Pocket more of your paycheck with stylish men's denim for $50 or less

I never fail to appreciate that within Seattle's city limits one can wear denim nearly anytime, anywhere. With pricey designer denim so apropos and Seattle men accustomed to wearing jeans year-round, a denim lifestyle can quickly consume a big chunk of one's paycheck. Save some green on jeans this year by choosing a pair of well-fitting men's denim that local stores are offering up for $50 or less.

Dark wash Sqin, $39.90

Known for being a reliable resource for wardrobe staples with fresh, modern details, H&M offers a wealth of budget-friendly men's denim. My favorite is the dark wash, 100 percent organic cotton Sqin ($39.90). With a low waist, slim fit throughout the leg and slightly distressed details, these comfortable jeans have a stylish, urban sensibility.

Slim fit Vans, $45

It's nice to have a pair of jeans you can comfortably move in. These slim cut, black jeans from Vans offer slight stretch (99 percent cotton with a touch of spandex) so that you can easily take them from the office through the commute home. With light hand-sanding details, these fashion-forward jeans make it hard to look out-of-touch. They're available at Fremont-based sports outfitter Evo, alongside other reasonably priced jeans options.

Pre-owned designer denim, $20-$45

Since pre-owned denim is often broken-in, you get a good idea of how it will weather with continued wear. Because of this, the best pairs of jeans -- with the how-did-you-get-that-so-perfect fit? -- are often pre-owned or vintage finds. Local vintage mecca, Capitol Hill's Red Light, stocks a wealth of pre-owned and vintage men's jeans. If you're willing to dig to find a great deal, you can even find nearly new treasures like dark wash Joe's jeans ($45), Seven for All Mankind straight leg jeans ($30) or button-fly Crate "Route" jeans ($20).

Regular Fit 505 Levi's, $49.50

Having created in-demand, rugged, American denim since 1873, Levi's knows how to make a pair of jeans with long-lasting appeal. The Regular Fit 505 jean will flatter most figures, with a straight fit through the thigh and leg. The hand treated finish of these jeans assures they'll be soft from day one. I recommend a pair in the contemporary, Indie Blue wash that's slightly faded around the knee with just the right amount of whiskers by the pockets. Available at Downtown's Levi's store.

Quicksilver Sequel Jeans, $49.50

With a relaxed fit and a slightly worn wash (special tint is added to create the vintage effect), these jeans perfectly match a laid-back Seattle lifestyle. The Sequel cut comes in at the knee to create a tailored look that's appropriate for most occasions. But perhaps my favorite design consideration of the Indigo wash Sequel by Quicksilver is the 18-inch leg opening that can accommodate larger footwear (like the hiking boots my husband loves to wear on the weekends). Available at South Lake Union's outdoor outfitter, REI.

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