Trying to buy the perfect pair of jeans has got to be up there - perhaps with bras and swimwear - as the most difficult (and, it's got to be said, dispiriting) pursuit of a shopping nature. If they fit on the waist, they don't fit on the bum. If they fit on the bum, they don't fit on the waist. (And don't get me started on the leg length). That will be the refrain going around your head on repeat if, like me, you're pear-shaped.
I've tried a lot of jeans - from high street to high end - and can personally attest to the fact that finding a pair that hugs my smaller waist and bigger hips to perfection is pretty hard. I have several pairs that can't be worn without a jumper or shirt to cover the waist because it gapes (and several others that are way too tight on the crotch, like way too tight).
But, after extensive research in the field, I can confirm that there's one shop that seems to tick all the boxes - that's waist, bum and leg - and it's, praise be, a high street hero: Marks & Spencer.
Though the brand's now cult favourite turn-up jeans are out of stock, they are the blueprint for other retailers hoping to jump onto the wide-leg jean bandwagon. They're slim on the thighs and wider on the leg, with a folded hem perfectly paired with Birkenstock sandals.
But don't worry. Just because the M&S jeans are out of stock, doesn't mean a new pair of pear shape-friendly jeans isn't on its way to your capsule collection. We've found the best for you to shop now, including a different pair from M&S.
Below is an edit of the best pear-friendly jeans, including personal recommendations from yours truly.
Best Jean Styles For Pear Shaped Body Types
When it comes to finding the perfect jeans for pear-shaped body types, there are a few different styles to think about.
Wide-leg jeans are a fantastic choice as they create a streamlined silhouette that elongates the legs and balances out wider hips, plus a baggy jean is always in. Flared jeans, with their classic 70s style, also work wonders for a pear-shaped figure. The fitted upper leg and flare from the knee create an hourglass illusion, drawing attention away from the hips and enhancing your figure.
For a more casual, everyday option, mom jeans should be your go-to. Their high waist cinches in your frame, while the relaxed fit through the hips offers comfort without compromising style.
Shop: The Best Jeans If You're Pear-Shaped 2024
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
These wide-leg jeans hug the waist and are pleasingly loose on the leg. If you're after a pair of jeans with a somewhat relaxed and slightly cropped fit, look to this M&S pair. In fact, don't just take our word from it, there are over 200 reviews on the site, which include praises of the jeans, saying they're baggy enough to be cool for the summer, and they can be either dressed up or down.
Pros
- Flattering high waist
- Tapered 'carrot' cut
- Guaranteed quality from M&S
Cons
- The cropped style means it might come up too short on taller sizes
Abercrombie & Fitchwww.abercrombie.com
Abercrombie know their stuff when it comes to a pair of jeans. With short regular and long options still available to buy, you know you'll get the perfect fit with these denim wardrobe staples.
Pros
- Made from super light drapey denim
- Clean hem
- Available in three washes; light, medium and dark
Cons
- Very high waisted which isn't for everyone
Uniqlowww.uniqlo.com
Uniqlo's Wide Straight Leg Jeans actually have a choice of three different length options too, to ensure a perfect fit if you're pear-shaped and are on the hunt of a casual pair of denim bottoms. This exact pair of jeans has almost 100 people raving about how great they are; with customers saying the Wide Straight Leg Jeans are so soft and comfortable, as well as practical.
Pros
- Available in three different length; 29 inch, 31 inch and 33 inch
- Slightly fitted at the hips and a wide, straight cut from thighs to the hem
- Made from 100% cotton denim
Cons
- Some reviewers say the sizing comes up slightly large
E.L.V. Denimelvdenim.com
E.L.V. Denim uses upcycled jeans - two old pairs for every new pair - to make its signature contrast-colour styles that look incredible paired with a pair of pointed toe flats.
Pros
- Flattering high waist
- Handcrafted from two pairs of vintage jeans
- Feels like rigid denim with a worn-in, soft touch
Cons
- Cropped at a 28 inch inseam which isn't ideal for taller individuals
new lookwww.newlook.com
New Look jeans are a perfect fit for my pear-shaped figure, especially when they're cut like this pair: high on the waist and loose on the leg. They'll work at any time of the year too, just pair with a season appropriate blouse or jumper.
Pros
- Gorgeous dark grey colour
- Flattering baggy fit
- Affordable
Cons
- Quite a rigid denim
Nobody's Childwww.nobodyschild.com
Want some reliable jeans? Nobody's Child has the solution to all your problems. These Mid Wash, eco-friendly, organic cotton jeans are the perfect addition to any jean lover's wardrobe collection.
Pros
- Available in three denim washes
- Cut to a classic rise
- Reinforced pressure points with responsible bar tacks
Cons
- No waist sizes, only available in clothes sizes
Dieseluk.diesel.com
Diesel are a brand synonymous with making great jeans, and this pair is no different. Made from a soft denim, this pair of jeans hugs your curves and cinches your silhouette, while the subtle flare from the knee down adds a touch of vintage glam.
Pros
- Retro bootcut style
- Guaranteed quality from Diesel
- Lower waist with higher back coverage
Cons
- Available in three lengths; 30 inch, 32 inch, 34 inch, which isn't ideal for petite individuals
AmazonIt wouldn't be a true 'best jeans' listicle without mention of Levi's. The classic 501 style is one of the most popular in the world, because they feature a versatile, straight fit and an effortlessly cool silhouette (especially if you're pear-shaped).
Editors review: Fashion commerce writer, Gemma Lavers calls the 501's her 'go-to jean.' She says 'If you're under five foot four (which I am), these Levi's Crop Jeans are what I'm calling the ultimate petite-girl hack. Sometimes I find in Levi's jeans that length 28 inch is too long and 26 inch is too short. This cropped pair are the perfect length as well as style, with a fitted waist that's super flattering and a slightly baggier leg.'
Pros
- Straight leg style
- Available in a variety of denim washes
- Fitted through the thigh and hip to show off curves
Cons
- Cropped fit so might not work on taller individuals
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Like we said earlier, if in doubt of wear to get a great quality, flattering pair of jeans that won't cost a fortune - head straight to the M&S website. This particular pair are popular for a reason, with delighted customers flooding the site with rave reviews on how much of a lovely fit they are and how the flared leg adds just a touch of glamour.
Pros
- Great shape
- Selection of three colour; black, medium indigo and indigo mix
- Short, regular and long lengths available too
Cons
- Some reviews say the black pair of M&S Shaping jeans fits different from the other denim shades
Mangoshop.mango.com
With a high-rise fit, these Mango jeans will accentuate your waist while providing a relaxed, tapered leg that offers a nod to the iconic 90s mom-jean style. In this exact shade, a light-blue wash, the jeans are super versatile and perfect for pairing with anything from chunky knits to fun blouses.
Pros
- Mom-fit that's flattering on everyone
- Available in five different denim washes
- Closed hem
Cons
- Sizing is only available in clothes sizes rather than waist
Natalie Hammond is senior fashion news editor at Grazia. She previously worked at The Times - and has written for publications including The Telegraph, The Financial Times and gal-dem. She loves a ludicrously capacious bag (sorry, Tom!) and has never met a pair of clogs she wouldn’t wear.