premium stretch denim, Wit & Wisdom jeans are good at keeping their shape while moving with you. Wit & Wisdom jeans are available on the brand website, Nordstrom, and Nordstrom Rack in Misses 00-18, Petite 00P-18P, and Plus 14W-24W.

The Best Cuts of Jeans for Apple Shapes

Anybody can wear any style of jeans. The most stylish thing you can wear is something that brings you comfort and joy. As a person with an apple-shaped body who has been styling and writing about fashion for over two decades, I have found some cuts and silhouettes of jeans to just feel better and provide a more balanced effect on apple shapes:

• Bootcut Jeans: I am so glad bootcut jeans are back in fashion because they are fantastic for us apple shapes! The subtle flare at the hemline balances the figure while also looking great with boots, sneakers, and other comfortable shoes.
• Flare Jeans: Just like bootcut jeans, a flare jean with the extra width at the hemline can balance a frame. Those who are apples with shorter legs may find some flares to be excessive, but as a petite I've found some flares at retailers like Universal Standard and Talbots to look and feel great without being costumey.
• Slim-Straight Jeans: Not skinny, and not a classic straight fit, many denim brands carry styles called slim-straight and they are excellent for apple shapes. Skinny jeans just emphasize the lollipop/ice cream cone/apple effect, but a jean that has a bit more room but is still trim will balance while not having so much excess fabric in the hips, lower rear, and thighs.
• Stovepipe Jeans: A stovepipe jean is a cut of denim that is fitted at the thigh and goes straight down like a stovepipe. A stovepipe jean will be a bit wider in the leg than a straight jean but not so much it will look wide or relaxed. This trim top and slightly fuller leg can creat comfort with balance for apple shapes.
• Denim Trousers: Denim trousers are straight- to wide-leg leg pants made out of some version of denim fabric. Often from lighter-weight denim often blended with Tencel or a synthetic, denim trousers usually are a color or dark/rinse denim, free of the contrast stitching and rivets, and offer a polished look that works with a range of body shapes, including us apples.
• Sailor Jeans: Sailor jeans are a variation of wide-leg jeans, but with faux or functioning button closure not in the center but on the sides of the midsection. Some jeans call themselves sailor jeans and do not have the buttons, but do have a side zipper closure. This reduces bulk on the midsection while having that drape from high-hip down. Sailor jeans either have no back pockets, or flap pockets, which can add volume to a flat bum.
• High-Waisted Jeans: No need to have your waistband hit your ribcage, but you may find that a higher rise will be less likely to stretch out through the day, give you a cleaner silhouette under untucked tops, and be less likely to segment or cause “muffin top.”
• Wide-Leg Jeans: With a wide-leg jean, you only need to fit your waist and the rest just drapes from there. I am a big fan of wide-leg jeans for comfort and style. It may be hard to change your perspective as we grown-ass women have had archaic style shoved down our throats since birth. We've always been told we need to look leaner, longer, taller, slimmer, and more hourglass and wide-leg jeans go against all of that. But try them in lighter-weight denim with a tucked-in or shorter top and play with that effect. You may find wide-leg jeans pleasantly surprising (and I've found I get so many compliments from younger generations!).

Tips for Making Jeans Work for Apple Shapes

Apart from the brands listed above, I have some tips for apple shapes when buying jeans that may help for other denim brands as well as when shopping resale or working with not-quite-right jeans already in your closet.

• Consider a Waistband Stretcher: There are shoe stretchers, there are hat stretchers, and there are jeans stretchers! These gadgets can easily add up to an inch of space to a waistband without damage. I like this jeans stretcher, which keeps the jeans unfastened, preventing strain on the buttonhole or zipper.
• Try a Button Extender: An alternative to a waistband stretcher is a button extender. This is a great option for those who prefer untucked tops. These highly-rated button extenders are sturdy, reliable, and if seen, look more polished than the old-school hair tie hack.
• Shop the Men's Department: Jeans for women are often designed for an hourglass shape: a smaller waist with curves at the hips. But men's jeans are cut far straighter. Especially if you are an apple shape with a smaller rear, you may find great success with men's denim!
• If in Doubt, Size Down: I always suggest one to buy the size that fit the largest part of the body being covered by the garment and then tailor down. That is good advice for all garments… except jeans. With the heavyweight and hint of stretch with denim, sizing down will give your jeans a better chance to mold to fit your body and be less likely to have a saggy bum by lunchtime.
• Curvy Cuts are Not for Apple Shapes: Many retailers now carry “curvy” cuts for jeans and trousers. This cut is designed for “pear” shaped bodies or those who deal with waistband gap due to having curvy hips, thighs, and lower bum. Such a cut will make you question your body so steer clear away.
• Consider Zippers Instead of Button-Fly Jeans: Button-fly jeans add a lot of bulk to the belly, which can emphasize a midsection. Also, if the jeans are a snug fit, the fabric may buckle a bit between buttons, creating a lumpy effect.
• Be aware of pocket size and location. A lot of styles of jeans this year have front patch pockets, which can draw attention to a tummy. Slash/side pockets may buckle with your curves, and if back pockets hang too low (I'm looking at you, Everlane), they can make a rear look flatter and saggy. If you don't have mirrors to be able to see your back side, set up your phone with a self-timer to check out the pocket situation. If it doesn't make you happy, know even different styles within brands can have different size and placement of pockets. It's not you, it's the clothes that are the problem!
• Not All Midrise Jeans Are Created Equal: Some apple shapes love a midrise; others hate it. The thing is, not all midrises are the same length, and the rise is affected by the cut of the jeans. You may find that a slightly higher midrise will work better with your apple shape and be less likely to slide down or segment. Check size charts, which often share the exact measurements of the rise. Note the rise measurement and how they fit and with trial and error you can find the rise height that works best with your unique shape.