Best jeans for women over 60: denim that's both comfortable and confidence-boosting

Finding the best jeans for women over 60 has never been easier, thanks to modern denim that combines style with substance. Today's options feature comfortable, breathable fabrics and thoughtful cuts that flatter while feeling great - perfect for building a versatile wardrobe that works as hard as you do.

No matter what your age, shopping for the best jeans for your body type is up there as one of the trickier style tasks. So, where should you start and what makes the best jeans for women over 60? According to jeans queen Donna Ida Thornton, whose self-named brand Donna Ida has been dressing denim lovers of all ages, body shape is the most important thing to consider.

“Women should look for jeans which suit their body shape and style - it should not be about your age,” says Donna. “Instead think of which jeans will be best with your individual shape. Jeans are really specialist so a style, which may look amazing on your friend, may not suit you.”

But when it comes to the best jeans for women over 60, who better to ask than the women themselves? We polled a few stylish women over 60 about their denim favourites, and while body type was a key consideration, comfort and washability topped the list.

These experienced shoppers emphasised jeans that hold their shape, offer comfortable stretch and complement their lifestyle. This isn't about saying "no" to certain styles – it's about saying "yes" to the jeans that make you feel amazing – which is why our best of guide features the best jeans that balance quality with comfort.

15 best jeans for women over 60

Best skinny jeans

When shopping for skinny jeans, comfort and fit are key to finding slimming jeans for your shape. Look for denim with a bit of stretch (around 2% elastane) to make them comfortable while maintaining shape throughout the day. A high-rise waist can provide a smoother silhouette, enhancing their slimming effects, while darker washes tend to be more flattering and versatile, easily dressed up or down.

Best bootcut jeans

“The most universally flattering jean cuts tend to be flared and bootleg," says Josephine Lalwan, creator of fashion blog Chic At Any Age. “These streamline the silhouette, balance curves and make the choice of footwear easier. They are the perfect choice if you’re pear-shaped, like me.”

Stuck on how to style bootcut jeans? Balance is key. Since these jeans have that slight flare at the bottom, try matching them with a more fitted top to create a flattering silhouette.

Best straight leg jeans

Straight leg jeans are some of the best jeans for women over 60 as they offer a classic and flattering silhouette that balances comfort and style. They gently skim the body without being too tight or too loose, making them a versatile option for various body types.

When choosing straight leg jeans, look for a mid-rise or high-rise waist for a smooth and supportive fit. Dark or medium washes are particularly versatile as they can be dressed up or down, while the straight cut makes it easy to wear them with everything from ballet flats to suede boots.

Best wide leg jeans

So, you might have seen a few denim trends come and go (and maybe even rocked a few yourself!) but don't let that scare you off retro styles such as wide leg or flared jeans. When you have volume below, the key is to keep everything on top slimmer, so tuck in a blouse or t-shirt for a streamlined look. You can then throw on a tailored blazer or waistcoat to add polish and extra warmth. The perfect style for a night out, these flares would also look great with a block heel and something sequinned on top.

Most comfortable jeans

Remember the days of wrestling with your jeans? Not anymore! Thanks to advances in fabrics, it means you can actually breathe (and sit down) in your favourite pair. For ultimate comfort in your jeans, look for fabrics with a good amount of stretch - think blends with elastane or Lycra - or jeans made from softer 'denim' such as lyocell. And if you want to take comfort to the next level, keep an eye out for elasticated waistbands for a truly forgiving fit.

