As a long-term jeans devotee, it's hard to imagine turning my back on my beloved denim. But, as much as I love them, I want some alternatives to jeans that I can sprinkle into my rotation. 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 capsule wardrobe. And given the change of season, I wouldn't mind going for something a bit different to my classic denim.
It turns out there's plenty to choose from. The easiest alternative for jeans is undoubtedly trousers, whether in tailored, satin, linen or wide-leg form. But there are also anti-denim skirts, too. 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 give them a downtime spin for day 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.
9 Chic Jean Alternatives to Try Right Now
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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Toteme are the masters of chic minimalism.
I'm going to copy this entire outfit next week.
Such a staple piece for a capsule wardrobe.
I've been on the hunt for a brown striped trouser for so long and have finally found them.
2. A-Line Skirt
Style Notes: This sleek style feels breezy and cool for that transitional weather but still gives you coverage, especially if you like a longer trouser. For casual wear, pair with a simple T-shirt and ballet flats, or for something more formal, take inspiration from Basma and add a blouse with pointed-toe kitten heels.
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A basic black A-line skirt is far from boring and will be a piece you reach for over and over.
Khaki is a must-have for my autumnal wardrobe.
The suede trend shows no sign of slowing down.
Don't just reserve white for summer, I'd pair this with a thick chunky knit as we move through the seasons.
3. Leather Trousers
Style Notes: Leather trousers are my go-to alternative to jeans as soon as the weather starts to drop. They are such a versatile piece that can easily be dressed up or down to make an outfit look instantly more sophisticated.
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A tapered trouser are so flattering on any silhouette thanks to their cinched waist and ankles and curved leg.
Style with a basic vest or a tucked in shirt for an office appropriate look.
Chocolate brown gives a softer finish to your look than black.
A black pair is a wardrobe essential and this Haikure pair have ticked every box for me.
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 Sylvie and styling mine with a simple white vest and low heels but adding a light knit on top—such a chic look.
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A cream midi skirt will go with so many different looks in your wardrobe, its versatility is endless.
This colour feels so autumnal.
My black satin slip skirt is my most worn piece in my wardrobe in autumn.
I know, I can't believe this isn't designer either.
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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Treat khaki as if its a neutral and you'll find it so much easier to style.
This Reformation pair comes in 8 different colours.
A flowy, relaxed fit are easy to style with nearly any top in your wardrobe.
The all-black ensemble looks super sleek for a night out.
6. 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 miniskirt for autumn 2025 is a far cry from your old school uniform. Keep it fashionable by opting for interesting features like pleats, asymmetric cuts, studs or textured finishes, like Marina's pretty butter yellow version.
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Such an affordable price to make a real statement.
I love bringing in texture to my autumn outfits and nothing does it better then mock croc.
The chocolate brown trend is sticking around for a while yet.
Dress it up or down, the choice is yours!
7. Capri Leggings
Style Notes: Yes, really. Capri leggings are back in fashion, but not in the way they were back in the 2010s. This season, opt for shorter counterparts that won't feel as stuffy as full-length leggings. I'm a huge fan of Dominique's cool take. Add a relaxed T-shirt or lightweight knit and a bright pop of colour through shoes and a bag.
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These are available in sizes 4-22.
I love the high-waist on this Norma Kamali pair.
I'd wear with a loafer or suede trainers for every day, and for an evening a heeled thong sandal.
These have a kick-flare, which might feel more comfortable on hot days than skin-tight leggings.
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, it's possible to really wear this type of skirt for every occasion in between.
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This looks so much more expensive than it is, it went straight into my basket.
I love this entire look.
This is so simple yet so stylish.
Faithfull don't just sell summer dresses and bikinis, their autumn offerings are just as good.
9. Cotton Trousers
Style Notes: With autumn nearly in full swing, cotton trousers are becoming increasingly more appealing. Light, easy and wonderfully versatile, these comfy trousers are a far cry from the rigid fit of jeans. Opt for a tailored look, a gorgeous wide-leg style like Monikh's or a relaxed, tie-waist pair.
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A basic cotton drawstring trouser are so worth the investment, they'll be a piece you have in your wardrobe for years to come and can wear in so many different ways and seasons.
Navy is a great alternative if you don't fancy another black trouser.
Perfect for the office thanks to the tailored silhouette.
The inclusivity in sizing for a high-street brand is well worth highlighting. These are available from a 6-24 and in extra short, short/petite, regular or long.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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