Team Premium or Team Non-Premium Denim

Becky

I guess since I’ve never owned any premium denim, I’m Team Non-Premium. That doesn’t mean I’d never be willing to consider premium denim, but my budget probably precludes me wearing exclusively (or even primarily) premium denim.

January 12, 2011 at 2:49 pm

chewyspaghetti

Veteran

I’m Team Premium. I actually haven’t bought more jeans because I can’t see going back to non-premium since I switched, but I would try the Gap ones. I have the same David Kahn Lauren fit jeans in two sizes, and a pair of Levi’s jeggings- that’s it.

January 12, 2011 at 2:52 pm

Dana

(website)

Veteran

Team Premium Denim! They wear infinitely better than non-premium denim. Even my husband has found premiums better. I loooove my Paige’s!!

January 12, 2011 at 2:54 pm

theresa

Active Member

Like Becky I guess I’m team Non-premium because I’ve never owned premium denim but I’m hoping splurge and give it a try sometime as jeans shopping for me can be a very frustrating experience. Since I wear jeans probably 4 out of 5 days a week I think it might be a good investment.

January 12, 2011 at 2:56 pm

Kate

Veteran

I’ve never had premiums, so I’m on team non-premium. My jeans are from Loft, Gap, and F21 – the two from F21 have surprised me and held up shockingly well for $10 denim! Given that my kitties occasionally snag my jeans while crawling on my lap, I don’t think I’ll be switching to premium anytime soon.

January 12, 2011 at 3:03 pm

Bookarella

Veteran

Hmmm. I have both Premium and Non-Premium in my closet. I wear my N-P the most and save my P for dressier times. I love my Levi leans, but also love my COH and Paige bootcuts. I guess I will sit on the bench for this one.

January 12, 2011 at 3:05 pm

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I’m Team Premium. Bought my first pair David Kahn jeans (Lauren, just like yours, chewyspaghetti!) about 4 years ago and am finally relegating the first pair of those to my stack of clothes I wear to go to the dog park or clean the house. They’re still perfectly good, just faded to a no-longer-dark wash. Whatever I paid for them, I’ve worn them so much, I’m pretty sure they cost me a fraction of a penny per wear!

Since then I’ve also found that Kut from the Kloth work well on me, as do Christopher Blue, and one pair of Seven for all Mankind that actually accommodate my thighs. My thighs are my main issue with jeans of any kind, but I have a wonderful pair of trouser jeans I bought at Anthropologie that circumvent that problem nicely.

January 12, 2011 at 3:05 pm

lynn

Veteran

I have more non premium than premium and I would have to say that I like the non premium better. They are softer therefore more comfortable. As far as durability, I keep buying new styles (need to stop!) so that has not been an issue. I am also not very hard on my clothes. I love my Levi’s and my Gap and my JCrew jeans way more than my David Kahns.

January 12, 2011 at 3:06 pm

Queen Mum

Veteran

Not that I have alot of premium, but I am going to choose that team because my non-premium denim pieces have only proven to be one year wonders (if that). In fact, I was in Nordies today and was tempted by some marked down Jag jeans, but decided my next pair would be a premium pair that will last for years rather than a pair that will need to be replaced in a year.

January 12, 2011 at 3:10 pm

Velma

Veteran

Team non-premium. I have been very happy with Gap, Old Navy, and Calvin Klein (that’s non-premium, right?), and plenty of my jeans have been thrifted. I never spend more than about $50.

January 12, 2011 at 3:10 pm

Megan

Active Member

Team Premium without a doubt- I own a couple of pairs of jeggings that aren’t premium demin but all my regular jeans are. Love my Paiges.

January 12, 2011 at 3:12 pm

Deb

Active Member

Team Premium!

You really do get what you pay for – their fabric is top notch, they’re cut to fit well, and they hold their shape. When considering price per wearing, I think they’re good value. My faves are from Rich & Skinny, 7 for All Mankind, and Ann Taylor. They enhance the figure, slim the thighs,and boost the caboose … what more can a girl ask for? I can always depend on them to be “Team Deb”!

January 12, 2011 at 3:14 pm

morethanbeige

Veteran

I have some premium jeans, JBrand, COH, but my favorites lately are my Gap jeans…gap leans (legging jeans), Always Skinnies, and Perfect Boot Cut. I am anxious to try the long and leans. So I guess that makes me Team Non-Premium.

January 12, 2011 at 3:24 pm

Cynthia

(website)

Oh, I’m mostly on Team Gap for financial reasons, but when I can, I’ll pick up a pair or two of AG Angels in the end of season sales. They do make my butt look fantastic.