How to choose your jeans

Don’t rush when it comes to buying your denim. Its always worth shopping around and trying on different styles, to find the perfect fit for you. No matter what your age, jeans are a very personal thing and if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the huge choice available right now, it’s worth considering the below -

• Think about your body shape – A great starting point while shopping for any new investment item is to think about your body shape first. Finding the best jeans for your body type will mean they fit better and look great too. Hour glass figures and pear shapes will look good in high waisted styles that accentuate your waist, while apple shapes that naturally carry weight around their middle might prefer a skinny or slim leg style to show off their pins. If you have a straighter body type, you can wear most jeans with ease but a straight leg fit will look particularly good on you.
• Think about fabrics – Think about how comfortable you want to be in your jeans. Stretchier denim will cling to curves and show off your shape better while being much softer to move around in. You’ll find stretchier jeans much comfy to wear all day without being too restrictive. If you’d prefer something a little more structured and traditional, a heavier and and more rigid denim will work better and will create a sharper silhouette.
• Consider the colour – Darker wash jeans are always more forgiving on curvier thighs and bums, so if you’re feeling a little self-conscious, it might be better to opt for navy and black jeans. Lighter washes and even white jeans outfits may seem daunting but are more wearable than you might expect and have a softer and more relaxed vibe that work particularly well for summer. Don’t be put off from trying something a little different – always try on and see. You might just discover a colour or shape that you really love.
• Shop online - Josephine suggests trying on jeans at home is often easier than in the store, so choose a few different pairs and get them delivered to your door intead. “Try on your jeans with the shoes or boots that you intend to wear them with to make sure the length is correct,” she says. “Make sure you also have a good full-length mirror available to view all angles. Check the waist fits well not too loose or too tight and that the pockets are well placed.”

FAQs

Should a woman over 60 wear skinny jeans?

“Yes, absolutely!” says Donna. “If you feel comfortable in skinny jeans, they can look very chic. A pair of dark blue, black or dark grey jeans are the most flattering and versatile in your wardrobe.”

She says that the best skinny jeans will be made with a good weight of denim so that they’re not too thick or too thin. Added stretch is also essential, so you can feel comfortable.

Josephine says the key to choosing any jean shape is to try them on and move around in them.

“Always be mindful of your lifestyle when shopping for jeans,” she says. “Think about sitting, leaning over and bending down when trying them on.”

Should a woman over 60 wear wide leg jeans?

We are firm believers that women of all ages can wear what they like. If you feel great in something, wear it! Wide leg jeans may seem a little daunting, and have a younger feel, but there’s no reason why older women can’t try out this trend. It’s all down to clever styling to keep them looking chic and flattering. Team your wider leg denim with fitted tops to avoid looking swamped in fabric, and try giving them a smarter spin with a tailored blazer or crisp shirt. Classic accessories like printed pumps and oversized tote bags will help to add a polished spin too.

How should jeans be worn after 60?

“Jeans are such a wardrobe staple they can be worn in so many different ways and they always look effortlessly cool and modern,” says Donna.

“A classic way would be with a classic white tee, blazer or trench coat and fresh white trainers.”

As well as finding the best jeans for your shape, Donna suggests just trying different styles to help create various looks.

“A flare or a cropped style can work really well for a relaxed everyday look,” she says. “For evening, think about switching up your look with a heel and add a blouse with plenty of detail finished off with statement accessories.”

What's the best way to wash your jeans?

Once you have found your new jeans, keep your denim looking its best for longer by taking extra care while washing. Before you pop them in the machine, ensure your jeans are fastened and the zip is done up to help keep their shape while getting rinsed. Always turn them inside out to protect colour and fibres too. High temperatures can cause your jeans to shrink, so aim for cooler water and pop your machine on delicate setting to prevent any harm to the fabric.

When it comes to drying jeans, hang them up and leave them to dry – never put them in a tumble dryer as this can cause shrinkage and damage.

Josephine Lalwan

Josephine has always worked in fashion firstly as a press officer at Browns and Jaeger, then as an Image consultant. Josephine started her blog fourteen years ago at the age of 60, with an aim to inspire women of all ages to create a stylish wardrobe. Josephine continues to create stylish content, splitting her time between the UK and France.

Donna Ida

Australian-born Donna Ida Thornton turned a frustrating shopping trip into a denim empire. After moving to London in 1999, she couldn't find jeans that made her feel amazing - so she created them herself. Since 2006, her brand DONNA IDA has been dressing Londoners in perfectly fitted denim, earning her the nickname 'Jeans Genius' from GRAZIA magazine. Donna's philosophy? Denim should be effortless, democratic, and make everyone feel fantastic.