By When Blake Lively stepped out in a pair of $19,000 designer jeans at the screening of her latest movie, It Ends with Us, the fashion world took notice. The Valentino denim, adorned with thigh-to-heel cut-outs and hibiscus-shaped embroidery, became a hot topic, raising the question: How much is too much to spend on jeans?
These Valentino jeans, designed with the 1% in mind, are far from the norm. While they may be a conversation starter, they are certainly not your everyday wear. On high-end fashion retail sites like Net-a-Porter and Ssense, the most expensive jeans typically range from $2,500 to $3,500. Even on Valentino’s website, the next priciest pair is around $2,700, significantly less than the ones Lively wore.
For most people, spending this much on jeans is unimaginable, especially when more affordable options like Levi’s or sustainable brands such as MUD Jeans and ELV Denim are readily available. These brands offer quality denim at prices ranging from $100 to $500.
A Buyer’s Guide to Finding the Perfect Pair
When shopping for jeans, consider your needs and lifestyle. New York-based stylist Becky Malinsky advises thinking about where and how you’ll be wearing your jeans. Are they for work, casual outings, or special occasions? Malinsky, known for her fashion expertise, recommends brands like Citizens of Humanity and classic Levi’s for their blend of fashion and fit.
Comfort is crucial, so it’s important to try jeans on, move around in them, and even consider tailoring them for the perfect fit. Malinsky emphasizes finding a balance between style and comfort. While some stretch can enhance comfort, too much can compromise the jeans’ shape.
For those seeking longevity in their jeans, it’s wise to avoid overly trendy styles like super-skinny or ultra-wide legs, rips, and heavy embellishments. A straight or slightly tapered leg in a mid-to-high rise and darker wash is a timeless choice.
Is It Worth Spending More?
There’s an argument for investing in higher-priced jeans, especially when considering the resources and labor involved in making them. Sandra Capponi, co-founder of the sustainable fashion site Good on You, points out that paying more upfront for high-quality denim can be better for both your wallet and the planet in the long run.
The price range of $100 to $400 is often considered the “sweet spot” for jeans, offering a balance between quality, sustainability, and price. While you might be paying for branding beyond this range, it’s also about personal preference and how much value you place on the brand.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re willing to splurge on luxury denim or prefer more affordable options, the key is to shop thoughtfully and find the pair that makes you feel your best. And if you’re still shocked by the idea of $19,000 jeans, remember that fashion is subjective, and sometimes, it’s about more than just the price tag. After all, someone once paid over $400,000 for Kurt Cobain’s old Levi’s — proving that, for some, the right pair of jeans is truly priceless.
