These Comfy, Lightweight $42 Jeans Are as ‘Soft as Sweatpants’ and the Only Denim I’m Packing for Summer Trips

If you typically avoid wearing jeans in the summer, you’re not alone. While I usually live in jeans, once the weather turns warm, I almost always opt for shorts, skirts, or breathable linen pants. However, I’ve recently felt inspired to try out a pair of lightweight, summer-ready jeans, and I found the perfect pair at Amazon.

I live in NYC, and I’ve been spotting drawstring jeans all over the city. The laid-back style pairs well with breezy linen blouses, simple tanks, and swimsuits. After searching for the perfect pair to add to my summer wardrobe, I’ve finally spotted the ideal drawstring jeans—and they’re available at Amazon for under $50. Now, the Grapent Wide-leg Drawstring Jeans are at the top of my wishlist. 

Grapent Wide-leg Drawstring Jeans

These jeans first caught my eye thanks to their stylish wide-leg silhouette. Not only does this cut give an elevated appearance to any outfit, but it also means the jeans will feel breezier than fitted styles. I love the elastic waistband and drawstring detail, which will ensure a comfy fit, whether I’m sitting for extended periods or walking the streets of a stylish destination. Plus, plenty of reviewers praise the “lightweight” feel of these jeans, and one shopper even wrote that they “feel like sweatpants.”

These jeans come in 13 different colors, including traditional blue hues, black washes, and even bubblegum pink. I’m adding a few different pairs to my cart, including dark blue and white options. I’ll pair them with sneakers, sandals, and summery flats depending on the occasion. For petite shoppers, they would also pair well with heels, although based on reviews, I anticipate them being a bit too short to do so at 5-foot-7. 

Grapent Wide-leg Drawstring Jeans

While the Grapent Wide-leg Drawstring Jeans are currently holding the No. 1 spot on my summer wishlist, I’m eyeing a few more styles at some of my favorite retailers, including Madewell and J.Crew. Keep reading for more comfy and breezy jeans, trousers, and pants I’m adding to my cart. 

Skirt Bl Drawstring Flowy Jeans

These drawstring jeans are even airier than the Grapent pair, thanks to the breathable lyocell fabric. This dark wash is so trendy and easy to style for summer, but these jeans are also offered in three other shades, including black. One reviewer called these jeans “perfect for late spring in Florida,” so they’re sure to withstand hot conditions, too. 

Anrabess Linen Palazzo Pants

More than 1,000 shoppers purchased these linen-blend pants this month, and I think it’s about time I join them. The thick elastic waistband is “forgiving” and “comfortable,” and the fitted waist complements the flowy, wide silhouette of the pant leg. According to reviewers, these pants are breathable enough to keep you cool in hot weather, so they’re ideal for warm destinations. They come in 23 colors, but this natural shade is my favorite, since it’s versatile enough to style with anything in my travel capsule wardrobe.

Chartou Cotton-linen Palazzo Pants

These breathable cotton-linen pants are effortless and timeless, so I know I’ll reach for them all summer long. While I don’t have any big vacations on the calendar, these pants would be ideal for tropical destinations. One reviewer purchased a pair for their trip to the Philippines and loved them so much they decided to buy multiple. Choose from eight different colors, but keep in mind the lighter colors may be slightly see-through thanks to the lightweight fabric. 

Qinsen Cotton Cargo Pants

Cargo pants have been in style for years, and it seems like the trend is only growing. This pair puts a sleeker spin on the trend, with minimal pockets and traditional cargo stitching. They’re made of 100 percent cotton, so they’ll be lightweight and breathable enough for summer days. I also love the coffee bean color, which will pair well with sporty T-shirts and lacy blouses alike. 

Madewell Airy Denim Superwide-leg Jeans

I love how these drapey Madewell jeans puddle at the floor, giving them a laid-back and elongated appearance. They feature a denim drawstring that looks slightly more sophisticated than typical drawstring jeans, but they provide the same adjustability to ensure the perfect fit. According to reviewers, the cotton-lyocell fabric is super soft and lightweight enough for summer.

J.Crew Soleil Linen Pants

These classic linen pants come in nine vacation-ready colors, and I couldn’t help but add a few to my cart. I especially love the butter yellow and navy color, although I’ll also snag a versatile neutral. The linen fabric is lightweight and breathable, making it the perfect summer staple. Plus, the pants come equipped with four pockets, which are perfect for holding essentials. 

Anthropologie Avery Pleated Linen Wide-leg Trousers

Pleated trousers have been on my wishlist for a while, and I’m eyeing this linen version from Anthropologie. They feature a super wide leg, which will keep things breezy, along with the linen fabric. I plan on pairing these pants with fitted tanks, tube tops, and cropped tees for laid-back, vacation-ready outfits that still look put-together. 

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