If it weren’t for the runway-fresh Loewe Amazona 180 Bag slung over her arm, I’d have sworn this image of Kate Moss was pulled straight from the mid-2000s archives. Instead, snapped just this week, her look taps into a 2015-era outfit formula I haven't seen in some time.

Starting with a time-stamped foundation, Moss slipped into a pair of leg-grazing skinny jeans. Cut in a classic mid-wash blue, they lend a relaxed, day-time energy to her look. Leaning into a styling trick I’ve long recommended to anyone curious about revisiting skinnies, she paired them with knee-high boots for a sleek, elongating finish.

Up top, she kept things just as nostalgic, an army-green jacket topped her tee, finished with an oversized scarf swirled around her neck.

Between the chunky scarf, the khaki outerwear, and those long-retired skinny jeans, Moss has revived a trio of trends I haven’t spotted on London streets for seasons—if not years.

While it might take me a little longer to fully re-embrace the oversized scarf and utility jacket combination, my denim rotation could use a sharper, sleeker edge, and Moss’s skinny jeans-and-knee-high boots pairing feels like the perfect place to start. Read on to discover and shop the chicest takes on the look now.

Shop Skinny Jeans and Knee-High Boots:

The oracle has spoken: skinny jeans are back. Stopping me mid-scroll this morning, Alexa Chung's New York Instagram carousel delivered more than the usual boost of styling inspiration. In fact, it reframed a denim trend I’d long written off as "dated".

Waiting for the subway in style, Chung posed in a semi-sheer, floral-embellished blouse. A notable choice on its own, sure, but what really caught my eye was the pair of dark-wash skinny jeans she wore it with. In her caption, Chung confirmed my double-take. "Bye, NY 👋 ps. And yes skinny jeans felt right again." [SIC] Consider the divisive denim officially back on the agenda.

What made the forgotten jeans feel fresh was her choice of footwear. Instead of leaning into something overly trend-driven, Chung paired her jeans with glossy black patent ballet flats. Comfortable and elegant, the pairing nods to the sleek ’00s silhouette we all remember—yet, with the recent resurgence of ballet flats, the pairing feels surprisingly relevant once more. Even more so, as we edge into the season of layers, when achieving a streamlined shape can be tricky, the skinny-jean-and-ballet-flat formula could be one of the new season's go-tos.

I have to agree with Chung: skinny jeans do feel right again. Scroll on for my edit of the best pairs to shop now, plus the prettiest ballet flats to style them with.

Shop Skinny Jeans and Ballet Flats:

You’d have to be living under a rock not to notice that skinny jeans have made a big comeback this year. 10 years after their prime, both Gen Z and millennials seem to agree that blue skinny jeans are back and the only thing to wear in autumn 2025.

A once-prolific silhouette, blue skinny jeans instantly take me back to the '00s. From Kate Moss to Alexa Chung, everywhere you looked, people were wearing skinnies. Paired with everything from suede knee-high boots to velvet loafers, they were a staple of the It-girl wardrobe. And lest we forget the two specific styles that reigned supreme: Topshop's Joni and Jamie. But I myself, an ex-ripped-Joni-jeans wearer, was all but relieved when the fashion cycle thankfully moved on, and wide-leg jeans, barrel-leg shapes and all-around looser silhouettes took over.

So, you can imagine how I felt when, last autumn, one of TikTok’s most-watched fashion influencers, Alix Earle, feverishly announced to her 7.5 million followers that blue skinnies were the only thing to wear with boots, sending the app into a frenzy. Yet, as someone who’d worked in fashion for a while, I wasn't too shocked; over the past few years, the fashion set has started to come back around to the super-slim denim trend.

From Chloé's Resort 2026 collection to Isabel Marant’s autumn/winter 2025 show, to name a few, blue skinny jeans have certainly had a resurgence. But the skinnies of today are not quite the same as those of yesteryear. Although very skinny iterations certainly have their fans, the most stylish dressers on my feeds are opting for silhouettes that are more on the slim side and don't cling to the legs quite so intensely as they did the first time around.

Plus, with stylish celebs like Emily Ratajkowski and Kate Middleton wearing them once more, as well as a plethora of fashion people sharing plenty of enviable outfit inspiration, they've all but proven blue skinny jeans can complete almost any look.

Scroll below to see the blue skinny-jeans outfits that prove they are just as cool and chic in 2025 as they were a decade ago.

Shop the Best Blue Skinny Jeans on the Market Right Now:

1. The Best Blue Skinny Jeans: Aligne Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans (£99)
2. The Best High-Street Blue Skinny Jeans: M&S Collection Ivy Skinny Jeans (£26)
3. The Best High-Street Blue Sculpting Skinny Jeans: River Island Mid Rise Sculpt Skinny Jeans (£49)
4. The Best High-Street Blue Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans: Levi's 710 Mid Rise Super Skinny Jean (£70)
5. The Best Designer Blue Skinny Jeans: Veronica Beard Lydia Ultra-Slim Jean (£348)
6. The Best Designer Blue Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans: Paige Hoxton Ankle Skinny High-Rise Jeans (£245)
7. The Best Designer Sculpting Blue Skinny Jeans: 7 For All Mankind HW High-Waist Skinny Jeans (£215)

1. Suede Trench + Polo Shirt + Blue Skinny Jeans

Style Notes: As previously mentioned, in 2025, the best blue skinny jeans don't cling super tightly to the ankle, making them perfect for wearing with a short boot underneath and allowing you to breathe new life into the one "dated" silhouette. Keep the rest of the look on-trend with suede accessories and subtle statement jewellery for an elevated edge.

Shop the Look:

2. Loose Shirt + Skinny Jeans + Pointed-Toe Flats

Style Notes: Skinnies, a plain white shirt and pointed-toe flats is one of the most French-coded skinny-jeans looks you could re-create. You could swap out Sylvie Mus's black flats for ballet flats, trainers, kitten heels or loafers, but the pointed toe is undeniably effective.

Shop the Look:

3. Knitted Cardigan + Skinny Jeans + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: With blue skinny jeans, the wash is critical. Take Ruby Lynn's blue skinnies (above). A paler wash could feel disjointed with her brown cardi and black ballet flats ensemble, but in this mid-blue, it has a cool edge.

Shop the Look:

4. Butter-Yellow Trench + Skinny Jeans + Midi Heels

Style Notes: Burberry might have attempted to revive its iconic camel trench at London Fashion Week, but personally, I find nothing chicer than a butter-yellow layer with blue skinny jeans. This pretty tone loves a wild contrast, so steer clear of similar colours to avoid that ever-worrysome anaemic look, and mix in a grey jumper instead for a blue skinny-jeans outfit that's warm, chic and on-trend.

Shop the Look:

5. Leather Bomber + Striped Polo + Skinny Jeans

Style Notes: Blue skinny jeans work perfectly with just about every colour imaginable, so a trending striped polo is a no-brainer. Keep your accessories simple and let your layers do the talking with this look.

Shop the Look:

6. Denim Shirt + Blue Skinny Jeans + Faux Fur Coat

Style Notes: Double denim has never looked chicer than with skinny jeans and a matching denim shirt. Layer a black turtleneck underneath and finish with a long faux fur coat on chilly days.

Shop the Look:

7. Knitted Jumper + Skinny Jeans + Loafers

Style Notes: Working with even the simplest of outfits, blue skinny jeans help elevate your basics. Choose a cable-knit jumper for warmth, a timeless loafer for a polished feel and a pop of colour through a red sock.

Shop the Look:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

Even as fashion editors who spend our days swimming in runway images, sifting through styling ideas and casting eyes on endless new-season arrivals, figuring out how to make skinny jeans feel relevant again has proven tricky. After all, they dominated our wardrobes for more than a decade in the 2010s, but most of the footwear pairings we instinctively reach for still evoke the feeling of that era.

That's why my attention was immediately grabbed when I caught sight of Kendall Jenner wearing her slim-fitting jeans with a shoe trend that managed to revive the silhouette. Working a jolt of colour into her off-duty look, the model stepped out in L.A. wearing her mid-wash skinnies with a slip-on pair of The Row's (currently on sale) Mila Satin Flats (£602) in a vivid shade of red.

