Abercrombie Dad Jeans vs. 90s: What's the difference?

The Abercrombie Dad Jean and 90s Straight Jean both offer a relaxed vibe, but they deliver it in very different ways. The 90s Straight Jean features an ultra-high-rise waist and a loose, straight cut for a distinct vintage look, while the Dad Jean has a lower, curve-hugging mid-rise with a similarly relaxed leg that feels more subtle and classic.

Here's everything you need to know to choose the right Abercrombie & Fitch jean style for you.

Abercrombie Dad Jean

The Abercrombie Dad Jean is a modern take on a relaxed, "borrowed from his closet" fit. It's designed for polished comfort, combining a flattering contoured mid-rise that hugs the hips and waist with a straight, relaxed leg opening. It’s less about a strong vintage statement and more about everyday, effortless style.

• What it is: A mid-rise jean with a comfortable, relaxed fit through the hip and thigh that runs straight to the ankle.
• Key features: Curve-hugging top block, sits lower on the waist (mid-rise), relaxed leg profile, button fly, available in Curve Love fit.
• Price: Around $90 - $100
• Materials/Construction: Often made with Abercrombie's "Vintage Stretch Denim," which provides the structure of rigid denim with a small amount of built-in stretch for comfort.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size for a relaxed profile. The top of the jean is designed to be more fitted around the hips, relaxing into the leg. Its mid-rise can be a comfortable alternative for those who find high-rises restrictive.
• Pros: Extremely versatile for casual and smart-casual looks. The mid-rise is comfortable and classic. The fit is relaxed without feeling overly baggy or sloppy. Great "everyday jean."
• Cons: Muted style compared to the 90s Jean. The mid-rise may not be preferred by those who like the waist-cinching effect of a higher rise. Can feel less on-trend if you're aiming for a strong retro look.

This is the perfect jean for someone who wants relaxed comfort in a timeless, easy-to-style package that works for nearly any casual occasion.

Shop this product: abercrombie.com/p/high-rise-dad-jean

Abercrombie 90s Straight Jean

The 90s Straight Jean is Abercrombie’s signature nod to vintage nineties denim. It's defined by an ultra-high rise that sits at the natural waist and a relaxed, straight fit through the leg. This style is built to authentically replicate the iconic silhouette of the 90s, offering a structured, leg-elongating look that has become a modern wardrobe essential.

• What it is: An ultra-high-rise jean featuring a relaxed straight leg from hip to ankle for an authentic 90s look.
• Key features: Ultra-high rise (often 11 inches or more), straight-leg silhouette, full-length inseam, button fly, also available in Curve Love.
• Price: Around $90 - $100
• Materials/Construction: These are most iconic in Abercrombie's "Vintage Stretch Denim," which gives them a vintage, structured appearance with just enough give to make them wearable all day.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size, designed to be fitted at the true waist and relaxed through the leg. The high rise defines the waist dramatically. Curve Love options accommodate a fuller hip and thigh without waist gapping.
• Pros: The high rise is flattering and cinches the waist. The straight leg creates a long, lean line. The style is very on-trend and great for creating statement outfits. Looks great with cropped tops and tucked-in shirts.
• Cons: The ultra-high rise can feel constricting for some body types. Rigid versions can take time to break in. The looser fit might feel too informal for certain settings.

This style is ideal for those who love a trend-forward, vintage-inspired silhouette and prefer a high-waisted fit that cinches and flatters.

Shop this product: abercrombie.com/p/90s-ultra-high-rise-straight-jean

Dad Jeans vs. 90s Straight Jeans Comparison

Style & Fit

The most immediate difference is the fit through the top half of the jeans. The Dad Jean is designed for a more relaxed, contoured fit that sits at the hips. It hugs your curves before relaxing into a straight leg. It feels laid-back and easy.

In contrast, the 90s Straight Jean is all about the waist. The ultra-high rise is designed to be fitted at your smallest point, creating a dramatic A-line shape that then opens up into a loose, straight leg. It's a structured fit that makes a clear fashion statement rooted in a specific era.

