I Found the Holy Grail of Jeans—So Naturally I Bought Them in 3 Washes

As someone who grew up in the era of skinny jeans and low-rise denim, finding an acceptable (read: age-appropriate) pair of wide-leg jeans felt like an impossible task. Each pair I donned was either too baggy, too long, too boxy or, simply, unflattering. Body dysmorphia aside (thanks, Y2K!), I was determined, and after one very chic coworker suggested I give AYR’s The Secret Sauce a try, it was love at first zip.

As a comfort dresser who tends to rotate through the same few pieces, no matter the occasion, one wash just wasn’t enough. Three pairs in and I’m ready for the world to know: These are my holy grail jeans. Read on for my full review of this best-selling, editor-loved style, including details on the fit, the feel and if it’s actually worth the $265 price tag. 

Fast Facts

• Washes: 6
• Sizes: 24-34, including short (29.5”), regular (31.5”) and long (34.5”) inseam options
• Fabric: Date Night: 99 percent cotton, 1 percent elastane. All other washes: 59 percent cotton, 40 percent lyocell, 1 percent elastane
• Care: Turn inside out and rinse in cold water on a gentle cycle. Remove promptly from washer and line dry.
• Price: $245-$275

We’re many years into the baggy jean renaissance (and yes, since skinnies dominated my closet, I’m lumping wide-leg and straight-leg styles into this movement as well). Though I’ve always loved the look on others, I never felt like my athletic build could pull them off—that is, until I found the right pair.

Founded in NYC (with L.A.-made denim), AYR is the ultimate cool-girl brand, so it’s no wonder they’ve mastered the ultimate cool-girl jean. The Secret Sauce is the brand’s “most universally loved style”; a continual best seller that’s racked up more waitlists than I can count. The website describes it best: “Fitted through the waist and hip, with a flattering loose straight leg.” It’s the style everyone’s after right now, with a fit that’s figure-friendly, versatile and comfortable to boot.

The three washes I own are all classics in their own right. Hero Baby is a casual, sun-bleached light wash; your everyday jean in a 90s-inspired hue that goes with virtually anything. Date Night is the new-age charcoal. A soft, faded black that looks and feels like it’s been in your closet for years. And finally, my coveted Distressed Wide-Leg, the first pair I ever owned, which has sadly been discontinued. (As the saying goes, bury me in these!)

I’ll admit, my collection may be missing a more dressed-up, true-blue option—like Good Mood, Stoked or Underground Hustle—but with just these three pairs, I’ve pulled together countless looks, garnering countless compliments. Needless to say, the hype is real.