If there's one thing all of us on team Who What Wear love, it's the arrival of a fresh slew of trends. And as far as I can tell, 2024 is not going to disappoint. The good news is that many of the trends that look set to prevail in the coming months are, in-fact, anti-trend. In other words, they're classic, versatile pieces that will earn you extra fashion points this season.
As someone who wears jeans nearly every single day, I'm always looking for inspiration on how to mix up my denim-based outfit rotation, and many of the 2024 trends are doing just that. From accessories to layering pieces, these styles can help all of us look at our favourite jeans with fresh eyes.
While ballet flats and ultra tall boots seemed to be the top footwear styles for the past season, the mid-height heel has slowly been making its return to being in vogue and will be a leading style for the new year—which is great for those of us who like a little lift with our jeans, but still want to be able to spend a day on our feet. Investing in timeless classics like long coats and roomy tote bags is also a must for 2024, and paired together with jeans you've got a sophisticated yet casual look that will work for so many occasions.
Scroll on to discover my pick of the standout trends for the season that will work particularly well with jeans—as well as my favourite pieces to get you started.
1. MID-HEEL SHOES
Style Notes: Praise the fashion gods that one of 2024's trending shoes will be the mid-heel. Whether as a boot or a pump, this heel height gives the perfect lift while still being endlessly wearable. Consider it your polished alternative to your favourite trainers.
Shop the Look:
Trust Toteme to make a seriously chic mid-heel ankle boot.
The slight curve of the heel gives them a distinctive COS look.
A patent heel is always a good idea.
These would add a bright touch to so many looks, and could go with pretty much any colour pair of jeans
The brown satin is such a gorgeous colour, and means they have just the right amount of shine to work for both day and night.
2. TRENCH COATS
Style Notes: Ok, yes, trenches aren't a new trend for 2024. In fact, they're one of the most timeless pieces in your wardrobe. But for 2024, the rule is: the longer, the better. There's something about a floor-sweeping trench coat that just adds a touch of drama to even the most understated outfit. It's worth investing in a classic colour—this is silhouette that will never go out of style.
Shop the Look:
Spotted on fashion people everywhere.
I love the slightly khaki tone to this one.
Such a timeless style will surely become a lifelong favourite.
A great high-street option.
This one could be my favourite.
3. CONTEMPORARY KNITWEAR
Style Notes: Knitwear and jeans are always a dream combination, but in 2024 mix things up a bit by leaning into thoughtfully designed pieces that put a modern spin on classic styles like the cable-knit or Breton stripe.
Shop the Look:
This would look so slick with black jeans and mid-heel ankle boots.
I love the single twist down the centre of this oversized knit.
The way the Breton stripes give way to the exaggerated ribbed hem is just perfection—pair with straight-leg jeans and you're set.
I love how this slouchy jumper manages to have both a vintage and contemporary vibe.
Just a sprinkling of sparkle.
4. MAXI TOTE BAG
Style Notes: Forget the micro bag. For 2024, practicality finally triumphs, and the tote is the new must-have arm candy.
Shop the Look:
Sophisticated enough for work, but more than cool enough for weekend wear.
So many influencers have been spotted with Demellier totes, and this suede version is especially elegant.
Another suede option in a more typical, laptop-friendly shape.
Is there anything more luxurious than this bag from The Row?
Actually, this could be a strong contender...
5. CARDIGANS
Style Notes: Over the past few weeks, I've noticed more and more tastemakers buttoning up their cardigans and wearing them as a top with their jeans. It makes for an easy, chic look, with a certain preppy-meets-Parisian je ne sais quoi.
Shop the Look:
This would work brilliantly with blue or white jeans.
The iconic cardigan is back for another season.
Lovely with blue jeans and ballet flats.
Style this slouchy, longer cardigan with straight-leg or wide-leg jeans.
The structuring and the supreme softness of the wool honestly makes this look like a designer piece.
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