While we all know we can wear them year round, warmer weather and white jeans are a match made in summer. Just like their sister blues, white jeans are wardrobe chameleons. They can be laid back and casual with tees and sneaks, or dressed up and polished with a flowy top and chic heels. However, buying the perfect pair of white jeans can be a daunting task, as they require some careful consideration to ensure a flattering fit and optimal comfort.

To help you navigate the process, our editors have put together our five essential things to find those perfect white jeans for the summer season.

That said, let’s get to shopping!

#5 – QUALITY OF FABRIC

When it comes to white jeans, the quality of the fabric is of paramount importance. Opt for denim with a higher percentage of cotton, as it offers breathability and durability. Avoid thin or sheer materials that might reveal more than desired. Look for denim with a touch of stretch, such as blends with elastane or spandex, as it provides flexibility and ensures a comfortable fit.

Here are two of our favorites that move and breathe with ease

Mott & Bow, Slim Boyfriend Mercer Jeans $119

Let’s start strong with our Editor’s Pick – the Slim Boyfriend Mercer from Mott & Bow. This jean received our highest marks from our apparel editor, a self-professed white jean aficionado: “I’m always on the hunt for the next great white jean of the season. These are straight at the top of my list. The twill denim is so lightweight, I was amazed at how little showed through (even when I wore them with darker undies). The fit was dead on perfect for me (I’m a 32″x 30″) and even after several washes in hot, they stayed true to my size. I love the stretch ratio of 20% elasticity, and even when the temps hit the mid-80s, they felt comfortable”.

Paige, Leenah in Crisp White $229

For those craving more of a trouser fit, the Leenah from Paige is a clear winner. Crafted in comfort stretch, this is a jean that will look just as great with an office ensemble as it will with your casual tee. The straight leg opens into a generous boot cut, making it easy to wear with a variety of footwear. But what we’re really loving on these is the 70s nod in front with patch pockets (very in trend BTW) and the welt pockets in the back that gives them a chinos vibe.

#4 – CUT AND FIT

Choosing the right cut and fit is crucial for flattering white jeans. Various styles, such as skinny, straight-leg, bootcut, or wide-leg, cater to different body types and fashion preferences. Experiment with different cuts to find the one that enhances your body shape and makes you feel confident. Additionally, pay attention to the rise of the jeans—whether low-rise, mid-rise, or high-rise—based on your comfort and personal style.

Here are two very current styles to try…

Joe’s Jeans, The Frankie Cargo Jean $228

One of the original garments to hit streetwear superstar status, the cargo pant is just about everywhere this season, with all manner of pocket configurations, fit size, and of course, materials. And while the classic sturdy cotton remains iconic, the cargo jean has been coming on strong. This white version of The Frankie Cargo Jean gives us a fresh, of-the-moment take on the trend. It has the cargo look – side patch pockets, large back pockets and front slash pockets, but combines it with cool vintage jean items, such as a leaner leg that pours down into a bootcut hem and a mid-rise waist.

Dondup, Low-Rise Slim Fit Jeans $233

It’s been called one of the more polarizing trends from the Y2K revival, but if you’re on Team Low-Rise, the slim fits from Italian brand Dondup are your white jean dream. With a hip-hugging rise and slim straight silhouette, these five pocket jeans are made of bull denim (renowned for its steadfast uniform color throughout the material) and a good dose of stretch material. Pair these with your favorite crop top for a cool look in the heat.

#3 – CONSIDERATION OF BODY TYPE

Understanding your body type is essential when selecting any type of jeans, including white ones. For instance, if you have an hourglass figure, opt for jeans that accentuate your waist and flatter your curves. If you have a pear-shaped body, consider jeans that balance your proportions by adding volume to your upper body. Similarly, for an athletic or rectangular shape, choose jeans that create the illusion of curves. Embrace your body type and find jeans that celebrate your unique features.

Here are two options that will give your curves plenty of room to show off…

Universal Standard, Seine High Rise Straight $98

When it comes to inclusive body options, you seriously cannot beat Universal Standard. The Seine High Rise comes in regular, tall and petite versions, plus sizes from 00 to 40 (that’s XS to 7X in most other brand sizes). These wonderful whites are made of 4-way stretch, giving them double the stretch of your typical denim. Deep pockets and durable construction make these a no-brainer for your everyday white jean.

NYDJ, Marilyn Ankle Jean $129

Another brand that offers a wide variety of range, NYDJ’s Marilyn Ankle jean comes in sizing from XXS to 5X with lengths including standard and petite. Made with their Lift Tuck® Technology, these jeans have a slimming panel with a patented criss-cross design to shape and support curves for a sleek silhouette.

#2 – COLOR AND OPACITY

White jeans come in various shades, ranging from bright white to off-white or cream. Consider your skin tone and personal preferences to determine the most flattering shade for you. Additionally, pay attention to the opacity of the fabric—choose jeans that are not too sheer, ensuring a clean and polished appearance. Thicker, denser fabrics generally offer better coverage and reduce the risk of undergarments showing through.

Here are two great options for those looking for a more personalized shade of choice…

Mott & Bow, Slim Boyfriend Mercer in Light Beige $85.90

(on Sale NOW from $119)

We’ve already gushed about how much we love Mott & Bow’s Mercer jeans. But if bright white isn’t your favorite, this jean also comes in a flattering, creamy off-white version as well. It still has all the things you’ll love about them –  flattering fit, good stretch and breathily comfortable – but in a softer tone.

Paige, Low Rise Laurel Canyon in Sandy Ecru $229

Another fantastic option, the Laurel Canyon by Paige is a wonderful off-white that complements olive and warm undertone skin beautifully. The low rise and flared hem gives you plenty of curve, while the comfort stretch denim keeps you moving in style.

#1 – STYLING VERSATILITY

One of the reasons white jeans are a summer staple is their versatility in styling. Keep in mind how you plan to incorporate them into your wardrobe. Consider the tops, blouses, and shoes you already own that will complement the white jeans. They can be dressed up with a blouse and heels for a night out or dressed down with a casual t-shirt and sneakers for a relaxed daytime look. Investing in a pair that effortlessly matches your existing wardrobe will expand your outfit possibilities.

Here are just two options that take the standard and playfully go a little outside the box…

AGOLDE, Balloon Mid-Rise Tapered Jeans $150

With it’s exaggerated balloon silhouette and dramatically asymmetrical fly, these jeans by AGOLDE live up to the brand’s experimental design aesthetic. Made from 100% premium cotton, these loose fit whites are perfect for those moments when you crave a fashion twist.

Wild Fable, Super-High Rise Frayed Seam Jeans $28

We love finding little avant-garde pieces in unexpected places. These straight fit jeans from Target take a simple silhouette and add some fire with wrapping tendrils of frayed seams going all around it. What else to love? They’re made in part with recycled heavyweight cotton, then blended with spandex for plenty of stretch appeal. And let’s not forget the price! Size offerings go from XS to 4X, so no excuse not to grab a pair of these right now.