Okay, let’s be honest: The Row’s slouchy jeans are gorgeous. That relaxed, drapey vibe that somehow looks effortlessly chic? Total wardrobe goals. But the price? Oof. Not everyone can justify dropping thousands on a single pair of denim.
I’ve been hunting for alternatives myself, trying to find jeans that give that same relaxed, pulled-together feel without making my bank account scream. After some trial and error (and yes, a few very regrettable pairs), I think I’ve figured out what to look for — and what to skip — when chasing that “designer slouch” on a budget.
What Makes Slouchy Jeans Look So Good
Before you start searching, it helps to know what actually makes The Row’s style stand out:
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The fabric drape – It’s soft, but with enough weight to hang nicely. You want that gentle fold in the leg, not a limp pancake.
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High or mid-rise – This keeps the slouch intentional. Too low, and it looks messy rather than stylish.
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Relaxed, straight or wide leg – There’s room to move, sit, and slouch without looking boxy.
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Length – A slightly longer inseam that pools just a bit over shoes or boots adds to that casual elegance.
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Subtle wash – Think clean blues or muted tones. The slouchy silhouette should be the star, not crazy fades or distressing.
Basically, it’s all about effortless polish — slouchy, yes, but carefully thought out.
How to Find Affordable Alternatives
Here’s what I’ve learned when hunting for budget-friendly options:
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Soft but structured denim – Too stiff, and it looks boxy; too flimsy, and it sags. Look for something in between.
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Slightly bigger fit – If in doubt, size up. A little extra at the waist lets the leg drape naturally.
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Neutral or classic washes – Clean, simple, and versatile. Save the funky washes for your second or third “fun” pair.
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Straight or wide leg cuts – Avoid tapered skinny styles; you want room to slouch.
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Check the hem length – Longer is better for that cool, just-off-duty vibe.
My Favorite Affordable Picks
After lots of trial (and a little error), these styles really work:
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High-rise wide-leg jeans – These give that elegant, relaxed drape and look great with both a tucked tee or oversized sweater.
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Straight-leg light wash – A classic look, perfect for day-to-day wear. Slightly long legs make them look effortlessly chic with sneakers or loafers.
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Vintage-inspired faded jeans – Give you that “I’ve had these forever” casual vibe. Works amazingly with an oversized blazer or a cozy knit.
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Stretch-blend options – Keep comfort high without sacrificing the relaxed silhouette. Best for days when you’ll be moving or traveling a lot.
Styling Tips
Even budget-friendly slouchy jeans can look designer with the right touches:
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Keep your top neat – Balance the loose bottom with a fitted top, tucked in or belted.
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Play with proportions – If your top is oversized, half-tuck it to keep your shape.
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Choose the right shoes – Sneakers for casual, loafers for polish, boots for edge.
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Simple accessories – Minimal jewelry or a structured bag makes the outfit feel intentional.
Why I Love These Alternatives
Honestly, it’s all about feeling good without stressing your wallet. Affordable slouchy jeans let you experiment with washes, lengths, and fits. You can mix and match with different tops, shoes, and jackets without feeling guilty. And when they drape right, you still get that luxe, effortless vibe The Row is known for — just way more practical for everyday life.
