I Got Engaged Wearing These On-Sale Jeans From a Katie Holmes-Worn Brand

Two weekends ago, my life was nothing short of a dream. While vacationing in Arizona, my boyfriend — ahem, now fiancé — got down on one knee and popped the question (Alexa, play Love Story). Everything was perfect, from the Taylor Swift lyrics etched into my ring box to a hummingbird flying around us. I was even wearing my all-time favorite jeans from Madewell; it was obviously meant to be.

The pants I’m officially never getting rid of? The brand’s Perfect Vintage Jeans, which come in sizes 24 to 33 and petite, standard, tall, and taller fits. Currently on sale for $80, the high-rise silhouette features superb stretch, tapered legs, a button-front closure, and functional pockets. It’s like a pair of your mom’s jeans but so much cooler, offering a slightly faded design and laid-back look.

Madewell Perfect Vintage Jean in Kepler Wash

Madewell Perfect Vintage Jean in Decatur Wash

I’ve owned the Perfect Vintage Jeans for a few months and can confidently say they’re it. The comfortable pants never feel tight or stiff, giving me breathing room without looking baggy. I wore them to a movie night with friends where everyone thought I was crazy for not slipping on sweats. What can I say? The denim is strong enough to shape the body but soft enough to lounge in; I never want to take them off. 

Styling these babies is beyond simple. On that same magical day I got engaged, I paired my pants with white Alexandra Daddario-worn Cariuma sneakers and another Madewell find: a green cashmere sweater. You can dress them up just as easily with a tucked-in button-up shirt, waist-cinching belt, and strappy pumps. Wear them to brunch, the movies, and even an elevated dinner. I’m not saying you should wear the Perfect Vintage Jeans to a black-tie event, but I did get engaged in them, after all.   

Madewell Perfect Vintage Jean in Chesthunt Wash

IMO, nothing beats this hero design from the Katie Holmes-worn brand, but other versions, like the patch-pocket wide-leg edition and cropped silhouette, are just as good. Both feature a ‘70s aesthetic, trouser-like construction, and the OG’s star qualities. 

Madewell Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jean

Madewell Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Crop Jean

A curvy option is also available. Made for hourglass bodies in mind, the pants include extra room at the hips and thighs, holding you in and lifting you up in all the right places (wink, wink). Shop this version in six washes, starting at $50.

Madewell Curvy Perfect Vintage Jean in Myers Wash

Madewell Curvy Perfect Vintage Jean in Kepler Wash

Finding a pair of jeans you genuinely adore is hard work, so make things easier for yourself by securing Madewell’s Perfect Vintage Jeans. You'll fall so deeply in love with them, you may even want to marry them!