Whilst my loyalty to straight-leg jeans runs deep, and my devotion to baggy pairs is unwavering, when I want my denim to take centre stage rather than play a supporting role, I find myself reaching for one silhouette in particular: the cropped flare.
With its distinctly retro cut, this shape skims the leg before subtly kicking out at the knee and finishing just above the ankle, creating an elegant shape that delivers equal parts polish and nostalgia. A staple from the 1970s fashion archives, the cropped flare has drifted in and out of style ever since, but my trend radar tells me it's gearing up for a major resurgence.
Aligning perfectly with the wider flare revival that's been gaining traction—thanks in part to the return of boho, spearheaded by Chloé—this chic iteration feels ready-made for spring. Lighter, breezier and easier to style as temperatures rise, cropped flares slot seamlessly into transitional wardrobes. Pair them with chunky clogs or Mary Janes for a playful, vintage-inspired look, or opt for a pointed-toe heel or streamlined boot to instantly elevate the silhouette.
A long-standing favourite amongst the French—who, let’s be honest, know a thing or two about great denim and seem to have a penchant for all things '70s—this timeless style is poised to hit the mainstream in a big way, as the recent uptick in Google searches proves.
If you’re ready to get ahead of the curve, scroll on to shop the best cropped flared jeans of the season.
SHOP CROPPED FLARES:
These come in UK sizes 4–30.
Style with ballet flats or pair with a sleek leather loafer.
These are cut to a mid-rise waist for a comfortable fit.
In my opinion, Mother jeans are some of the best out there.
The front pockets give these a chic, '70s-inspired energy.
This inky shade of denim is so easy to slip into a capsule wardrobe.
Style with heeled ballet pumps for a French-inspired finish.
-
My Friends Love Reformation—I Sent Them 31 Gorgeous Picks I'm Eyeing Right NowOne of each, please.
-
Looking Chic in Cropped Jeans This Winter Means Wearing This Boot Style and ColorElizabeth Olsen would know.
-
Making Basic Jeans and Black Boots Look Elegant Is Easy—Just Add This Coat Color TrendHint: It's neither red, navy, nor leopard print.
-
The 2026 Version of Skinny Jeans Is Here, and I Tried It On—This Is Why It's a Game ChangerThere's nothing dated about it.
-
My Mom Only Shops Affordable Fashion—I Sent Her These 27 Chic, Rich-Looking Nordstrom FindsEverything is under $150.
-
Sarah Snook's New Bag Is So Shiv Roy If She Moved to L.A. and Started a SubstackI'm having Succession withdrawals.
-
This Chic Outfit Is Perfect for Paris, But I'm Going to Wear It In the Midwest and NYCThis simple outfit will make you look chic anywhere.
-
I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—29 Pieces I'm Eyeing Ahead of Black Friday That Will Get You Envious Stares and ComplimentsThese are guaranteed to elevate your wardrobe.
