As a Seasoned Trend Predictor, I'm Betting Big on These 2022 Denim Trends

As far as trends go, perhaps nothing changes as quickly as denim. The cuts and silhouettes of last year typically fade out by the end of the season, so you've got to truly keep your finger on the pulse to stay abreast of the denim trends heating up.

There's some good news, though. It's usually the core classic styles that cycle through the trend phase, which means you likely already own the rise or shape of the moment. But of course, there are some exceptions to this rule, like everyone's current obsession with embellished jeans with an artcore edge. Swedish brand Iggy Jeans' hand-painted take is so strong I'm convinced it's only a matter of time before similar artsy styles pop up everywhere.

Ultimately, this season's crop of trending denim styles is something to get excited about—whether it's a trip down memory lane with a hint of 2000s nostalgia or some newer upgrades. Now that you have an idea of what to expect for denim this year, keep scrolling to get the full report and to shop out each emerging trend. 

If you thought the early aughts influence was fading away, think again. What seemed like a blip on the trend circuit last year is seemingly here to stay (at least for now), with a gaggle of designers including low-rise jeans within their own recent collections. It's one of the more decisive styles on this list, but take it from me: It's really not as difficult to pull off as it seems. 

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When I first noticed these cool jeans with obscure painted designs on the Scandi side of social media, I had an inkling they would hit big. Iggy Jeans' hand-painted, recycled pairs are a part of a larger category that adds a handiwork approach to classic denim. Think patchwork, embellishments, and motifs that could be the work of an arts and crafts class, but in the most endearing way possible. This trend is a lot more unexpected yet fun all the same.

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The sky's the limit when it comes to how baggy is too baggy in 2022. You could go the Balenciaga route—where they're basically only hanging on your body but have an expertly tailored waistband—or go conservatively loose like Meryll Rogge's '90s-style take. Either way, you can't lose with a pair of roomy jeans this year. 

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For another dose of nostalgia, flare jeans are in full force heading into 2022. The silhouette is always a presence when it comes to denim, but it wasn't until late last year that it really showed up in true form, making appearances in the spring shows of brands such as Y/Project and Ludovic de Saint Sernin. 

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Fashion editors always love a two-piece combo, and this one is quintessential. Canadian tuxedos have risen from a Y2K cliche to a look that's cool and seriously stylish in its own right. While Balenciaga's runway version may be too avant-garde for real life, you can always try a simple denim shirt and straight jeans for a combo that's arguably more approachable.

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Next up: We're Fashion Editors, and We Predict These 7 Trends Will Define 2022