Mother Denim 101: A Guide to the Cult-Favorite Brand Reinventing California Cool

Born in Los Angeles, Mother was launched in 2010 by industry veterans Lela Becker and Tim Kaeding with a mission to do denim differently. Blending vintage with contemporary, the brand channels a bold, nostalgic spirit rooted in the carefree energy of 1970s California. Even the name, Mother, plays off the idea of duality—a nurturing figure, or the sting of an expletive. The brand’s attitude and collections reflect this with a commitment to soft fabrics and flattering fits, and tongue-in-cheek product names that have garnered a loyal following of models, celebrities, and denim lovers alike.

A Guide to Mother’s Best Denim:

Today, the label has evolved into a full lifestyle brand with four seasonal collections spanning jeans, outerwear, and accessories, with denim remaining at the foundation and pièce de résistance. Scroll on for a breakdown of our favorite Mother fits from 2010 to today.

The Hustler

A signature staple, the Hustler is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this year. It is a cropped, subtly flared jean, made from the label’s famously soft stretch denim. It’s the pair you reach for when you want snug comfort, while still feeling cute and pulled together. Keep an eye out for playful touches like frayed cuffs, patch pockets, and even snake print this season.

The Half-Pipe

Mother really nailed the barrel-leg jean trend with the Half-Pipe. Cut from semi-rigid denim that maintains its bold shape, it features curved seams and a high-rise fit that hits all the right notes. Equal parts edgy and practical.

The Dodger

The Dodger is a straight-leg jean, with a comfortable high rise, and semi-rigid fabric. We love this fit for its versatility, minimalism, and clean lines. The cuffed pairs are certainly a fun, laid-back addition to the family.

The Roller

Hailing straight from the ’70s, the Roller jeans are a full-on retro wide-leg, with a mid rise, and a clean hem or a fray. Crafted from soft stretch denim, it hugs in all the right places before flaring out. The 32-inch inseam also makes them tall-girl and platform friendly!

The Weekender

The Weekender is a cult-favorite mid-rise flare with a 31-inch inseam and clean hem. Made from stretch denim, it’s an effortless pair for off-duty days. Needless to say, it’s perfect for the weekend…

The Dazzler

The Dazzler jeans strike the perfect balance between straight-leg and skinny. Made from comfortable denim that won’t lose its shape easily and a mid-rise waist. We recommend styling with ballet flats and a blouse, for a cute, feminine vibe.

The Maven

The Maven channels old-school vintage cool. Featuring a high-rise, slim-leg silhouette, and artfully faded whiskering, this style feels broken-in from the first wear. An easy-going everyday pair, this is one you’ll reach for again and again.