Anchoring her jeans with a shoe colour trend that feels distinctly modern, Jenner breathed new life into the "dated" silhouette. The red satin lent her outfit a refined energy, while the flat mules' silhouette nodded to one of the season's favourite shoe shapes.

Keeping the rest of her ensemble easy and relaxed, she styled a simple sleeveless jersey top and a black leather shoulder bag—an easy formula that makes the whole outfit feel unfussy, approachable and far less intimidating than the over-styled skinny jean outfits of years past.

Inspired by her easy styling, read on to discover my edit of the best skinny jeans and red shoes to wear them with below.

Shop Skinny Jeans and Red Shoes:

For a brief moment, I really believed the rumours. Every conversation with colleagues seemed to touch on a specific topic: the return of skinny jeans.

At the time, the signs were all there: 2010s nostalgia was gathering pace, influencers were sneaking them into their outfit rotations and I even caught myself (in a moment I’m not particularly proud of) Googling styles to buy. But just a few months on, the hype has fizzled, and that once-ubiquitous silhouette has quietly slipped back under the radar. But, in its place, another so-called "dated" denim trend is staging a far more convincing comeback.

Swishy, voluminous and radiating the kind of boho energy that feels especially relevant this season, flared jeans are officially on the rise. Taking the trend for a spin this week, actor Simone Ashley stepped out in New York wearing a ’70s-inspired light-blue pair. Styled simply with a black vest top, the look was understated in theory, but the retro cut injected a level of personality no other denim style could have matched.

Between the extra sweep of fabric and the subtle drama of movement with every step, flares have a presence that skinnies could never compete with.

Once a staple of every ’70s fashion person, flared jeans have never quite regained that same mainstream dominance. Perhaps that’s why they’ve long carried a "dated" reputation. But with the boho revival in full swing—thanks in no small part to labels like Chloé and Isabel Marant—this once-nostalgic style suddenly feels modern again.

As we edge away from summer shorts and towards styles with a little more coverage, I’ll be reaching for flares with far more enthusiasm than any pair of skinnies. And if you’re tempted to do the same, keep scrolling for my edit of the best flared jeans to shop now.

Shop Flared Jeans:

There’s no fashion term more loathsome, anxiety-inducing or hair-raising for those of us who came of age in the 2000s and early 2010s than skinny jeans.

As tight as leggings and so figure-hugging they appeared to be spray-painted on, just the simple mention of this taut denim style takes me back to the days of struggling to squeeze my leg into what felt like the opening of a boa constrictor's mouth, all in the name of looking as desirable as the models of Hedi Slimane’s Saint Laurent.

From cafés to clubs, skinny jeans were acceptable everywhere (as long as they were accompanied by an infinity scarf, leather jacket and wired headphones, of course). The chokehold this silhouette had on the fashion set has certainly waned throughout the years, leaving the question posed within these circles not "What to wear with skinny jeans?” but rather, “What to wear instead of skinny jeans?”

On the latter, I have a few ideas. As someone who hasn’t worn skinny jeans in over 15 years, I’ve found several chic alternatives that will still give off that polished and structured look without making you look like you’ve fallen into an indie sleaze costume box. These days, my trouser arsenal mainly consists of pleated, wide-leg pairs, à la the Olsen Twins. Whilst I still have a soft spot for jeans that contour to the body—there’s truly nothing better than a pair that tightly hugs your bum—I’ve learned that you don’t have to risk suffocation to look cool.

Ahead, you’ll find some suitable denim substitutes to help scratch your skinny-jeans itch, but also options on the complete other end of the spectrum: styles that are billowing and slouchy but sculpted enough to give your outfit an intriguing shape.

From the jeans trend endorsed by celebrities to the other nostalgic trouser style designers have been reviving, keep scrolling for a fashion writer-approved list of what to wear instead of skinny jeans.

What to Wear Instead of Skinny Jeans: 6 Trousers That Are Equally as Chic

1. Straight-Leg Denim

Style Notes: Instead of skinny jeans that taper in at the bottom, opt for a shape that will give your ankles a little more breathing room, like straight-leg jeans. This style is still quite fitted at the top of the thigh; however, it falls in a gentle line that looks, at least in my opinion, far sleeker than ultra-skinny jeans.

Shop the Look:

2. Capri Pants

Style Notes: Of all the styles on this list, the most similar in appearance to skinny jeans is capri pants. A true French-girl staple, consider capris the skinny's flirtier and well-travelled younger sister. Finishing a touch below the calf, capris are just as slick, but won’t have you wrestling to get into them, which is certainly a benefit I can appreciate.

Shop the Look:

3. Cuffed Jeans

Style Notes: As skinny jeans have proven, denim trends can be fleeting. In 2025, the most enduring style of note has been cuffed jeans. The appeal of this cut is deceptively simple. Rather than letting the bottom puddle on the ground, simply turn up the hem to give your look an element of contrast and dimension. Just look to Kendall Jenner and Lila Moss for inspo.

Shop the Look:

4. Satin Trousers

Style Notes: Of all the 2010s fashion trends to be given a contemporary makeover, satin trousers might have had the most transformative overhaul. Because of this, they make a great substitute for skinny jeans. Not only do they hark back to the same time period, but they give off an air of elegance and sophistication that skinnies haven't been able to convey.

Shop the Look:

5. Linen Trousers

Style Notes: To the uninitiated, linen trousers could be viewed as the antithesis of skinny jeans. They're more airy, usually lighter in colour and far more casual than their stiffer counterpart. However, it's these qualities that make it an ideal alternative. Far more lightweight and loose, they bring an element of nonchalance to your look in a way that offsets the edgier pieces you'd typically wear with skinny jeans.

Shop the Look:

6. Balloon Pants

Style Notes: Balloon pants could not be more diametrically opposed to skinny jeans if they tried. Still, they make a worthy stand-in. To start, the popularity of balloon pants is rising regardless, especially after Alaïa, Zimmermann and Chloé all showcased the silhouette on their recent runways, meaning that this bloomer-esque pant will soon be everywhere anyway.

But even more so, they subvert the rules of skinny jeans outfits whilst remaining true to fundamental principles of proportions. Where skinny jeans work best with oversized jackets, the volume of this style allows you to wear something more skin-tight on top, and keeps you comfortable. A true win-win.

Shop the Look:

If you're not planning to revisit skinny jeans anytime soon or just feel like switching things up, this elegant jeans trend is about to be your new go-to for fall. Dark-wash bootcut jeans are making a quiet but major comeback, and the vibe is effortlessly polished. They strike that perfect balance between structured and laid-back, and the silhouette instantly upgrades even the simplest outfit.

The appeal lies in the deep, moody washes—inky indigo and classic dark navy that look especially elevated this time of year. Paired with a crisp button-down, tailored blazer, or sleek turtleneck, dark bootcut jeans give your outfit a refined edge without trying too hard. The subtle flare at the hem adds movement and a hint of drama in a way that still feels timeless and wearable.

It helps that the newest versions are incredibly flattering thanks to longer inseams, clean front panels, and just the right amount of stretch. There's no fuss—just denim that feels cool, confident, and grown-up. They're the kind of jeans that can easily take you from a casual coffee meeting to dinner out with a simple swap of accessories.

If you're looking for a denim refresh this fall, we've scouted out the best dark-wash bootcut jeans that feel modern, elevated, and endlessly versatile. Whether you're fully over skinny jeans or just adding something new into the mix, this jeans trend is definitely worth a try.

Keep scrolling to shop our favourite dark-wash bootcut jeans for autumn 2025.

Shop Dark-Wash Bootcut Jeans:

I have no qualms with blue and black jeans, but lately, I've been sifting through my denim collection looking for something a little more special.

Sure, white jeans are a nice way to mix things up now and then, but when you want to keep our colour palette rich and interesting, a deeper hue makes much more sense. Inspiring my next denim purchase, I just spotted Kate Middleton styling an unexpected denim colour trend that achieves exactly what I'm looking for in my next pair of jeans.

Stepping out for an engagement in Scotland, Catherine, Princess of Wales, selected a sleek pair of chocolate brown skinny jeans to form the base for her casually polished look. Whilst the rich hue brought depth to her outfit, the Princess wove summer-ready lightness into her look via the pale blue shirt she wore neatly tucked into her high-waisted skinny jeans. Layering a tweed double-breasted blazer over her shirt, Middleton completed her look with a deep pair of espresso brown lace-up boots, using the tonal shade to elongate her legs, all the while grounding her polished ensemble.

