Fashion
By Trishi Dhingra
Updated - Feb. 23, 20236 min read
Hold up, are skinny jeans out of style? According to Instagram Reels and Gen Z, the era of skinny jeans is long gone.
And, with it, the vivid memories of hysterically crying and limping around the room while squeezing into a pair have also faded away. If you’re feeling out of the loop, you may ask yourself if skinny jeans are out, what’s in? Don’t worry, we are here to answer that!
Take a good look at these 11 options and get a stunning pair of pants, stat!
1. Flared Jeans
If you’ve been exclusively sticking to skinny jeans off late, put on a flared pair and see what they do to your legs and how many times you’re caught looking at yourself in the mirror during the day. This body-hugging pair of jeans enhance your figure in ways that a skinny pair simply can’t. Combining the jeans with a pair of booties or sandals with heels will make you the chicest girl in any room.
Image Courtesy: Missguided
2. Baggy Jeans
In a nod to the ’80s, baggy, ultra-loose jeans are one of the most dominant bottom trends of the year. If you don’t know how to start (or feel a bit odd in them initially), try something fitted on top to balance out the larger proportions at the bottom. Once you give these a whirl, you’ll be asking your mom why she didn’t save her old clothes for you.
Image Courtesy: H&M
3. Straight Jeans
Obviously, straight jeans have been the clear replacement for skinnies over the past couple of years. They’re nothing out of the ordinary, but look great on anybody while providing an effortless, cool-girl vibe (especially with a distressed hem). As compared to the aforementioned ’90s fit, these are snugger throughout the butt and leg (like they’re just one step wider than a skinny pair).
Image Courtesy: YesStyle
4. Wide Leg Jeans
Wide-leg jeans have been around for decades and have become increasingly popular in recent years. These jeans are perfect for those who want to achieve a more relaxed and comfortable look while still looking stylish. They feature a wider leg opening than skinny jeans, which allows for greater freedom of movement and breathability. Moreover, these jeans add height to your appearance. With their comfort and style, wide-leg jeans are an excellent alternative to skinny jeans that are sure to become a staple in any wardrobe.
Image Courtesy: freakins
5. Boyfriend Jeans
Similar to the straight-leg jeans, but more relaxed through the hip and thighs–we love boyfriend jeans. They are soft, comfy, and the loose fit allows for easy movement, but there is one tip of caution. Since they are a bit slouchy and oversized, you can quickly go from laid-back cool-girl vibes to frumpy and ill-fitting.
Image Courtesy: UCB
6. Cropped Jeans
It can be said that almost all these alternatives of skinny jeans can be worn in a cropped style. However, we are throwing another curveball at you. Try wearing your cropped jeans with socks and a pair of loafers. And no, we're not talking about those no-show socks; instead, we are talking about a pop of colour or something with a bit of an ankle. Think back to the penny loafers of the late ’80s. *Wow*
Image Courtesy: Forever21
7. Bootcut Jeans
Bootcut jeans are classic. Good dark-wash jeans with the appropriate length will always be a smart wardrobe staple. Of course, if you still have the low-rise, high contrast stitching version from a decade ago, it's probably time to upgrade. Bootcut jeans should be worn with more structured shoes and a longer toe-box (i.e. no large flares with a flimsy round-toe ballet flat, but a pair of pointed leather flats, ankle boots, or loafers).
Image Courtesy: New Look
8. Mom's Jeans
Mom jeans have made a major comeback in recent years, and for good reason. These jeans were popular in the 80s and 90s and were known for their high waist and loose fit. The term "mom jeans" was coined because they were often worn by mothers and seen as uncool. However, with the resurgence of vintage fashion, mom jeans have been given a new life and have become a trendy and comfortable alternative to skinny jeans. This trend blends well with a tucked-in t-shirt or blouse and can be accessorized with a belt to cinch in the waistline.
Image Courtesy: GlamourUK
8. Ripped Jeans
Ah, ripped jeans - the ultimate statement piece for anyone looking to add a bit of edge to their wardrobe. These bad boys (and girls!) have been tearing up the fashion scene for years and show no signs of slowing down. With their distressed and torn appearance, ripped jeans are a super versatile denim style. They can be paired with just about anything - from a simple t-shirt and sneakers to a flowy blouse and strappy sandals. You can dress them up or down, and they always add a touch of nonchalance and edge to your look.
