Abercrombie Mom Jeans vs. Dad Jeans: Which one is better?

The core difference between the Abercrombie Mom Jean and the Dad Jean is the overall silhouette and fit. The Mom Jean offers a vintage high-rise with a more tailored feel that is relaxed through the hips and thighs before tapering down the leg. In contrast, the Dad Jean is much looser, with a baggier, more oversized fit through the hips and thighs and a straight leg for a relaxed, boxy look.

Here's everything you need to know to choose the right vintage-inspired denim from Abercrombie & Fitch for your style.

Abercrombie Mom Jeans

The Abercrombie Mom Jean is a modern take on the classic 80s and 90s style, designed to be flattering, comfortable, and versatile. It features a high-rise waist that sits at your natural waistline, is relaxed (but not baggy) through the hips and thighs, and finishes with a distinctively tapered leg. This cut creates a feminine, vintage-inspired silhouette that highlights the waist while offering a comfortable fit.

• What it is: A high-rise, vintage-style jean with a relaxed fit through the seat and thighs and a tapered leg that often ends around the ankle.
• Key features: High-rise waist, tapered leg from knee to ankle, comfortable stretch fabric, and available in a wide range of vintage-inspired washes with subtle distressing.
• Price: $60 - $90, with frequent sales and promotions.
• Materials/Construction: Typically made from a comfortable cotton-elastane blend, often incorporating recycled fibers for added sustainability.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size for a classic relaxed look. The high-rise waist is designed to cinch and define, while the leg remains comfortable and not restrictive.
• Pros: Tapered leg is universally flattering and easy to style. More defined silhouette than Dad Jeans. Versatile enough for both casual and semi-dressed up looks. Comfortable stretch fabric.
• Cons: Less roomy feel compared to the Dad Jean. The tapered fit may be too snug for those who prefer a much looser leg opening. Can feel more structured for those wanting a truly baggy fit.

This jean is ideal for those who love a vintage look but still want a defined, figure-flattering silhouette that is easy to pair with almost any top.

Shop this product: abercrombie.com/shop/us/denim-mom-jeans

Abercrombie Dad Jeans

The Abercrombie Dad Jean fully embraces the relaxed, oversized trend with a nostalgic 90s feel. It features a high-rise waist but offers a much looser and roomier fit through the hips, thighs, and legs. This jean provides a straighter, boxier silhouette, creating a laid-back and distinctly casual aesthetic that prioritizes comfort and an effortless street-style look.

• What it is: A high-rise jean with a very relaxed, often baggy, fit through the hips and thighs and a straight leg opening for a casual, oversized look.
• Key features: High-rise waist, very relaxed fit through hips and thighs, a straight or slightly tapered leg, and is often made from a durable, slightly thicker denim.
• Price: $60 - $90, priced comparably to the Mom Jean.
• Materials/Construction: Made from a durable, stretchy denim blend of cotton and elastane that feels both soft and substantial, enhancing its vintage, lived-in feel.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size for an intended oversized feel. If you prefer a slightly less baggy look, you might consider sizing down, though most embrace its roominess.
• Pros: Extremely comfortable due to the loose, forgiving fit. On-trend baggy silhouette perfect for casual and streetwear looks. Easy to move in and never feels restrictive.
• Cons: The oversized fit might overwhelm more petite frames. Less versatile for dressing up. The boxy shape is less focused on defining your natural curves compared to the Mom Jean.

This style is perfect for those who prioritize maximum comfort and love a casual, nostalgic, and oversized look inspired by 90s streetwear.

Shop this product: abercrombie.com/shop/us/denim-dad-jeans

Abercrombie Mom Jeans vs. Dad Jeans Comparison

Fit & Sizing

The most significant distinction is in the fit. The Mom Jean is designed to follow your body's shape more closely. It has a high waist that cinches you in, a relaxed hip and seat area, and then a noticeable taper down the leg. While relaxed, it is a much more structured and defining silhouette.

The Dad Jean is defined by its looseness. It also has a high waist, but from there it drops into a much roomier, almost baggy fit through the hips and thighs. The leg is straight, creating a boxier look that prioritizes a feeling of spaciousness over a defined shape. Most shoppers take their true size in both, but the Dad Jean will naturally feel much larger.

