Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite jeans—because Madewell has just dropped a collection that’s about to shake up your wardrobe. But here’s where it gets exciting: after wildly successful collaborations with Alexa Chung and Reluxe Fashion, the brand has teamed up with denim mastermind Benjamin Talley Smith for a capsule collection that’s already creating buzz. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about jeans; it’s about crafting pieces you’ll cherish forever.
Handcrafted by skilled artisans in Los Angeles, the Benjamin Talley Smith for Madewell collection features seven denim styles priced between $88 and $398. Smith, who’s been consulting with Madewell over the past year, describes these jeans as “your forever jeans”—a bold claim, but one that’s backed by his meticulous attention to detail. From custom buttons and leather patches to carefully curated washes, every element is designed to elevate these pieces into timeless classics.
But let’s talk about the stars of the show. The Putney stovepipe jeans, available in dark and light washes, are already poised to go viral. Meanwhile, the Coolidge jean, with its suede tabs and versatile elongated length, is Smith’s personal favorite. Pair it with a stacked boot now or a strappy heel in the summer—it’s a year-round winner. And don’t sleep on the Fairview barn jacket, finished with gold-tone hardware and a buttery suede collar, or the boxy Sullivan T-shirt, perfect for layering as the seasons transition.
Here’s the controversial part: while Smith may not be a household name—yet—chances are you’ve already admired his work. He’s the talent behind Khaite’s viral Danielle jean, named after his wife. But does his partnership with Madewell signal a shift in the brand’s focus? Or is it simply a natural evolution of their commitment to quality denim? Steven Cateron, Madewell’s head of design, praises Smith’s “deep reverence for the denim craft,” but is this collaboration a match made in heaven or just another fleeting trend? We’ll let you decide.
What’s undeniable is Madewell’s reputation for delivering high-quality, accessibly-priced denim and leather—a fact fashion editors have been quietly raving about for years. With this collection, Smith isn’t just stopping at jeans; he’s reimagining wardrobe staples like sweatshirts, designed to be effortless yet elevated. Oversized or classic fit? The choice is yours, but either way, they’re meant to become your go-to pieces.
So, is this collection worth the hype? Will these jeans truly stand the test of time? And more importantly, do you think Madewell has found the secret to the perfect jean? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears. The Benjamin Talley Smith x Madewell collection is available now at Madewell.com and select stores. Don’t miss out on what could be your next wardrobe staple.
