Madewell vs. 7 For All Mankind: Which brand should you buy? [2026]

Madewell is known for its affordable, comfortable, and sustainable denim with a casual, everyday aesthetic, while 7 For All Mankind is a premium brand focused on luxurious fabrics, trend-forward designs, and figure-enhancing fits at a higher price point. Madewell offers versatile, high-quality basics for a laid-back lifestyle, whereas 7 For All Mankind delivers a more polished, forward look for shoppers seeking investment pieces.

Let's compare everything you need to know to decide which denim brand best fits your wardrobe and budget.

Madewell: Effortless Everyday Style

Madewell has become a go-to for shoppers seeking reliable, stylish, and comfortable wardrobe staples, especially high-quality denim. The brand appeals to customers who value a timeless, laid-back aesthetic combined with modern design elements. Their focus is on creating well-fitting pieces that are both versatile and have a lower environmental impact.

• Product mix: Primarily known for a wide variety of denim fits and washes. The collection also includes casual tops, cozy sweaters, dresses, shoes, and accessories designed for an effortless, mix-and-match wardrobe.
• Price point: Most jeans are priced accessibly between $98 and $150. Other apparel items generally fall within the $50-$150 range, making it a solid mid-range option.
• Quality: Known for durable and comfortable denim that holds its shape. Many styles incorporate stretch for a forgiving fit, praised for softness and ability to wear well from the first use.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers inclusive sizing from XXS to XXL, with petite, standard, and tall inseam options. Jeans generally run true to size, focusing on offering comfortable and flattering cuts for a wide variety of body types.
• Sustainability: Madewell strongly emphasizes sustainable practices, using eco-friendly materials like recycled fabrics and organic cotton. They are transparent about their responsible sourcing and manufacturing efforts.

Madewell is the ideal choice for those looking for affordable, comfortable, and sustainably-made jeans and basics that will become wardrobe mainstays.

Shop Madewell: www.madewell.com

7 For All Mankind: The Premium Denim Pioneer

Credited with starting the premium denim craze in the early 2000s, 7 For All Mankind continues to lead with innovative fits, luxurious materials, and a sophisticated, modern style. The brand targets a fashion-conscious consumer looking for high-end denim and apparel that feels polished and refined. Their collections often incorporate subtle, on-trend details that elevate them beyond basic denim.

• Product mix: A vast collection of premium denim is at its core, but the brand also offers a full range of chic apparel including blouses, jackets, and trousers for men and women.
• Price point: Positioned at the higher end, with jeans typically ranging from $150 to $250. This premium price point reflects their focus on craftsmanship and high-quality materials.
• Quality: Emphasizes meticulous craftsmanship with premium, often heavier, fabrics. Renowned for their unique washes and a refined finish that creates a luxurious feel and ensures longevity.
• Sizing/Fit: While also offering inclusive sizing, the fit is generally more tailored and body-contouring. Their goal is to create figure-enhancing styles that offer a sleek, streamlined silhouette.
• Sustainability: They make an effort towards sustainability by using eco-conscious fabrics and reducing water usage in their manufacturing, though this is not as strong as their central branding focus compared to others.

7 For All Mankind shines for shoppers ready to invest in high-end denim with a modern, polished aesthetic and superior, body-contouring fits.

Shop 7 For All Mankind: www.7forallmankind.com

Madewell vs. 7 For All Mankind Comparison

Price Comparison

The most immediate and significant difference is the price. Madewell positions its jeans between $98-$150, offering an accessible entry point into quality denim. Paired with their frequent sales and loyalty program, Madewell delivers strong value for budget-conscious but style-savvy shoppers.

7 For All Mankind occupies the premium denim space, with most pairs costing between $150 and $250. This higher price is justified by their use of luxurious fabrics, intricate washes, and brand reputation. Shopping with this brand is more of an investment in a specific look and a higher-tier feel.

Quality & Materials

Both brands deliver excellent quality, but their focus differs. Madewell prioritizes comfortable, durable denim for everyday life. Their materials often include stretch for a soft, forgiving fit that's easy to wear all day and often made using sustainable practices. Their construction is solid and reliable, designed to withstand frequent wear.

