denim fit guide
From fabrics to final details, our jeans are meticulously made with you in mind.
TRY ONCE, WEAR FOREVER
Madewell, exceptional quality. In our name. In our jeans.
the fits
From total classics to of-the-moment obsessions. Available in sizes 23 to 33, 14W to 28W, Petite, Tall and Taller inseams.
THE FITS
A quick look at our expertly-crafted silhouettes.
1991 LOOSE
Medium-high rise.
Roomy hip and thigh.
Straight leg.
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1991 STRAIGHT
Medium-high rise.
Relaxed hip and thigh.
Straight leg.
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SLIM STRAIGHT
Medium-high rise.
Fitted hip and thigh.
Straight leg.
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RELAXED TAPER
Medium-low rise.
Slightly relaxed.
Tapered leg.
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ATHLETIC SLIM
Medium-low rise.
Fitted hip and thigh.
Slim leg.
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The Fabrics
Whether you prefer extra stretch, zero give or something in between, there’s something for everyone.
Comfort
The holds-you-in structure of rigid denim, with a touch of stretch for day-one comfort.
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Zero stretch
Rigid denim with a structured feel that breaks in just enough to mold to your body.
Plus, Airy Denim, featherlight and specially crafted for incredible softness that almost feels like it has stretch—but doesn’t.
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The Fabrics
Whether you prefer extra stretch, zero give or something in between, there’s something for everyone.
A NEW PROCESS
See how we’ve overhauled our approach to denim from updated sewing techniques to carefully-selected rivets, zippers and more.
New washes add more depth, dimension and texture,creating an authentic, lived-in feel.
UPGRADE YOUR DENIM
Get $20 off our jeans when you trade in a pair from any brand.*
Learn more
Upgraded sewing techniques and differing thread colors and sizes mirror the look of vintage.
UPGRADE YOUR DENIM
Get $20 off our jeans when you trade in a pair from any brand.*
Learn more
Embossed brass zipper featuring our signature “M” logo.
UPGRADE YOUR DENIM
Get $20 off our jeans when you trade in a pair from any brand.*
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Embroidered branding on every back pocket.
UPGRADE YOUR DENIM
Get $20 off our jeans when you trade in a pair from any brand.*
Learn more
Specially-made shank caps.
UPGRADE YOUR DENIM
Get $20 off our jeans when you trade in a pair from any brand.*
Learn more
Updated suede and leather back patches.
UPGRADE YOUR DENIM
Get $20 off our jeans when you trade in a pair from any brand.*
Learn more
The washes
Artful shades developed through a five-part process. Need a Denim Care refresher? See our guide here.
Shop white + ecru denim
Shop light wash
Shop medium wash
Shop dark wash
Shop black denim
FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT
Curvy
Measure your body around the smallest part of your waist and at the widest part of your hips. If the difference between the two is over 10", our Curvy styles are designed for you.
Available in all sizes.
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Plus
Looking for more room through the waist and thighs? Our Plus styles are meticulously designed and tested on size 18W models to ensure a fit that holds and flatters in all the right places.
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how to measure
Prefer extra stretch, zero give or something in between? Our design experts work with the world’s best mills to make sure every option is just right.
Waist
Lay down your jeans and loosely measure across the waistband.
rise
Measure from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband.
inseam
Following the inner leg seam, measure from the crotch to the bottom of the hem.
leg opening
Measure across the bottom hem.
back rise
Turn your jeans over and measure from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband.
BEYOND JUST JEANS
Prefer extra stretch, zero give or something in between? Our design experts work with the world’s best mills to make sure every option is just right.
Denim shorts
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Lay down your jeans and loosely measure across the waistband.
Denim dresses
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Measure from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband.
Denim shirts
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Following the inner leg seam, measure from the crotch to the bottom of the hem.
Denim jackets
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Measure across the bottom hem.
Denim skirts
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Turn your jeans over and measure from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband.
INSIDERS ENJOY COMPLIMENTARY TAILORING AND HEMMING—ALWAYS
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GET INTO THE BEST JEANS
Prefer extra stretch, zero give or something in between? Our design experts work with the world’s best mills to make sure every option is just right.
FIND YOUR NEW FAVORITE
Discover forever-classics, of-the-moment fits and more.
Shop all jeans
UPGRADE YOUR DENIM
Get $20 off our jeans when you trade in a pair from any brand.*
Learn more
BOOK A STYLIST APPOINTMENT
Take advantage of our on-one fit and tailoring services.
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CARE FOR YOUR DENIM
Tips to help your jeans last for years to come.
Read our guide
DENIM IS OUR EXPERTISE
Our pair-perfecting formula starts here.
TESTED ON REAL BODIES
Each fit is refined and tested by our in-house team on six models of varying body sizes.
FEATURES THAT FLATTER
Perfectly sized pockets placed at the most flattering spot + a curve-enhancing back rise that lifts you up.
Magic Pockets™
Ultrasmoothing, reinforced front pockets that hold you in.
