Guide to Different Types of Jeans for Men
A great pair of denim jeans is a must-have for any wardrobe. This fashion classic has been around for decades, and these days we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to men’s jean styles. With the sheer variety of fits, cuts and colours available, it can sometimes be tricky to make a decision.
Fortunately, help is at hand! From straight leg to skinny jean styles and beyond, in this guide, we’ll look at all the different types of jeans for men and explain how to find the perfect pair of stylish denim jeans that fit you just right.
Popular Men's Jeans Fits
Finding the right fit is the key to looking sharp in your new jeans. Explore some of the most popular options so you can find the perfect pair:
- Straight fit: Consistent width from hip to hem.
- Slim fit: Slightly tapered from hip to ankle.
- Skinny fit: Tight fit through hip, thigh and ankle.
- Tapered fit: Roomier at the thigh, narrowing towards the ankle.
- Loose fit: Very roomy throughout.
Straight Leg Jeans
Straight leg jeans are among the most versatile type of men’s jeans, as they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They offer a forgiving style with room for comfortable movement and are easy to put on, unlike some other jean styles.
These jeans have a straight silhouette from the hips to the ankles, with a mid-rise waist designed to sit just below your belly button and slightly above your hips. Ensure the right fit by finding a comfortable pair that aren’t too tight or baggy.
• Sizes: 28”-46” (XS-XXXL)
• Materials: Cotton, cotton blends
• Colours: Beige, black, blue, brown, cream, green, grey, multi-coloured, white
• Denim wash: Black, blue, dark wash, light wash, mid wash, white
Slim Jeans
The slim jean style is ideal for guys who like the idea of wearing skinny jeans but want a little more room to move and breathe. They should sit comfortably on the hips and follow the line of your leg without clinging too tightly.
The advantage of slim jeans is that they look sharper compared with regular straight leg jeans. The fit is ideal for men with slighter builds as they create a pleasing line from the waist down to the feet.
With their tailored yet casual style, slim types of jeans are perfect for casual Fridays at work, or dinner with friends.
• Sizes: 28”-38” (XS-XXXL)
• Materials: Cotton, cotton blends
• Colours: Black, blue, brown, grey, purple, white
• Denim wash: Black, blue, dark wash, light wash, mid wash, white
Skinny Leg Jeans
Once exclusive to punk rockers, skinny jeans have become a fashion staple for all sorts of men, from the young to the young at heart! These types of jeans tend to come in two categories (tight and spray-on) and typically feature a low to mid-rise waist with a zipper fly.
Skinny jeans are made from cotton blended with elastane, providing flexibility for movement and breathing. Though it may take some effort to put them on, once you do, you can flaunt an edgy yet cool look, making them perfect for live music events, and making an impression on a first date.
• Sizes: 28”-36” (XS-XXL)
• Materials: Cotton, cotton blends
• Colours: Black, blue, brown, grey, white
Tapered Jeans
The love child of slim and skinny cuts, tapered jeans look good on anyone. Slim through the hips, they follow the natural tapered shape of your legs, narrowing from thigh to ankle. Of all the different types of jeans for men, this style is among the most flattering.
If you have fairly muscular legs, tapered jeans are a good compromise between regular and skinny jeans. They provide you with room in the thighs, while narrowing towards the ankle in a stylish and smart way.
Because tapered jeans have a tailored style, they’re a great choice for smart casual situations.
• Sizes: 28”-36” (XS-XXL)
• Materials: Cotton, cotton blends
• Colours: Black, blue, grey, white
• Denim wash: Black, blue, dark wash, light wash, mid wash
Loose Jeans
Loose jeans are designed for men who prefer generous room through the thigh and leg. Unlike slimmer cuts, they offer a relaxed silhouette with plenty of breathing space.
Within loose-fit styles, you’ll find variations such as baggy cuts with extra drape, relaxed fits that balance ease with structure, barrel shapes that curve subtly through the leg and seam-forward designs that shift the side seam for a more elongated look. All sit comfortably on the hips and create a laid‑back profile.