January 12, 2011 at 3:25 pm

Kelly

I’m on team non-premium by default, as I’ve never owned premium denim. I’d love to be able to afford a pair someday, though, and be able to compare it.

January 12, 2011 at 3:25 pm

annagybe

(website)

Veteran

Totally team premium. Though I might be tempted to go to the Gap for wide legs or flares.

January 12, 2011 at 3:33 pm

Diana

Veteran

Team Premium, although I’m far less fanatical about this than I used to be. I’ve also never paid full price for a pair of premium jeans. My favorite jeans this winter are my skinny Vince jeans (found at TJ Maxx for ~$60, originally somewhere around $250), but I’ve also been wearing my two pairs of non-premium straight leg Kut jeans a lot. I’ve also got Lucky (are Luckys considered premium? or somewhere in between?), Red Engine, J Brand, 7s, and others in my closet. I’m definitely not averse to getting some Gap jeans too though, especially as the reviews around here lately have been so good.

January 12, 2011 at 3:53 pm

Katja

(website)

Active Member

I’m on the bench – totally frustrated with jeans right now. I think I’m going to swear off jeans until high waists come back into style. Somebody let me know when that happens!

January 12, 2011 at 4:00 pm

Antje

Veteran

I’m team non-premium. While I’m convinced that premium jeans are of better quality, and I’m open to purchasing premium denim (and have in fact tried on many pairs), I usually end up with non-premium pairs just because the fit of the ones I got happens to work well on me. The jeans I currently wear most are Kut from the Kloth skinnies, Mia (Express) skinnies, and Gap perfect boot. I tried premium brands before and liked the fit of some, but not well enough to justify the extra money. And fit is still the most important criteria to me…

January 12, 2011 at 4:02 pm

CocoLion

(website)

Veteran

Team Premium denim. Although I have a few non-premium jeans I love — from Levi’s and Bubblegum/Flavour.

January 12, 2011 at 4:06 pm

laura

Non-premium. I think I have found some fabulous jeans in the non-premium section. Can’t seem to get my mind around paying that much for jeans. I think if you have a decent style you can get away with cheaper stuff, people who do not know how to dress well need the designer help.

January 12, 2011 at 4:09 pm

taylor

Veteran

Team premium denim .:)
But I own several non premium denim that I have gotten altered from Ann Taylor and ATloft…you can only wear their denim if your work for the company:)

January 12, 2011 at 4:15 pm

Sveta

(website)

Veteran

I do not own any premium denim now (CJ is not premium, right?) Pre-YLF I had some non-premium jeans and they did not hold well. They are also too big for me now.
Currently I have one pair of Kut jeans, one pair of CJ ‘Faith” and 2 pair of Gap leans. I do not own them long enough to judge the quality and longevity though. I have also ordered a few pairs of Gap and BR bootcuts and trouser jeans for the spring.
I would like to get a premium jeans but have not found a good fitting ones yet. I tried some in the Nordstrom Rack during my October trip to US: 7s and True religions just are not cut for my body and Paige ones were the wrong size (but maybe a potential).
So I will sit on the bench this one – not because of the indecision but because of my ignorance.:-)

January 12, 2011 at 4:31 pm

taylor

Veteran

That didn’t come out right…
meant to say I can only wear ATaylor or ATLoft denim when I am working their…
otherwise I wear premium denim:)

January 12, 2011 at 4:33 pm

Nichole@40daysof

(website)

I think I’m on non-premium. I’ve always worn Gap jeans and they had an amazing jean that fit me called Essential. And they got rid of it about the time they came out with all the ones you love. I’ve yet to find and appropriate replacement. Worn from Nordstrom is close, but not quite it. I’m willing to try anything no matter the cost. I’m 5’2″ and chunky, so they can’t be tapered. I’d prefer a true medium rise that hits right below the navel. Suggestions anyone?

January 12, 2011 at 4:41 pm

LegacyOfPearl

(website)

I have three non premium jeans from NY&Co that I love, but I’ll go with team premium since I have about seven (who’s counting? pairs of premium. Bagging and stretching have never been problems for me, but the life of non-premium jeans are definitely much shorter since I wear and wash all my jeans often.

January 12, 2011 at 4:48 pm

Dusty

(website)

Active Member

Team non-premium. I’ve never tried premium denim and I don’t see myself doing so any time soon. It’s not in the budget at all, plus I don’t see the value when my $15 Wal-mart jeans have held up so well. At this point, even if the premium denim were to last way longer than my cheepies they’d likely look dated before they’d match the cost-per-wear of my Sassoons.

