Universal Standard Vs Torrid Plus Size Denim: Plus Size Denim Showdown: Universal Standard vs Torrid Fit and Quality
I’ve been buying plus size denim for over a decade. Started at Lane Bryant, moved to Torrid around 2015, then discovered Universal Standard in 2019. I’ve owned maybe 30 pairs between the two brands. Here’s what I learned after spending roughly $2,500 on jeans.
Why Fit Is Different Between Universal Standard and Torrid
Both brands size 10-32, but the shape is completely different. Universal Standard uses a straight size chart with no vanity sizing. A size 18 at Universal Standard measures 46-48 inches at the hip. Torrid’s size 18 measures 48-50 inches at the hip. That’s a 2-inch difference.
I wear a size 20 in Universal Standard and a size 18 in Torrid. If you’re ordering online for the first time, check the size chart against your actual measurements. Don’t trust your Torrid size when ordering Universal Standard.
Universal Standard’s Fit Philosophy
Universal Standard designs for a straighter silhouette. Their Geneva High Rise Skinny Jean ($98) has less hip flare and more room through the thigh. The rise is 11 inches on most cuts. If you carry weight in your belly, this rise works well — no muffin top, no gaping at the back waist.
Torrid’s Fit Philosophy
Torrid cuts for an hourglass shape. Their Bombshell Skinny Jean ($69.50) has a 10.5-inch rise but more curve through the hip. The waist-to-hip ratio is wider. If you have a defined waist and fuller hips, Torrid fits without pulling across the seat.
My verdict: Universal Standard fits straight and apple shapes better. Torrid fits pear and hourglass shapes better. Measure your hip-to-waist ratio before buying.
Denim Quality: Which Brand’s Jeans Last Longer?
I’ve put both through the wringer. Washing every 3-4 wears, machine drying (I know, I know), wearing 8+ hours a day for office work and weekend errands.
| Feature | Universal Standard | Torrid |
|---|---|---|
| Denim weight | 10-12 oz (sturdy, holds shape) | 8-10 oz (softer, stretches out) |
| Stretch recovery | Excellent — returns to shape after wearing | Moderate — baggy at knees by end of day |
| Inseam options | 27, 29, 31, 33 inches | 30 inches only (most styles) |
| Fading after 20 washes | Minimal — indigo stays dark | Noticeable — especially on dark washes |
| Price per pair | $98-$128 | $59.50-$89.50 |
The Universal Standard Seine Straight Jean ($108) is the best quality denim I’ve owned. After two years and maybe 60 washes, the color is still dark, the seams are straight, and there’s no fraying at the hem. My Torrid Bombshells showed visible fading around the thighs after 6 months.
But here’s the tradeoff: Torrid denim is softer from day one. Universal Standard needs a break-in period of about 5 wears. The first time you wear them, they feel stiff. After that, they mold to your body.
Common Mistakes People Make When Buying Plus Size Denim
I’ve made every mistake myself. Here’s what to avoid.
Mistake 1: Buying Based on Your Usual Size
Torrid sizes up aggressively. Universal Standard doesn’t. I’ve seen people order Universal Standard in their Torrid size, then complain the jeans are too big. Check the size chart every single time.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Fabric Composition
Universal Standard uses 93-98% cotton with 2-7% elastane. Torrid uses 68-75% cotton with 25-32% polyester and elastane. More cotton = less stretch = holds shape longer. More synthetic = softer but wears out faster. If you want jeans that last 3+ years, pick Universal Standard. If you want soft jeans that feel like leggings, pick Torrid.
Mistake 3: Not Checking Inseam
Torrid only offers 30-inch inseam on most styles. If you’re 5’2″ like me, that means hemming. Universal Standard offers 27, 29, 31, and 33 inches. Their Fit Liberty program also lets you exchange for a different size within a year if your weight changes.
Don’t buy Torrid if you need a 27-inch inseam. You’ll pay $10-15 to hem every pair.
When NOT to Buy Universal Standard or Torrid
Both brands have gaps. Here’s where they fall short.
Don’t buy Universal Standard if: You need extreme stretch for active movement. Their denim is structured. Bending, squatting, and sitting all day feels restrictive until broken in. Also skip if you’re on a tight budget — $98+ per pair is an investment.
Don’t buy Torrid if: You want dark wash denim that stays dark. Their dye fades faster than any other brand I’ve tried. Also skip if you need a specific inseam — one size does not fit all heights.
Better alternatives for specific needs:
- Good American ($109-$139) — Best for tall plus sizes (34-inch inseam available). Better stretch than Universal Standard, better quality than Torrid.
- Madewell Plus ($89-$135) — Best for mid-rise fits. Their curvy cut works well for hourglass shapes.
- Old Navy Plus ($35-$45) — Best budget option. Quality is lower, but the price lets you experiment with styles.
For petites under 5’3″, Universal Standard’s 27-inch inseam is the best option in plus size denim right now. Torrid and Good American both require hemming.
Which Brand Should You Buy in 2026?
Here’s my honest take after years of wearing both.
If you can afford $98-128 per pair and want denim that lasts 3-5 years, buy Universal Standard. Start with the Geneva High Rise Skinny Jean or the Seine Straight Jean. Order your true size based on their size chart. Expect a 5-wear break-in period.
If you want soft, comfortable jeans that feel like second skin and you’re okay replacing them every 12-18 months, buy Torrid. The Bombshell Skinny Jean at $69.50 is the best value. Size down one from your usual. Accept that dark washes will fade.
I own 4 pairs of Universal Standard and 2 pairs of Torrid right now. The Universal Standards are my work jeans and weekend errand jeans. The Torrids are my lounging-at-home jeans. Both have a place in my closet. But if I had to pick one brand for quality alone, it’s Universal Standard every time.
