Looking for all the details on the 2026 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale? ⬇️
I spent some quality time in the fitting room this year, tried on a LOT of jeans and these are the pairs that earned a spot on my list. I’m ranking them from my number one favorite on down, plus two honorable mentions I just couldn’t leave out. Here’s how they stacked up.
For reference, I’m 5’4” and about 140lbs currently. I “carry my weight” in my bottom and thighs. Lately I’ve been between a 27 and a 28 (or 4/6), depending on the amount of stretch.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
#1 — Paige Anessa High Waist Wide Leg (avail in regular & petite)
How they fit: High rise (11½"), wide leg with a 22½" opening, 31" inseam (28" petite). 93% cotton with a little stretch. Runs true to size. If between sizes, size down. These have comfortable stretch. These were an instant yes for me-the wide leg is so flattering and really elongates the legs. Pocket placement (for a flattering behind) is spot on. (I’m wearing a 27 regular with a 1 3/4”heel) and it’s VERY comfortable.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
#2 — Anessa High Waist Wide Leg (Vintage Champagne Stone)
How they fit: High rise (11½"), wide leg (22½" opening), 31" inseam. 98% cotton, 2% elastane, so just a hint of give. The soft neutral wash makes these feel a little dressier, and the fit was just as good as my number one. These are SO SOFT and felt like a slightly thinner material than the blue denim above. I’m wearing a 27.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
#3 — Mother The Kick It High Waist Straight Leg (same jean, just one cuffed)
How they fit: High rise (10½"), straight leg (17½" opening), 32" inseam. Soft cotton-modal blend with a touch of stretch. Made in the USA. A true everyday workhorse-the straight leg is easy and the cuffed option gives you two looks in one. Side note: honestly, this Mother style is the only one in the Anniversary sale that works WELL on my fuller thighs and bottom. I’m wearing a 27. So, if you’re built like me….
________________________________________________________________________________________
#4 — The Mellow Ankle Straight Leg
How they fit: Mid-to-high rise (10"), straight ankle length (27½" inseam, 18" opening). 90% cotton with good stretch. The ankle length hit at a great spot with my boots and my pumps, and the stretch made them REALLY comfortable. I’m wearing a 27 and they are supportive too.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
#5 — The Twisted Seam Bow High Waist Barrel Leg
How they fit: High rise (12¼"), barrel leg (20" opening), 30½" inseam. 100% cotton, so rigid with no stretch. A fun, fashion-forward barrel shape, and the rigid cotton holds its structure beautifully. I LOVE these. I’m wearing a 27 and they’re so flattering!
____________________________________________________________________________________________
#6 — Lexi Distressed Studded Crop Barrel
How they fit: High rise (11½"), cropped barrel (28" inseam, 17" opening). 100% cotton, rigid, with distressing and stud details. This is the statement pair-the studs and distressing add so much personality. Not the most comfortable in my true size because they’re rigid. I’d size up (but I prefer loose to tight anyway).
____________________________________________________________________________________________
#7 — Brinley Mid Rise Straight Leg
How they fit: Mid rise (10¼"), straight leg (16" opening), 29½" inseam. Stretchy cotton-lyocell blend. A no-fuss classic straight leg that pairs with just about everything in my closet. These fit me in the size 26 I had on-hand (because they are a relaxed style). For the intended look, I’d buy the TTS 27, but yes, you CAN size down for a more tailored fit.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
#8 — Bri High Waist Ankle Straight Leg
How they fit: High rise (11½"), slim straight ankle (28" inseam, 14" opening). Cotton-Tencel blend with a bit of stretch. The slim straight leg felt clean and polished, great for dressing up or down. LOVE these with a heel.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
#9 — Ex-Boyfriend Mid Rise Slouchy Slim
How they fit: Mid rise (10"), slouchy slim leg, 28" inseam. 98% cotton, 2% spandex. Relaxed but still put-together-the slouchy fit is so easy to throw on. These are a size 26, a size down. They fit, but really should be looser to get “the look”. This is your “wear every weekend” denim.
__________________________________________________________________________________________
#10 — Kacey Cuffed High Waist Boyfriend
How they fit: High rise (11½"), relaxed boyfriend fit, cuffed to a 26" inseam. 77% cotton, A casual, laid-back pair I’d reach for on weekends; the cuff finishes them off nicely. 23% rayon, minimal stretch; gentle wash. I’m wearing a 27, true to size.
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Honorable Mention — Low Loose Jeans
How they fit: Low rise (9"), loose leg (20" opening). These just missed the top list, but the loose leg and low rise make them a fun, trendier option. Leg-lengthening 32" inseam. 100% cotton, rigid. I’m wearing a 27 with a 2”heel. Levi’s just $72.99 during the sale.
Honorable Mention — Kut from the Kloth Natalie Low Rise Bootcut
How they fit: Low rise (10"; 9" petite), bootcut (18" opening), 33" inseam (30" petite). Stretchy cotton blend; comes in petite too. A classic bootcut-a solid pick if that’s your preferred silhouette. Just $72.99 during the sale.
Have a wonderful, stylish week,
Stacey Jones
Images courtesy of featured retailers and my own work.
Some of the links I share are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products and pieces I truly love and recommend.
Comments
Nothing yet. Say the first thing.
Sign in to join the conversation.