January 12, 2011 at 4:53 pm

Anne (mrsanniep)

Team Premium! They look better and last longer. I’ve tried on the Gap jeans and they’re fine, but I still like my Paige jeans best. In fact, I’m wearing a bootcut pair right now that I’ve had for 4 years! I’ve never worn a non-premium pair that long.

January 12, 2011 at 4:55 pm

Beth

Veteran

I’m pretty sure I’ll never love a pair of jeans as much as I do my COH Elsons.

But…I have a pair of white Kut From the Kloth jeans I like and Gap’s Leans are truly fab. I also love my older pair of Long & Leans.

Put me on the bench:)

January 12, 2011 at 4:59 pm

April

Veteran

I like the premium denims I have right now (COH, Rich & Skinny) the best, but — inspired by Angie — I keep trying the find which of the new Gap styles will be perfect for me. I haven’t found it yet, but won’t give up. I can only buy premium when I find it at an amazing discount, and that makes shopping kind of hit or miss. I would be *thrilled* to find a non-bagging, dark wash, flattering, great-fitting, non-premium style.

January 12, 2011 at 5:16 pm

KristineK

Active Member

Team Premium, but mostly because I am the bum-less wonder and the only jeans I’ve been able to find that fit my very flat, practically not there at all rear end correctly have been premium brands (True Religion, Rock & Republic). I’ve also got two pairs of Vince skinnies and those have got to be the most comfortable skinny jeans I’ve ever tried! About five years ago I used to wear nothing but J. Crew jeans, but I think they changed the fit, plus with the vanity sizing they sized me right out of the brand :-(.

January 12, 2011 at 5:20 pm

Melody

Active Member

I’m team Premium. Got my first couple pair of premium (7’s) after losing baby weight and while on a wonderful vacation in LA. In my case, I usually have trouble with the waist gapping in the back with non-premium jeans. My sister, built the same as I am, has the same problem. For years, we’ve spent alot of money looking for the perfect pair of non-premium jeans. As we live in a rural area, premium jeans aren’t available at the malls we shop and until I tried on a pair while on vacation, I had no idea what the difference was … always assumed it was just the brand name. So now I’m sold on premium, and convinced my sister as well.

With all that being said, I’m wearing mostly Levi’s jeggings these days. Because they’re so stretchy they don’t gap in the back, and they tuck into boots nicely. All my premiums are straight leg or boot cut.

January 12, 2011 at 5:24 pm

Ellen

Team non-premium. Really just because I can’t handle the price of premium. And I’ve found brands that fit me well enough to make me happy.

January 12, 2011 at 5:26 pm

Steph

Veteran

Team Premium. I probably own about seven pairs of Joe’s Jeans in the Honey style, because they were the only ones I could find that worked with my butt and thighs. Recently I found Joe’s Muse jeans work (and don’t have the super-low rise of the Honeys) and I just discovered Hudson jeans, which I am loving.

Nichole, I think you should try Joe’s Jeans in the Muse style. I have muscular thighs and they work for me, and the rise hits me right below the belly button (I am 5’1). I actually found several pairs on sale at Nordstrom Rack recently.

January 12, 2011 at 5:32 pm

ismay

Non premium, absolutely. Just cannot fathom paying that much for a piece of casual clothing. Also, am not a jeans girl, so wear them less often than once a week.

January 12, 2011 at 5:46 pm

Marie

Team non-premium. My favorite pair of jeans which I wear all the time because they fit perfectly were $12 from JC Penney, though you’d never guess it. They’re excellent quality. To me it’s all about the fit – doesn’t matter if they’re “premium” if they don’t fit well.

January 12, 2011 at 5:47 pm

MsMary

Veteran

Same here. I have to admit even $75 or so for a pair of Gap jeans seems like a lot to me, so I am Team Non-Premium all the way.

January 12, 2011 at 5:50 pm

Maya

Veteran

Team premium, definitely. I’ll qualify that by saying I have never paid full price though, but I definitely would if I could.

A while ago the idea of spending $200 on jeans disgusted me, but now I definitely see the light. For the first time in my life, I am keeping my jeans for years at a time, not worrying about bagging and sagging, and feeling comfortable–no more pulling the waistband up, no more stiffness and scratchiness against my skin.

