Before fall arrives, I see it as my duty to report on which jean trends are in and out, and there's one denim style I know for sure is past its prime: mom jeans. I hate to break it to you because I know the high-waisted fit was a fan favorite, but standard mom jeans are no longer the freshest pick. Instead, there's a new jean trend that's ready to take its place, and it's already earning celeb fans such as Chrissy Teigen and Hailey Bieber (definitely a good sign).
With all things '80s fashion bubbling up right now, it's only natural that pleated jeans would eventually make a comeback, and well, that day has finally come. From celebrity street style looks to our go-to denim brands like Levi's and Agolde, pleated jeans have been everywhere we look lately. So the fact that they read similar to mom jeans—albeit with a sleeker, more trouser-like fit—makes us think that they're poised to become just as popular as everyone's beloved mom jeans once were. Ready to see just how chic the pleated-jean trend can be? Scroll down to fill up on inspiration from street style to Instagram, and then peruse our favorite shopping picks.
Pleated jeans on the street:
On Chrissy Teigen: Saint Laurent Fur Felt Boater Hat ($1595); Givenchy Oversized Aviator Sunglasses ($154); Balenciaga bag; Celine shoes
Style Notes: Chrissy Teigen was one of the first celebs we spotted to put her stamp of approval on the controversial jeans. No matter where you stand on them, you have to admit that her sleek approach to styling them with a bodysuit, strappy sandals, and a black topper is pretty good.
On Hailey Bieber: Ann Demeulemeester Oversized Trench Coat ($676); Re/Done Ribbed Tank ($75); Re/Done x Attico Paperbag Jeans ($554); Adidas Originals Supercourt Sneakers ($100); Celine Edge Sunglasses; Jennifer Meyer Diamond Tennis Necklace ($28750)
Style Notes: Bieber stepped out in a pair of pleated jeans from the buzzy Re/Done x Attico collaboration, and her look proves that simple is best when testing out the denim trend.
On Chriselle Lim: Proenza Schouler Wide-Leg Denim Trousers
Style Notes: Take a cue from street style star Chriselle Lim and tuck a thin knit top into a pair of pleated jeans.
Style Notes: Erika Boldrin shows us why sleek silhouettes like a tailored blazer are the perfect match for the trouser-like jeans.
The denim on the 'gram:
Style Notes: Easygoing but still incredibly chic.
Style Notes: Roll the hem for an even heavier '80s vibe.
Style Notes: Note to self: Pleats pair well with vintage-looking floral prints.
Style Notes: Balance the jeans' volume with something cropped up top.
Style Notes: Yours truly tested out the jeans with an equally trendy one-shoulder top and simple slides.
Pleated jeans in your cart:
I'm honestly shocked these jeans are still in stock, seeing as most everything else form this buzzy collab sold out instantly.
These feel trendy but still super approachable.
Prediction: These will make a cameo in tons of street style snaps next month.
We love that Tibi always takes a polished approach to of-the-moment trends.
Yep, we even designed our own version of the jeans—in two colorways, no less.
Also available in more sizes.
Instagram is flooded with these fashion girl–favorite jeans.
Nail two trends at once with this pleated, ecru pair.
Somehow these look far more expensive than their price tag.
Levi's best-selling Ribcage jeans are now offered with trendy pleating details.
So much cooler than your average mom jeans.
I own this pair in the lighter wash and have been wearing them nonstop.
Damn, Zara. You nailed it with this dusty-rose pair.
Speaking of denim trends to have on your radar for fall, see how fashion girls are making a case for acid wash.
-
Blake Lively, Sofia Richie, and More Stylish Women Know These Jeans Are Better Than DesignerThey're $98 but look way pricier.
-
Fashion People Swear By Khaite's Jeans—Now I Know WhySignature silhouettes and striking details.
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
Jennifer Lopez Just Wore the $98 Jeans the Internet LovesShe must've read the reviews.
-
Fashion People in Paris Will Wear These 4 Elevated Basics With Jeans in 2025Easy-to-style looks.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