• Sizes: 28"–40"
• Materials: Cotton, cotton blends
• Colours: Black, blue, brown, cream, green, grey
• Denim wash: Black, blue, dark wash, light wash, mid wash
Types of Jean Rises
In the world of jeans fashion, “rise” refers to where the waistband sits on your body. Understanding the different rises can help you choose the fit that feels most comfortable and flattering.
Here are the most common options:
- Low-rise: Sits below the natural waist and rests closer to the hips. Ideal for a relaxed, laid‑back look.
- Mid-rise: Sits comfortably around the natural waist. This is the most versatile and commonly worn rise, offering a balanced fit for most body types.
- High-rise: Sits above the natural waist, providing extra coverage and a longer‑looking leg line. Great for a structured, vintage‑inspired silhouette.
Leg Length
Leg length is important when considering different types of jeans and fits for men. Choosing the right length ensures your jeans sit cleanly at the ankle and complement the overall fit.
Here are the most popular options:
- Short: Designed for shorter inseams, this length prevents excess fabric from gathering at the ankle and provides a neat, proportionate look.
- Regular: The standard inseam length that suits most men, offering a balanced fit without appearing cropped or overly long.
- Tall: Created for longer legs, this length ensures the hem reaches the right point without riding up.
Types of Jean Washes
The wash of a pair of jeans impacts its colour, texture and overall style. Whether you're looking for a crisp white wash or a deep black finish, here’s a breakdown of the most common jean washes:
Black Wash Jeans
Black wash jeans are dyed with black or charcoal pigments, offering a bold and versatile denim option.
• Best for: A modern, edgy men’s look that works well for streetwear and smart-casual outfits.
• Styling tip: Pair with a black turtleneck and Chelsea boots for an all-black ensemble.
Blue Black Wash Jeans
Combining deep indigo tones with black dye, blue black wash jeans are perfect for nailing the smart‑casual dress code. They feature a near‑black finish that looks sleek while still showing subtle denim texture.
• Best for: A polished, modern look that transitions easily from day to night.
• Styling tip: Pair with a black turtleneck and Chelsea boots for an all-black ensemble.
Dark Blue Wash Jeans
Dark wash jeans retain more of their indigo dye, giving them a deep, rich blue tone with minimal fading.
• Best for: A sleek and sophisticated option for both casual and semi-formal men’s outfits.
• Styling tip: Wear with a blazer and dress shoes for a stylish evening look.
Blue Wash Jeans
The classic blue jean colour, available in various tones from mid to dark. Blue wash jeans maintain some of their original indigo colour while appearing slightly faded.
• Best for: A timeless denim look for men that suits any occasion.
• Styling tip: Pair with a button-up shirt and boots for a refined yet laid-back outfit.
Medium Blue Wash Jeans
A balance between light and dark wash, mid-wash jeans have a slightly faded blue tone with a well-worn feel.
• Best for: Versatile styling that can be dressed up or down.
• Styling tip: Pair with a polo shirt and leather loafers for a polished casual look.
Light Blue Wash Jeans
Light wash jeans have undergone an extensive washing process to remove most of the indigo dye, giving them a soft, faded blue shade.
• Best for: A relaxed, casual aesthetic perfect for everyday menswear.
• Styling tip: Wear with a white tee and denim jacket for a cool, effortless vibe.
Ecru Wash Jeans
Ecru wash jeans feature an off‑white, natural cotton shade. This gives them a warm, understated look that’s softer than bright white denim.
• Best for: A clean, contemporary style that works well across casual and smart‑casual outfits.
• Styling tip: Pair with earthy tones or a lightweight knit for an effortlessly refined ensemble.
White Wash Jeans
White wash jeans have been heavily bleached to remove all indigo dye, resulting in a clean, bright white finish.
• Best for: A fresh, modern look for men that works well in warmer seasons.
• Styling tip: Pair with a linen shirt and sneakers for a smart-casual summer outfit.
Types of Jean Fabrications
The fabrication of different jean styles for men affects how they feel, move and wear over time.
- Stretch types: Refers to how much flexibility is built into the denim.