Whilst blue and black jeans get most of the airtime, this emerging alternative is already showing signs of a successful season. Taking off across high street and designer labels, if you're after a skin-grazing style, then Topshop and Holland Cooper have form-fitting pairs in the perfect chocolatly tone; however, if you'd prefer a slightly more relaxed fit, the high street is brimming with compelling options.

Having already made its way into Middleton's collection, I don't think it will be long until brown jeans become as reached-for as blue. Read on to discover our edit of the best pairs to shop now.

SHOP BROWN JEANS:

Every year, we see a resurgence of a once-popular denim trend that returns to send shockwaves through the fashion industry, and this year is no different.

Both heavily debated, bootcut jeans and skinny jeans are this year's heavy hitters, and whilst the jury is still out on whether Alix Earle’s Frame collaboration has truly revived skinnies, there's no denying that Kendrick Lamar's double-denim Superbowl extravaganza solidified the return of the bootcut.

The artist's Celine pair saw a 700% rise in searches on Net-a-Porter after his performance, whilst Levi's Superlow Bootcut Jeans have had a 2750% increase in search interest since the beginning of the year. Returning to the fore thanks to captivating pop culture moments along with the ever-revolving fashion cycle—and much to the dismay of those who remember their initial boom—bootcut jeans are once again having their day in the sun.

Whilst I was recently digging through my highly curated For You page, one particular pair kept cropping up and is seemingly at the forefront of the collective mind of fashion people: the Abercrombie & Fitch Mid Rise Bootcut Jean. But what's so special about these bootcut jeans that has sent TikTok into a frenzy? Is it just a viral moment, or are these truly a life-changing pair of jeans?

To find out, I road-tested several sizes and leg lengths (one of the best things about Abercrombie's jeans offering). For reference, I'm a true UK 10 and 5'10". Below, read my honest opinion on the Mid Rise Bootcut Jean.

1. Mid Rise Bootcut Jean in Dark Rinse, 26/Regular

Style Notes: The first pair I put to the test was the Mid Rise Bootcut Jean in a 26 waist and Regular leg. I fluctuate between a 27 and 28 waist depending on fit, but I wanted to get a feel for Abercrombie's sizing, so I started smaller. Let's start with the pros. First, I loved the colour. The Dark Rinse colourway makes these look like they could be designer jeans.

An additional pro is the sizing. All Abercrombie's jeans come in three leg lengths: Short, Regular and Long, allowing you to find your perfect length. Made from soft denim, these were super malleable even though they were the stiffest of the washes I tried. An aggressive wiggle and a jump got the button closed, but my thighs were constricted in a way reminiscent of all the things I hated about skinny jeans.

However, I instantly understood the appeal of the bootcut. The subtle flare created an A-line-esque silhouette which I found quite flattering, and they sat beautifully over my boots. Stylistically, this wash would be perfect in a double-denim ensemble with a matching waistcoat, textured belt and cowboy boots to fulfil all my Bella-Hadid rodeo fantasies.

Shop the Jeans:

2. Curve Love Mid Rise Bootcut Jean in Dark Rinse, 31/Long

Style Notes: Craving the comfort of a baggier pair, I sized up, but slightly too far. In the Long leg, I found my perfect length. Being 5’10", I often fall into an ankle-swinging trap, but this wasn't an issue, as the jeans fell past my heel—a game-changer. A heeled boot and oversized blazer would have been a dream with these jeans, as they elongated my legs and made me feel even taller. The obvious issue here was the waist size. The sad rippling sag is obvious in my pictures, and although they were infinitely more comfortable, the oversized fit wasn't in the fun, playful way I like with my jeans.

Shop the Jeans:

3. Mid Rise Bootcut Jean in Medium, 28/Long

Style Notes: Finally, I went true to size, trying the Mid Rise Bootcut Jean in a 28/Long in the Medium wash. The longer I wore them, the more I came to understand why fashion people love a bootcut. The soft denim made me feel like I could run a marathon in these jeans, and the long bootcut lengthened my legs to near-supermodel proportions. Sitting perfectly on my waist, these lifted in my bum and thighs in a way I haven't seen since the skinnies I left behind so long ago.

Shop the Jeans:

All in all, a plethora of outfit combinations came into focus during this try-on. Want to live out your boho dreams? These are the jeans for you. Looking to revamp the classic jeans-and-a-nice-top combo? They're just what you're looking for. The perfect combination of lifting, elongating and comfort, Abercombie has found a sweet spot a lot of luxury brands can't seem to crack. With all pairs coming in under £80, it's hard to argue that these aren't a fantastic pair of jeans, and it's understandable as to why they're selling out so fast.

It isn't just the Mid Rise Bootcut style that's super popular—keep scrolling to see and shop my other favourite Abercrombie jeans.

SHOP MY OTHER FAVOURITE ABERCROMBIE JEANS:

Like it or not, skinny jeans have come clawing their way back into style. The jeans I wore almost exclusively circa 2009 have their fair share of detractors in 2025, but there's certainly a time and a place for them. For instance, I still like wearing skinny jeans with knee-high boots because the slim silhouette is so easy to tuck into tall shoes. However, if they're not for you, I know you'll be delighted to see how Amal Clooney just styled the denim trend that's disrupting skinny jeans' resurgence.

Clooney was just photographed in Los Angeles wearing the antithesis of skinny jeans: baggy, wide-leg jeans. Her pants featured an ultra-high waist, which she complemented with a cropped blazer. Don't you love it when an outfit has the perfect proportions? I know I do. Jennifer Lopez and Suki Waterhouse are just a couple of the celebrities who are on board with the same popular denim trend that Clooney just wore. Scroll down to see how Clooney styled it and shop for similar styles.

Shop Baggy, Wide-Leg Jeans

If there's one person out there who can convince me to give a new trend a go, it has to be Kate Moss.

A fashion icon with a long history at the centre of the industry, Moss has learnt a thing or two about the anatomy of a great outfit along the way. So, when she shows me that a "dated" is officially back, I'm not going to argue. Stepping out for a full day of Paris Fashion Week events, Moss emerged in the single denim trend that I had been hesitant to embrace. That is, until just now.

Proving that skinny jeans do in fact deserve a place in our spring/summer wardrobes, Moss styled a skin-hugging black pair of jeans that gave her look a sleekness and finesse that, honestly, no other jeans style ever could. A hot topic of debate in fashion circles at the moment, some are ready to embrace the slim silhouette, whilst others remain scarred by the oversaturation of the trend across the 2000s and 2010s.

Sitting in a third group, Moss is one of the few fashion people who never truly retired her skinny jeans in the first place. Sure, she may have got a little less wear out of her pairs over the past few years, but every so often, she's embraced the design, using its sleek and polished nature to her styling advantage.

Making the divisive jeans trend feel impossibly cool, Moss styled her pair with an oversized leather jacket in a glossy black hue. Layering a lacy body underneath and reaching for a studded bag, she quietly incorporated two of the season's favourite trends, lace and studs, without making her look feel overtly trendy. Back in the day, Moss might have styled this grungy silhouette with a slouchy biker boot, but in 2025, the model paired her slim-fitting trousers with platform mules, complete with a wooden sole and a peep-toe design, adding height and dimension to her all-black ensemble in the chicest way.

Having finally been convinced to give skinny jeans a go, I've put together an edit of the best styles available to shop now. Read on to discover my recommendations.

SHOP SKINNY JEANS:

Unless you've been avoiding social media over the last few months, you will have undoubtedly seen the "will they, won't they" discourse around the return of skinny jeans. Before the straight-leg popularity spike, skinnies were the confident market leader, a hangover from the noughties that encouraged the ultra-slim silhouette. But, with very few other options, straight-leg jeans became the alternative for those looking for a looser fit, and the relaxed style soon became synonymous with laidback dressing. replacing the form-fitting skinny. So, with so many fashion people gravitating to the loose leg, how did skinny jeans end up back on our radar?

Well, let's not forget, skinnies are surprisingly easy to wear. Their clever tailoring runs an in-seam from hip to ankle, creating the illusion of a longer leg, and the right kind of thick, supportive denim can be a bum-lifting wonder too. For those who rely on leggings, skinnies feel like the natural evolution of your favourite silhouette, but if you're wondering how to style up such bodycon denim, many of our favourite dressers have been showcasing new denim outfits to inspire us. Wondering how to make skinny jeans feel elegant?. Keep scrolling to see seven incredible skinny jean outfits, that are so easy to re-create that you'll wonder what you ever wore before. .

