Madewell Curvy Jeans vs. Regular: What's the difference?

The main difference between Madewell Curvy jeans and Regular jeans is the fit, specifically tailored for different body proportions. Curvy jeans are designed for those with a more defined waist-to-hip ratio, featuring a contoured waistband and more room through the hip and thigh to prevent the common waist gap. Regular jeans are built for a straighter figure, where the difference between waist and hip measurements is less pronounced.

Here’s everything you need to know to decide which Madewell fit is right for you.

Madewell Regular Jeans

The Regular fit is Madewell's classic offering, designed to suit a standard range of body shapes with more traditional proportions. These jeans come in all of the brand's popular styles, from skinny and straight-leg to bootcut and wide-leg, providing a timeless and reliable fit for those who don't typically struggle with waist gaping or tightness in the hips.

• What it is: Madewell's standard jean fit designed for straighter or more proportional body types where hip and waist measurements are relatively balanced.
• Key features: A traditional, straighter waistband and a standard cut through the hip and thigh area.
• Price: Typically priced between $98 and $128.
• Materials/Construction: Made from high-quality denim blends, including cotton, elastane, and often recycled fibers for comfort and durability.
• Sizing/Fit: Available in sizes 23-34 and generally fits true to size for those with standard body proportions.
• Pros: A consistent and reliable fit for athletic or straighter figures. Available in every Madewell jean style and wash. Easy to find your size if standard jeans usually work for you.
• Cons: Prone to gaping at the back of the waist for anyone with a smaller waist and fuller hips. Can feel too tight in the thigh and hip area if you are curvy.

This fit is perfect for individuals with straighter figures or those who find that off-the-rack jeans typically fit well through the waist and hips without significant adjustments.

Shop this product: www.madewell.com/jeans

Madewell Curvy Jeans

The Curvy fit is Madewell's solution for anyone who has ever found a pair of jeans that fits their hips but leaves a massive gap at the back of the waist. These jeans are engineered with a specific waist-to-hip ratio in mind, adding more fabric in the hip and thigh area while cinching in at the waist for a secure, sculpted fit that hugs your curves.

• What it is: A specialized denim fit designed for bodies with a smaller waist and fuller hips and thighs.
• Key features: A contoured waistband that hugs the waist, a higher rise to enhance curves, and more room through the hips and thighs.
• Price: The same range as Regular jeans, from about $98 to $128.
• Materials/Construction: Crafted from the same premium denim blends as the Regular line, often with added stretch for comfort and flexibility.
• Sizing/Fit: Available in sizes 23-34, specifically cut to accommodate curvy figures, eliminating the need to size up for hip room.
• Pros: Eliminates the dreaded waistband gap. Provides a comfortable, flattering fit that doesn't feel restrictive on the hips or thighs. Enhances your natural shape.
• Cons: May feel too roomy in the hips for those with a straighter build. The fit can feel different if you are accustomed to standard jeans.

This is the ideal choice for anyone with an hourglass or pear shape who wants a pair of jeans that fits perfectly right off the rack without needing alterations.

Shop this product: www.madewell.com/jeans

Madewell Curvy vs. Regular Jeans Comparison

Fit & Sizing

The single most important difference between these two lines is the fit. Madewell's Regular fit is cut for what the industry considers a standard proportion, meaning there isn't a large difference between the waist and hip measurements. If jeans usually fit you well everywhere, the Regular cut is your match.

The Curvy fit, however, is designed with a higher waist-to-hip ratio. Madewell achieves this with a few key adjustments: the waistband is structured to contour and "hug" the natural waist, the rise is often a bit higher for better coverage and shape, and there's simply more room engineered into the hip and thigh area. This means you don't have to size up to accommodate your hips (which would make the waist too large), instead, you can buy your true size and get a perfect fit.

Design & Construction

While the overall style options - like skinny, straight, or wide-leg - are available in both lines, the pattern used to create them is different. The prime design difference is the waistband. On a pair of Regular jeans, the waistband is relatively straight. On Curvy jeans, it's more C-shaped to properly encircle a smaller waist that sits above fuller hips.

Beyond that one key change, the jeans are fundamentally the same. Both are made from Madewell's renowned high-quality denim, feature the same pocket placement and hardware, and are produced with the same attention to detail. You are not sacrificing style or quality by choosing one fit over the other, you are simply choosing a different pattern.

Price & Quality

There is no price or quality difference between Madewell's Regular and Curvy fits. Both collections fall within the same price range, typically between $98 and $128. They are made from identical denim fabrics, feature the same construction quality, and hold up with the same durability. Your decision should be based 100% on fit and personal comfort, not on value, as both provide the exact same value proposition.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both fits offer the same high quality and style, but they are built for very different body shapes.

Choose Madewell Regular Jeans if:

• You have a straighter, "ruler," or athletic body type.
• You rarely, if ever, experience gaping at the back of your waistband with jeans.
• Jeans that fit your hips and thighs typically fit your waist well.
• You find that sizing up in jeans makes the waist and hip area equally looser.

Choose Madewell Curvy Jeans if:

• You have an hourglass or pear-shaped figure with a defined waist.
• Waistband gaping is a constant problem for you in standard jeans.
• You often have to size up to get jeans over your hips and thighs, leaving the waist too big.
• You want a fit that hugs your curves and highlights your silhouette without feeling restrictive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between Madewell Curvy and Regular jeans?

The main difference is the waist-to-hip ratio. Madewell Curvy jeans have a tailored, contoured waistband and extra room in the hips and thighs to fit a smaller waist and fuller curves. Regular jeans have a straighter cut for more proportional figures.

If I'm between sizes, should I size up or down in Curvy jeans?

You should generally take your true size in Curvy jeans. They are designed to fit your hip measurement, so you shouldn't need to size up. If you are between sizes, check customer reviews for the specific style you're interested in, as stretch can vary between different washes and fabrics.

Are Madewell jeans true to size?

Madewell's sizing is generally considered true to size. The key is to choose the correct fit (Regular or Curvy) for your body type. Once you've selected the right fit, your usual jean size should work well.

Will Curvy jeans make me look bigger?

No, quite the opposite. A well-fitting pair of Curvy jeans is designed to flatter your natural shape. By eliminating waist gaps and providing a sculpted fit through the hip, they create a streamlined and proportionate silhouette.

What if I'm not "plus-size" - can I still wear Curvy?

Absolutely. The term "curvy" refers to your body shape, not your clothing size. Many women who wear smaller sizes have a curvy shape (a small waist with fuller hips) and benefit from the Curvy jean fit. Both fits are offered in the same size range.

Do Curvy and Regular jeans use the same fabric?

Yes, both lines use Madewell's signature high-quality denim blends, which often include both rigid and stretch options. You can find your favorite style in the same fabric, whether you choose the Regular or Curvy cut.

Is there a price difference between the two fits?

No, there is no price difference. Madewell offers both Regular and Curvy styles at the same price points.

How do I know if I need the Curvy fit?

The clearest sign is waistband gaping. If you put on jeans that fit your hips and there is a gap between your back and the waistband, you will likely get a better fit from the Curvy collection.