Like a certain once-beloved apricot exfoliator, skinny jeans seem to have developed a bad reputation. If you balked at clicking on this article, I get it. Skinny jeans seem downright passé compared to the other myriad of denim options on the market. But hear me out: Sleeping on this style may mean missing out on a highly versatile category of bottoms.
Think of Audrey Hepburn in a turtleneck and topknot. An effortless French woman like Emmanuelle Alt breezing past in a Breton-stripe top. Evergreen Itgirl Kate Moss slinking around London in yet another flawless outfit. What do these looks have in common? All three are anchored by black skinny jeans, cropped at the ankle. The look is equal parts sophisticated, chic, and cool.
Still skeptical? Rest assured these aren't the skinny jeans of the past. If you know where to look, today's denim won't chafe or cause annoying waist gaps. A skinny black pair will sculpt and support, creating a long elegant line from waist to toe. I have a trusted pair in heavy rotation that are perfect for days when leggings feel juvenile but pants too formal.
Swayed to give black skinny jeans a second chance? Read on for my selects.
CLASSIC
Straight (cut) to the point.
FADED
A lived-in wash adds some rock-and-roll edge.
IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS
Grommets! Velvets! Pearls! Spice up your look (and your life) with subtle (or not-so-subtle) embellishments.
PETITE
Skip the trip to the tailor with these no-hemming-required pairs.
PLUS
Good jeans to show off your good genes.
COATED
A light coat of sheen makes for a cool yet sophisticated look.
Next up: The Best Winter Shoes to Wear With Skinny Jeans
-
Stop It Right Now—These 39 Under-$100 Nordstrom Finds Are Incredibly GorgeousKitten heels, lacy skirts, and a new It sneaker.
-
If I Could Only Wear Nordstrom Pieces This Month, These 35 Standouts Would Be Top of MindSummer dressing made easy.
-
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Is an Editor Favorite—Here's What's on Preview so FarEarly access starts July 8.
-
I Tried On the Everlane Pieces You're About to See Everywhere This SummerElevated basics ahead.
-
I'm a Shopping Director —These Under $100 Nordstrom Finds Are Too Good Not to ShareFrom linen pants to jelly shoes.
-
The Highly Specific Denim Trend Even I Didn't See ComingDanielle Haim is a fan.
-
I'm Basically My Sister's Personal Stylist—36 Chic, Summer-Ready Zara Pieces I'm Sending Her WayPlus, some hot new arrivals.
-
The Expensive-Looking Sandal Trend Fashion Girls Are Wearing With Baggy Jeans and White T-ShirtsA highly chic outfit lies ahead.