Ironically, though, the pair of jeans I wear most in winter is non-premium. I haven’t found a pair of premium denim leggings with a high enough rise so I just wear a $19 pair from Uniqlo that I got at my birthday gathering last year. They are holding up remarkably well, although I’d still prefer to replace them.

January 12, 2011 at 6:25 pm

Lisa

Veteran

I’m on the bench. I have built up an equal amount of premium and non premium denim in my wardrobe. My premium denim are Joe’s, Paige (for leans) and recently Hudson. My non premium denim are Express, Gap, and Lucky Brand. I wear them all equally. Oddly enough I find my premium denim are best for when I want to wear heels (the petite fits work for me with heels and I am not a huge fan of hemming) while the non premium brands work for me with flats or a low (2inch or less) heel, again going by the petite or more often labeled short in these.

January 12, 2011 at 6:36 pm

Melllllls

Definately non-premium. I have yet to find a pair a premium jeans that fit me right. Yesterday I wore a pair of jeans from American Eagle that are approximately five years old, in fine shape, and don’t bag. So I just dont see the attraction of premium denim.

January 12, 2011 at 6:43 pm

Patience

Veteran

Team premium. But my best white and ivory denim are non-premium. I’m a little disappointed with my black Gap leans as they bag out by the end of the day. This may be a fit issue though as the size I got is a tad too big probably but the smaller size was way too small. I’m still tempted to try the long and leans. I don’t ever see myself stopping denim purchases, but I have slowed down.

January 12, 2011 at 7:30 pm

Mskatiekat

(website)

I’m looking to switch to Team Premium sometime soon. I’ve never tried them, but because I wear jeans on a regular basis (casual work environment), I thought premium denim would definitely be worth the investment.

I wear Gap Long and Leans (which fit me to perfection!) and Levis denim leggings. Other than that, no other pair of jean can accommodate my flabby midsection

January 12, 2011 at 7:36 pm

Laurinda

N-P. I like Lees, or Kohl’s house brand.

January 12, 2011 at 7:41 pm

Lannie

Team Non-Premium, because my weight is constantly fluctuating and I carry my weight in my bottom half. It would be foolish, I think, to bother paying that much for jeans that won’t fit properly in a matter of months. Right now I’m happy with Gap jeans.
I completely agree with the mentality that spending more on an item you will wear a lot is worthwhile (I’ll spend extra on tops and sweaters because I don’t fluctuate nearly as much on top) so I understand why so many of you buy premium. That being said, there’s something funny to me about paying so much for a clothing item that was traditionally the clothing of the working classes. How things do change.

January 12, 2011 at 7:51 pm

Refugee

Veteran

Currently non-premium. But my weight and body shape has changed quite a bit over the last couple of years. I am still figuring out sizes and styles that work for me. I don’t want to spend the money on premium jeans until I’m a bit more settled.

January 12, 2011 at 8:13 pm

greenglove

(website)

Veteran

Team non – premium!!
I have one pair of premium jeans- COH avedon skinnies. They stretch out more than any other jean I own. They are really awful, fit well for a few hours. My Gap skinnies are the best- no stretch, soft material. I looked forever at premium jeans and will likely not buy again. There are better jeans out there than there used to be at a better cost.

January 12, 2011 at 8:18 pm

Anchi

(website)

Active Member

Team Premium all the way! They’re the only ones that fit and flatter my nonexistent hips and skinny thighs and legs. I adore my Paige and J Brand jeans! I remember when skinny jeans came out and they were all baggy on me, until I tried on a pair of discounted J Brands at Nordstrom Rack (the only place I’ve ever bought premium jeans, b.t.w.). Heaven! I wore them the very first day I met my husband in Sri Lanka. Must have worked some kind of magic — we were married three weeks later! ^_^

One of my fave pairs is my Current Elliott elephant bell — feel like a badass ’70s chick every time I wear them! And I have a lovely pair of 7 For all Mankinds which I wear cuffed for a ’50s look and a pair of Citizens of Humanity skinnies which is a loved basic.

I owned only *one* single pair of jeans during the entire 1990s because the high waist and wider hips looked so awful on me. My pair was from the Gap and they were okay, but no big deal fit-wise. But I still held on to them because nothing else worked. Then the premium brands came out and it was like a whole new world of dressing finally opened up for me!

I never, ever pay full price for Premium jeans because you can get them for such great discounts at Nordstrom Rack. The only Non-Premium jeans — though I don’t know if you can call them that — I wear are from Topshop in England. But they still can’t replace my Premiums.