- Stretch: Contains elastane to offer a close, comfortable fit.
- Comfort: Light stretch for ease of movement.
- Rigid: Traditional, non‑stretch denim that softens and moulds to your body with wear.
- Fabric blends: Denim made from a mix of fibres, such as cotton blended with elastane or polyester. These blends can improve durability, comfort and shape retention.
- Sustainability: Fabrics designed with environmental considerations in mind.
- Recycled cotton: Denim made partially from repurposed cotton fibres, reducing waste.
How To Measure & Fit Your Jeans
To understand your measurements, use a pair of jeans you already own. Lay your jeans flat on an even surface, then measure:
- Waist: Measure straight across the top edge of the waistband. Double this number to find the full waist circumference.
- Rise: Measure from the crotch seam up to the top of the waistband. The rise determines where the jeans sit on your body:
- Lower rise fits lower on the hips
- Mid and high‑rise fits sit closer to or at the natural waist
- In‑seam: Measure along the inside leg seam from the crotch down to the hem.
Optional measurements:
- Thigh: Measure just below the crotch seam across the widest point of the thigh.
- Leg opening: Measure straight across the bottom hem.
Denim Care Guide
Denim can shrink, but the amount depends on the fabric and finish. Raw or rigid 100% cotton denim may shrink on the first wash, especially in warm or hot water, while pre‑washed or stretch denim typically changes only slightly. Stretch denim often relaxes as you wear it and firms up again after washing.
Because different denims respond differently, always follow the garment’s care label.
To keep your jeans looking their best:
- Wash them sparingly and only when needed.
- Use a cold wash with mild detergent.
- Avoid bleach and turn your jeans inside out to preserve colour.
- Always air dry in the shade. Avoid tumble drying to maintain shape and minimise shrinkage.
Men’s Jean Fit Terminology
When shopping for jeans, you’ll often come across different terms that describe how they fit and feel. Understanding these key denim terms can help you find a pair that’s comfortable and stylish.
Below, we break down jeans terminology so you can shop with confidence:
- Waist: The top of the jeans that wraps around the waist.
- Rise: Distance from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband which includes high-rise, mid-rise and low-rise.
- Inseam: Length from the crotch to the bottom of the leg.
- Outseam: Length from the waistband to the bottom of the leg.
FAQs About Men's Jeans
What is the difference between slim and skinny jeans?
Slim jeans have a tailored, slightly tapered fit, while skinny jeans are tighter from the thigh down to the ankle for a more form-fitting look.
Are straight-leg jeans the same as relaxed-fit jeans?
No, straight-leg jeans maintain the same width from hip to ankle, while relaxed-fit jeans provide extra room throughout the legs.
What’s the difference between bootcut and flare jeans?
Bootcut jeans slightly widen from the knee to the ankle, while flare jeans have a more dramatic widening at the bottom.
How do I measure my jeans size?
Men should look to measure their waist, inseam and leg opening. Compare these measurements with your favourite brand’s size chart for an accurate fit.
Are relaxed-fit jeans good for larger thighs?
Yes, relaxed and tapered fits are ideal for men with more muscular thighs, as they provide room while maintaining a structured shape.
Which jeans are best for casual wear?
Straight, slim and relaxed-fit jeans are versatile options for everyday casual menswear.
What type of jeans should I wear for a formal look?
Dark-wash slim or straight-leg jeans paired with a blazer and dress shoes can create a polished, semi-formal menswear look.
What shoes go best with different types of jeans?
Sneakers and loafers pair well with slim and skinny jeans, while boots work best with straight or bootcut jeans.
Are ripped jeans still in style?
Yes, distressed and ripped jeans remain a popular trend in men’s fashion, especially in casual and streetwear fashion.
How often should I wash my jeans?
Washing every 5–10 wears is ideal to maintain denim quality and prevent fading.
What’s the best way to wash and dry jeans?
Wash in cold water, inside out, and air dry to prevent shrinkage and fading.
How do I prevent my jeans from fading?
Avoid frequent washing, use mild detergent and dry them in the shade instead of direct sunlight.