Style & Aesthetic

Stylistically, the Mom Jean lends itself to a polished but relaxed vintage look. The tapered leg works well with tucked-in blouses, cropped sweaters, and bodysuits because it keeps the overall look balanced and intentional. It pairs easily with ankle boots, loafers, or sneakers.

The Dad Jean has a clearer street-style and casual identity. Its oversized nature pairs perfectly with crop tops, oversized hoodies, and graphic tees for a distinctly laid-back, 90s-inspired vibe. Bulky sneakers are its natural companion, amplifying the relaxed and modern-retro aesthetic.

Versatility

Because of its more tailored silhouette, the Mom Jean is slightly more versatile. It can easily be dressed down for a weekend coffee run or dressed up with a nice top and heeled boots for a casual dinner. The shape is classic enough to adapt to different occasions.

The Dad Jean excels in casual settings. While perfect for daily errands, hanging out with friends, or creating a specific trendy look, its baggy nature makes it harder to style for semi-dressy events. Its strong point is its commitment to relaxed, everyday comfort and style.

Price & Value

Both styles typically fall within the same price range of $60 to $90 and are frequently included in Abercrombie's sales. There is no real price difference to consider here. The value for both is high, as they offer durable construction, comfortable fabrics, and an on-trend fit. Your choice should be based purely on which style and fit preference suits you best.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both styles offer exceptional comfort and quality, but they cater to very different style preferences and desired fits.

Choose the Mom Jean if:

• You want a high-waisted jean that defines and flatters your waistline.
• You prefer a tapered leg that creates a balanced, feminine silhouette.
• You want a versatile pair of jeans that can be easily dressed up or down.
• You enjoy a vintage look that is more fitted and structured.

Choose the Dad Jean if:

• You prioritize comfort and want the roomiest, most relaxed fit possible.
• You love the current oversized, baggy denim trend and 90s street style.
• You prefer a more forgiving fit through the hips and thighs.
• You primarily wear your jeans for laid-back, casual occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The primary difference is the silhouette. Mom Jeans are high-waisted with a relaxed fit through the hips that tapers down the leg. Dad Jeans are also high-waisted but are much baggier and looser through the hips and thighs with a straight leg for a boxy fit.

Are Abercrombie Mom Jeans stretchy?

Yes, they are made with what Abercrombie calls "Vintage Stretch Denim," which contains a small amount of elastane. This gives them a comfortable amount of stretch for daily wear without losing their shape.

Are Abercrombie Dad Jeans baggy?

Yes, the Dad Jean is designed to be baggy. It's a key part of their relaxed, oversized aesthetic and is meant to provide a roomy, comfortable fit through the entire leg.

How should I size Abercrombie Mom Jeans?

Most shoppers find the Mom Jeans fit true to size. If you want a more classic, comfortably relaxed fit, stick with your usual size. Some people who are in between sizes choose to size down for a more snug fit, especially at the waist.

How should I size Abercrombie Dad Jeans?

For the intended relaxed, baggy look, you should take your true size. Sizing up will result in an even more oversized fit popular in current street style. If you want them to feel less loose, you could try sizing down, but this slightly defeats the style's purpose.

Which style is more flattering?

"Flattering" is subjective, but generally, the Mom Jean offers a more traditionally flattering silhouette for more body types because it defines the waist and tapers along the leg. The Dad Jean's appeal lies in its oversized trendiness, not necessarily in creating a contoured shape.

Can I wear Dad Jeans if I'm petite?

Absolutely. Abercrombie offers their jeans in "Short" and "Extra Short" inseams, which is highly recommended for petite individuals to get the right length. However, be mindful that the overall volume of the Dad Jean can sometimes feel overwhelming on a smaller frame.

Which style is better for curvy figures?

Both can be excellent choices. The Mom Jean is great for highlighting a defined waist and accommodating curves through the hip and thigh. The Dad Jean offers a very comfortable and non-restrictive fit for those who want more room in the hips and thighs without compromising on style.

What is the price difference?

There is usually no price difference between the Mom and Dad Jean styles at Abercrombie. Both are typically priced between $60 and $90 and are often part of the same promotional sales.