As a surprise to probably nobody, jeans are a very hot topic here at POPSUGAR HQ. Throw out a denim brand in a team meeting, and you're bound to derail the agenda for at least 10 minutes. This happened recently in a room full of fashion editors, and there was one brand in particular that ruled the conversation: Agolde [1]. The Los Angeles-based premium denim label is all about taking a contemporary approach to vintage styles — and that's exactly why we love it. From a perfectly faded wash to a retro-inspired kick-flare silhouette, the styles ahead have reached cult-level status among our editors, and after reading their testimonials, you'll see why.
Agolde Riley High Rise Straight Crop Jeans in Veto
"I'm always hesitant when brands suggest sizing down. I have hips and usually struggle with the next size down, even if they eventually stretch out — not so with these jeans [2] ($188). The button fly is roomy enough to pull over my hips and bum, but the waist fits perfectly once they're buttoned, and once I broke in these babies, they fit like a dream. They also hit right at the ankle with the perfect touch of distressing so they feel cool but not so beaten up that they look sloppy. I live in these now!" — Hannah Weil McKinley, content director, Fashion and Shop
Agolde Jamie High Rise Classic Jeans in Resolution
"I have the worst luck with jeans. Part of the problem is that they're always too long or just too expensive, which is why I usually stick to my favourite Topshop skinnies. It wasn't until I stumbled across the Jamie jeans [3] ($188) that I realised there was hope for me. In addition to having the perfect high rise, these jeans won't break the bank and you can pair them with just about anything. Bodysuit? Yep! Crop top? Definitely! T-shirt? You bet! I'm also really into the light distressing at the knees — not too much, not too little. These have become such a huge staple in my closet that I've already purchased a second pair — you know, just in case." — Monica Sisavat, associate editor, Celebrity and Entertainment
Agolde Pinch Waist High Rise Kick Jeans in Placebo
"High-waist denim is tricky. I've certainly found pairs I liked, but these jeans [4] ($178) are high and tight without feeling too constricted, which is hard to find. My favourite way to wear these right now is with a vintage tee tucked into the waist." — Rebecca Brown, senior editor, Shopping and Family
Agolde Riley High Rise Straight Crop Jeans in Vanished
"I am really particular about my jeans and have spent years hunting for ones that have the same fit and fade as my beloved vintage Levi's (which have seen better days). It wasn't until I tried the Riley jeans [5] ($178) that I finally found them. I was initially drawn to the Vanished wash because of its exact shade of lived-in, faded blue that's rare to come by, but I was won over by the slim-straight fit that hugs my butt and the full length of my thighs. I also appreciate that the jeans are a true high rise, coming up above my belly button. I get compliments almost every time I wear these, including how good my butt looks in them — which never happens with any other jeans!" — Stephanie Nguyen, native editor, Fashion