Grlfrnd Melanie High Rise Boot Cut

Everything you need to know about fit, style, and shopping for these iconic jeans

Hey friends! If you’re a fellow denim lover like me, you’ve probably heard about the GRLFRND Melanie high rise boot cut jeans that have been taking over Instagram lately. These retro-inspired jeans have a super flattering high rise fit through the waist and hip, with a slight bootcut flare at the ankle for a leg-lengthening look.

I’ve become obsessed with finding my perfect pair, but had a lot of questions about sizing, fit, style, and where to buy them. So I did a deep dive into reviews and put together this complete buying guide with everything you need to know about GRLFRND Melanie jeans!

What Are GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans?

GRLFRND is an L.A. based denim brand that makes high-quality, vintage-inspired jeans. The Melanie is one of their most popular styles – it’s a throwback to the early 2000s with that super flattering high rise bootcut silhouette.

They’re made from a soft, stretchy denim that keeps their shape while giving you a comfy, moved-in feel. The contoured waist sits right at your natural waistline for a smoothing, slimming effect. And the narrowly flared leg opening balances out curvy hips for an elongated look.

Overall, the GRLFRND Melanie bootcut is a modern take on a vintage jean shape that flatters all figures. The attention to fit and detail gives them that designer quality at a fraction of the price.

How Do GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans Fit?

The number one thing I wanted to know was how the Melanie jeans actually fit on real bodies. Here’s an overview of the fit:

• High rise – sits right at your natural waistline, around 1 inch higher than normal jeans
• Contoured waist – not too tight, smooths over your stomach and prevents gapping in the back
• Full seat – roomy through the hip and thigh without feeling baggy
• Narrow bootcut leg – subtly flares from knee to ankle, avoiding dramatic bell bottoms

Most reviews say they fit true to size, but the stretch denim does have some give if you’re between sizes. The contoured high rise is super flattering, but also comfortable since it’s not too restrictive.

The leg shape balances out curvy hips and is slimming rather than exaggerated. Overall, the fit is really classic and feminime.

Where Can I Buy GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans?

The best selection of washes, sizes and lowest prices for GRLFRND Melanie jeans is at Nordstrom. Here are some quick links to shop:

• Nordstrom – GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans

You can also find them at revolve, though sizes and washes are more limited:

• Revolve – GRLFRND Melanie Jeans

Occasionally the Melanie jeans pop up at other online retailers like Shopbop and Verishop, but Nordstrom tends to have the best selection year round.

Are GRLFRND Melanie Jeans True To Size?

The general consensus across reviews is that GRLFRND Melanie jeans fit true to size. Most people recommend ordering your normal jean size for an accurate fit.

However, if you’re between sizes or have a curvier figure, sizing up one size is recommended. Since the denim has stretch, sizing up accommodates wider hips and thighs without gapping at the waist.

For reference I’m typically a 27, but ordered a 28 in the Melanie jeans for a little extra room through the hips and they fit perfectly. So I’d recommend ordering your regular size, or sizing up if you want a more relaxed fit.

What Is The Price Range For GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans?

The retail price for a pair of GRLFRND Melanie jeans is $218. That’s on the higher end for a pair of jeans, but comparable to other L.A. based fashion brands like Reformation or Agolde.

The good news is GRLFRND Melanie jeans often go on sale! I’ve seen them discounted down to:

• $150 – $170 during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale
• $130 – $160 during other seasonal sales events

If you can catch them on sale, you can score a pair for 30-40% off. Sign up for notifications at Nordstrom so you’ll be alerted right when a sale goes live.

Considering the quality and fit, they’re worth investing in even at full price. But the sale events make them more budget friendly!

How Do I Style GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans?

The GRLFRND Melanie jeans have such a flattering silhouette on their own, you can really style them with anything! Here are some of my favorite ways to wear them:

• Tucked in graphic tee or bodysuit
• Flowy peasant blouse or wrap top
• Cropped sweater or jacket
• An oversized blazer for weekend casual
• Bralette or tank tucked in front with a kimono
• For night, a satin cami tucked in with heels

I also love accessorizing with belt bags, sneakers or loafers for daytime, and strappy heels or mules at night. A few key styling pieces really elevate these jeans for both casual and dressy looks.

What Colors Are Available For GRLFRND Melanie Jeans?

