“Vaccine optimism” is urging many to refresh their closets after a long year spent rotating between sweats and their go-to denim.
For women, this means introducing (or in many cases, re-introducing) low-rise denim with more relaxed fits. For men, it means trading in dark washes for a summer-ready light hue.
According to recent data from product intelligence company Trendalytics, new arrivals of men’s light wash jeans are up 12 percent, indicating they’re sure to be a staple. Here’s how to add the up-and-coming style to your wardrobe.
Calvin Klein
Dad jeans are to men what mom jeans are to women: comfort-driven and trendy. This pair from Calvin Klein checks all the boxes.
Mugsy
Known for its fuss-free, high-stretch denim, Mugsy offers jeans that “stick to the basics” and appeal to all men, with sizing through 42W. This pair has received rave reviews from shoppers who consider it “the most comfortable pair of jeans” they own.
J.Crew
Featuring a slim fit and tapered leg, this pair of light-wash jeans from J.Crew features high-quality details, including denim sourced from the Kaihara mill in Japan, one of the largest and best-known denim makers in the world.
Todd Snyder
Todd Snyder’s ultra-light-wash denim features the same vintage-inspired design details of the brand’s selvedge jeans but in a unique stretch fabric that brings together the best of both worlds.
Asos Design
For light-wash denim under $40, opt for this pair from Asos. With ample stretch and a slightly wider ankle opening, it provides all of the comfort without sacrificing style.
Gap
Featuring 5 percent recycled cotton and GapFlex stretch technology, these timeless Gap jeans are both responsibly made and comfortable.
Express
These athletic tapered jeans from Express feature just enough distressing to emulate a vintage look. Pair with a white T-shirt to keep things extra casual.
H&M
For those who prefer more fashion-forward styles, these H&M jeans feature extreme distressing and an extra skinny fit.
BDG
Featuring recycled cotton and a dad-inspired fit, these BDG jeans from Urban Outfitters are on-trend in every sense. Pair with a boxy button down to complete the look.