7 ELEGANT SKINNY JEANS OUTFITS YOU CAN RECREATE NOW

1. Quilted Jacket + Skinny Jeans + Ankle Boots

Style Notes: Play on the proportions of the ultra-slim leg by pairing skinnies with an oversized top half like Lorna's quilted jacket [pictured above]. Not only does this combination look expensive, but it's perfect for mild spring weather that can't make it's mind up.

Shop the Look:

2. Trench Coat + Skinny Jeans + Midi Heels

Style Notes: Denim is perfectly matcged with just about any colour we can think of, but there's something about this blue jean + buttermilk yellow combination that gets straight 10s from me. Who said trench coats could only be camel?

Shop the Look:

3. Barn Coat + Skinny Jeans + Trainers

Style Notes: What happens when you pair the trending jacket of the moment with the most popular jeans? A cool, off-duty look inspired by Tylynn Nguyen's preppy layering of course. A jeans shape like this lends itself to equally slim trainers over chunky soles, so look no further than classic Adidas to complete the outfit. .

Shop the Look:

4. Black Shirt + Skinny Jeans + Court Shoes

Style Notes: Before we focus too much on blue skinnies, let's discuss black washes. Just as dressy as black tailored trousers but with the added benefit of being able to be worn casually too, black jeans look even smarter as part of an all black 'fit, but I love how Anouk breaks up her colour blocking with a pop of tan suede in form of easy pumps [pictured above].

Shop the Look:

5. Blazer + Skinny Jeans + Brown Shoes

Style Notes: It's difficult to think of an outfit that isn't significantly improved by adding a blazer, and the jeans and a plain tee combination is no exception, You could easily wear with exact look with ballet flats, trainers, heels, or loafers, but Leasy's decision to pair glossy chocolate brown with black tailoring is effortlessly effective.

Shop the Look:

6. Double Denim and Sandals

Style Notes: Double denim doesn't have to be matchy-matchy, and in fact this colour clash is particularly effective for making the skinnies the focal point of the look. Bookmark this one for later as I think it'l be particularly useful in summer—but for now I'd wear this with a leather jacket on top, and maybe even socks with the sandals.

Shop the Look:

7. Oversized Jacket + Skinny Jeans + Loafers

Style Notes: The best thing about skinny jeans? They hit exactly the right place on the leg to show off your shoes, and a smart loafer always deserves to be seen. This look shows perfectly just how smart denim can be with the right styling, and if anyone is best placed to give us a masterclass in slim-leg styling, it's French influencers like Pia who have been unapologetically wearing skinnies for decades.

Shop the Look:

Skinny jeans are officially in their underrated classic era, but the latest denim revival is proving that nothing in fashion stays forgotten for long—especially when it comes with a celebrity cosign. Enter flared jeans. Yes, you read that right. The ultra-nostalgic, slightly polarising, and once-dismissed Y2K silhouette is creeping its way back onto the scene, and Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl LIX performance just might be the tipping point.

In case you missed it, Lamar took the halftime stage in a custom Martine Rose jacket, and while the jacket and leather gloves were on point, it was the Celine light-wash flare jeans that set off a collective internet reaction.

Let’s zoom out for a second. The past few years have been a wild ride for denim. The Great Skinny-Jean Debate of the early 2020s sparked an industry-wide shift toward looser, baggier fits, with Gen Z declaring the reign of skinnies officially over. But then, a plot twist: Suddenly, legacy styles like dark skinny jeans and high-rise skinnies started resurfacing in certain corners of the fashion sphere.

Now, just when we thought we’d settled into a wide-leg groove, flares—arguably one of the most divisive cuts in denim history—are creeping back into the conversation. Lamar’s Super Bowl look felt like a sign of the times: a major artist choosing a hyper-specific, once-dated trend at the biggest event in the world. And it’s not just him. Celine has been pushing '70s-leaning denim for seasons, Saint Laurent's latest collections have flirted with sleek bootcut styles, and brands like Stella McCartney and Mother have quietly been nudging flares back onto the fashion agenda.

So what's driving this renewed craving for old-school denim? It’s part nostalgia, part cyclical fashion logic. Skinny jeans are having their second life, and now, flares—once dismissed as too retro or too 2006—are getting their moment in the spotlight. There's also the undeniable appeal of something different in a sea of straight-leg sameness. If the past few years were all about rejecting the skinny-jean look, maybe this is the industry's way of slowly inching back in that direction, just with a little more volume.

Will flares fully dethrone baggy jeans? Probably not. But with Kendrick Lamar giving them a primetime cosign, don’t be surprised if this so-called “dated” silhouette starts popping up in all the right places. You’ve been warned.

See how the fashion set is already wearing the style, and shop our favourite flare jeans at the end.

How Fashion People Are Styling Their Flare Jeans:

This light-wash pair styled with the long scarf is a fresh take on the throwback outfit combo.

High-rise jeans with a sleek belt is such an elite outfit.

A pop of red for a colourful denim look.

We love this dark-wash style with a classy white top.

Skinny jeans meet flares here.

A laid-back look for all your weekend errands.

Obsessed with this zebra statement coat.

A black off-the-shoulder top never fails with jeans.

The ultimate throwback with these True Religion flares.

Chic and so polished.

Shop Our Favourite Flare Jeans:

If either Kate or Lila Moss declares a trend has arrived, you can be sure it's officially here. And this week, the younger of the two firmly planted herself in the pro-skinny jeans camp, putting an end to any debate about whether the divisive denim is making a comeback.

Stepping out for an evening event in London, Lila Moss made the once-controversial style feel undeniably effortless. Her trick? A refined, neutral palette and some very worthy inspiration. Dressed in an all-black ensemble, save for a white silk tank top, her look was the epitome of understated elegance. The streamlined fit of her skinnies only amplified the polished silhouette, proving that this contentious cut can, indeed, feel modern again.

Of course, Lila’s ability to make the trend look so natural shouldn’t come as a surprise. After all, her mother, Kate Moss, has long been one of the most devoted champions of skinny jeans. Having grown up surrounded by such iconic style, it’s no wonder Lila’s approach to the trend felt effortless—almost instinctive.

While Lila’s look feels completely fresh for 2025—largely because we’ve seen so little of skinny jeans in recent years—there was something strikingly familiar about it. On closer inspection, it became clear that her outfit was almost a direct callback to a look Kate wore back in 2012. The similarities were uncanny: the same sleek, form-fitting denim, the same elegant black blazer, even the same fuss-free approach to styling. The only notable update? Lila swapped her mother’s classic black heeled boots for a pair of trending pointed-toe heels, adding a subtle nod to current footwear favourites.

It’s proof that sleek styling transcends both trends and generations.

Read on to discover our edit of the best black skinny jeans below.

SHOP BLACK SKINNY JEANS AND BLAZERS:

As much as I've enjoyed the renaissance of skinny jeans, the past few seasons of embracing baggy and wide-leg styles have firmly cemented my love for a little extra volume in the denim department.

There's just something about the relaxed, flowing silhouette that feels effortlessly cool and endlessly wearable. So, naturally, the emerging palazzo jeans trend has captured my full attention. A bold evolution of the wide-leg styles we've grown accustomed to, palazzo jeans take things up a notch with exaggerated proportions and an ultra-dramatic silhouette. Unlike traditional flares, which typically hug the thighs before darting out at the knee, palazzo jeans are cut wide from the hips down, creating an unbroken column of fabric that cascades fluidly to the floor.

Voluminous and dramatic, these sweeping jeans cast a striking shape that makes a denim outfit feel so much more elevated. Pair them with a crisp cotton shirt for a polished aesthetic, or lean into a boho mood with ruffled blouses and delicate lace details.

Whilst palazzo jeans have been making quiet waves in street style circles, they’ve also gained significant traction on the runway. In September, designers such as Gucci, Stella McCartney, Alaïa and Gabriela Hearst showcased variations of the style in their collections, proving that this trend has serious power behind it. With luxury labels backing the look, it’s only a matter of time before palazzo jeans become a mainstay in everyday wardrobes.

