OP here with an update: I ordered two pairs of Everlane jeans and I think they are great (though I am returning one because it's a wee bit too small at the waist - will likely reorder in a bigger size).
They feel heavier and I believe look more modern than my skinnies. I like the high waist. I feel they are flattering in the hips and butt. (My husband agrees.)
I'm 45, five feet tall and about 125 lbs for reference. These are the two jeans I got:
got these in a 27 - I could probably have gone down one size, but I am overall happy with the fit:
https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-auth-strch-hr-slm-strt-short-midblue
got these in a 25 - love the fit outside of the waist, which is just a hair too small; will likely reorder in the 26:
https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-high-rise-straight-jean-ankle-lightbluewash