January 12, 2011 at 8:32 pm

gina

(website)

100% Team Non-Premium. The closest I own to Premium denim jeans right now is Gap. Everything else is Forever XXI, Wet Seal, Delia*s and random dept/chain store brands. I used own 1 pair of Tommy Hilfigers and 2 pair of Calvin Klein (are either of those considered premium?), but I’ve never gotten the appeal of spending so much money for a name. With other types of clothing, I can see differences in quality of fabric, qualify of craftsmenship and uniqueness of design, but with jeans I really don’t notice a difference, and I’m quite happy with the jeans I wear, so for me, buying premium jeans would be totally about buying for a name, nothing more. So (of couse!) I’m team Non-Premium all the way.

January 12, 2011 at 8:33 pm

Marley

Veteran

Premium allllllll the way! About 5 years ago, I tried my first pair of premium and I never looked back – the fit and the quality of denim just blew me away! My favorites are my Paige boot-cut and Paige skinnies, but I also love my Hudson skinnies and a black pair of Hudson flares, COH flares, True Religion skinnies, Rich and Skinny boyfriends, etc. etc. – I could go on and on. I wear jeans almost everyday – and the premiums have been a great investment for me – no bagging – and they even make me look like I have a booty! Now that’s magic!

January 12, 2011 at 8:44 pm

rae

(website)

Veteran

Premium. I like the subtlety of the washes and distressing, fabric durability, and feel. My go-to brands have been Hudson and Lucky Brand. I think the latter kind of fell out of favor lately, but I still love my Maggies to death. I also one pair of Miss Sixty boyfriend jeans that I can’t live without.

I do like my legging jeans from Gap, but I’m disappointed in how they have expanded, even before washing. Perhaps it is just the faded black wash that does this?

January 12, 2011 at 9:03 pm

Tanya

Veteran

Another Team Premium all the way here! There is absolutely no comparison for me i terms of material, quality, fit and durability. The only non-premium pair I have are Gap leans, thanks to Angie.

I own 20+ pairs of premium denim in all the possible washes and cuts, and I haven’t paid full price for a single pair. My life style is casual and dictates jeans most of the time, so I indulge. I have something from most of the premium brands: Seven for All Mankind, Citizens of Humanity, Paige, Joe’s, Rich&Skinny, J Brand, Diesel, Hudson.. I even own non-denim pants from these brands: cords, micro check pants, tweed pants, even pinstripes.

January 12, 2011 at 9:04 pm

rae

(website)

Veteran

Tanya, I have some pinstripe Hudsons, and they’re so fun. The style is called Hendrix, and I’m stoked to try and do a 70s outfit with them.

I also wanted to add that my Lucky jeans have been going strong since 2004.

January 12, 2011 at 9:08 pm

wilson

Active Member

I am team non-premium; Banana Republic has at least one cut that fits me like a glove each season so I just keep going back there for my jeans. It is so ingrained in me at this point to get my jeans at BR that I don’t even consider shopping anything else. Reading the other comments has made me really curious about trying premium because my BR jeans do tend to fade and “age” in a not-so-good way by the end of a full year.

January 12, 2011 at 9:10 pm

Sihaya

Veteran

I”m on team non premium. So far I have most of the time found jeans I really like that are non premium so I haven’t been too tempted to upgrade. And premium prices are super high. I”m guessing that you get what you pay for but do I really need it?

January 12, 2011 at 9:30 pm

Christie

Active Member

I only own non-premium denim. Never even tried premium on … so I’m happy not knowing what I’m missing.

January 12, 2011 at 9:36 pm

Kari

Veteran

I’m definitely team Non-Premium. I cannot fathom paying that much for a pair of jeans, let alone multiples, and I’ve tried on premium denim brands and can’t find a style that I prefer over my Jag bootcuts or Kut from the Kloth skinnies.

January 12, 2011 at 10:17 pm

Scarlet

Veteran

Team premium although I would try out Gap if I could.

January 12, 2011 at 10:21 pm

rute

Veteran

I don’t wear much jeans.. I have only 4 pairs and they are from Massimo Dutti, so non-premium!