For those still on the fence about the return of skinnies, palazzo jeans offer the perfect alternative. Whether you're not quite ready to wriggle back into form-fitting jeans or simply want to experiment with proportions, the emerging denim trend is the ticket for sleek daily styling.

From high-street heroes like H&M to premium picks from Agolde, we’ve rounded up the best palazzo jeans to shop now. Keep scrolling to find your perfect pair.

SHOP PALAZZO JEANS:

In a twist sending ripples through the fashion world, skinny jeans, once a ubiquitous staple in every millennial’s wardrobe, are now making a bold return.

After years of increasingly voluminous, oversized denim dominating the landscape, the pendulum is swinging back towards a more streamlined silhouette, proving that fashion really is cyclical. The denim equivalent of Marmite, this divisive jeans silhouette was sparking heated debate on TikTok in 2021, with Gen Z split between embracing and "cancelling" skinny jeans. Now, in 2025, we’re rediscovering and reinventing the look, with the resurgence influenced by the autumn/winter 2024 runway collections from designers like McQueen, Celine, Diesel and Miu Miu.

Skinny Jeans Through the Ages

The Golden Age of Skinny Jeans

The skinny jeans' DNA is rooted in rebellion, tracing back to the beatnik era of the 1950s, where it became synonymous with bad-boy culture and rock 'n' roll, immortalised by icons like James Dean, Marlon Brando and Elvis Presley. Whilst jeans weren’t mainstream for women in the '50s, fashion-forward actresses like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn pioneered the slim-fit, high-waisted trouser look. In the 1960s, the style entered its first golden age, embraced by Mod girls and rockers, before disappearing in the 1970s to make way for flared jeans. The skinny jean resurfaced with punk culture in the 1980s, deliberately distressed and torn.

Skinny Jeans in the Y2K Era

The 2000s ushered in a new era with the rise of indie sleaze, a gritty aesthetic championed by Pete Doherty, The Strokes and Kings of Leon, all embodying a carefree, anti-establishment attitude. The mainstream adoption of skinny jeans in the mid-00s was led, of course, by Kate Moss. Her signature look saw the jeans paired with ballet flats, knee-high boots and blazers, and was endlessly documented and widely emulated. The trend gained momentum when fellow style icons like Sienna Miller embraced a boho look along with the Olsen twins, cementing skinny jeans as a wardrobe essential.

Celebrities Wearing Skinny Jeans

Style Notes: Gigi Hadid proves how sleek black skinny jeans can look as part of a full monochrome outfit. I love how she opted for leather boots and a matching bag to add some texture to the look.

Style Notes: Miller stays true to her boho-inspired style by pairing her classic blue skinnies with a Nordic-patterned jumper, red leather tote and minimalist flats.

Style Notes: Lila Moss shows us how to dress up our skinnies for a night out. A simple sheer tank and sleek black pumps can easily take your skinny jeans for a night on the town, and I love the addition of the skinny belt.

Skinny Jeans on the Runway

Skinny Jeans in the Modern Day

For the past decade, the allure of skinny jeans has waned, and the COVID-19 pandemic only intensified our love affair with looser, more comfortable fits. However, 2025 marks the triumphant return of this iconic silhouette, now reimagined for a new generation. In the past six months, Google Trends has shown a significant spike in searches for skinny jeans, highlighting their resurgence.

Influencers in Skinny Jeans

Style Notes: Black skinny jeans can easily replace your tailored trousers for the office. Just look at Aïda Badji's pairing of black skinnies with a tweed jacket and ballet flats.

Style Notes: The easiest way to dress up classic blue jeans? Add a pair of kitten heels like Anouk Yve.

Style Notes: Skinny jeans pair well with so many different shoe styles, from loafers to sky-high heels. However, my favourite combo by far is skinnies with knee-high boots—an instantly elegant outfit.

Style Notes: Tonal outfits will forever be chic, and I love how Hannah Lewis has gone head-to-toe black and added a chocolate-brown suede blazer as a point of interest.

Style Notes: When summer comes around, opt for a light-blue wash that will wear seamlessly with your classic white tank tops. Add some interest by pairing them with another Y2K-inspired style: cowboy boots.

The 2025 Guide to Styling Skinny Jeans

My own journey with skinny jeans began with a super-stretch pair from Paige Denim, discovered at the Ron Herman store on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles. Low-waisted, worn with ankle boots and a leather jacket, this look became my go-to. Today's approach to skinny jeans requires a fresh perspective. When selecting your perfect pair, focus on darker washes and strategic fading around the thighs to create a flattering silhouette. Opt for blacks, greys and dark, single-rinse denim. 2025's skinny jeans incorporate stretch-back technology, offering support and structure, whilst thoughtful pocket placement ensures the perfect fit. Look for the latest fabric innovations, like Coreva, a plant-based, compostable stretch denim from the Candiani Denim mill.

Styling has evolved significantly. Replace ankle boots with knee-high or over-the-knee styles, balance proportions with boxy blazers and add a contemporary twist with Western-style or riding boots. For those still hesitant, a bootcut pair of jeans that’s slim through the thigh with a subtle flare offers a good alternative.

As a denim expert, I’ve tried on so many pairs of skinny jeans. Keep scrolling to discover my carefully curated edit of the season’s best.

Shop the Best Skinny Jeans

I don't know about you, but my algorithm is on a mission to bring back skinny jeans.

I'm not necessarily against the return of skinnies—in fact, it's led me to appreciate just how chic they can look with the right styling—but I'm growing a little tired of the endless endorsement. Craving something a little different, I was thrilled to spot some of my favourite celebrities reaching for an alternative and very retro denim shape. That's right—flares are back, and I've spotted model Bella Hadid and actor Sydney Sweeney wearing them this week.

The distinct shape, which skims the thighs before flaring out at the calf, became popular in the 1970s as the boho trend took root. Heavily associated with the platform boots and tie-dye prints that debuted at the same time to define the era in fashion terms, flared jeans have never quite shaken their throwback associations.

In 2025, however, we're taking a fresher approach to styling flared jeans. Take Hadid's chic outfit. Nodding to the trend's '70s routes, she wore her flared jeans with layered coin necklaces and square-toe boots—both of which enjoyed popularity across the stylish decade. She even added another '70s icon in the form of an oversized fur-trimmed leather jacket.

Taking a similar approach to her flared jeans look, Sweeney paired hers with a black leather jacket in a more fitted cut and completed the outfit with patent leather boots. Whilst most of us haven't worn this jeans style in years (straight-leg pairs really did take over, didn't they?), French women wouldn't dream of overlooking them.

A staple in many a Parisian wardrobe, these jeans are often styled with classic T-shirts and chic knits. In my years spent analysing French style, the discerning appreciation French women have for '70s fashion is clear, so it's no surprise that this particular jeans style never really went away across the channel.

Up and down the high street and across designer brands, I've spotted more and more flared jeans entering the market. Available in a range of shades—I have my eye on Paige's deep-blue style—this trend is set to ripple out this season.

Read on for our edit of the best flared jeans.

SHOP FLARED JEANS:

For years, skinny jeans have been the denim trend fashion insiders loved to shade. Oversize silhouettes and straight-leg styles stole the spotlight, leaving our once-beloved skinnies to collect dust in the back of the closet. Leave it to French fashion influencers—the masters of timeless, effortless style—to bring this dated trend back into the conversation. They're doing it in a way that feels refreshingly modern, of course.

From Paris to L.A., skinny jeans are staging a quiet but undeniable comeback. Instead of leaning into the super-tight styles of the 2010s, these influencers are styling their skinny jeans with an elevated, minimalistic approach that feels so… French.

How do you make skinny jeans feel 2025 ready? The key lies in the styling. Think on-trend jackets, timeless loafers, and subtly sexy tops for good measure. Scroll on to see how French fashion influencers are making skinny jeans cool again.

How French Women Are Wearing Skinny Jeans in 2025:

1. All-Black Outfit

Style Notes: When it comes to styling skinny jeans the Parisian way, an all-black outfit is your ultimate power move. Start with high-waisted black skinny jeans with a slightly cropped hem, and pair them with a fitted black T-shirt or a sleek cashmere sweater for an effortlessly polished base. Add a tailored black jacket or faux-fur outerwear to instantly elevate the look. Voilà—a monochromatic outfit that's anything but boring. It's sophisticated, stylish, and very French.

