Do I REALLY Have to Buy Expensive Denim to Eliminate the Stress of Jean Shopping?!

Let’s be honest: few things stress women out more than shopping for jeans. It’s emotional. It’s frustrating. And half the time, we blame our bodies instead of the jeans. I know this because my mom tells me her dilemma with jeans weekly! Ha.

Here’s the question I get all the time: "Do I have to buy expensive jeans to finally feel good in them?"

Short answer? No. But… the longer answer is: it depends.

To be honest, I’ve currently been asking myself this. I’ve been on a jean saga the last month, and I think my husband is at his wits’ end…but like I tell my clients - buy INTENTIONALLY!

If it doesn’t fit, don’t try to make it. The perfect pair is out there!!

Often, I haven’t had the budget to buy the clothes I really want, even though I KNOW they fit me the best. (I’ve tried them on so I know how they fit.)

But I’ve been forcing myself to take my own medicine. Denim isn’t about price—it’s about fit, fabric, and function. You don’t need a $300 pair to feel amazing, but you do need a pair that’s been thoughtfully made, in a cut and wash that supports your lifestyle, body, and personal style. Which DOES sometimes mean to find that, you have to spend $200 plus on a pair.

Example: I’m currently wearing a pair from FRAME that are quoted at $298…

Here’s what I want you to consider when buying denim:

1. Fit comes FIRST.

If the rise is too short, the waistband digs, or you’re constantly pulling them up, you’ll never wear them, no matter the price.

2. Pay attention to fabric content.

Look for blends with a little structure and stretch, usually around 1–2% elastane. The cheaper the denim, the more likely it is to stretch out or lose its shape quickly. (Pro Tip: You also don’t need to wash your denim unless they actually get dirty and/or smell!)

3. Don’t be afraid of tailoring!

If a pair fits perfectly through the hips but needs hemming or a waistband nip—it’s worth the extra $20–$30 at the tailor to make them “the one.” They will last longer, you’ll love them longer, and you’ll ultimately get more wear out of them. If you don’t, I genuinely consider them a waste of money.

4. It’s better to own 2 great pairs than 6 frustrating ones.

The goal isn’t more jeans. It’s fewer pairs that you actually love wearing.

So no, you don’t need designer denim to feel confident. But you do need to stop settling for jeans that work against you. Whether they’re $60 or $260, what matters is how they make you feel when you put them on.

Next week, I’ll share my favorite brands—at every price point—that I’ve personally styled, tried on myself, or sent to clients!

Until then? Take a breath. The perfect jeans DO exist. And you deserve to feel amazing in them. (And find them!

Looking for a personal stylist in LA or Orange County?

If denim shopping has left you frustrated more times than you can count, you're not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. I work with clients across Los Angeles County and Orange County—from Santa Monica to Redondo Beach, and Newport to Laguna—offering both in-person and virtual personal styling support.

Whether you need help curating the perfect pair of jeans or want a full closet refresh, I specialize in styling women who are ready to simplify, elevate, and feel confident in everything they wear.

Want expert eyes on your closet? Learn more about my personal styling services.

In Him,

Hannah J.