January 13, 2011 at 1:26 am

Louise

Veteran

I’ve never tired premium denim so by default I am team non premium x

January 13, 2011 at 2:47 am

JayS

Veteran

I’ll join team premium. Didn’t know what I was missing until I got my Joe’s Provocateur jeans. I also have a pair of Armani Exchange straight legs I love. I now have my sights set on COH Ava and Dita. That’s almost $400 worth of jeans. I keep hoping to find the washes I want on sale.
Also love my Gap jeans. They do wear like a premium brand.
I

January 13, 2011 at 5:27 am

Debora

Veteran

Team Non-Premium for now. I’m still looking for the perfect pair of premium denim for my middle-aged body. I did come close to buying a pair of CJ Faiths last fall and probably should have, in retrospect. Currently I’m wearing Jag and Kut bootcuts, and received two pairs of Kut straight legs for Christmas. I’m definitely go to check into the Gap Long and Leans that Angie blogged about yesterday.

January 13, 2011 at 5:45 am

nicoleb

(website)

Veteran

100% Team Non-Premium denim. Most of my jeans come from Old Navy and Target. When i was younger i was more into the name brand denim scene but i can’t say i really noticed a difference in fit or quality >.>…now i just can’t bring myself to pay that much.

January 13, 2011 at 6:16 am

Sara

(website)

Active Member

I would like to be Team Premium, but at 5’2″ and with legs that are a far cry from thin, I have yet to find a pair that fit off the rack (and if I’m going to pay that kind of money, they better fit off the rack). My $13 Forever 21s offer the best fit I’ve ever come across, and even though they are a tad bit long, I don’t experience the bagging out that I’m left with when wearing Gap, Old Navy, American Eagle or any number of other jeans. I’ve also had them for 2+ years and they haven’t faded a bit. Team Non-Premium for me!

January 13, 2011 at 7:16 am

Lauren

Team Non Premium. I’ve never owned Premium denim. Most of my jeans are from Ann Taylor Loft. I actually can’t wear Gap jeans. I keep trying it on and it just doesn’t fit my body shape (big butt, smaller hips).

January 13, 2011 at 7:24 am

Nomi

Ha, I never even thought about the concept of “premium” denim, though I know some jeans cost a lot. I get mine at the thrift store, so if my weight goes up or down, $2 or so and I’m back in business. There are soooooo many jeans at your average thrift store that there’s always some in your size. Team Non all the way.

January 13, 2011 at 7:28 am

chellebrate

Active Member

I’m going to sit this one out, since I really don’t have a strong preference one way or the other. I wear jeans, maybe once or twice per week. I have both premium and non-premium. I love the feel of premium denim and may replace my couple of non-premium jeans with premium. However, I’m not going to do that until these wear out. At this time I have more non-premium jeans.

January 13, 2011 at 7:37 am

Jonesy

Veteran

Non-premium! Part of it is the price (seems like highway robbery to me, like a big scam), part of it is that I don’t wear jeans too often, part of it is fit: I have never tried on a pair of premium jeans that were long enough for me, though granted I have not tried on too many pairs.

January 13, 2011 at 7:45 am

dany

Team non-premium. I wear Gap Long & lean and love those. Many of the premium jeans brands that would fit my size 12 are either not for sale in my city, too trendy or too expensive.

January 13, 2011 at 8:27 am

Desmo April

(website)

Veteran

Team non-premium by default

I’m willing to plunk down the cash for fabulous jeans, I wear them virtually everyday of the week but there is a sad lack of premium plus-size denim out there.

January 13, 2011 at 8:27 am

summerbl4ck

Active Member

Having recently watched a film about denim factories in Mexico where they cut, sew, distress, etc the jeans and THEN sew on a label from one of a range of bins in front of the seamstress. I am on Team NON Premium, not that I ever spent that much on jeans to begin with, but definitely now.

January 13, 2011 at 9:24 am

Vani

Veteran

Even though I don’t own any premium jeans (well unless you count Gap and a pair of consigned David Kahns) I am definitely Team Premium. Every time I try on a pair of Joes or DKs I feel like a million bucks! Plus the fabric just feels super awesome. Maybe if I am very good this year and finally loose those extra pounds I can reward myself with a pair.

January 13, 2011 at 9:40 am

jerseyjan

Active Member

It’s premium for me. They really do last for years, so they’re well worth it. Once your’e lucky to get the fit right, you’ll be singing their praises, too. The Gap comes in a close second, but I find that they constantly slip down in the waist and bag out ( a little ) in the knees. They are comfortable feeling, though. Kuts are OK, but the fabric is thicker, scratchier and not as comfortable. I own Paige, COH, and David Kahn’s.