Shop the Look:

Shop the Look:

2. Showing Some Shoulder

Style Notes: If we had to play favourites, this outfit duo would win our vote. Skinny jeans with a side of shoulder is the French-woman secret. We especially love how Sabina Socol styled her tank-and-cardigan set slightly off the shoulder, revealing just a hint of skin. No notes.

Shop the Look:

Shop the Look:

3. Mocha Outerwear

Style Notes: From Mocha Mousse (Pantone's colour of 2025) to a toasted mocha, it's all about this shade when it comes to the outerwear you style with your skinny jeans. Whether you opt for a dark wash or classic true blue, the combo creates a cozy and chic look. Finish the outfit with a leather belt and silver hardware for the ultimate French vibe.

Shop the Look:

Shop the Look:

4. Loafers Only

Style Notes: In France, women love their loafers, and they love styling the flat-shoe trend with denim. Start with slim black or medium-wash skinny jeans to create a streamlined base and pair them with classic black or colourful leather loafers—bonus points for subtle embellishments like gold hardware. Add a relaxed button-down shirt or an oversize blazer for that quintessential Parisian look.

Shop the Look:

Shop the Look:

5. Pretty Open-Front Top

Style Notes: The French always know how to exude just the right amount of sexiness when it comes to their outfits. Case in point: pairing the dated denim with flirty tops that show a hint of midriff. Think tie-front tops, zip-up cardigans, fitted button-down shirts, and more. This combination offers a perfect blend of polished and playful.

Shop the Look:

Shop the Look:

Even if you just follow fashion casually, you've probably heard the recent chatter that skinny pants and jeans are making a comeback in 2025. We saw the runway proof of it during the spring/summer 2025 shows a few months ago, and now, we're getting kernels of further proof—one being from famous French fashion person Camille Charrière.

Charrière recently posted her annual list of ins and outs for 2025 for her 1.4 million Instagram followers, and among her lengthy list of things that are "in," in her opinion, was none other than skinny jeans. But she didn't just list skinny jeans. She named skinny jeans and Converse—see the list for yourself below. Given that this is an age-old combination, I suspect it's one that the popular influencer was wearing the last time skinny jeans were popular, and she's clearly ready to do so again.

I don't know about you, but my skinny jeans and Converse trainers could use some replacing. If you're in the same boat and want to take Charrière's advice, keep scrolling to shop fresh pairs for your 2025 wardrobe.

Camille Charriere's 2025 "Ins and Outs" List.

The London fashion set are also pairing their skinny jeans with Converse for 2025.

Shop Skinny Jeans:

Shop Converse Trainers:

Skinny jeans have been a battlefield. For years, they were my go-to—sleek, flattering, and easy to style. But then the internet decided they were passé. The rise of baggy jeans, cargoes, and every other Gen Z–approved silhouette pushed skinnies into the “millennial cringe” category. Didn’t bother me, though. They fit me like nothing else could, and despite the trend cycle, I refused to let them go.

Still, I’d be lying if I said the noise didn’t get to me. There were days I swapped them out for straight-leg denim just to dodge the side-eye. But recently? Something shifted. Skinny jeans are creeping back, and instead of looking dated, they’re starting to feel… fresh again. The trick? Shoes that bring them into the now.

The 5 Shoe Styles That Make Skinny Jeans Feel Cool Again:

1. Point-Toe Ankle Boots With Kitten Heels

Style Notes: For nights out, I’d go straight to point-toe ankle boots with kitten heels. These aren’t your standard booties; they are sleek, polished, and modern with the low heel and pointy toe. Paired with skinny jeans, a fitted black turtleneck, and chunky gold jewellery, this boot-and-denim look gives off very French vibes.

Shop the Style:

2. Mary Jane Flats

Style Notes: Mary Jane flats, but not the prim-and-proper kind. Think The Row’s version—minimalist, sleek, and unapologetically cool. I’d style them with a boxy sweatshirt and a slouchy trench. The combination hits the perfect balance between nostalgic and forward-thinking.

Shop the Style:

3. Loafers

Style Notes: Next up? Loafers. They look great with a pair of skinny jeans, especially paired with a turtleneck and an oversize blazer. The ease of the jeans against the sharpness of the loafers gives a totally timeless look.

Shop the Style:

4. Point-Toe Kitten Heels

Style Notes: The contrast between the skinny fit and the sharp silhouette of the shoes gives off a “don’t mess with me” energy. Suddenly, skinny jeans didn’t feel like a relic. They feel powerful.

Shop the Style:

5. Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: And for the really chilly days? Boots, but the tall kind that European fashion girls would approve of. Polished leather or luxe suede, either way, the knee-high shoe trend is giving rich country-housewife aesthetic. Pair them with a boxy oversized blazer for a laid-back and chic outfit that’s perfect for an afternoon on the town.

Shop the Style:

My screen time prompts continue to harass me, and my New Year's resolution to spend less time on social media is already out the window. But what am I supposed to do? The new-season styling inspiration that's dominating my For You Page has simply been too good... It's all in the name of research, I tell myself.

If you've also been spending a little more time on social media than you probably should, then you've likely locked eyes on the same trend as me. A subtle styling trick that's burst onto the style scene this season, I've noted that a highly chic group of people have started styling their jeans tucked into boots.

A small but impactful outfit tweak, this styling trend is something we saw a lot of in the 2010s—when discussing the jeans tucked into boots revival, so many of my colleagues remembered wearing this formidable outfit pairing circa 2012 specifically. Boasting nostalgia as standard, I shouldn't be as surprised as I am that the modern-day styling set has adopted it as their own.

Right now, fashion people are wearing this pairing with straight and skinny jeans to create a more streamlined look, while those who want to look more 2025 are selecting wide relaxed or baggy styles to give the silhouette a more un-done finish. In terms of boots, we've seen the trend interpreted in a number of ways. Styling well with flat bikers as well as heeled knee highs, it seems any and all combinations go, so long as you keep your hems firmly tucked in.

In terms of styling the rest of the look, that power sits with you. Wearing well with a blazer and a polo neck for an equestrian-inspired take, jeans tucked into boots also look chic when worn with chunky knits,ber jackets, simple tees and button-downs, too.

A small but mighty outfit update, this emerging trend has the ability to entirely energise a simple jeans look. The best thing about it? For many of you, shopping trip will be required—simply layer your favourite knee- or calf-length boots on top of a pair of jeans and you're set. That said, if you're looking to give your wardrobe a little upgrade in either area, read on to discover our edit of the best jeans and boots to shop now.

SHOP JEANS AND BOOTS AND FIND FRESH STYLING INSPIRATION:

Style Notes: For a dressed-up take on the casual trend, style jeans in a fresh white shade and pair with a heeled boot to dress it up.

Style Notes: For a fresher take on the growing trend, skip basic blue jeans and flat boots. Instead, shop for a cool grey pair and style them with chic wedge boots.

Style Notes: The leopard print trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down. To give your favourite pair of leopard print jeans and 2025 refresh, style them tucked into knee-high boots—extra points if they're a brown pair.

Style Notes: This is exactly how i'll be styling the trend going forwards. With classic light wash jeans and my favourite biker boots.

Despite being born in 1992, few embody chic, 1970s-inspired style quite like Suki Waterhouse.

With her love of lace garments, bell-bottom trousers, and a warm palette of golds, browns, and greens, the multi-hyphenate performer has cultivated a signature aesthetic that somehow feels both entirely unique and right on trend. Stepping out in New York this week, Waterhouse emerged in an outfit that reminded me exactly why she's one of my style icons. Despite her outfit containing several key 2025 trends, her look felt uncomplicated and effortless—the exact qualities I strive to achieve in my own wardrobe.

Whilst skinny jeans are currently staging a comeback (yes, really), Waterhouse sidestepped the trend in favour of a pair of mid-blue flared jeans. Designed with a voluminous cut that skims the thigh before dramatically flaring out from the knee, her jeans created an element of movement and drama within her outfit that felt perfectly in tune with the free-spirited ethos of her well-cultivated style. Tapping into the denim trend that reemerged on the runway this season, Chloé’s boho-inspired spring/summer 2025 collection was rife with the '70s-adjacent design, signalling a return of the anti-skinny denim is due to hit soon.