One thing that makes the Melanie jeans so versatile is the range of different washes and colors available. Here are the most common ones I’ve seen:

• Classic mid to dark wash denim – perfect versatile blue jean
• Vintage light wash – that trendy bleach wash look
• Bright white – crispy white denim stands out in summer
• Coastal blue – pretty pastel blue for spring
• Black – jet black jean, great for edgy looks
• Olive green – army green color, super unique

New limited edition colors drop every season, but these core washes are always available. Personally I have the black, light vintage, and coastal blue washes so I’m covered for any outfit!

Are GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Jeans Comfortable?

Considering the structured high rise waist and contoured fit, I wondered if these jeans would be uncomfortable to wear all day.

But I was pleasantly surprised at how comfy they are! The denim has the perfect amount of stretch, so they move with you and never pinch. The waistband is thick but still flexible, so it stays in place without digging in.

Many reviews also mention how the bootcut flare is roomy enough for your thighs when sitting down. The flare shape prevents them from feeling too tight.

Overall the consensus is the Melanie jeans look more structured than your typical stretchy jean, but are still super comfortable for all day wear. The fit is flattering but not too restrictive. Definitely no discomfort breaking them in either!

How Do I Care For GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans?

Caring for your GRLFRND Melanie jeans is easy – here are a few tips to make them last:

• Machine wash cold and tumble dry low. Don’t wash too often to preserve the color.
• Avoid bleach or fabric softener – it can break down the denim over time.
• Hang dry instead of the dryer when you can to minimize shrinking.
• Spot clean stains to avoid frequent washing.
• Steam instead of ironing if needed to avoid creases.
• Fold jeans on a wide hanger at the seams to keep their shape.
• Repair tears or holes early on to avoid bigger problems!

With the right care, your Melanies can look brand new for many seasons of wear. Just avoid over-washing and you’ll keep them in tip-top shape.

What Materials Are Used In GRLFRND Melanie Jeans?

Here’s an overview of the materials in GRLFRND Melanie jeans:

• Denim – 97% cotton, 3% elastane denim. The stretch cotton blend gives them the perfect amount of comfortable stretch.
• Button/zipper – Branded metal hardware that’s durable.
• Pockets – Classic 5 pocket design with printed pocket bags.
• Tag – Leather GRLFRND logo tag on back.
• Thread – Contrasting gold thread is used for a vintage look.
• Waistband – Thick waistband that keeps its structure.

The materials are super high quality for the price point. GRLFRND’s attention to detail with contrast stitching and leather patches gives them a luxe feel.

Do GRLFRND Melanie Jeans Stretch Out Over Time?

This was a big question for me – will they permanently stretch out after some wears?

Luckily, the reviews say the Melanie jeans hold their shape extremely well. The cotton blend denim does have some natural stretch and give. But the waist and hips don’t permanently stretch out with wear.

Some reviewers have had their Melanies for years and say they still fit perfectly. The structured waistband really helps them keep their silhouette.

As long as you don’t overly stretch them while putting them on, they should retain their fit even after many wears. Just take care of sizing properly from the start.

Can GRLFRND Melanie Jeans Be Altered?

If you do end up with a pair that doesn’t fit quite right, the good news is GRLFRND Melanie jeans can be altered!

Some areas you can alter:

• Waist – can be taken in or let out about 1-2 inches if needed.
• Length – hemming the jeans shorter is no problem.
• Tapering leg – can be tapered from knee down for a less dramatic flare.

Major alterations like taking in the hips or thighs would be more difficult. But small tweaks to the waist or length are easy adjustments.

I always recommend trying them on and walking around the house before altering. Sometimes the stretch gives a bit more after wearing them.

What Is The Return Policy For GRLFRND Melanie Jeans?

If your Melanie jeans don’t work out, returns are super easy directly through Nordstrom.

The return policy highlights:

• Free shipping on all returns
• 90 day return window – plenty of time for exchanges
• Refund to original payment – no Nordstrom credit.

I’d recommend ordering your usual size along with a size up if you aren’t sure. Try them on at home and return the pair that doesn’t work. That way you can find your best fit.

Nordstrom makes returns really simple in case you need exchanges or refunds. Just drop the return in the mail with the prepaid label.

How Do GRLFRND Melanie Jeans Compare To Other Brands?

