Jeans are hard. Finding a pair that doesn't gap at the waist while simultaneously strangling your thighs is basically a full-time job for some of us. Then Everlane dropped the Everlane Way High Curve Jean, and suddenly my Instagram feed looked like an architectural exhibit.
They’re weird. They’re bold. They look like a parenthesis had a baby with a pair of vintage 80s trousers. But do they actually work on a human body that isn't a professional fit model? Honestly, it depends on what you're willing to tolerate in the name of "fashion-forward" denim.
The first time you pull these on, you’ll notice the weight. This isn't that flimsy, "shaper-wear" denim that loses its soul after three washes. It’s heavy. It’s 100% organic cotton, which means it has zero stretch. If you’re used to leggings, these might feel like wearing a cardboard box at first. But that’s the point. The structure is what creates that specific, bowed-out shape that makes the Way High Curve Jean so polarizing.
What is a "Curve" Jean Anyway?
Most "curvy" jeans on the market are designed for a specific body type—usually a high hip-to-waist ratio. But the Everlane Way High Curve Jean is different because the garment itself is curved. The side seams literally bow out from the hip and taper back in at the ankle.
It’s an architectural choice.
By curving the outer seam, Everlane creates volume around the leg without adding bulk to the waist or the crotch area. This isn't just a "wide leg" jean. A wide leg falls straight from the hip. This one balloons. If you’ve ever looked at the "barrel" pant trend from brands like Toteme or Citizens of Humanity and thought, "I want that, but maybe for less than $300," this is Everlane's answer.
The rise is high. Like, really high. We're talking 12 inches. It hits right above the belly button for most people, which provides that tucked-in, secure feeling. It’s the kind of height that makes a simple white t-shirt look like a "look."
The Fit Reality Check
Let's talk about the sizing because Everlane is notoriously inconsistent. With the Everlane Way High Curve Jean, the general consensus from long-term wearers and denim enthusiasts is to stay true to size if you want that exaggerated look, or size down if you’re between sizes.
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Because there is no elastane, the denim will not "snap back" like your favorite skinnies. It will, however, "give" about a half-size over the first few hours of wear. You’ll put them on and think, "I can’t breathe." Give it twenty minutes. The heat from your body softens the cotton fibers. Suddenly, you can sit down.
- For Petite Folks: The 27-inch inseam is a godsend for some, but for others, it still hits at a weird spot. If the "balloon" part of the curve hits too low on your leg, it can make you look shorter than you are. You want that curve to peak right at the mid-thigh or slightly below.
- For Tall Folks: Everlane offers a Long version, but even then, these are meant to be cropped. If you're over 5'9", expect these to hit well above the ankle bone. It’s a vibe, but maybe not the vibe you want in a snowstorm.
- The Waist Gap: This is where the Way High Curve Jean shines. Because the volume is in the leg, the waist stays snug. It's one of the few non-stretch jeans that genuinely caters to an hourglass shape without needing a belt to prevent "plumber's crack."
Sustainability and Material Science
Everlane talks a big game about "Radical Transparency," and while that’s partly marketing, the specs on these jeans are legit. They use 14.5 oz organic cotton. For context, your average mall-brand jean is usually around 10 oz or 11 oz.
The weight matters.
Heavier denim lasts longer. It develops "whiskering" and fades that are unique to your body’s movement. Also, these are made in a factory that recycles its water—specifically the Saitex factory in Vietnam, which is widely considered one of the cleanest denim plants in the world.
Is it perfect? No. "Organic" is a loaded term, but using GOTS-certified cotton means fewer pesticides in the soil where the fiber was grown. It’s a step up from conventional fast fashion, even if the "forever" nature of any garment is ultimately up to how often you wash it. (Pro tip: wash these inside out, in cold water, and never, ever put them in the dryer if you want them to stay dark).
Styling the Balloon Silhouette
This is where people get intimidated. How do you wear a pant that makes your legs look like two large commas?
The key is balance.
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Since the bottom half is so voluminous, you basically have to go slim on top. A fitted turtleneck, a bodysuit, or a cropped tank top works best. If you wear an oversized sweater with these, you might end up looking like a very fashionable cloud. Not necessarily a bad thing, but it can overwhelm your frame.
Footwear is the make-or-break element. Because of the tapered ankle, these jeans look incredible with:
- A sleek ankle boot that tucks up under the hem.
- A chunky loafer with a visible sock.
- A simple, low-profile sneaker like a Samba or a Veja.
Avoid mid-calf boots. They fight with the hemline and create a weird bunching effect that ruins the "curve" aesthetic.
Why Some People Hate Them
Let’s be real: these aren't for everyone. If you value a "long and lean" look, the Way High Curve Jean will frustrate you. They are designed to add volume. They are designed to be noticed.
Some critics argue that the "barrel" shape is a flash-in-the-pan trend that will look dated by next year. Others find the 100% cotton too restrictive for a modern lifestyle that involves sitting at a desk for eight hours. And honestly? If you have a very short torso, a 12-inch rise might end up hitting your ribcage. That’s not comfortable. It’s a corset made of indigo.
There’s also the "crotch bunch" issue. Because of the high rise and the heavy fabric, sometimes when you sit, the extra fabric in the front can "tent." It’s the price you pay for that specific vintage-inspired construction.
Comparison: Way High vs. Way High Curve
Don’t confuse these with the standard Way High Jean.
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The standard Way High is a classic straight-leg. It’s safe. It’s the "meet the parents" jean. The Everlane Way High Curve Jean is the "gallery opening in Soho" jean. The standard version uses a bit of stretch (usually 1% or 2% elastane), whereas the Curve is almost always rigid.
If you want comfort and a traditional silhouette, go standard. If you want to look like you know what’s happening on the runways in Paris, go Curve.
Breaking Them In
If you decide to pull the trigger, do not judge them in the first five minutes.
Rigid denim is a commitment.
The "break-in" period is real. Wear them around the house for a few hours. Do some squats. Lunges. Maybe don't go to a big pasta dinner on night one. By day three, the waist will have molded to your specific shape, and the fabric will have softened at the backs of the knees. That's when they become your favorite jeans.
Actionable Insights for the Savvy Shopper
If you're ready to try the curve, follow these steps to avoid the "return by mail" headache:
- Measure your natural waist: Take a soft tape measure and find the narrowest part of your torso. Compare that directly to Everlane's size chart rather than guessing based on your size in stretchy brands like Madewell or Gap.
- Check the fabric composition: Everlane occasionally releases "Curve" styles in different washes. Lighter washes are often processed more and might feel softer/thinner than the raw indigo or black versions.
- The "Sit Test": When they arrive, put them on and sit in a hard chair. If you feel like you're being cut in half, you need to size up. If there's just a slight pressure, they’ll stretch out perfectly.
- Embrace the Crop: If they feel too short, don't panic. This style is meant to show off the shoe. If you try to wear them as full-length pants, the curve will look accidental rather than intentional.
- Skip the Dryer: To preserve the architectural integrity of the side seam, air dry only. High heat can warp the heavy cotton and make the "curve" look wonky.
The Everlane Way High Curve Jean isn't just another pair of pants; it’s a specific aesthetic choice for people tired of the same old silhouettes. It’s bold, it’s a bit difficult, and it requires a little bit of breaking in—but for those who get it, it’s the best denim Everlane has ever made.