When it comes to sports, I’m all in for the underdog, and the same goes for fashion. I love advocating for those underrated brands that often fly under the radar. An example is We the Free, a denim brand that deserves the spotlight.
If you have not heard of it, We the Free is Free People‘s in-house label. It specializes in creating classic jeans that feel lived-in from the moment you slip them on. While it might not be the first name that comes to mind for everyone, those of us at Who What Wear cannot stop raving about how wonderful these jeans look, feel, and fit. Don’t believe me? Check out Who What Wear Shopping Director Bobby Schuessler’s TikTok video.
A stack of Free People jeans that I tested and reviewed.
(Image credit: @nikki.chwatt)
Determined to shine a light on We the Free’s denim collection, I took matters into my own hands. I opened my Free People app and picked seven top-selling pairs to test and review for anyone who wants to listen. Without spilling all the beans, I can’t help but mention how petite-friendly and wallet-conscious this brand is. It offers most styles in short and regular lengths, and prices range from $98 to $128.
If you’re curious to see what all the fuss is about in our office and on TikTok, keep scrolling because I’m sharing my thoughts on the most popular We the Free jeans, ranked from my absolute favorites to those that didn’t quite steal my heart.
We the Free Deep Trance Dropped Boyfriend Jeans
(Image credit: @nikki.chwatt)
My Review: While some might say to save the best for last, I prefer to kick things off with my absolute favorite: the We the Free Deep Trance Boyfriend Jeans. After trying seven different pairs, I was genuinely surprised that these baggy beauties topped my list. At first glance, I was skeptical. Typically, I avoid anything that might add volume to my lower half, but the fit and shape of these jeans completely blew me away.
They’re expertly crafted, offering a perfect balance of roominess and tapering in all the right spots. The waist and hips hug just right, while the legs provide a relaxed fit that gracefully transitions from the upper thighs to the ankles. Free People refers to this design as a Boyfriend style, but I’d argue it leans toward a slight barrel shape.
Let’s talk about those pockets. Positioned perfectly to enhance the backside, they add an extra touch of flattery. These jeans are a definite wardrobe staple, whether paired with sneakers for a casual day out or heels for a night on the town. Trust me—they’re a keeper.
Size range: 24 to 33
Washes: 8
Inseam: 28 inches
Sizing tip: Size down one or two sizes, depending on how low you want them to sit
Pros: Great length, flattering silhouette
Con: Runs large
Shop the jeans:
We The Free
Deep Trance Dropped Boyfriend Jeans
We the Free Good Luck Barrel Jeans
My Review: Similarly to the Deep Trance silhouette, I was a bit apprehensive about trying barrel jeans. I worried they would be too baggy and overwhelm my petite frame. After hearing my co-workers and friends cheer me on with a resounding “Just give them a shot,” I decided to take the plunge, and I’m so glad I did.
These jeans struck the perfect balance, offering that sought-after barrel look without going overboard into balloon territory. They come in both regular and long lengths, and as someone who’s 5’0″, I opted for the regular size. To my delight, they hit just above my ankles, even without any heels on.
The mid-rise design sits comfortably below my belly button, striking that sweet spot for all-day comfort. Just a heads up, though—they do run large, so I recommend sizing down for the best fit. Honestly, this is a pair I can easily envision wearing weekly.
Size range: 24 to 33
Washes: 18
Inseam: 26 inches
Sizing tip: Size down
Pros: Great length, many color options, interesting barrel-leg shape
Cons: Runs large, not the most flattering on the butt
Shop the jeans:
We The Free
Good Luck Mid-Rise Barrel Jeans
We the Free Slim Shade Selvedge Jeans
My Review: In recent months, it has become abundantly clear that cuffed jeans are making a significant fashion statement everywhere I look. While you can argue that you can always roll the hem of jeans to achieve a cuffed appearance, nothing quite compares to a pair that comes meticulously constructed with a perfect cuff. A prime example is We the Free’s Slim Shade Selvedge jeans. These jeans boast a low-to-mid-rise fit that flatters various body types, and they feature an exaggerated cuffed hemline that effortlessly channels a chic, fashion-forward vibe.
These jeans run a size small, but the length is particularly accommodating, especially for petite women who often struggle to find the right fit. Crafted with a denser weave, they promise a long-lasting, premium finish that feels indulgent. Adding to their appeal, each pair showcases We the Free’s signature branding on the back pockets, lending a distinctive touch that sets them apart. While these are available in two gorgeous blue washes, my favorite is the Deep Indigo, as it looks expensive and can effortlessly elevate any ensemble.
Transition seamlessly from fall to winter by styling these jeans with a tailored trench coat and ankle boots, or opt for a cozy sweater paired with sheer tights and chic slingbacks. Keep in mind that each pair of these jeans is produced in limited quantities, so it’s wise to grab a pair while they’re still in stock in your preferred size and shade.