A model wears flared jeans on the Chloé spring/summer 2025 runway.

But the jeans were only the beginning. Waterhouse layered her look with a fluffy caramel coat and accessorised with the highly covetable Toteme T-Lock clutch bag—nodding to the faux fur coat and clutch bag trends that are soaring right now—while balancing her vintage leanings.

What truly sets this look apart, however, is its innate Parisian flair. Waterhouse's styling feels like it could have been plucked straight from the streets of Le Marais. For decades, Parisians have embraced the '70s-inspired aesthetic that Waterhouse channels so seamlessly. It’s no wonder Waterhouse nails it so well—her approach aligns perfectly with the core tenets of Parisian dressing: ease, comfort, and quiet confidence.

Inspired to re-create her perfect silhouette? Scroll on to shop Waterhouse’s look and explore our edit of the best flared jeans to add a touch of retro charm to your wardrobe.

SHOP SUKI WATERHOUSE'S FLARED-JEANS LOOK:

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST FLARED JEANS:

Almost out of nowhere, one of fashion's most divisive items has started making its way back onto the scene.

Once dismissed as "dated" and "unflattering," skinny jeans had been relegated to the backs of wardrobes for years as baggy and straight-leg styles thrived instead. But now, slowly but surely, skinny jeans are creeping back onto our radars, and there's one particular shoe pairing that fashion people are wearing them with. In the early '00s, we'd wear our skinny jeans with either platform heels, ballet flats or ankle boots, and interestingly, it's ballet flats that have returned alongside slim-fitting jeans, looking surprisingly chic in the process.

Somehow both nostalgic and modern, this "dated" pairing combines the elegance of streamlined skinny jeans with the delicate shape of ballet flats to create a particularly polished silhouette. Nodding towards Y2K nostalgia whilst tapping into today's preference for minimalism and a sleek aesthetic, it's really no surprise that the trend has come back around this season. Styling well with oversized layers—think chunky knits, boxy blazers or roomy coats—to balance out the slim proportions of the jeans and neatly fitting flats, the combo has a certain appeal that stylish dressers can't resist.

Jessica Alba wears skinny jeans and ballet flats on the red carpet in 2006.

Reflecting the cyclical nature of fashion, these old favourites have been reimagined for the modern wardrobe this winter. Read on to discover our edit of the best skinny jeans and ballet flats.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST SKINNY JEANS AND BALLET FLATS:

Save for the hottest of heatwave moments, I wear jeans at least five days a week. Whilst I may adore denim, I'm well aware that the idea of hunting down the perfect pair can induce a visceral reaction for many. We've all been there, dancing around trying to squeeze into a pair of ill-fitting denim in a starkly lit changing room. It's got to be the least appealing shopping experience of all, and some even forgo jeans altogether just to avoid it. That's why I like to put these denim staples to the test, giving insight into the fit, the stretch, the silhouette and the sizing to make the process that much easier.

The versatility of denim is what makes it such a hero piece within our wardrobes. On days when I stand infront of my wardrobe attempting to conjure up an outfit and it won’t form, I turn to my classics of a white T-shirt and wide-leg jeans. When spontaneous drinks dates occur I grab my favourite black straight-leg pair, add some boots and a bold lip and I’m out the door. Even when I’m running out to get milk from the shop I often swap my striped linen trousers for a pair of well-fitting blues just to feel a little more put-together.

In my exploration to put the best denim jeans to the test I've tried on high street heroes, explored new cuts, and this time I've taken to recommendations. I put a call out on a group chat for the best pair of jeans, and two replies read 'Everlane!'. It's a brand I'm well aware of that our readers often sing the praises of for high-quality staples like excellent shirts and sleek tailoring at reasonable prices. So, I put in an order to put the best Everlane jeans to the test, from a classic straight-leg silhouette to a contemporary wide-leg style.

Below, I'll share my honest opinion on each style, as well as the rigidity of denim, the fit, the rise of the waistband and the silhouette. Overall, I have to say my friends were right—Everlane knows great denim. Keep scrolling to see the four best Everlane jeans I put to the test, and shop the exact styles I tried.

THE CARPENTER JEAN

Style Notes: As I've mentioned, I've tried a lot of jeans in my time so I'm always intrigued by a new cut. Enter the Carpenter Jean, which features bold utilitarian seam detailing and a relaxed, baggy silhouette. If looser shapes are your go-to this is a great way to rejuvenate your jeans selection whilst staying true to your favourite cut. This pair fit true to size, with the looser shape offering comfort as well as the soft denim fabric. This pair comes in one length, but as I've said most dry cleaners will be able to take off a few inches for a reasonable price, especially as they'll become a constant feature in your outfit builds.

Shop the Carpenter Jean:

THE WAY-HIGH JEAN

Style Notes: I'd heard great things about the Way-High Jean so was really excited to see how these fit. These are a classic straight-leg style with a nice high waist silhouette, a truly versatile shape and cut. The Way-High comes in eleven wash choices and three leg lengths, here I've gone for the dark indigo wash with an inseam of 27.5". The style fits true to size, and here I've taken my normal size 27. Whilst there is a bit of stretch, these are definitely a more rigid denim which made for a great fit. If you prefer a looser waistband for comfort, I'd suggest sizing up.

Shop The Way-High Jean:

THE BAGGY JEAN

Style Notes: Baggy jeans have become a mainstay cut in fashion people's wardrobes, but finding the right balance of wide leg silhouette and fitted waist can be hard. This pair seriously impressed, fitting true to size, with a rigid denim that still feels incredibly comfortable thanks to the looser silhouette. Again, the waist is a high-rise style which helps to elongate the leg. This pair comes in one leg length, but at 5'2" I'm used to taking my trousers to the dry cleaners for a quick tailoring at a reasonable cost. If you are petite, you will most likely need to get these hemmed.

Shop the Baggy Jean:

THE ORIGINAL CHEEKY JEAN

Style Notes: Yet another iconic pair from the brand, the Original Cheeky Jean has been a favourite since their release. These fit more like a skinny jean on the thigh though continues to a straighter silhouette below the knee. Featuring 2% elastane, the jeans are relatively rigid with a little bit of give, and I personally found my regular size a tighter fit so would recommend sizing up unless you're a die-hard skinny jeans fan who likes them to be ultra-snug. Again, there was no gaping at the back of this pair, and features a raised back-hook seam and high-placed back pockets for a lifted look on the bum. Like many of Everlane's best-selling jeans, this pair also comes in a curve fit.

Shop the Original Cheeky Jean:

SHOP MORE EVERLANE BEST-SELLERS:

When I was 19, I worked in a small clothing boutique that sold a surprisingly impressive designer assortment for a college town such as mine. On the ready-to-wear side, its racks were lined with Maryam Nassir Zadeh, Lauren Manoogian, and Samuji. And for denim, we exclusively sold Frame Denim, the brand every LA and NYC fashion girl was wearing at the time. I adored every pair from the brand and too often spent my entire paycheque on jeans. 

One pair, in particular, that I bought and subsequently wore roughly three times a week every summer for years, was Frame’s Le Skinny de Jeanne style in white. When I graduated and moved to New York, I left a ton of clothing items behind, donating most of them and selling the rest. Those jeans were one of the pieces I parted ways with, an act I’m now very much regretting after spotting the exact same pair on none other than Meghan Markle. 

Markle was seen exiting an office in Montecito, California wearing arguably the chicest, most luxurious outfit I've ever seen, consisting of a camel-colored robe coat, a cream sweater, an Hermès shawl, Chanel slingbacks, and an oversize, all-white Goyard tote. But even with all of that draped on her, the fashion item that my eyes were immediately drawn to were her jeans, the same exact pair of white Frame skinnies that I owned in college. Envious, I immediately started searching the internet for a pair to replace the ones I got rid of five years ago. 

Below, check out Markle's utterly elegant errands outfit and shop the closest pair of Frame jeans I could find to the now sold-out Le Skinny de Jeannes. 

On Meghan Markle: Frame jeans; Goyard tote; Chanel slingbacks; Hermès scarf; Givenchy belt

Shop Meghan's style:

After the busy Coronation weekend, it was right back to work for members of the royal family, but with a far more casual affair for Kate Middleton and Prince William. They attended the Big Help Out (a day when people in the UK are encouraged to volunteer) with their three children in tow. And Middleton's wardrobe for the occasion was quite the departure from her ornate wardrobe over the weekend. 

