by Sarah Morrison

What’s decidedly vintage, as comfortable as can be, and surprisingly stylish (if you look hard enough)? The answer is, of course, those high-waisted numbers that are Mom Jeans. Still tinged with their not-so-stylish reputation from decades past (for reasons beyond me!), Mom Jeans are often a point of contention in the fashion world. Outside of the fashion set, many shoppers still peg Mom Jeans as a piece that—as the name suggests—is exclusively worn by mothers who just can’t be bothered. But alas, the 80’s and 90’s are a distant memory, and while the era still has its hold over us (sartorially speaking), the dated takes of what we now affectionately call Mom Jeans are quickly becoming a thing of the past.

Over the years, we’ve seen numerous translations of the Mom Jean enter our realm of vision. Equal parts stylish and comfortable, this high-waisted, easy-fitting silhouette works wonders in elongating one’s figure and in accentuating one’s best assets. Today, shoppers are delighted to find versions that range from the light washed and distressed, to the lived-in All-Americana blue, to the streamlined dark and stormy wash (and beyond). But where to look, you may ask, to achieve that look that speaks to both vintage charm and contemporary cool? Your search is over, for the below roundup is all you need to channel that throwback off-duty vibe, wherever you may be.