You Only Need 3 Pairs of Jeans, and I Styled 9 Outfits With Them as Proof
If there's one item I cannot live without, it's jeans. I wear them almost every day and write about them at least once a week, so you'd be right in thinking that after years of trying and testing, there's a rather hefty amount of jeans sitting in my closet. Yet despite my vast denim collection, I have taken stock and identified the styles that serve me best, and I can say with certainty that you really only need three pairs of jeans in your closet. Yes, three! These three distinct silhouettes (slim straight-leg, wide-leg, and bootcut jeans) will serve you for a variety of occasions—day and night—and give your outfits an of-the-moment look.
Below, I'm highlighting the three styles I swear by, and to prove how versatile each silhouette is, I've assembled nine chic looks showcasing all the stylish ways they can be worn, whether for casual weekends, evenings out, or the office. Keep scrolling for inspiration.
3 Essential Denim Silhouettes
Slim Straight
If there's one timeless style worth investing in, it's a slim-fitting straight-leg silhouette. Sleek and versatile, a slim straight-leg is one of the most polished styles you can own and can easily be styled with flats and heels alike. The one highlighted above is Calvin Klein's Slim Jean, which has a cool '90s silhouette—a high-rise, body-skimming fit with a slim, straight leg.
How to Style Them
Dress up your slim straight-leg jeans for an evening out with an of-the-moment lace-trim camisole and sleek black accessories. A trending long black pendant necklace is the perfect finishing touch.
For a casual yet polished spring look, opt for a relaxed white tee and sleek leather thong sandals to style with your jeans. Amp up the look with a statement print bag.
For a look that's perfect for a day of meetings, style your slim straight-leg jeans with a crisp button-down, a chic trench coat, and finish with a sophisticated leather bag and ruched loafers. Effortlessly chic.
Wide-Leg
Another denim essential that's a must in my personal collection is a relaxed, wide-leg silhouette (aka baggy jeans) that oozes a casual and trend-forward touch. This silhouette is not only perfect for laid-back occasions but can also easily be dressed up with kitten heels and a chic jacket. The one highlighted is Calvin Klein's Low-Rise Baggy Jeans, which come in a variety of washes and feel very of-the-moment.
How to Style Them
For a sporty-meets-preppy look, opt for a striped polo to pair with your relaxed, baggy jeans and finish with retro slim sneakers, and a soft suede hobo bag.
Yes, wide-leg, baggy jeans can look polished. Simply add an elegant jacket, sleek black kitten heels, and elevated accessories that will instantly add sophistication to your denim look.
For a fashion-forward look that reads It girl, style a sporty windbreaker with your wide-leg jeans and accessorize with retro sunglasses and sleek suede heels.
Bootcut
Bootcut jeans are having a major resurgence, particularly among the Gen Z fashion set, and I'm here to share that they're 100% worth adding to your wardrobe rotation again! (Yes, even for those of us who wore them back in the early oughts). The cut is incredibly flattering, and whether you style them with Western boots or charming ballet flats like the cool girls are doing, they're a great option if you want to look on-trend. The pair featured are Madewell's Relaxed Bootcut Jeans, designed with a high-rise silhouette, slim through the thigh and knee, with a full-length, elongated bootcut silhouette.
How to Style Them
For a very French-girl inspired spring look, style your bootcut jeans with red ballet flats, a relaxed stripe tee, and a cool trench. A sleek leather bag will add polish to the look.
This is the perfect day-to-night look. A dark brown color palette can take your bootcut jeans from sunset to sundown. Choose sleek accessories to keep the look elevated.
For a youthful and playful way to style your bootcut jeans, lean into modern spring colors such as pale pink and chartreuse. Fun, fashion-forward, and cool.