Here’s a quick comparison of GRLFRND Melanie jeans versus other popular brands:

• More affordable than Frame, Rag & Bone: those are $200+
• Stretchier and more comfortable than Levi’s, Madewell: less rigid
• Trendier washes than Joe’s, 7FAM: more boutique style
• Better quality than Topshop, Zara: won’t lose shape
• More edgy styling than Everlane, AE: designer details
• Higher rise than Reformation, Agolde: barely any gap in back

The GRLFRND Melanie really hits the sweet spot between quality, comfort, and stylish vintage details. They compete with brands double the price!

What Do Customer Reviews Say About GRLFRND Melanie Jeans?

Reading through reviews, it’s clear GRLFRND Melanie jeans have an overwhelming 5 star rating! Here’s what customers love about them:

• True vintage 90s high rise fit
• Soft stretch denim that moves with you
• Smoothing effect on stomach and hip area
• Flattering back pockets and contoured waist
• High quality feel – worth the price
• Fit as expected – very consistent sizing

Negative reviews are hard to find. The only complaints are if sizing was off, but exchanges are easy. Overall they have glowing reviews online.

Are There Any Discounts On GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans?

The best way to save on GRLFRND Melanie jeans is to shop during sales events like:

• Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (July/August) – They’re usually priced around $150
• Nordstrom Winter Sale (November/December) – Discounted for holiday gifting
• End of season sales (January/June) – New colors on clearance

I also recommend signing up for the Nordstrom credit card – you get a small discount on every purchase which adds up!

Occasionally there are discount codes floating around for Revolve or other retailers too. Following GRLFRND on Instagram is helpful for any sales announcements.

What Tops Pair Well With GRLFRND Melanie Jeans?

Some of my favorite tops to pair with the Melanie jeans are:

• Structured crop tops – a cropped tee or blouse balances the flared leg. Go for square necklines and puff sleeves.
• Slip dresses/tanks – A silky cami or slip skirt tucked in looks so chic. Great day to night transition.
• Oversized blazers – An exaggerated shoulder blazer toughens up the feminine jeans.
• Wrap styles – A wrap top or kimono in silk or cotton gives off relaxed vintage vibes.
• Halter bralettes – For summer, a halter style bralette tucked in front looks sexy.

I stick to tighter and cropped tops up top to accentuate the contoured high rise waist. Structured shoulders also help balance the bootcut leg.

How Long Are GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans?

The Melanie jeans have a standard inseam length for jeans:

• Size 23-26 has a 31 inch inseam
• Size 27-30 has a 32 inch inseam
• Size 31-34 has a 33 inch inseam

For reference, I’m 5’5″ and the 32″ inseam hits right at my ankle bone with a slight break.

If you need the length shortened, they can easily be hemmed a few inches shorter. But the classic bootcut looks best with just a slight break over your shoes.

Are GRLFRND Melanie Jeans Suitable For All Seasons?

One amazing thing about the Melanie jeans is you really can wear them year-round!

• In winter, they look great with booties and sweaters or layered under coats.
• In spring, pair them with mules or sneakers and light jackets.
• Summer time brings crop tops, tanks and sandals!
• For fall, they work perfectly with leather booties and blazers.

The high rise waist makes them comfortable in heat, and the bootcut balances heavier layers in cold weather. Plus all the different color washes work for any season.

They really are that perfect pair of jeans you’ll want to live in 365 days a year!

What Celebrities Wear GRLFRND Melanie High Rise Boot Cut Jeans?

One reason the Melanie jeans have become so popular is all the celebrity fans!

• Bella Hadid has rocked the black Melanies for nighttime looks
• Emily Ratajkowski has worn the light wash with crop tops
• Hailey Bieber loves the baggy boyfriend fit Melanies
• Kendall Jenner has styled them with blazers and boots

Part of GRLFRND’s cool-girl vibe comes from all the model and influencer fans. The Melanies have the celeb seal of approval when it comes to flattering denim!

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for your next perfect pair of jeans, GRLFRND Melanie high rise bootcuts should definitely be at the top of your list! The flattering retro silhouette flatters any figure, while the luxe materials and designer details justify the $200+ price point. Just be sure to order your regular size or size up if in doubt.

Hope this guide helped cover everything you need to know before buying your own GRLFRND Melanie jeans! Let me know if you have any other questions – I’m always happy to help enable your next denim purchase 😉 Now go get your perfect pair!