The search for the best affordable jeans can feel never-ending. Finding a pair of denim that not only fits perfectly and can be easily styled for all occasions, but also doesn't cost the earth, takes some serious searching. Luckily, we've done the hard work for you, rounding up the cheapest jeans that still deliver.
Your best jeans can be styled for a multitude of occasions, making them a lynchpin in your wardrobe. When it comes to selecting the best jeans for your shape, fit, cut and fabric are super important, as the denim will dictate how versatile and long lasting your jeans are. But finding a pair that delivers longevity and style at an affordable price point can be difficult.
When it comes to the cheapest jeans, you still want to look to jeans brands that have a history in clothing and denim production, as they will understand how to make quality clothing that also fits a budget. Stylish and affordable, we've rounded up the best affordable jeans on the market that sit on or below $50, so you can expand your denim wardrobe, without breaking the bank.
The best affordable jeans, chosen by our fashion team
Finding that perfect slouchy fit in plus size jeans used to be somewhat of a mission, but these ASOS mom jeans are absolutely perfect for casual everyday wear. Available in five different hues, they are both affordable and versatile - just what we look for in the best cheap jeans. Although they aren't strictly petite friendly, the rolled hems make for an adjustable fit that could work for a range of leg lengths.
The best Zara jeans are without a doubt the best affordable jeans that offer trendiness with a budget price tag. Made from 99% cotton and 1% elastane, these jeans contain a comfortable amount of stretch - but be aware that they do run small, so sizing up is recommended. If you're wondering how to style high waisted jeans, this is the ideal starter pair to experiment with as the deep blue hue will go with anything in your capsule wardrobe.
Part of the Gap family, it's no surprise that American clothing brand, Old Navy has some great on-trend jeans, and the brand's cheap jeans offering is seriously impressive and full of chic styles we would love to have in our wardrobe.
Some of the best straight leg jeans on the market, this particular pair comes in a great range of sizes and leg lengths for day-to-day wear. Style these with the best white trainers or some heeled boots and a blouse for a chic smart casual outfit for the office.
With some of the best petite jeans as well as the best dresses for summer, Hollister is a great place to shop for affordable pieces, including high quality denim. Despite its popularity with a younger crowd, the brand actually offers a lot of timeless and more mature pieces that would appeal to all tastes and ages, so it's well worth a browse. These bootcut jeans come in a great range of sizes and are perfect for petites. Don't let the mid rise put you off if you usually go for higher styles, just team with a longer tee or sweater.
There's a lot of debate surrounding the best skinny jeans, but you always need one good pair you can rely on. With all the facets of staple skinnies, there's no going wrong with these affordable jeans from Mango. Made with added elastane for stretch and comfort, they will work whether you're on the go or sat at a desk all day. Just throw on with your best loafers and a blazer and you've got a chic look ready in seconds.
A mega denim trend for 2023, low rise jeans made a return to the runway thanks to the embracement of '90s fashion trends. Despite it being the type of jeans that many feel is not particularly easy to wear, the low rise jean, when well-cut can be styled with a number of tops. This pair from H&M is available in plus sizes and is extremely affordable too.
Available in two denim blues, they are a great everyday pair of cheap jeans that can be styled with the best cashmere sweaters in the evening or with a plain tank during the daytime.
Gap is another retailer that consistently delivers some of the best affordable jeans. Offering a range of leg lengths, this pair of vintage inspired, straight legged jeans will work for everything. Crafted as part of the brand's water-saving Washwell program, this pair make for an environmental choice too - proving that sustainable clothing brands don't have to cost a fortune. We also love the button fly detail that adds a more refined touch that also won't dig in when you sit down.
Ripped jeans are great for the warmer months when you might want a little more skin on show, and a touch more airflow too. Distressed jeans add an edge to any ensemble, pairing well with the best leather jackets for a rock and roll feel. This Cotton:On pair is both affordable and versatile. Thanks to the light blue hue, they also have an instantly spring season feel.
Looking for the best jeans for curvy women? If you find waist gap a problem, and struggle to find jeans that fit your legs, bum and your waist, H&M's curve range is here to solve those problems. With more room around the hip and thigh and no gaping at the waist, you can expect a curve-loving fit.
For a leg lengthening and figure balancing silhouette, the best wide leg jeans are both comfortable and stylish, and these tick both those boxes. With a trendy raw hem and true denim hue, they are the ideal staple purchase.
Although the best affordable jeans won't break the bank, you still want to ensure you are making a wise investment, as if you're replacing them too regularly, they're no longer cost-effective.
There's no going wrong with these slim fit mom jeans, as they're a shape for any occasion and provide a neutral base for styling up. An essential part of a minimalist capsule wardrobe, the tapered ankle adds a touch of sophistication for a great price.
Nailed how to style cargo pants. Give cargo jeans a go. This straight fit style is perfect for tucking in oversized sweaters or a baggy tee for a trend-led look, while the pockets add a practical, utility feel to all outfits. With more interest than a standard pair of jeans, this cheap pair will be the first thing you reach for on weekends and as it's quite a trend-led buy, you won't want to invest too heavily. Channel the coat trends 2023 and style up with a leather biker.
We love the stonewash color and unique seam detailing on these jeans. The best affordable jeans for making a statement on a real budget, these answer the dilemma of how to wear cowboy boots as the slim leg is ideal for tucking into longer boot styles, or wearing over ankle cowboy boots. With a relaxed fit around the thighs but a tapered fit through the calf and ankle, these affordable jeans will be comfortable enough for evening-long wear. Style with a suede jacket and a plain tee to fully lean into the look.
Dark blue denim is our go-to when we want the classic look of jeans with a more sophisticated edge. With the perfect bootcut shape, these low rise jeans are the ideal base for any outfit. Nail how to dress simple but stylish by adding a boxy blazer and some pointed toe boots.
High rise and with a straighter leg fit, these petite jeans have a nice cropped length that is ideal for teaming with statement footwear. Whether you choose to style with the best Chelsea boots or some platform, sparkly heels, these cheap petite jeans will look good. Customers do note that these run small, so it's worth sizing up. The light wash colorway ensures these are ideal for more casual ensembles.
Lee is one of our favorite denim brands for style and quality on a budget. Makers of some of the most comfortable jeans, this classic mom style has multiple five-star reviews from customers and comes in a range of denim hues for all tastes. If you're looking for mom jeans outfits inspo, this dark blue provides the ideal base for spring outfit ideas, pairing well with neutrals or pastel hues.
Is there a difference between cheap and expensive jeans?
As with most clothing, the difference between expensive designer jeans brands and cheap jeans tends to be the quality of fabrication, stitching and cut. Although jeans can get pretty pricey, we do find that expensive jeans usually last better, have stronger stitching and more precise cut. Jeans with a high price tag are usually made from higher quality materials, and may be made more ethically made too, which is always something we look for. But this isn't always the case and with an increased use of organic cotton across the market, brands at all price points are looking to create more sustainable denim production techniques. Equally, just because your jeans aren't designer, doesn't mean they won't last. Buying jeans is so personal, so invest in the denim that works best for you, but do look for strong stitching and rivet detailing that reinforce pockets.
The best way to get the most out of your jeans is to go for a style that you love and know you will get significant wear out of, regardless of the price tag. If you can find your dream pair of jeans for an affordable price, don't be put off by the lower cost. Even cheap jeans can last you very well if you take care of them properly by learning how to wash jeans and keeping on top of any rips or snagged stitching.