As a longterm jeans devotee, it's hard to imagine turning my back on my beloved denim. But, as much as I love them, wearing jeans on a constant rotation can begin to get a bit dull, and with autumn's arrival, I'm after something fresh. The conditions are as follows: they must be as easy, versatile and flattering as my favourite straight-legs, and work with the staple tops I already have in my wardrobe. And given the change of season, I wouldn't mind going for something a bit different to my classic denim.
From the 2024 trends to the classics, it turns out there's plenty to choose from. The easiest alternative for jeans is undoubtedly trousers, whether in tailored, linen or wide-leg form. But there are also skirts, and this year the focus is on extremes—floor-length maxis, or micro minis with a pleat, just pick your fighter. And just like jeans, these effortless alternatives can be styled in numerous ways. Dress up tailored trousers or a voluminous cotton maxi with a slinky top and strappy heels, or dress them down for daytime wear with trainers and a white t-shirt.
Whether you're working with a high-street budget or looking to invest in a designer staple, I've found this season's best styles that will convince you to part ways with your jeans—if only for a day.
Here Are 9 Chic Anti-Jeans Trends To Embrace In 2024:
1. Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: Arguably the easiest swap is exchanging your jeans for a pair of tailored trousers. These subtly pleated gems are a polished alternative to denim, but thanks to modern styling tricks, can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion—making them potentially even more versatile than our beloved jeans.
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Crepe trousers are such a chic option for professional and weekend wear.
Toteme always nails elevated minimalism.
Black works in every season.
We're loving this shade of charcoal grey for autumn.
The pleating on these is just so good.
An elevated alternative to the straight-leg jean.
2. Pencil Skirt
Style Notes: This sleek style popped up a lot during spring and summer, but as Sylvie proves, a pencil skirt can easily be styled for autumn and winter. For casual wear, pair with a simple t-shirt and ballet flats, or for something more formal, style with a shirt and pointed-toe heel.
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I'd style it exactly like this.
We love a monochrome moment.
This professional skirt has a slit at the back to make sure your power walk to the office isn't compromised.
I'll be wearing this wool iteration on repeat once the temperature drops.
A burgundy pencil skirt has been on my wish list for a while.
A denim column skirt is perfect for everyday wear.
3. Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: A step further than the tailored trouser is the wide-leg trouser, a more modern, minimalist style. White or black, pinstripe or solid, these provide a dramatic silhouette that make you look like you put a lot more effort into your outfit.
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No, that price isn't a typo.
Wear to work, to drinks, for a weekend errands—anywhere.
Style with a white shirt and boots for a chic everyday look.
Why not go for a soft pop of colour?
A classic pair to pull out every autumn.
If you're looking to invest in a timeless style, you won't go wrong with these.
4. Slip Skirt
Style Notes: Have you still not invested in a slip skirt? Trust me, this is the easiest, most versatile skirt you'll ever own. This autumn, I'll be copying Anouk and styling mine with an oversized shirt and low heels—such a chic look.
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A black slip is so sleek.
The lace hem is a beautiful touch.
The skirt that really needs no further explanation.
We're obsessed with this satin skirt and shirt co-ord.
The asymmetric bias cut really elevates this slip.
This satin maxi skirt is so elegant.
5. Silk Trousers
Style Notes: Classic blue jeans are notoriously difficult to take from day to night, but we've found a much comfier alternative that can do just that. Silk trousers can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Wear with a t-shirt and trainers for casual days and swap these out for kitten heels and a satin top for nights out.
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This is the pair that I own. I wear these on repeat!
The monogram silk bottoms from Toteme are iconic.
So easy to dress up or down.
Freshen up your autumn looks with this white pair.
This super wide-leg pair looks so chic with mules.
Ghost knows all about luxurious satin pieces.
6. Elevated Mini Skirt
Style Notes: On the opposite end of the fashion spectrum is this season's other top trending skirt style—the elevated mini. Inspired by looks like the infamous Miu Miu pleated skirt, the mini skirt for autumn 2024 is a far cry from your old school uniform. Keep it fashionable by opting for interesting features like pleats, asymmetric cuts or textured finishes.
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Cute!
I love the added belt—such a unique touch.
This cord wrap style is a really cool interpretation of the trend.
A slightly longer hem for those who don't want to go micro.
I must have this whole look.
You can never go wrong with a leather mini skirt.
7. Leggings
Style Notes: Yes, really. Leggings are back in fashion, but not in the way they were back in the 2010s. This season, leggings are your understated base layer which you can use to create elevated looks with oversized shirts, blazers and elegant flats.
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This cult legging deserves to be worn outside the gym.
Go for a cropped legging to also nod to 2024's most controversial comeback trend: pedal pushers.
These promise to give you all the support you could want.
Of course Toteme make the sleekest legging.
I'll be recreating this look all season.
Leggings with a fashion twist.
8. Maxi Skirt
Style Notes: Confession. Aside from slip skirts, I'm not personally a huge fan of midi skirts. I just don't think they particularly suit me. Which is why I'm thrilled that maxi skirts are trending this year. Typically thought of as either a beachy or super formal style, this season our favourite brands are proving the versatility of this floor-sweeping silhouette.
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Style it exactly like Yatri—with an oversized jumper and flats.
Another great option.
Doesn't this look so expensive?
A breezy alternative to jeans.
A seriously grown-up skirt.
The shape, the pleats, the denim fabric—I love it all.
9. Cropped Trousers
Style Notes: With the transitional season in full-swing, cropped trousers becoming increasingly appealing. Light, easy and wonderfully versatile, these comfy trousers are a far cry from the rigid fit of jeans.
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Effortlessly cool.
Perfect for the office.
Wear with a shirt and ballet flats now, and a jumper and boots come winter.
An elevated take on a classic autumn staple.
This khaki shade is so versatile.
The cream pair we all need.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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