7 For All Mankind focuses on a more luxe experience. Their denim often feels more substantial and refined, with meticulous attention to detail in the stitching, hardware, and washes. The fabric is crafted to contour and flatter, offering a premium feel that speaks to their higher cost.

Style & Aesthetic

Madewell's aesthetic is built on timeless, casual American style - think classic cuts, versatile washes, and a laid-back vibe. Their designs are easy to integrate into an existing wardrobe and aren't overly trendy, ensuring they remain stylish for years. They are the go-to for your perfect fitting everyday jeans.

On the other hand, 7 For All Mankind embraces a more sleek, contemporary aesthetic. Their styles frequently incorporate current trends, whether it's the cut, wash, or details. The overall look is more polished and sophisticated, ready for a smart-casual office setting or a nice dinner out.

Fit & Sizing

If comfort and an easy “true-to-size” experience are your goals, Madewell is a great choice. They are known for their inclusive size range, offering a fit for many body types, with customer reviews helping fine-tune size selection.

7 For All Mankind tends to offer more figure-hugging fits. The cuts are designed to contour the body and create a sleek silhouette. While their sizing is standard, some customers may prefer to adjust their size depending on the desired look - whether more fitted or relaxed.

Sustainability & Ethics

Madewell makes sustainability a central brand focus. They promote denim recycling programs, use responsible fabrics, and are transparent about their manufacturing process. Their customers often choose them because of their commitment to lower environmental impact.

7 For All Mankind has taken steps towards sustainability, including using eco-conscious materials in its production, though it is less front-and-center in their marketing. Shoppers for whom this is a top priority may find Madewell aligns more with their values.

Which One Should You Choose?

The best denim brand for you depends entirely on your style, budget, and priorities. Both offer excellent products, but they cater to different needs.

Choose Madewell if:

• You are looking for comfortable, stylish jeans for under $150.
• Your style is laid-back, effortless, and timeless.
• Sustainability is a key factor in your purchasing decisions.
• You prefer a relaxed, true-to-size fit.

Choose 7 For All Mankind if:

• You view denim as an investment piece and are willing to pay a premium.
• Your style is modern, polished, and trend-conscious.
• You want luxurious fabrics and figure-enhancing fits.
• You are looking for denim that makes a fashion statement for special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Madewell cheaper than 7 For All Mankind?

Yes, Madewell is generally less expensive. Madewell jeans are typically priced between $98-$150, while 7 For All Mankind jeans range from $150-$250.

Which has better quality?

Both brands offer excellent quality, though their strengths differ. Madewell excels in durable, comfortable everyday wear, while 7 For All Mankind focuses on premium fabric and craftsmanship for a luxury finish.

Can I return jeans at both stores?

Yes, both brands have return policies. Their websites will offer specific details about return windows and conditions, but generally, they allow returns on unworn items with tags within a set period.

Do Madewell jeans fit true to size?

Madewell jeans typically run true to size, providing a relaxed and forgiving fit. Their denim includes stretch for comfort and accommodates many body types.

How do 7 For All Mankind jeans fit?

Their fits are more tailored and body-contouring. While they often fit true to size, the sleek fitting means some customers may prefer to size up for a more comfortable feel.

Which brand is better for everyday wear?

Madewell is the clear winner for everyday wear. Their focus on comfort, durability, and a variety of styles makes their denim perfect for casual use.

What is 7 For All Mankind famous for?

They are famous for pioneering the premium denim trend with their luxurious fits and fashion-forward designs that revolutionized denim markets in the 2000s.

Does Madewell offer student discounts?

Both brands do not have universal student discounts, but they may offer seasonal promotions that can include students. It's best to check with each brand periodically for discounts and deals.

Is 7 For All Mankind worth the price?

If you value superior fit, luxurious fabric, and stylish details, then 7 For All Mankind jeans are an excellent investment.

Is Madewell worth it?

Absolutely. If you prioritize comfort, style, and sustainability, Madewell offers a fantastic brand experience and is considered worth it by many denim lovers.