There are people who despise jeans, and then there’s me: I’ve never had an issue with wearing the rigid, structured bottoms, in fact, favoring the classic style. However, when I moved from California to New York City, I began taking multiple cross-country flights a year, prompting me to up my airport fashion. While denim is seriously stylish, the stiff pants prevent me from feeling comfortable on a six-hour flight. Thus, enter: these undercover jeans.

These stretchy pants are technically jean-wannabes since they look like your typical pair of Levi’s but mimic the feel of breezy summer pants. Denim alternatives are having a major moment, too, thanks to model Paulina Porizkova and Cate Blanchett giving the trend their stamps of approval. But, TBH, I wasn’t convinced; I didn’t want to repeat the great jeggings craze of the 2010s—that was until I came across Madewell’s Harlow Denim Trousers.

Madewell Harlow Wide-Leg Airy-Denim Trousers

The lowkey bottoms are an extra-comfy take on jeans, offering slanted pockets, wide legs, a high rise, and pleated waist. Loosely woven material keeps things breezy, drapey, and undeniably soft, while an airy cotton blend makes them perfect for spring and summer. They also avoid looking like frumpy house pants thanks to the tailored silhouette that hugs the body while maintaining maximum stretch and comfort.

The denim trousers are a take on the brand’s best-selling Harlow pants, which I’ve waxed poetic about before (and even worn on countless cross-country plane rides). After loving the original style so much, I’m ready to give this elevated design a go, especially since there’s a petite version available for my 4-foot-11 frame. So, don’t be surprised when you see me catching a flight to my long-distance wedding (it’s over six hours away!) in these effortless bottoms. 

The style has yet to receive anything less than a five-star review from shoppers, with a self-proclaimed “Harlow-jean connoisseur” calling it their favorite pair yet. Others have raved about the pant’s “flattering” optical-illusion features, making their legs look “lanky even in flats.” Better yet? Fans claim that their polished cut and drape make them “easy to dress up” with a blazer, T-shirt, and some jewelry. 

You get the best of both worlds with Madewell’s Harlow Wide-Leg Denim Trousers, which offer style, comfort, and ease in one chic package. Shop more jean alternatives, below.

Madewell Low-Slung Baggy Airy-Denim Jeans

Gap Mid-Rise Ultrasoft Baggy Jeans

Rag & Bone Miramar Sofie Wide-Leg Sweatpant Jeans