Amiri jeans retail for $800-1,400. The CNFans Spreadsheet offers alternatives ranging from $30-120. Here's what separates the good from the garbage.

What Makes Amiri Distinctive

Before comparing alternatives, understand what you're replicating:

• Shotgun-style distressing patterns
• Leather patch detailing
• Specific hardware finishing
• Japanese selvedge denim (on higher tiers)
• Signature back pocket stitching

Most alternatives nail 2-3 of these elements. Few get all five.

Budget Tier: $30-50

At this price point, expect compromises. The spreadsheet lists several options in this range.

What You Get

• Correct general silhouette
• Basic distressing patterns
• Standard hardware
• Thin denim (usually 10-11oz)

What You Don't Get

• Accurate leather patches
• Proper wash treatment
• Consistent sizing

Verdict: Fine for occasional wear. Don't expect longevity. The distressing tends to expand after washing, turning subtle damage into actual holes.

Mid Tier: $50-80

This sweet spot offers the best value-to-quality ratio. Several sellers in the spreadsheet operate here.

Notable Improvements

• Heavier denim weight (12-13oz)
• More accurate distressing placement
• Better hardware quality
• Improved stitching consistency

The main tell at this tier is the leather work. Patches look correct from a distance but feel plasticky. Hardware finishes are correct but may tarnish differently than retail.

Recommended For

Daily wear. These hold up through regular washing cycles without falling apart. Expect 18-24 months of solid use.

Premium Tier: $80-120

At this level, you're paying for details most people won't notice. But if you care, the differences matter.

What Justifies The Price

• Japanese or Turkish denim
• Accurate leather sourcing
• Correct rivet finishing
• Precise distressing replication
• Proper wash treatments

Several spreadsheet sellers in this range use the same factories that produce for mid-tier designer brands. The construction quality matches or exceeds retail Amiri in some cases.

Specific Style Breakdown

MX1 Style (Leather Patch)

The iconic Amiri silhouette. Quality varies wildly by seller.

Best spreadsheet options prioritize leather quality over everything else. Look for listings that specifically mention "real leather panels" rather than PU alternatives.

Shotgun Distressed

Easier to replicate well. The random nature of the distressing pattern forgives minor inaccuracies.

Mid-tier options perform nearly as well as premium here. Save your money unless you need specific colorway accuracy.

Crystal/Embellished Styles

Proceed with caution. Crystal quality and adhesion are where budget options fail hardest. Expect stones to fall off after 3-4 washes on anything under $70.

Sizing Guidance

Chinese sizing runs different. The spreadsheet includes measurement charts, but general rules apply:

• Size up one from your usual American size
• Waist measurements are usually accurate
• Inseam lengths often run 1-2 inches short
• Thigh measurements vary significantly between sellers

Always request actual measurements before purchasing. The "size 32" from one seller may differ substantially from another's.

Care Instructions

Distressed denim requires attention regardless of source:

• Cold wash only
• Inside out
• Air dry when possible
• Avoid fabric softener

These rules extend the life of any tier significantly. Budget options especially benefit from proper care.

Final Recommendations

For most buyers, the $50-80 tier offers optimal value. You get denim that looks correct, fits well, and survives regular wear.

Premium tier makes sense only if you're frequently around people who know retail Amiri well, or if you simply want the best available.

Budget tier works for trend-testing. If you're unsure whether distressed denim fits your style, start here before committing more money.

The CNFans Spreadsheet organizes these options by price tier and style. Cross-reference QC photos before purchasing. The difference between a good and bad batch from the same seller can be significant.