Size range: 24 to 33
Washes: 2
Inseam: 26.5 inches
Sizing tip: Size up
Pros: Perfect cuff length and hem, flattering back pockets
Cons: May stretch out, run a little small
Shop the jeans:
We The Free
Slim Shade Selvedge Jeans
We the Free Zane Straight Jeans
My Review: I always found it challenging to track down that perfect vintage-inspired denim. That was until I tried on We the Free’s Zane jeans. These beauties tick all the boxes for retro vibes with their straight-leg silhouette and classic medium-blue wash. What sets them apart, though, is the luxuriously soft denim that feels like a second skin, making them an absolute dream for all-day wear.
I also love the little script logo detailing at the back pockets, which adds a signature touch. Fair warning: They do run on the long side. Even styled with heeled booties, they puddle at my ankles, but not in a cute way. In a way, that says I’m too lazy to go to a tailor. But you know what? I’m still smitten with this pair. It’s my go-to when I want to wear jeans but also want to be comfortable sitting at my desk all day.
Size range: 24 to 33
Washes: 2
Inseam: 29.5 inches
Sizing tip: Size down
Pro: Soft material
Cons: Runs large and long
Shop the jeans:
We The Free
Zane Relaxed Slim Jeans
We the Free Aster Straight Jeans
My Review: High-waisted jeans are the cornerstone of my wardrobe, so I consider myself quite an expert when discussing the best pairs. We the Free’s Aster jeans fit this category, so naturally, I had to test them.
These jeans feature a chic, cinched waistband with a double-button closure, instantly setting them apart from my usual favorites. The five-pocket design is complemented by unique side stitching that gives them a subtly wider appearance than your typical straight-leg cut.
They run small. I opted for size 27—two sizes up from my usual—and they still fit snugly, especially in the back. On the bright side, the pockets sit high, ensuring a flattering fit that avoids sagging in the backside.
With options ranging from a light-blue faded wash to a sleek black and three other striking shades, these jeans seamlessly transition from a day at the office to a night out with friends.
Size range: 24 to 34, regular and short lengths
Washes: 5
Inseam: 32 inches
Sizing tip: Size up two sizes
Pro: Lifts the backside
Con: Run small
Shop the jeans:
We The Free
Aster Straight-Leg Jeans
We the Free Winward Bootcut Jeans
My Review: Whenever I think of Free People denim, bootcut jeans like these instantly come to mind. This style beautifully embodies the quintessential bohemian, free-spirited essence we all adore about Free People. It features distinct front patch pockets reminiscent of styles from the 1600s, which add a unique throwback quality to the design. The charming yellow contrast stitching enhances its vintage allure and makes it stand out in any wardrobe.
In terms of sizing, these jeans fit true to size at the waist, and they provide a comfortable and secure fit. However, they are pretty long. Even after I selected the short length, they extended slightly longer than I anticipated. Here’s a clever styling work-around for anyone petite: I paired them with high heels, which not only injected an extra dose of style but also created the illusion of elongated legs. This approach elevated my look and spared me the hassle of hemming them.
Size range: 24 to 33, regular and short lengths available
Washes: 2
Inseam: 33 inches
Sizing tip: Take your standard size
Pro: Runs true to size
Con: Runs long
Shop the jeans:
We The Free
Winward Bootcut Jeans
We the Free Tennessee Low-Rise Boyfriend Jeans
(Image credit: @nikki.chwatt)
My Review: Whenever I hear the term “low-rise jeans,” my body practically reacts on its own—my shoulders shoot up to my ears, my heart races, and my hands clench. It’s clear that low-rise denim isn’t my cup of tea. These jeans don’t exactly scream confidence for me. For the sake of adventure, I decided to take the plunge and try We the Free’s Tennessee Low-Rise Jeans. They seemed a bit less daunting with their relaxed, loose fit that balances out the low-rise style.
First, I sized up, which was a smart move. These jeans run small, and honestly, I would have been even happier going up two sizes for that effortlessly baggy vibe. They feature rigid, non-stretch denim that gives off a vintage, one-of-a-kind feel, and the length was perfect when I paired them with a little heel.
However, there is a small issue: While they hugged my hips and sat nicely in the front, they did have a gap at the back. These weren’t my favorite pair, but they’re a solid choice for anyone who enjoys the low-rise trend.
Size range: 24 to 33
Washes: 3
Inseam: 32 inches
Sizing tip: Size up
Pros: Good length, attainable price point
Cons: Gap at the waist, runs small
Shop the jeans:
We The Free
Tennessee Low-Rise Boyfriend Jeans
Shop more Free People jeans:
We The Free
Risk Taker Mid-Rise Jeans
The utility seams give these straight-leg jeans a unique appeal.
We The Free
Palmer Cuffed Jeans
Picking one of the 12 washes will be the hardest part.
We The Free
Libre Wide-Leg Jeans
Shoppers say these are the most flattering wide-leg jeans.
We The Free
Flora Low-Rise Bootcut Jeans
For those willing to experiment with low-rise jeans, this is another great pair.
We The Free
Moxie Pull-On Barrel Jeans
The contrasted drawstring waist makes these cute and comfortable for all-day wear.
We The Free
Eden High Slouchy Jeans
I feel like Jennifer Lopez would wear these.