January 13, 2011 at 10:20 am

Stephani

Member

I’m totally Team Non-Premium. I suppose it’s possible I could find the right silhouettes and fits in Premium denim, but the price alone and my body’s willingness to change (read: grow) at the drop of a hat means it would be absolutely unsustainable for me to support a Premium denim habit. I tend to do pretty well with the mid-range brands like Eddie Bauer and Gap, and with the lower priced brands like Lee. I’ve found the mid-range brands’ durability and quality to be quite satisfactory, and frequently the fits are no less than outstanding. I think it just depends on the individual’s fit issues and budget. I’m not convinced that Premium denim would be any more durable or actually be of higher quality fabrication or construction.

January 13, 2011 at 10:33 am

Niki P.

Definitely Team Non Premium. Have pretty much worn Gap jeans exclusively for the past ten or more years. They fit great, last a long time, and often go on sale. Works for me.

January 13, 2011 at 10:47 am

Shona

I think I’m now Team Premium. Most of my jeans are non-premium as I have a limited clothes budget. But I got fed up with buying a new pair of jeans in exactly the same colour and cut every 6 months when the previous pairs had stretched out to more than a size too big. Not to mention the bad quality dye that kept coming off onto my legs! I figured I’d get better value for money if I spent a bit more for higher quality so recently invested in a pair of Tommy Hilfigers. My legs aren’t being turned blue and I’ve had so many compliments on them. If they still fit me in July then I’ll be a definite Team Premium convert!

January 13, 2011 at 10:53 am

Bianca

Veteran

Non-premium! My one pair of 7’s jeans are no better than my jeans from from ATL and Gap. I really don’t see spending the extra $$$.

January 13, 2011 at 11:47 am

RoseandJoan

Veteran

Three pairs of non-premium and one pair of premium which by default means I’m team non-premium but budget allowing I would happily transfer.

January 13, 2011 at 12:22 pm

Joy

Veteran

I have mostly non premiums but will try to replace them eventually with premium denim. However I’ve not yet tried the new Gap jeans. I guess I’m on the bench.

January 13, 2011 at 1:00 pm

Nichole@40daysof

(website)

Just wanted to say thanks to Steph! I will try the Joes Jeans you recommend.

January 13, 2011 at 2:08 pm

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

I’m non-premium, definitely, although I’m not sure what counts as ‘premium’ denim precisely anyway. I’m a size 16 so I don’t think most of the super-pricey brands go up that big in any case. I’ve bought a few pairs at Nordstrom – NYDJ, Kut from the Kloth – but generally I prefer to spend less than $50 on jeans, less if possible (sales, thrifted, etc.)

My primary goal in jeans is to get ones that fit my pear shape – big hip, smaller waist – and I’ve had the best luck recently with Eddie Bauer curvy cut and Gap curvy (although that’s from before Gap revamped their cuts, and I’m not so in love with the new ones). I’ve done OK with AT/Loft and BR in the past, too.

For those of you that say your jeans last for years, how is that possible? I would think the dye would start to fade and that the fabric would start to wear, no matter what the level of quality might be. I don’t think I’ve ever had an everyday type of pants last more than a year or two – maybe three if I don’t wear them much at all.

January 13, 2011 at 4:10 pm

S80

(website)

Definitely team premium..the fit and quality cannot be compared..I have sevens , R&Rs,rich n skinny,COH and j brands..love them!!

January 14, 2011 at 12:19 am

Barbara

Veteran

Chiming in late. Team non premium.

Except for one pair of AG skinnies, all of my favorite jeans are not premium jeans. I wear VGS (Vigoss for JCP), Common Genes (another fab JCP brand), Foster (Chip and Pepper Foster for JCP) – all of these jeans are advertised as premium denim -the price is unbelievably inexpensive and the quality and fit are superb.

And I can’t forget those killer Sasson jeans (five pairs – two boot cut, three straight-leg) that I scored at Walmart for $15 a pair. Crazy!

Its ALL about the fit and I guess I am lucky that my butt and long legs look sensational in less expensive jeans!

January 14, 2011 at 6:39 am

LeahJanes

Active Member

Ooh I’m late. Non-premium all the way.

My jeans are my work clothes so they get a lot of wear and get busted up pretty quickly. Seems a waste to pay premium prices for them – I also like a thicker denim and I find most premium brands are thin and stretchy rather than thick and durable.

My go-to brands are Tommy Hilfiger, DKNY and Gap (do they count as non-premium? I don’t pay more than $50 for jeans). Their cuts are great and they don’t bag – I detest repeately hoisting my pants up halfway through the day cause my jeans have stretched out.

