In a recent Dimples Diary “What I Bought“ post, I shared four pairs of what I think are some of the best plus-size wide-leg jeans I’ve tried on. I promised I would do a little try-on session because I think some women think that plus-size or curvy women shouldn’t wear wide-leg jeans. I’m here to tell you why I think they work and can help balance curvy figures.
*I apologize for the quality of these photos. They do not look like this until I put them in the post. However, I think you can still see the quality and fit of the jeans so by putting this disclaimer out there, I’m going to take it off my worry list. 😉
*DO NOT click away if you’re not plus-size. Three of these jeans are also available in “skinny” sizes (anything under a size 14 is “skinny” to me 😉 )
BEING EXTRA CURVY IS EXTRA CHALLENGING
I have always been blessed with larger thighs and an ample booty at any size I’ve been. Those proportions make finding well-fitting pants a challenge. Now that menopause has provided me with a full tummy, I’ve got curves coming and going in all directions.
If you’re in your upper 50’s, you might remember when Levi’s (light blue) corduroys were mega popular. They were sold in student sizes, which to my dad meant “boy’s jeans.” He always said, “A girl shouldn’t be cramming her body into boys’ jeans.“
He was right; they never fit right or felt comfortable on me, and even though he said it in his own blunt, hillbilly way, his view was correct. We honor our curves when we choose fits that don’t contort our feminine frame.
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STYLING TIPS FOR PLUS-SIZE WIDE-LEG JEANS
I love wide-leg pants and jeans and find them so much more comfortable than skinny jeans. Perhaps that’s because I’ve also been blessed with extra curvy calves. 😉
If styled correctly, wide-leg jeans help balance wider hips, unlike skinny jeans, which highlight our curves.
Contrary to what some may think, wide-leg jeans and pants can make us look slimmer. And if not slimmer, they can be very flattering if we keep a few styling tips in mind.
FIT
Make sure the jeans fit very well – Not too big and sloppy but also not tight. I find I like a happy medium so that they fit slim at the waist and tummy and wide enough at the hips to skim over the bum and not do not dip in under the booty. Skip the pleats, especially on jeans, as they add only bulk.
LENGTH
Be mindful of the length. You want plus-size wide-leg jeans that are either cropped right to the ankle or long enough to either touch the floor or hover just above when wearing with shoes.
TOPS FOR BALANCE
As my favorite personal stylist says, “Try to re-create an hourglass figure” with your outfit.
You may have heard this tip already, if wearing wide-leg pants, wear a slim-fitting top. However, as you can see in the photos, if your shoulders are slimmer than your hips, a slim tank top is not the most balanced look.
You can see the wide-leg jeans are the bottom of the hourglass, so if we add a top that widens the shoulder a bit and comes in at the waist, we’ve created a balanced look. Try something with a puff sleeve or a small shoulder pad.
That does not mean our tops must be cropped or tight, but be mindful that they come in at the waist.
NOTE – I only wore a basic tank (which I loathe myself in) and a white button-down for this try-on so that I would highlight the fit of each of these jeans.
SHOES
Shoe choice also plays in styling plus-size wide-leg jeans to our best advantage. I personally love the casual vibe of white platform sneakers or a square or pointed-toe bootie. However, as long as you avoid anything too delicate or too flat, we can pull it off.
Here’s the most comprehensive article I’ve found on the best shoes to wear with wide-leg jeans. Most of the tips will apply to plus-size wide-leg jeans too.
*You might also be interested in Big Leg Girl in Wide Leg Jeans, YES You Can!
THE BEST PLUS-SIZE WIDE-LEG JEANS
I know this article is titled The Best Plus-size Wide-leg Jeans, but in full transparency, I haven’t tried on every pair out there. Who has the time or money to do that?
In the blogging biz, if we want our content to be found, we have to choose titles that rank well with Google, so there you have the title.
But I do think of those I tried on; these all have their merits, and I’m struggling to decide on which to keep. Although, taking these photos is helping me narrow it down. I also chose light washes in each pair because, first, I love light-colored denim. And second, they are good for someone who has been analyzed as a cool summer.
You will find these jeans range in non-sale prices from $37 to $128. And all but the NYDJ jeans, which I have only found in plus-sizes, are available in sizes ranging from size 0 to size 30.
It’s been a while since I reminded you that for better size reference, you can find my measurement here.
