How To Buy A Good Pair Of Jeans? 8 Things To Look For When Shopping Online

Jeans are one of the most loved pieces of clothing in wardrobes across the world. They're versatile, durable, and timeless, easily dressed up with a blazer or kept casual with a simple T-shirt. Yet, as much as we adore them, buying a good pair of jeans online is far from easy.

From size charts to fabric blends, here are 8 practical tips to shop smarter and avoid disappointment.
Photo Credit: Pexels

When you walk into a store, you can touch the fabric, try on different fits, check the stretch, and decide almost instantly whether a pair works for you. Online, however, things get trickier. With endless product images, confusing size guides, and the risk of receiving something that looks nothing like the picture, shopping for jeans digitally can feel like a gamble.

But it doesn't have to be. With a little knowledge and the right approach, you can find jeans that fit well, last long, and actually live up to their description.

Also Read: How To Wear Wedges With Jeans: Fashion Tips For The Perfect Look

8 Things To Look For Before Buying Jeans Online

1. Know Your Measurements, Not Just Your Size

Sizes vary wildly between brands. What's a size 28 in one label might be closer to a 30 in another. Instead of relying solely on generic “small, medium, large” categories, take a measuring tape and note your actual waist, hip, thigh, and inseam measurements.

Most reliable e-commerce platforms provide detailed size charts. Match your measurements to these rather than guessing. If a brand offers jeans by waist and inseam (e.g., 30x32), double-check both figures. Having your numbers ready ensures far fewer sizing disappointments when your order arrives.

From inseam to fabric stretch, here's your 8-step guide to shopping denim like a pro.
Photo Credit: Pexels

2. Pay Attention To Fabric Composition

Not all denim is created equal. Traditional denim is 100% cotton, known for its structure and durability. However, most modern jeans include a percentage of elastane, polyester, or lycra for stretch and comfort.

• 100% cotton jeans: Great if you like rigid, vintage-style denim that moulds to your body over time. But they can feel stiff initially.
• Stretch denim (98% cotton, 2% elastane): A popular choice for everyday wear, offering comfort without losing shape too quickly.
• High stretch (with more than 3% elastane): Feels soft and flexible, but can sometimes lose shape after multiple washes.

Checking fabric details in the product description gives you a realistic idea of how your jeans will feel and wear over time.

3. Look At The Rise, It Changes Everything

The “rise” refers to the distance between the crotch seam and the top of the waistband. It affects both comfort and style.

• Low-rise: Sits on the hips, often considered stylish but can feel less secure.
• Mid-rise: Sits just below the natural waist, a safe and flattering option for most body shapes.
• High-rise: Sits on or above the waist, elongating the legs and offering more coverage.

When shopping online, brands usually specify rise measurements in inches. Knowing your preferred rise helps avoid surprises when you try them on at home.

Good jeans last years. But buying the right pair online takes more than luck!
Photo Credit: Pexels

4. Study The Fit Carefully

From skinny and straight to wide-leg and bootcut, fits differ widely and can look very different once worn. Since you can't try them before buying online, read the fit description thoroughly.

• Skinny: Slim all through the leg, flattering for some, restrictive for others.
• Straight: Balanced from hip to hem, a classic option.
• Relaxed/Boyfriend: Looser, with a casual vibe.
• Bootcut/Flared: Wider from the knee down, creating a retro feel.

Also, take note of product photography. If possible, check if the model's height and size are mentioned, this helps you imagine how the jeans might fall on your own frame.

5. Check The Length (Inseam Matters)

One of the most overlooked aspects when buying jeans online is inseam length. The inseam is the inside leg measurement, from crotch to hem.

A pair that's too long may bunch up or require alteration, while too short can throw off proportions. Some brands offer multiple inseam options (short, regular, long), which is ideal. If not, measure your favourite jeans at home and compare with the product listing before buying.

6. Read Reviews Beyond Star Ratings

Star ratings alone don't tell the full story. Scroll through customer reviews for comments about sizing accuracy, fabric feel, stretch recovery, and colour differences.

Many buyers also share invaluable photos. A pair of jeans that looks perfect in a studio-shot image might appear much darker, lighter, or looser in real-life customer photos. Reviews give you insights into how the jeans actually perform after washing and wearing.

7. Understand Return And Exchange Policies

Even with the best preparation, buying jeans online can still result in a mismatch. That's why knowing the store's return and exchange policy is essential.

• Free returns: Ideal, as jeans can be heavy and costly to ship back.
• Time frame: Some retailers allow only 7 to 10 days, others up to 30.
• Refund vs. credit: Check whether you'll get your money back or just store credit.

Before you click “add to cart”, make sure you're comfortable with the return process in case the jeans don't work out.

8. Don't Ignore Wash And Care Instructions

Denim behaves differently depending on its treatment. Some jeans shrink slightly after the first wash, while others fade dramatically. Brands often provide wash and care guidelines, so glance at them before purchase.

• Pre-shrunk jeans: Less likely to shrink further.
• Raw denim: Fades beautifully but requires special care.
• Stretch jeans: Better washed in cold water to maintain elasticity.

Knowing how your jeans will age helps you decide whether they're worth the investment.

Shopping for jeans online doesn't have to feel like a risky bet. By paying attention to details like measurements, fabric composition, rise, fit, and customer reviews, you can dramatically improve your chances of finding a pair that truly fits and flatters.

While in-store trials have their charm, the digital marketplace offers far greater variety and convenience. Armed with these eight tips, you'll not only avoid common pitfalls but also shop smarter, turning what was once a frustrating task into a rewarding experience.

Products Related To This Article

1. glitchez Women Wide Leg Light Faded Stretchable Jeans

2. Aadvi Fashion Women Jean Flared High-Rise Low Distress Light Fade Stretchable Jeans

3. StyleCast Women Wide Leg High-Rise Heavy Fade Denim Jeans

4. H&M Women Straight High Jeans

5. Roadster The Life Co. Women Bootcut Fit Mid-Rise Stretchable Jeans

6. DOLCE CRUDO Wide-Leg High Rise Clean Look Regular Length Stretchable Shaping Denim Jeans

7. all about you Women Flared High-Rise Light Fade Stretchable Jeans

8. Kotty Women Jean Light Fade Wide Leg Stretchable Jeans

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I choose the right size of jeans online?

Always measure your waist, hips, and inseam, then compare them to the brand's size chart. Avoid relying only on “S, M, L” labels as sizes vary across brands.

2. What fabric should I look for when buying jeans online?

Check the fabric composition in the product description. Cotton jeans are durable but stiff, while jeans with elastane or lycra offer comfort and stretch.

3. How do I know if jeans will fit me well without trying them on?

Read the fit description (skinny, straight, relaxed, bootcut), check rise measurements, and review customer photos to see how the jeans look on different body types.

4. Why is inseam length important when buying jeans online?

The inseam determines how long the jeans will be. Too short looks awkward, while too long may need alterations. Measure a pair you already own for comparison.

5. What should I check before placing an order for jeans online?

Always confirm size with the chart, read fabric details, check customer reviews, and understand the return and exchange policy in case the fit isn't right.