Where to buy the best jeans in Melbourne

Whether you’re into edgy streetwear or classic vintage Levis, these Melbourne denim boutiques will have you ditching skinny jeans with ease.

Alpha60: high-waisted jeans

Beloved Melbourne label, Alpha60, is shorthand for sophisticated quirk. If you want to go high waisted, Alpha60’s Goldie jeans are a cult favourite. They have a high waist, relaxed fit and slightly cropped length. They come in a range of colours so you can wear them in all seasons. Make sure you browse their stunning Chapter House concept store and exhibition space. It’s part of St Paul’s Cathedral, and pieces are displayed in reverential style.

PAM Store Melbourne: streetwear style denim

Zip up to the third floor of Curtin House. Step into the wonderland that is Melbourne-based Perks and Mini (PAM). It’s a white space peppered with concrete sculptures. Their international cult favourite pieces hang mystically from the racks. Utterly left-of-centre streetwear includes jeans like a pair of the cargo-style Cyclopes. They're baggy for extra comfort and come with five pockets.

Ksubi: bold low-rise jeans

Looking for denim with a bit more edge? Check out iconic Aussie streetwear label Ksubi's massive flagship store on Little Bourke Street. The low rider klassic kraftwerk jeans have all the markers of a pair of Ksubis, including the signature cross embroidery. They've got a relaxed straight leg fit and stonewashed indigo blue denim. Plus an adjustable waist to customise your look.

Corlection: the best men's jeans in Melbourne

For men who want quality jeans with a subtle twist, head to Corlection. This specialty denim store supports slow fashion from Asia and the US. Their Momotaro jeans are made in Japan and are a perfect example of attention to detail. Dyed a darker indigo, they're high rise with a straight taper for a comfy fit. Cuff the bottoms for a cool contrast look.

Viktoria and Woods: Australian-made mom jeans

Local brand Viktoria and Woods has a keen focus on sustainability and local creation. The Creedance jean is a fresh take on denim. It comes in a classic cream to give you an effortless look. With its mid-rise fit and straight leg, this ultra stylish piece is perfect for work or play. Best of all, it's made from super durable material.

Nudie Jeans: organic cotton and free repairs

You know those perfect jeans that you just wish could last forever? Nudie understands. This sustainable company is all about jeans with durability. That’s why they offer free repairs at their Repair Shops. Just wash your jeans and hand them over. They’ll be repaired and you’ll be golden. Jeans at the Repair Shops can also be resold or donated. Not near a store or mobile repair station? They’ll send you a repair kit – free.

American Rag: vintage Levi's

If old-school looks are your jam, hightail it to American Rag. They specialise in retro fashion pieces from the 1950s onwards, imported from the US. Naturally, their range of denim is fantastic. They source some immaculate deadstock, vintage Levi's and Lee Riders. It's all that authentic vintage style. Try your luck and see if you can score rare 1970s Levi's and flares. New stock arrives each week, so keep checking back if you can’t find what you want.

Incu: designer denim

Incu is all about curating the finest international brands under one roof. Looking to jump on the low-rise jeans trend? This designer store is where it's at. Try a pair of Agolde's best sellers. With a low sitting relaxed silhouette, these roomy jeans are perfect for everyday wear.

ELK: sustainable wide leg denim

Sustainable fashion label ELK carry that approach into their Tovi jeans. These ultra-wide, almost skirt-like jeans are super soft and made from a blend of hemp and organic cotton. Think relaxed yet structured, with a high waist and belt tie. They’re a statement jean that can be dressed up or down. The gentle fabric is the polar opposite to a hard denim, allowing for peak comfort with all the style.