THE JEANS & REVIEWS
OLD NAVY HIGH-WAIST, WIDE-LEG JEANS 18W
I first saw these jeans on the straight-sized influencer Anna Mae Groves. She has impeccable style, and she created a look-for-less wearing these affordable Old Navy wide-leg jeans.
I honestly love how they feel and how the wide-leg floats over my thighs. Every time I try them on, I think they simply look cool; that’s Fonzi Cool. They have enough stretch to be comfortable but are also structured enough to hold the tummy in a bit.
There are two big question marks for me with these: One is the distressing. It’s minimal as far as distressing goes, but am I too old and fat for it? And the second is that slight sag and line right at the crotch, which will likely worsen as I wear them. But I tried the next size down, and they just don’t fit.
MADEWELL THE PLUS CROPPED WIDE-LEG JEANS 16W
These Madewell, The Plus Vintage Cropped Wide-Leg Jeans were another wow feeling when I slipped them on despite feeling very heavy in the bag. I first ordered the 18W, and they were the perfect amount of loose right out of the box. Since the fit didn’t account for stretching, I tried the 16W, and they will be perfect with wear.
My only question with these is, Are they too light-colored? They have them in white as well, but not a medium wash which would be more versatile.
However, look for a post in a couple of days where I’ve styled these several different ways, and that may help us me, make up my mind. 😉
NYDJ WAIST MATCH MAJOR WIDE-LEG JEANS 1X
Oh em, gee guys, these Waist-Match Jeans from NYDJ are crazy soft, light-weight, and comfortable. However, I actually already had the return label printed on them before I took these photos, but now that I see them, I’m questioning that. They are the only jeans in this group that don’t dip into that underwear line at the hip.
The only issue is the length; they run slightly short, and if you compare that with the other long-length jeans here, you can see they don’t elongate the leg as well.
OLD NAVY WOW HIGH-WAIST WIDE-LEG JEANS 18W
WOW, that is the exact word I said when I tried these Old Navy WOW wide-leg Jeans on in the store, I kid you not. I think I might have actually said, “No wonder they call these ‘WOW’ jeans.”
They feel great, fit great, are the perfect mid-weight denim, and are the perfect level of light wash for me. The tags are off, and when the weather hasn’t been scorching, Ie wore them a few times. (I don’t even wear denim shorts when it’s crazy hot outside. Menopause! Remember?)
I’m short-waisted, and some high-waisted pants can be too high, but these are just right, so if you’re not short-waisted, they may be more mid-rise on you.
COULD ONE OF THESE BE THE BEST PLUS-SIZE WIDE-LEG JEANS FOR YOU?
There are so many great plus-size wide-leg denim options out there now that these are just a small sampling. If you’re ready to slip into this look, I think any of four of these are a great place to start, especially the two Old Navy options if you want to try the wide-leg denim trend on a budget.
Have you tried this trend, or have you already found the best plus-size wide-leg jeans? If so, do tell!
Happy Try-Ons!
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You look great! I would love to see you wearing them styled with your favorite top. I have the additional curveball of being only 5’2”. Finally I tried Kim Gravel from qvc. I found a pair of light distress medium wash crop in petite 18. If I wear a sleeveless top and open mid length cardigan it really works! Oh I also-pair it with wedge sandals. It will look nice transitioning into Fall. Thanks to you I’ve ventured into lighter colored denim this summer.
Those look so cute on uou! I like all three.
Those look so cute on uou! I like all of them.
Author
Thanks Dana. I’m really struggling to decide the second pair to keep. I’m leaning toward the really light crops. 🤔
Have a great day.
XO
Paula
So great to read your posts agin. I really missed you
Great info! I need to make a trip to our local Old Navy and see what fits for me. I like the mid to dark wash for the upcoming fall and winter. I’d written the wide leg jeans off, but after seeing how you look in them and styled them, I’ll give it a shot!!
Author
I hope you really like them Regina. The price is right to give the trend a shot.
Have a happy day!
Paula
I’ve been eyeing the old navy jeans for a while and have curvy friends that swear by them. Your recommendation has prompted me to try them! On another note did I miss the post on what pair of white platform sneakers you chose? I have foot issues and need a good supportive pair but haven’t had much luck🤷♀️
Author
Hi Loryl! The Old Navy Jeans are certainly worth a try-on. Even when they’re not on sale, you could buy two pairs for what you spend on even a mid-priced pair of another brand.