For the outdoor event, Middleton wore two of her favourite casual-attire items: Skinny jeans and Blundstone Chelsea boots. But the jeans weren't her typical plain black skinny jeans. She opted for a cargo pair, which she wore with a pretty chambray denim blouse.

Cargo everything is trending right now, so it was fun to see Middleton in a pair that suited her aesthetic. There are cargo-jean options to suit every preference, so scroll on to find your pair (including the exact G-Star Raw ones that Middleton wore).

On Kate Middleton: Really Wild shirt; G-Star Raw Skinny Cargo Pants (£110); Blundstone Original Vegan Chelsea Boots (£170)

Get the Look:

Shop More Cargo Jeans:

Next Up: The Quiet-Luxury Colour So Many Coronation Guests Wore—Including Pippa Middleton

This story was originally published on Who What Wear US and has since been updated.

The skinny-jeans debate can be a very passionate subject for some. At the end of the day, you should always wear whatever you love and what makes you feel most comfortable. But it's true that anti-skinny jeans trends have been dominating over the last few seasons. That said, skinny jeans still have a place in a modern wardrobe (and really always have because they could be considered a classic at this point). The key to making skinny jeans feel forward and of the moment has to do with how you style them.

Below, we're sharing the summer trends that look chic with skinny jeans and will make them feel very 2024. In reality, the trends ahead can be worn with any denim style, but they look especially cool with skinnies!

If you're in the market to add a fresh pair or reintroduce skinny jeans to your wardrobe, there's shopping inspiration ahead—along with picks for the trends highlighted.

1. Ballet Flats/Flat Mary Janes

Style Notes: Sure, you can pair just about any shoe style with skinny jeans, but ballet flats and flat Mary Janes are trending hard right now and bring an effortlessly chic spin to the look.

Shop the style:

2. Relaxed-Fit Shirt

Style Notes: Relaxed shirting continues to reign supreme. Whether you opt for a striped button-down shirt or a solid iteration, this is an easy pick that is just cool with denim.

Shop the style:

3. Stripes

Style Notes: Stripes could be considered an elevated basic, but that just means they never go out of fashion...

Shop the style:

4. Lightweight Blazer

Style Notes: A relaxed blazer in a lighter fabric brings a polished feel to an outfit with jeans.

Shop the style:

5. Leather Layers

Style Notes: You can't deny the cool factor of a leather layer to take your denim ensemble to the next level. A slouchier fit is where it's at for summer.

Shop the style:

6. Tank Tops

Style Notes: Tank tops are classics, and they're set to enter the spotlight as we head into summer. Choose a simple white style, go bright and bold, or pick a stripe to nail two trends in one.

Shop the style:

Jeans wearers have been on quite the rollercoaster ride over the past few seasons. At the start of 2022, straight-leg cuts looked set to remain the most popular choice, yet as the year progressed, we saw jeans getting looser and looser on the catwalk and on Instagram (our two most-trusted sources). Now, in 2023, the leading denim trends sit at two ends of the spectrum: super wide or super skinny.

The latter might set off alarm bells if you, like me, associate skinny jeans with the early 2010s. But this form-fitting style is far from passé; since I've tuned into this revived trend, I've noticed it featured in so many cool, current looks. From simple looks with blazers and flats to more evening-appropriate ensembles, the fashion crowd are making me regret donating all my skinnies to a charity shop a couple of years back. 

Ready to open your mind (and wardrobe) to skinny jeans once again? Scroll on to see my favourite skinny jeans outfits below.

1. Bright Blazer + White Tee + Mules

Style Notes: Spring is all about colour (even if you're usually seen in top-to-toe black). Choose a blazer in a primary colour to pair with your skinny jeans.

SHOP THE LOOK:

2. Striped Jumper + Basket Bag + Flats

Style Notes: Using a striped jumper to make an outfit instantly chic almost feels like a cop-out, because it always does the trick. But if it ain't broke...

SHOP THE LOOK

3. Animal-Print Top + Cat-Eye Sunnies + Heeled Mules

Style Notes: Zebra print is the new leopard print, and pairing it with denim makes it super wearable. Add mules and let the sun hit your toes once we enter summer.

SHOP THE LOOK:

4. Trench Coat + Grey T-Shirt + Chelsea Boots

Style Notes: A trench coat is the ultimate springtime layer. Choose a cropped skinny jean to land at a similar point on your half.

SHOP THE LOOK:

5. Relaxed Shirt + Suede Bag + Clogs

Style Notes: Easy, breezy shirts are made for casual weekend dressing. Keep the vibe casual with stretchy skinnies and some slip-on clogs.

SHOP THE LOOK

Next Up: Skinny Jeans Are Back—Here's How to Style Them Now

The subject of the rise and fall of skinny jeans has been an interesting topic of fashion conversation over the last few years. For me, skinny jeans have always been my real one true love. Of course, I’ve had flings with baggy jeans, boyfriend jeans and mom jeans, but I always find myself returning to my favourite pair of trusty black skinnies. And I certainly don’t seem to be the only one…

Now don’t get me wrong, we’re not talking about those uncomfortable skinny jeans circa 2008 that felt as though they were just that bit too restricting. No. We’re talking about the modern skinny jean, a perfect accompaniment to a crisp white shirt or baggy knitted sweater. The skinny jeans of today feel more modern in style, and are often cut from a tougher denim than old-school 'jeggings' (remember those?).

The re-birth of skinny jeans is finally here, and we couldn't be more excited for it. Of course, that doesn’t mean we won’t be opting for our baggier denim on certain occasions! 

Still unsure how you feel about the skinny jean resurgence? Allow us to convince you by giving you six easy and chic ways to style them now. 

1. THE SMART CASUAL LOOK:Skinny Jeans + White Shirt + Bomber Jacket

Style Notes: We love the mix of casual & not so casual elements of this look. Heels & Bomber Jacket? It's a yes from us. 

Shop the look:

2. THE SHEARLING LOOK:Black Skinny Jeans + Cream Knit + Shearling Jacket

Style Notes: Grey Jeans + Neutral Tones = A match made in heaven. 

Shop the look:

3. THE LAYERING LOOK:Skinny Jeans + Cardigan + Trench + Chunky Boots

Style Notes: This is layering nailed to an absolute T! We love the different elements, which make it the perfect weekend look. 

Shop the look:

4. THE KEEPING IT CASUAL LOOK:Skinny Jeans + White T-Shirt + Blazer + Trainers

Style Notes: Keep it classic with a good quality white t-shirt, some black jeans, a blazer & punchy trainers for a put-together look. 

Shop the look:

5. THE OFFICE CHIC LOOK:Skinny Jeans + Cropped Jacket + Heeled Ankle Boots

Style Notes: We love the mix of textures in this classic look. The tweed blazer helps elevate the denim, meaning you could wear this to work or to dinner & look chic for both. 

Shop the look:

6. THE STYLED WEEKEND LOOK:Skinny Jeans + White Boots + Graphic T-Shirt + White Blazer

Style Notes: An effortlessly cool look. The graphic t-shirt is styled to perfection and the white boots matching the jacket is key to a well put together fit.

Shop the look:

Up Next: 6 Jeans Outfits That Are Ageless and Will Never Feel Dated

It's true that baggy, straight-leg, and flared jeans continue to be denim front-runners for fashion people. But while these more relaxed silhouettes will certainly hold strong throughout 2025, it's skinny jeans that are set to dominate the trends and make a big comeback this year, despite their somewhat polarising nature.

After scrolling through the accounts of some of our favourite fashion follows, it became quite clear that there are a few specific elevated basics the fashion crowd will wear with their skinny jeans this year to create chic looks. Although, just about anything pairs flawlessly with them given the classic nature of the cut.

Keep scrolling to check out the trend-forward basics fashion people will wear with skinny and slim-straight jeans in 2025, as well as shopping inspiration.

The Basics Fashion People Are Wearing With Skinny Jeans in 2025:

1. A Blazer

Style Notes: A classic blazer is considered a staple for many, and an oversized style offers a relaxed silhouette that updates a pair of skinny jeans––opt for a suede iteration with ballet flats to make the look feel very 2025.

Shop the Look: