10 pairs of women's jeans with deep, functional pockets

Finding the perfect pair of jeans can feel like slipping into a second skin, but for those who shop the women’s section, there is often an unwelcome surprise that comes with the territory. Just when you’ve fallen in love with the look and feel of your new jeans, you’ll try to put your phone away and realize the truth—once again, you’ve been tricked by the appearance of fake pockets.

Sometimes, if you’re lucky, the pockets technically exist and are large enough for a key or tampon in a pinch. Often, they are merely stitchwork designed to look like pockets but without any actual openings. On average, the front pocket of feminine-styled jeans cannot even fit a smartphone (and for those keeping track at home, the first iPhone came out more than 15 years ago).

Why do women’s jeans lack functional pockets?

There are a few main theories out there as to why women’s jeans so often lack functional pockets. The simplest is good ol’ fashioned capitalism—if feminine clothes don’t have pockets, these consumers will have to continue buying handbags.

Others suggest that the lack of pockets ties to deeper sexism in the fashion industry, where many of the clothes are still designed by men who are more concerned with how clothing looks than whether it is functional for the wearer.

Some suggest that the continued lack of pockets is a political issue as much as one of sexism. After all, pockets allow the wearer independence in a way that keeping track of a handbag does not.

Why functional, deep pockets matter

Unlike a lot of other styles of pants designed for women, many jeans do have back pockets. However, these pockets are still smaller than those in the men’s section, and are far less functional for most items. Front pockets matter, and they are most often the ones that are entirely left off of women’s and feminine-styled jeans.

With the rise of online shopping, the pocket problem has only grown more frustrating. Often, websites won’t state whether their jeans have pockets and won’t show models interacting with the pockets, leaving you guessing as to whether they’re there for function or show. Even when the description does state the number of pockets, many places will say that their jeans have “five pockets,” but in reality three (or more) of those pockets are too small for most everyday items.

After falling for this pocket ruse yet again, I decided enough was enough. I did the research so that you don’t have to, and dug into where to find some of the best jeans with pockets deep enough to swim in.

Radian Deep Pocket Straight Jeans

Radian built their brand around creating clothing for the modern woman, and pockets are a huge part of their focus. Originally founded by a husband and wife team, this woman-owned and Pakistani-American-founded business understands the importance of pockets that don’t just exist, but are highly functional.

These Deep Pocket Straight Jeans are a great example of a fashionable fit paired with a whole lot of storage space. Besides the three spacious front pockets, they are also designed with a security flap on the back pockets to keep items from sliding out. You can shop the Deep Pocket Straight Jeans in women’s sizes 0 to 24, in inseam lengths 28 to 32 inches.

$89 at Radian (Save $31)

Good American Good Classic Slim Bootcut Light Compression Jeans

Good American is another company that is determined to meet the pocket problem head-on. It was co-founded by Khloé Kardashian and Emma Grede and is a woman-owned, Black-owned business. The company was created with inclusivity at top of mind, including in sizing, fit, and model choices.

You can view these Good Classic Slim Bootcut Compression Jeans on a size 0 or size 16 model, and can even see a video of the depth of the pockets in use. While the front pockets of the Good American jeans aren’t quite as deep as some of the others on this list, the inclusivity in other ways (and still decent front pocket sizing) means they’re still a worthy addition to the list. Best of all, Good American boasts an inclusive size-range, and these jeans are available in women’s sizes 00 to 26.

$150 at Good American

Kirrin Finch Slim Tapered Indigo Denim Jeans

For Kirrin Finch, pockets aren’t optional. They even make a note of it on their website, assuring customers that the pockets on their jeans are real, deep, and highly functional. As an added bonus, their tailored fit and contoured waist means that you don’t have to worry about any awkward back gaps.

For those who want to look as good as they feel, these dark wash Slim Tapered Indigo Denim Jeans are the perfect way to make a statement while also carrying your necessities with ease. Plus, you can put your money toward a woman-owned, LGBTQ+-owned business. Shop the style in women’s sizes 0 to 24.

