J.Lo Just Wore the Jeans Trend No One Asked for, Yet Somehow It's Everywhere

Of all the jeans trends we predicted for this year, this isn't one I included on my 2024 bingo card. Stepping out in New York over the weekend, Jennifer Lopez brought new meaning to high/low dressing. Kitted out in a smart turtleneck and tailored coat, the singer and actor veered away from her typically polished style, reaching for a pair of faux-muddy jeans to complete her look.

Whilst J.Lo is known to be a fan of wide, baggy jeans, her preference normally ranges between light and dark-wash denim styles, occasionally choosing pairs embellished with large rips. This time, however, she dabbled with a seemingly growing trend proving divisive across the board.

Jennifer Lopez styles faux-muddy jeans.

(Image credit: Getty)

Whilst utility-inspired designs have been trending for the past few years, this on-the-nose take has been slower to catch on. Although they're a far cry from the raw denim and chore jackets that—to my surprise—have been rising in popularity, perhaps J.Lo's adoption will push the muddied jeans trend into the mainstream. Championed by designer brands including Acne Studios and Diesel, the newest take on the distressed-denim trend has already been spotted in high-street retailers including Mango and Arket. Whilst I appreciate that this look might appeal to some—J.Lo is clearly into it, after all—for me, this isn't a denim trend I'll be trying anytime soon. However, I'm happy to play devil's advocate, so below I've assembled an edit of the chicest muddied jeans I could find, balanced out with a selection of more classic wide-leg jeans, of which Lopez is also a fan.

SHOP THE MUDDIED JEANS TREND:

SHOP OUR FAVOURITE WIDE-LEG JEANS:

Natalie Munro
News Writer

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.

On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.

With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.