Level 99 Tanya High Rise Crop in Watson Denim Review

For today’s review, I’m testing out a newer brand called Level 99. Usually I’m fiercely loyal to my favorite lines, but I was incredibly impressed when I tried out the fit of their Tanya High Rise Crop in Watson. In addition to a broad assortment of jeans in diverse washes, rises, and fits, the brand also prides themselves on sustainability. The brand is committed to using more sustainable fabrics and chemical-free wash techniques, which is currently a huge criticism of the denim industry. Especially here in San Francisco, everyone is looking to make their fashion choices more sustainable and I’m all about a brand that can do it while created an on-trend and well fitting collection.

The Level 99 Tanya High Rise Crop is a different style than I usually wear. I always think a medium rise is most flattering, and that with a high rise, you run the risk of looking too “pin -uppy” or rocking “mom jeans”. You also run the risk having extra fabric that wrinkles or becomes baggy if the fit isn’t perfect. Instead, Level 99 created a rather perfect fitting high rise, with a chic cropped leg, and edgy ankle zips. The rise comes in at 10” which hit me just above the belly button and paired perfectly back to this season’s trendy crop tops. The cotton is woven with lyocel and spandex which gives the jeans stretch, but also maintained great retraction. They flattered my bum quite well, while still staying nice and tight around my waist. But the extra stretch also made them quite comfortable and kept the higher rise from digging in across my stomach. The jeans provided coverage, but made me feel sexy and a bit curvy which I loved.

The cropped leg of the jeans hit me about 2 inches above my ankle bone (I’m 5’9″ for reference), and should hit you within an inch or two of your ankle depending on your height. The inseam comes in at 26″ which should help you decide where these will land on you. I loved the higher crop of these for Spring, but given that I’m a bit taller, I usually prefer a cropped jean to hit only 1/2 or 1 inch above my ankle. My recommendation for taller ladies is to pair these jeans back to flats or a pump for a chic look – with an ankle boot or bootie you may feel like there’s an awkward gap of space between where the pants end and the boots start.

Cutting these jeans in a deep black kept the look from feeling too “retro” and made them perfect for wearing dressed up or more casual for a little French inspired look. For this outfit, I paired the Tanya with a trendy striped crop top and black ballet flats. I was having a bit of a Brigitte Bardot moment, and I loved that I could wear a crop top without showing too much skin.

Level 99 jeans are available online here, or you can purchase the Tanya High Rise Crop in Watson through select boutiques and online.