It’s about that time again: time to swap out your skirts and sandals for jeans and boots.
But with denim trends constantly in flux, the idea of spending a ton on a pair of jeans that will just go out of style next year isn’t particularly appealing.
So, we did a deep dive to find the best affordable brands that offer cute jeans for less than $50. Check out our picks below.
Pssst… this article includes affiliate links which means we may make a commission if you make a purchase
Best For Finding the Latest Trends: Forever 21
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Get ready to feel nostalgic because it’s time to revisit the brand you loved as a teen: Forever 21.
The retailer recently launched their Denim 21 collection that features over 300 different styles. So whether you’re going for the coastal cowgirl look or hopping on the cargo bandwagon, there’s definitely a pair (or two or three) that will peak your interest.
Sizes range from 23-34 (inches) for straight-sized pairs and 12-22 in plus sizes. Prices start at $13.
Best For Size Inclusivity: Old Navy
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While many brands have made attempts to extend their sizes, Old Navy is one of the few that has actually put their money where their mouth is. Unlike other brands that stop at size 22, Old Navy jeans go up to a size 30!
They also offer tall and petite options (although the size ranges are smaller). Prices range from $10-$65 with most pairs marked around $35-$45.
Best For Size Inclusivity (Runner Up): Wild Fable By Target
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Target has a lot of in-house brands that offer denim but Wild Fable has to be our favorite. The label offers several trendy styles that range in size from 00-30. Prices are also ideal with jeans only costing $20-$30.
The one downside is the small selection, which only includes 31 pairs (as opposed to Old Navy, which has over 300 styles).
That said, Target does have other in-house brands that also offer jeans like Universal Thread, Knox Rose, and Ava & Viv, but the size ranges may be a bit more limited.
Best For Quality: American Eagle
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Adding in another favorite from your mall-shopping days: American Eagle.
American Eagle has top-notch quality jeans and, just as importantly, excellent sales! And the brand will pretty much come up with any reason to throw a sale so it’s rare that you have to pay full-price for a pair.
Prices range from $24-$98 but the majority of jeans are under $45. Sizes are ~somewhat~ inclusive and range from 000- 22. The brand also offers variations like short, x-short, long, and x-long.
Honorable Mention: H&M
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H&M has a ton of cute, trendy styles at reasonable prices (most cost between $30-$45). And now that the brand has *finally* fixed their sizing, you’re much more likely to find a pair that fit and flatter.
Technically, sizes range from 0-30, but in reality, the brand’s offerings for sizes 22 and above are pretty lame.
