Abercrombie Relaxed vs. Straight Jeans: What's the difference?

The core difference between Abercrombie Relaxed jeans and Straight jeans comes down to silhouette and fit. Relaxed jeans offer a looser, roomier cut through the hip and thigh for a laid-back, modern feel, while Straight jeans provide a classic, uniform width from the hip all the way down to the ankle for a timeless and versatile look.

Here’s a detailed guide to help you decide which Abercrombie & Fitch jean fit is the right addition to your wardrobe.

Abercrombie Relaxed Jeans

The Abercrombie Relaxed jean is designed for ultimate comfort and a casual, contemporary style. This fit taps into the trend of looser, more comfortable clothing, offering a generous cut through the seat and thighs without looking overly baggy, often with a slight taper toward the ankle.

• What it is: A modern jean fit characterized by a loose cut in the hips and thighs for a comfortable, laid-back look.
• Key features: Extra room for movement, casual aesthetic, comfortable for all-day wear, often made with stretch denim.
• Price: $60 – $100
• Materials/Construction: High-quality denim blends that frequently include elastane for added comfort and flexibility, complemented by sturdy, reinforced stitching.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size but is intentionally designed to be roomy. Great for those with larger thighs or anyone who simply prefers a non-restrictive feel.
• Pros: Extremely comfortable, on-trend for a modern streetwear look, allows for maximum freedom of movement, and is very forgiving.
• Cons: May not be appropriate for more formal settings, can feel too baggy for those with a slender build, and has a distinctly casual appearance.

This fit is the go-to for anyone who prioritizes comfort and wants a modern, casual jean for everyday activities and relaxed weekends.

Shop this product: abercrombie.com/shop/us/mens-jeans/relaxed-fit

Abercrombie Straight Jeans

The Abercrombie Straight jean is a timeless classic that offers a clean, balanced silhouette. With a fit that runs straight from the hips down through the leg opening, this style is incredibly versatile and serves as a dependable foundation for countless outfits, from casual to smart-casual.

• What it is: A classic jean with a consistent width from the hip to the ankle, offering a timeless and flattering shape.
• Key features: Versatile and clean silhouette, can be easily dressed up or down, creates a long and lean visual line.
• Price: $60 – $100
• Materials/Construction: Durable denim blends, also often incorporating stretch fibers for comfort without sacrificing the classic structure.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size and is designed to skim the body without being tight or baggy, creating a well-balanced look for most body types.
• Pros: Highly versatile for any occasion, a timeless style that never fades, flattering on most body shapes, and presents a more polished look than relaxed fits.
• Cons: Offers less room for movement compared to relaxed jeans, might feel slightly restrictive to those accustomed to looser fits, not as trend-forward as other modern cuts.

This is the ideal jean for someone seeking a do-it-all piece that looks put-together in almost any setting.

Shop this product: abercrombie.com/shop/us/mens-jeans/straight-fit

Abercrombie Relaxed Jeans vs. Straight Jeans Comparison

Fit & Sizing

The most immediate difference is how each jean fits the body. The Relaxed jean is intentionally spacious in the hip and thigh area. This design makes it incredibly comfortable for sitting, walking, and general movement. It’s a great option for men with athletic or more muscular legs who sometimes find traditional cuts restrictive in the thigh.

In contrast, the Straight jean offers a more standardized fit. It follows the natural line of the leg without hugging it tightly or flaring out, creating a clean, consistent silhouette. While it still offers comfort - especially with A&F's stretch denim - it doesn't have the same level of roominess as the relaxed style.

Style & Aesthetic

Style-wise, the two cater to different aesthetics. The Relaxed fit aligns perfectly with current streetwear and Gen Z trends that favor looser, more comfortable clothing. It pairs well with hoodies, sneakers, and oversized t-shirts for an effortless, casual vibe.

The Straight fit is a versatile chameleon. It’s a timeless cut that can be styled for almost any occasion. Pair it with a t-shirt and sneakers for a classic casual outfit, or dress it up with a button-down shirt, blazer, and boots for a smart-casual look. Its major advantage is its ability to blend in seamlessly across styles and trends.

Versatility

While both fits are useful, the Straight jean wins on versatility. Its clean lines and timeless silhouette make it appropriate for casual weekends, business casual offices, and evenings out. It's a true wardrobe workhorse that can adapt to your needs.

The Relaxed jean is more of a specialist. It excels in casual environments and is the superior choice for comfort-focused activities like running errands, lounging, or attending a casual get-together. It’s less suited for situations that require a more polished or formal appearance.

Price & Quality

Abercrombie & Fitch prices both its Relaxed and Straight fits within the same range, so your decision won't come down to cost. Both styles are crafted from the same high-quality, durable denim blends, often with added stretch for comfort. The quality, construction, and value are consistent across both fits, so you can focus entirely on which style and fit suits you best.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both styles offer great quality and comfort, but they serve different preferences and occasions.

Choose the Relaxed jeans if:

• You prioritize comfort and freedom of movement above all else.
• Your personal style leans casual, modern, or is inspired by streetwear.
• You have larger or more athletic thighs and need extra room.
• You want a jean specifically for weekend wear, running errands, or lounging.

Choose the Straight jeans if:

• You want a timeless, classic fit that will never go out of style.
• You need a versatile jean that can easily be dressed up for work or a night out.
• You prefer a clean, balanced silhouette that flatters most body types.
• You find looser fits like the Relaxed jean to be too baggy for your personal taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Abercrombie relaxed and straight jeans?

The main difference is the shape. Relaxed jeans are looser and roomier in the hip and thigh for a casual feel, while Straight jeans have a uniform width from top to bottom for a classic, clean silhouette.

Which fit is more fashionable right now?

The Relaxed fit is currently more aligned with modern trends that favor looser, more comfortable styles. However, the Straight fit is a perennial classic that is always in style.

Are Abercrombie jeans true to size?

Yes, Abercrombie & Fitch jeans generally run true to size. You can usually purchase your normal size with confidence, but it's always a good idea to check the detailed size guide on the product page.

Which fit is better for muscular legs?

The Relaxed fit is often better for muscular legs because it provides extra room and comfort through the thigh area. Abercrombie also offers an "Athletic Fit" in many styles, which is specifically designed with more room in the seat and thighs.

Do Abercrombie jeans stretch?

Yes, most Abercrombie jeans are made with a denim blend that includes stretch fibers like elastane. This enhances comfort and flexibility for all-day wear in both relaxed and straight fits.

How do I style Abercrombie relaxed jeans?

Relaxed jeans pair well with casual pieces like graphic tees, hoodies, sweaters, and chunky sneakers. They are best for creating a laid-back, comfortable, and modern look.

How do I style Abercrombie straight jeans?

Straight jeans are extremely versatile. Style them casually with a t-shirt and sneakers, or dress them up with a button-down shirt, a nice jacket, and loafers or boots for a smart-casual or business-casual occasion.

What is Abercrombie's return policy for jeans?

Abercrombie typically offers a 30-day return policy for items in their original condition. It’s best to check their website for the most current policy details before making a purchase.