January 14, 2011 at 8:31 am

Kari

Veteran

I’m surprised to find that I’m not totally in the minority being on team non-premium – somehow with all the discussion of premium denim on YLF I thought I was one of the few who hasn’t found premium denim worth the price.

January 15, 2011 at 11:42 am

Jessica

While I’ve liked the premium denim I’ve owned, I’ve had more luck fitting my shape with non-premium.

I am a small, thin person yet I am very curvy. I am well-endowed in the rear area. I get a pair of jeans that fit my thighs and can only get them halfway up my butt…and if I can get them over my butt, well, the waist is usually 4 inches too big. I have tried premium curvy jeans but they felt designed for pudgy women…not curvy women. You can be curvy without being chubby all over!

I’ve great success with the new GAP jeans and, surprisingly, $30-$40 juniors brands that you can find at Macy’s and JCP. The only premium denim brand I’ve had much success with is Big Star and Silver (Aiko line).

There also seems to be this conception that curvy people only wear flare and bootcut jeans. I hate flares and bootcuts! They don’t “balance” me out in a good way–they just make my tiny, beautiful ankles appear to be the same width as my hips! I would pay good money for a premium jean that designed jeans for my body type with skinny and straight legs!

January 15, 2011 at 10:33 pm

Marlene

Team N-P! I’ve made the effort to TRY the premium but so far I haven’t found any that fit me. I love my Gap Curvy bootcuts….comfy fabric and the fit is great on my hips and thighs. Until they start making premium in curvy fit with a decent rise, I’m afraid I cannot even try out for the team.

January 17, 2011 at 3:11 pm

Mitzy

Active Member

Team non-premium here!
I don’t wear jeans very often as I have several pairs of non-jean casual pants that are far more comfortable. I also like leggings for around the house, and yoga pants.
I really like Lee Rider petites because I don’t have to hem them and their new line (the one Stacey London advertises, I can’t remember what it is called) fits my waist and my backside and doesn’t need to be hemmed and they are under $50!! Love, love, love.

June 21, 2011 at 1:01 pm

Lydia

PREMIUM. I have a pair of True Religions that fit like the day I bought them 5 years later- and I wear them maybe once a week or so. I also adore my Sevens- I have 4 pairs that again, have lasted the ages. Probably the best fit I’ve ever gotten from jeans have been from Joe’s Provocateur jeans- i’m on the shorter side with sort of thick thighs and those jeans hugged me like you dont even know- i’ve never found another jean to compare. That said, I have CK’s and even jeans from Zara and Urban Outfitters that don’t bag or lose shape after wearing them all day. I think it just all depends- but I never say no to a good investment and in my opinion Premium denim is a great one.

December 27, 2011 at 10:18 pm

Mamavalveeta03

Veteran

Team Premium! I used to buy the cheapest jeans I could find and had convinced myself, as a point of pride I think, that I didn’t have to wear premium denim to look good in jeans. But since purchasing my first pair of Paige denim jeans, I have been converted! I will occasionally purchase jeans from GAP, but now my brands are more likely to include Paige, Joe’s, NYDJ, Beja Flor, and AG. I find that the fit and “control” factor are superior for me, which make me feel more comfortable in my jeans, and thus, more attractive and confident. And that’s what it’s all about!

January 26, 2013 at 3:15 pm

Deb

Veteran

Team premium all the way…..I mainly buy AG nowadays but have some Joe’s and 7FAM. There is no going back for me and you can often get them on sale to help the budget.

March 3, 2014 at 9:39 am

Susan Virgadamo

I have tried premium jeans time and time again and the legs are ALWAYS way too tight. I am not plus size, but I can never get the expensive jeans over my thighs. If I ever found a pair that fit, I would probably give them a try. I am definitely a jean/white shirt kind of girl.

That said, I have always done well with Lucky jeans. I also have a few pairs of GAP jeans and one or two pairs of jeans from the Loft.

January 12, 2015 at 4:04 pm

zackjus

Member

I have tried premium jeans time and time again and the legs are ALWAYS way too tight. I am not plus size, but I can never get the expensive jeans over my thighs. If I ever found a pair that fit, I would probably give them a try. I am definitely a jean/white shirt kind of girl.

That said, I have always done well with Lucky jeans. I also have a few pairs of GAP jeans and one or two pairs of jeans from the Loft.
January 12, 2015 at 4:04 pm

January 12, 2015 at 4:05 pm

kate

Just started being Team Premium maybe 4 years ago, but I’m going to go try those GAP jeans you recommended as soon as I loose the last 10 pounds.

January 13, 2015 at 7:07 am