Rise & Coverage

This is the deciding factor for many. The Dad Jean's mid-rise sits comfortably below your navel, providing a more classic and less restrictive feel. It pairs well with regular-length tops and front-tucks without feeling too dramatic.

The 90s Straight Jean has an ultra-high rise, often sitting at or above the navel. This elongates the look of your legs and provides more coverage, making it a perfect partner for cropped shirts, sweaters, and bodysuits. The higher waist changes your body's proportions, creating a distinct, vintage-inspired silhouette.

Versatility & Styling

Both styles are versatile, but they excel in different areas. The Dad Jean has a slight edge in classical versatility. Its understated, relaxed fit can be easily dressed up with loafers and a blazer for a smart-casual look or dressed down with sneakers and a t-shirt. It's a foundational piece that doesn't scream a specific trend.

The 90s Straight Jean is the queen of casual, on-trend style. It's the go-to for recreating modern streetwear looks inspired by the nineties. Pair it with oversized sweatshirts, band tees, chunky sneakers, or slim-fitting tops to emphasize the high waist. While it can be dressed up, its inherent character is more relaxed and retro.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both are fantastic offerings from Abercrombie's denim collection, but they cater to different style preferences and body types.

Choose the Dad Jean if:

• You prefer a comfortable mid-rise that sits on your hips.
• You want a relaxed fit that's classic and not overly intentional or baggy.
• Your personal style leans more timeless and polished than overtly trendy.
• Versatility is key, and you need a jean for errands, brunch, and casual Fridays.

Choose the 90s Straight Jean if:

• You love a structured ultra-high rise that holds you in and defines your waist.
• Your goal is a vintage-inspired look that's distinctly fashion-forward.
• You primarily wear cropped tops or enjoy fully tucking in your shirts.
• A looser, straight-leg silhouette that feels casual and cool is what you're looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Abercrombie Dad Jeans and 90s Jeans?

The primary difference is the rise and fit up top. The Dad Jean is mid-rise with a subtle, curve-hugging top, while the 90s Straight Jean is ultra-high-rise and designed to cinch your natural waist for a vintage look. Both have a relaxed straight leg.

Which style is more flattering?

This is subjective. The ultra-high rise of the 90s Jean is great for elongating the legs and creating an hourglass shape. The mid-rise Dad Jean offers a classic, balanced proportion that is effortlessly flattering on many different body types and is often less restrictive.

Are Abercrombie jeans true to size?

Yes, Abercrombie jeans generally fit true to size for their intended style. For the Dad Jean and 90s Straight Jean, take your usual size to get the expected relaxed fit. If you are between sizes, you could consider sizing down if you prefer a tighter fit in the waist and hips.

What is the Curve Love fit?

The Curve Love fit is designed for people who have a 10-13 inch difference between their waist and hip measurements. The jeans feature an additional 2 inches of room in the hip and thigh area and a no-gap waistband, ensuring they fit curvy figures properly without being too loose at the waist or too tight on the thighs.

How does the Dad Jean fit compared to a mom jean?

The biggest difference is usually the rise and leg shape. Classic "mom jeans" are high-waisted (like the 90s style) but often have a tapered leg that gets slimmer at the ankle. Dad Jeans sit lower on the waist (mid-rise) and typically have a straighter, more relaxed leg from hip to ankle.

Which style is better for shorter people?

Both can work well. The high waist of the 90s Straight Jean can create the illusion of longer legs, making it a great choice for petite individuals. However, the Dad Jean's mid-rise can also help maintain balanced proportions. Abercrombie offers most styles in Short, Regular, and Long inseams, so you can find a length that works for your height in either style.

Are these jeans a true baggy fit?

Neither style is excessively baggy. They are what's considered a relaxed or loose straight fit. For a much baggier, skate-inspired look, Abercrombie's "Loose Jean" offers significantly more room through the hip and thigh.

Are the materials comfortable for all-day wear?

Yes, both styles typically use Abercrombie's Vintage Stretch Denim. It is designed to look like rigid vintage denim but has a small amount of stretch (usually 1%), which makes it comfortable enough to wear all day while still retaining its shape.