I Did My Research: This 2022 Denim Trend Is Taking Over

And just like that… There's a new denim trend that's officially taken center stage. If you've been following the trajectory of jeans over the past year, you probably noticed how things are getting looser, longer, and generally less fitted. We have the Y2K resurgence to thank for the return of the baggy jeans that defined the early aughts, and just like with any good nostalgic trend, the modern-day iterations we're seeing are less exaggerated and more wearable. Enter the 2022 trend that's defining the year: relaxed jeans.

Like its early aughts counterpart, this new wave of denim has that distinctive slouchy, lived-in feel, and fashion people can't seem to get enough.

Relaxed Jeans vs Straight-Leg Jeans

Before we go any further, I want to clarify the difference between these relaxed fits and classic straight-leg denim. The two are similar, but there's an important distinction. While straight-leg jeans are a specific denim shape, relaxed jeans describe the type of fit, so you could have a pair of straight-leg jeans that have a relaxed fit, but you could also have a straight-leg pair with a classic fit instead. In short, the two aren't mutually exclusive.

To get a better idea, I'm sharing a handful of relaxed jeans that run the gamut, from wide-leg to bootcut shapes and, yes, even some straight-leg pairs. Shop the best relaxed jeans on the market right now, and see how fashion people are styling the top denim trend in the coolest ways.

Style Notes: Add some structure to the looser denim with the help of a strong-shouldered jacket and sleek boots.

Style Notes: "Dad" sneakers and a baseball hat add to the casual vibe of the jeans for a perfect weekend ensemble.

Style Notes: Fashion people love to balance the jeans' roomier feel with a fitted top.

Style Notes: Relaxed-fit jeans in a straight-leg shape and classic blue wash are the perfect entry point into this trend.

Style Notes: Replace your lounge pants with relaxed jeans—just as comfortable but a tad cooler.

Style Notes: Try a pair with a slightly longer hem than you typically take, and let them pool around the ankle.

Style Notes: When in doubt, heels or heeled boots will instantly elevate the jeans.

Style Notes: Try balancing the jeans' baggy shape with something classic like a trench coat.

Style Notes: Don't overthink it—basics like a plain turtleneck and shoulder bag pair flawlessly here.

Style Notes: Relaxed jeans with an oversize button-down shirt is the unofficial spring uniform of fashion people everywhere.

Style Notes: An oversize jacket might seem like too much volume for the jeans, but in fact, it only adds to the overall cool vibe.

Coming up: I'm a Fashion Editor on a Budget—30 Spring Finds That Are Doing It for Me