And I can’t remember if I posted which I kept but I didn’t end up keeping any of the ones that I purchased at the same time. But I found this pair at Nordstrom Rack; I like them and the price was really good. Also, the insole comes out so I can add my own orthodic.
Let me know if you try a pair of the jeans and how you like them.
Hugs,
Paula
Thanks Paula. I’ll have to try them once I get out of this boot I’m wearing since I fractured my 5th metatarsal 🤣🙄
Author
Oh no! That has got to be hot this summer.
Get well soon.
Paula
You look amazing! I love wide leg jeans, especially the light wash and/or light distressing. My challenge has always been finding a pair that work for my body. I have an apple shaped body and jeans always sag, bag, & fall down. My waist is very high and I’m tall. I find the jeans that work best and stay put are Levi’s ribcage. The super high waist and wide leg works for me. For the first time, at 60 years old, a pair of jeans fits and feels good! I really like reading your posts and your strong faith is inspiring. Thank you for sharing your triumphs, challenges, and great style! God bless.
Author
Aww, shucks. Thanks so much, Carol. I have a pair of the Levi’s Wedgie, which are similar to the rib-cage except they don’t have the wider leg. The zipper placement accentuates my belly buldge at my hysterectomy scar, but I can’t get rid of them because the color and the distressing is so good! Maybe there will be a miraculous “disappearance” of the buldge one day. 😉
Hugs,
Paula
Hi Paula, thank you for showing us the various wide leg jeans. You always look great, and I appreciate you helping us beautiful curvy women how to think outside the box! I love them all, but I think I will try to get over to Old Navy this week and try some on. Praying you got out of jury duty!!
Candy 🙂
Author
Hi Candace, thanks so much! Yes, I did get out of jury duty. The trial was canceled. I was sweating it out until the last minute last night but it was a huge load off my shoulders.
Hugs,
Paula
Wonderful post, Paula. I like this side-by-side comparison and that you’ve shown the jeans while wearing the same tops. It would have been really great if you had shown a side and rear view for each as well. I’m definitely going to give the styles from Old Navy a try.
Rena
http://www.finewhateverblog.com
Yes, you can definitely wear distressed jeans. I’m older than you and wear them all the time. But, this pair and the second pair give you a bit of phantom “member” if you get my drift. I like the NYDJ jeans better than the cropped ones. But, that is my personal preference. I just don’t like jeans that hit at that length. It’s like they can’t make up their minds if they want to be cropped or if they’re high waters. I love Old Navy WOW jeans and have them in several styles and washes.
BTW…I think you are the only other blogger I know (besides me) with thick thighs as well as being short waisted. It just doesn’t seem to be the thing to be if you blog! Buying pants and not just jeans is always a crapshoot for me. I think that’s why I love leggings and wide leg pants so much. Wide leg pants/jeans usually fit me just right.
Awesome reviews, Paula!
https://marshainthemiddle.com/
I have 3 of those WOW JEANS already and love them. I tried 16 and it was way big and 14 is snug. I hope it will loosen soon.
Author
I agree Rachel. I’m between sizes too but the smaller size is a bit more than snug so I stick with the larger size right now.
Have a fantastic day!
Paula
Thank you for sharing your insightful thoughts on how these jeans can be flattering and stylish for curvy figures. Your candid reviews and styling tips are incredibly helpful and relatable, making it easier for readers to confidently explore this trend.
Author
Thanks so much for stopping by. They’re my favorite jeans right now.
Hugs,
Paula
Hello! I am wondering about the fit of the Old Navy WOW jeans that looked so good on you! I am a 22 in Lane Bryant jeans- wondering if you would say Old Navy fit similarly? Did you purchase your “normal” size or go up/down? Thanks!
Author
Hey Roberta, I apologize for this delayed response! I don’t have much experience with Lane Bryant jeans except try-ons. But I think the Old Navy Wow probably have a slightly shorter rise than the Lane Bryant. The ON jeans fit pretty true to size depending on the style you choose. The wide leg fit slightly larger; I’m generally a size 18/20 in jeans and I wear a 16 in those but tried a 16 in a more narrow leg style and they were too small.
Hope that helps!
Hugs,
Paula