When it comes to denim that seamlessly fuses street style, durability, and affordability, Empyre jeans stand out as a go-to choice for fashion-forward youth and casual wear enthusiasts alike. Rooted in skate and street culture, Empyre has carved a solid reputation for delivering trend-driven designs that don't compromise on comfort or quality. Whether you're hitting the skate park, heading to class, or just want a versatile pair of jeans for everyday wear, Empyre has a fit and style to match your lifestyle.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a deep dive into Empyre jeans, exploring their history, key features, styles, fits, materials, and why they’ve become a staple in wardrobes across North America.
A Brief History of Empyre
Empyre is a private-label brand developed by Zumiez, a popular U.S. retail chain known for catering to skaters, snowboarders, and streetwear lovers. Since its launch in the early 2000s, Empyre has grown from a relatively unknown label to a widely recognized brand synonymous with youthful energy and trend-savvy fashion.
Unlike legacy denim brands like Levi’s or Wrangler, Empyre focuses on niche markets—specifically the skate and streetwear scenes. This sharp focus allows the brand to offer pieces that resonate with a younger, more active audience. The brand’s consistent updates to fit and design have helped it stay relevant in the fast-changing world of youth fashion.
What Sets Empyre Jeans Apart?
There are plenty of denim brands on the market, but Empyre jeans hold their own due to a combination of features that make them both practical and stylish.
1. Street-Inspired Aesthetic
Empyre jeans draw heavily from skate culture, urban wear, and indie fashion trends. You'll find distressed denim, raw edges, relaxed silhouettes, and bold washes that reflect the rebellious spirit of the streetwear community.
2. Affordable Price Point
Unlike premium denim brands that can cost over $100 per pair, most Empyre jeans retail between $40 and $70. This makes them accessible to students, young adults, and anyone looking for fashionable jeans without the designer price tag.
3. Comfort and Fit
Empyre prioritizes comfort without compromising on form. Many of their jeans include stretch denim options that provide added flexibility—ideal for skating or active daily wear.
4. Range of Styles
Whether you’re into slim fit, relaxed, baggy, or tapered jeans, Empyre offers a wide array of cuts. This diversity allows the brand to cater to different body types and fashion preferences.
Popular Empyre Jeans Fits and Styles
One of the standout aspects of Empyre jeans is the variety of fits they offer. Here’s a look at some of their most popular silhouettes:
1. Empyre Slim Fit Jeans
Perfect for those who want a more modern, streamlined look. These jeans hug the body slightly closer but still allow for movement. Ideal for casual streetwear outfits, they pair well with oversized tees, flannels, or hoodies.
2. Empyre Baggy Fit Jeans
A throwback to 90s and Y2K aesthetics, baggy Empyre jeans are back in a big way. These offer a relaxed, roomy fit from waist to ankle. Great for skaters or anyone who loves the retro streetwear vibe.
3. Empyre Straight Leg Jeans
A timeless classic, the straight-leg design suits nearly all body types. This versatile fit transitions easily from daytime hangouts to nighttime events.
4. Empyre Tapered Fit
This cut combines a roomy thigh area with a narrower ankle opening—creating a fashionable silhouette that’s easy to dress up or down.
5. Distressed and Ripped Jeans
Many Empyre styles feature distressing, rips, and frayed hems that lend a rugged, worn-in look. These are particularly popular among trendsetters who want to add edge to their ensemble.
Material and Fabric Quality
Empyre jeans are typically made from mid- to heavyweight denim, offering durability for everyday use. Many styles incorporate a small percentage of spandex or elastane to increase flexibility and comfort. This stretch-denim blend makes them more practical for skaters or anyone who spends a lot of time on the move.
The fabric choices also contribute to the longevity of Empyre jeans. Reinforced stitching, bar tacks at stress points, and durable metal hardware help the jeans maintain their structure after repeated wear and wash.
Sustainability and Ethical Practices
As of now, Empyre has not positioned itself as a sustainable or eco-conscious denim brand. While some competitors in the market focus on organic cotton, water-saving dye processes, or ethical sourcing, Empyre places more emphasis on affordability and trend alignment.
That said, the longevity and durability of Empyre jeans can contribute to slower fashion cycles—reducing the need for frequent replacements and encouraging more responsible consumption.
Styling Empyre Jeans: Outfit Ideas
Whether you’re dressing for a skate session or a night out, Empyre jeans offer incredible versatility. Here are a few outfit ideas:
Street Casual
Top: Oversized graphic tee
Bottom: Empyre baggy distressed jeans
Footwear: Classic Vans or Nike SB Dunks
Accessories: Beanie and chain necklace
Modern Minimalist
Top: White fitted tee or tank
Bottom: Empyre slim-fit black jeans
Footwear: Chelsea boots or minimal sneakers
Accessories: Leather belt and slim watch
Grunge Revival
Top: Flannel shirt layered over a band tee
Bottom: Faded straight-leg Empyre jeans
Footwear: Combat boots or high-top Converse
Accessories: Leather cuff bracelet and worn-in backpack
These jeans can easily transition between casual and edgy aesthetics depending on your accessories and layering choices.
Empyre Jeans Reviews: What Customers Are Saying
Customer feedback is generally positive across online retailers. Many reviews highlight:
Fit consistency: Most shoppers report that Empyre jeans fit true to size.
Comfort: The stretch material and soft denim make them comfortable for all-day wear.
Style appeal: Reviewers appreciate how on-trend the designs are without being over-the-top.
Value for money: The combination of style, durability, and price makes them a solid investment for budget-conscious shoppers.
Some users note that specific washes or styles may fade over time, especially if washed frequently, so proper care is recommended.
Where to Buy Empyre Jeans
1. Zumiez (in-store and online)
As the parent retailer, Zumiez offers the largest selection of Empyre jeans, including exclusive drops and seasonal styles.
2. Amazon
Select styles are available through Amazon, often with Prime shipping options. However, size availability may be more limited.
3. eBay and Secondhand Markets
For those looking for discontinued or vintage Empyre styles, platforms like eBay, Depop, and Poshmark offer pre-owned jeans at discounted prices.
Care Tips to Extend the Life of Your Empyre Jeans
To keep your jeans looking great for longer:
Wash sparingly: Washing jeans too often fades the dye and wears out the fabric. Spot-clean when possible.
Turn inside out: Always turn your jeans inside out before washing to preserve color.
Air dry: Skip the dryer when possible. Heat can shrink and weaken denim fibers.
Avoid bleach or harsh detergents: Use mild, denim-friendly detergents to protect the integrity of the fabric.
Final Thoughts: Are Empyre Jeans Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re looking for jeans that blend style, affordability, and comfort—especially with a skate or streetwear influence—Empyre jeans are a top-tier choice. Their wide range of fits, consistently updated designs, and budget-friendly pricing make them a solid option for anyone wanting to elevate their denim game without breaking the bank.
