When it comes to street-inspired fashion that strikes the perfect balance between comfort, style, and affordability, Empyre jeans have carved out a solid niche. Known for their skater roots and youthful edge, Empyre continues to make waves in the denim game with fits and styles that appeal to trend-conscious wearers without breaking the bank.
Whether you're searching for baggy jeans for a relaxed vibe or slim fits for a sleeker silhouette, Empyre offers versatile options for modern wardrobes. In this article, we'll explore what makes Empyre jeans a standout, the different styles available, how they fit, and why they've become a staple in streetwear culture.
The Rise of Empyre: A Brand with Skate DNA
Empyre is a private-label brand offered primarily through Zumiez, a retail chain well-known for its focus on skate, street, and surf culture. Empyre's roots are deeply embedded in the skateboarding community, which influences the brand’s laid-back and functional design ethos.
While they offer a full line of clothing, Empyre jeans are among the brand's most popular items. With durability built for skate sessions and silhouettes designed for urban life, these jeans reflect a lifestyle that values authenticity and ease.
Why Choose Empyre Jeans?
Here are a few reasons why Empyre jeans continue to earn loyal fans:
1. Affordable Price Point
Empyre jeans typically retail between $40–$70, making them accessible to students, skaters, and style-conscious shoppers alike. They offer the look and feel of high-end streetwear denim without the luxury markup.
2. Comfort and Flexibility
Comfort is key, and Empyre delivers with soft denim blends that often include a bit of stretch. This makes them ideal for active wearers who need jeans that can move with them—whether skating, commuting, or just hanging out.
3. On-Trend Styles
Empyre stays in tune with fashion trends, offering everything from loose-fit, Y2K-inspired baggy jeans to tapered skinny styles. The brand isn’t afraid to experiment with washes, distressing, and cargo-inspired details, ensuring there's something for every fashion taste.
4. Durability for Daily Wear
Designed with the needs of skateboarders in mind, Empyre jeans are built to withstand wear and tear. Reinforced stitching, heavier fabrics, and functional details (like extra pockets and durable belt loops) make these jeans a practical pick.
Popular Empyre Jeans Styles
Empyre jeans come in various cuts and silhouettes. Here’s a breakdown of their most popular styles:
– Baggy & Loose Fit
A throwback to the late '90s and early 2000s, Empyre’s baggy jeans are a favorite among skaters and fans of retro streetwear. These jeans offer extra room in the legs and a relaxed waist, giving off that effortlessly cool vibe. Pair them with oversized tees or hoodies for the full look.
– Slim Fit
For those who prefer a more tailored appearance, Empyre’s slim fit jeans offer a snugger look without feeling too tight. They’re perfect for casual outings and can be easily dressed up or down.
– Tapered & Skinny
Empyre's skinny jeans are perfect for those who like a sleek, streamlined silhouette. Often made with stretch denim, these styles hug the legs but still provide enough flexibility for movement.
– Cargo Jeans & Carpenter Styles
Streetwear isn’t complete without functional flair. Empyre also offers jeans with utility details like carpenter loops, oversized pockets, and cargo elements—ideal for those who love the fusion of fashion and function.
Denim Washes and Colors
Empyre jeans aren’t just about fit—they also shine when it comes to variety in denim washes and colorways. From classic light wash and faded black to acid wash and distressed indigo, there’s a wash for every mood and season.
Black Empyre jeans, in particular, are popular for their versatility, easily pairing with graphic tees or layered flannels. Meanwhile, lighter washes are perfect for spring and summer looks.
Sizing and Fit Guide
Empyre jeans generally run true to size, but fit can vary depending on the cut. Baggy and loose styles naturally have more give, while skinny and slim fits may require you to size up if you prefer more room.
Zumiez provides detailed sizing guides online, and in-store try-ons are always recommended for those new to the brand. Because many styles include a stretch blend, wearers often praise Empyre jeans for being both flattering and flexible.
How to Style Empyre Jeans
Empyre jeans are incredibly versatile, fitting into a wide range of aesthetics. Here are a few ways to wear them:
Skater Look: Pair loose Empyre jeans with a graphic tee, flannel shirt, and skate shoes.
Casual Streetwear: Combine slim jeans with a hoodie and low-top sneakers.
Grunge/Retro Fit: Match baggy jeans with a band tee and vintage denim jacket.
Clean Urban Style: Go for black Empyre jeans, a fitted tee, and a bomber or varsity jacket.
The key to styling Empyre is balance—looser jeans look better with fitted tops, and vice versa.
Final Thoughts: Are Empyre Jeans Worth It?
Absolutely. For under $70, Empyre jeans offer trend-aware design, solid durability, and genuine comfort. Whether you’re hitting the skatepark or just want to elevate your casual wardrobe, these jeans check all the boxes.
They may not carry the designer label of premium denim brands, but they more than make up for it with cultural relevance, wearability, and cost-effective quality. Empyre jeans are not only a practical fashion choice but also a reflection of a lifestyle that values individuality, creativity, and movement.