$195 at Kirrin Finch

Topshop Straight Leg Raw Hem Jeans

If you’re looking for a lighter set of jeans this summer, these Straight Leg Raw Hem Jeans from Topshop are a great option. Their pockets are full and functional, and the white denim will add a bright touch to your outfit whether you’re setting out for some time with friends or just running errands. Reviewers also note that the color tends to be slightly off-white in a pleasing way, lending your outfit a touch of subtle rather than stark. You can shop the style in women’s sizes 23W to 34W.

$54 at Nordstrom (Save $23)

Levi’s 501 ‘90s Women’s Jeans (Plus Size)

Levi’s is notable for being the maker of the first jeans, so it’s no surprise that many of their pairs remain highly functional for all shoppers. These distressed 501 ‘90s Women’s Jeans are a great example of looking fashionable and trendy without trading in comfort. The pockets are functional and deep, and you can easily store your phone, wallet, and more inside without lugging around an extra bag. As an extra bonus, these jeans are available in women’s plus sizes 16M to 24S and in straight sizes 23 to 34, letting most shoppers find a pair they love.

$91 at Levi’s (Save $17)

Gloria Vanderbilt Amanda High Rise Tapered Jeans

The Amanda High Rise Tapered Jeans from Gloria Vanderbilt feature pockets that can easily fit your smartphone or wallet without issue. With more than 64,000 reviews, they’re a popular choice for shoppers who are looking for something comfortable, practical, and beautiful.

With these pocket-rich jeans, you can go anywhere knowing you can leave your purse at home. Plus, starting at just $15 on sale and $48 regularly, these pants are an affordable alternative to many of the others on the list. Shop the style in women’s standard, petite, and plus sizes 2 to 26.

From $15 at Amazon (Save up to $33)

Radian Deep Pocket Skinny Jeans

For those who love a good skinny jean, the Deep Pocket Skinny Jeans from Radian are a fantastic find. It comes in three different colors and inclusive sizing (women’s sizes 0 to 24 in short, regular, and tall variations), and features the deep pockets that Radian shoppers know and love. With an included security flap on the back pockets and a comfortable stretch to the material, these are jeans that you won’t want to miss.

$89 at Radian (Save $31)

Levi’s 726 High Rise Flare Women’s Jeans (Plus Size)

The Levi’s 726 High Rise Flare Jeans are the perfect way to create a feminine shape while leaving some space for your legs to breathe. Available in three colors as well as a wide range of women’s sizes from 14 Short to 26 Long, these jeans are ideal for anyone who wants to look and feel good in what they wear. Each pair is made out of denim with some stretch and the trademark Levi’s quality.

$70 at Levi’s

Yoga Jeans Rachel Skinny Jeans

Skinny jeans emphasize your figure, but they can also be uncomfortable to wear. Yoga Jeans tackles this dilemma with their Rachel Skinny Jeans that look similar to the average jeans, but with a distinct 4-way stretch denim that will feel as comfortable as yoga pants. Each pair is made from sustainable materials and features important elements like extra soft fabric and non-gapping waistbands.

This pair of dark wash skinny jeans is a great example of a classic look that will make you appear polished while enjoying the comfort of your favorite pair of lounge pants. Shop the style in women’s sizes 24 to 34.

$59 at Yoga Jeans (Save $59)

Daily Paper Clothing Blue Monogram Mel Jeans

If you’re looking for jeans that will stand out in the crowd—while still giving you those functional pockets you love—the Blue Monogram Mel Jeans from Daily Paper Clothing are well worth the look. Its ‘90s-inspired look has been updated with a monogram print to add a modern flair to a true classic. Available in women’s sizes XS to XXL, the relaxed fit and slight stretch fabric mean that you can wear it with confidence throughout the day. Plus, every purchase goes toward supporting a Black-owned business.

$66 at Daily Paper Clothing (Save $69)