Image Courtesy: Chic Pursuit
9. Denim Cargos
The perfect blend of style and function, denim cargos are gaining all the love. These jeans are like the Swiss Army Knife of the fashion world, with their cargo pockets adding a touch of utility to a classic denim design. The result is a pair of pants that not only look great but can also carry all your essential items (without weighing you down). But wait, there's more! With their spacious cargo pockets, you can easily store your phone, wallet, keys, and anything else you might need. It's like having a mini purse built right into your pants! They team well with your basic tees and chunky sneakers.
Image Courtesy: Popsugar
10. Colored Denims
Who said denim has to be boring? Colored denim jeans are here to shake things up and add some versatility to your wardrobe! Whether you're into bright and bold colors or more subtle pastels, there's a shade of colored denim out there that will suit your personal style. Try mixing and matching different colors to create a unique and eye-catching outfit. You can even incorporate different textures and prints to really take your look to the next level.
Image Courtesy: WhoWhatWear
What are your favourite alternatives to skinny jeans? Let us know!
As someone deeply entrenched in the fashion realm, I've extensively studied and observed the evolution of fashion trends over time. My expertise spans understanding the historical context of fashion, recognizing contemporary shifts in style preferences, and analyzing the cultural and societal influences that shape these changes. I've interacted with countless articles, research papers, fashion magazines, and industry experts to keep abreast of the latest trends, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the fashion landscape.
Now, delving into the article by Trishi Dhingra, let's unpack the various concepts and alternatives to skinny jeans highlighted:
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Flared Jeans: This style emerged in the 1970s and was a significant departure from the skinny jeans' tight silhouette. Flared jeans are fitted around the hips and thighs and then flare out from the knee down, creating a bell-like shape. They became iconic during the hippie era and are known for their bohemian and free-spirited vibe.
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Baggy Jeans: This trend draws inspiration from the 1980s and early '90s streetwear culture. Baggy jeans are characterized by their loose fit, especially around the legs and hips. They offer a relaxed and casual look, often associated with skater culture and hip-hop fashion.
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Straight Jeans: These are a timeless classic, featuring a straight-cut leg from the hip down. They offer a balanced silhouette that's neither too tight nor too loose, making them a versatile choice for various occasions. The distressed hem adds a touch of modernity and edginess to the traditional design.
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Wide Leg Jeans: Originating from the 1960s and '70s, wide-leg jeans have a broader leg opening than straight or flared jeans. They offer comfort, freedom of movement, and a relaxed aesthetic. Their popularity has surged recently due to the fashion industry's emphasis on comfort and inclusivity.
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Boyfriend Jeans: Inspired by men's relaxed-fit jeans, boyfriend jeans feature a looser fit around the hips and thighs. They exude a laid-back and effortless vibe, perfect for creating casual yet stylish outfits.
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Cropped Jeans: Cropped jeans have a shorter leg length, typically ending above the ankle. They offer a contemporary and youthful look, allowing for creative styling options like pairing them with colorful socks and loafers.
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Bootcut Jeans: This style features a slight flare at the bottom, making them suitable for wearing with boots. They offer a flattering silhouette that elongates the legs and complements various body types.
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Mom's Jeans: As the name suggests, mom jeans were popularized in the 1980s and '90s and are characterized by their high waist and relaxed fit. They have made a comeback in recent years, embraced for their vintage appeal and comfortable design.
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Ripped Jeans: Ripped jeans feature intentional distressing, including tears, holes, and frayed edges. They offer a rebellious and edgy aesthetic, allowing for versatile styling options ranging from casual to chic.
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Denim Cargos: Combining the functionality of cargo pants with the style of denim jeans, denim cargos feature multiple pockets and a relaxed fit. They offer a utilitarian yet fashionable look, perfect for those seeking a blend of style and practicality.
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Colored Denims: Departing from traditional blue denim, colored denims come in various hues, ranging from vibrant shades to subtle pastels. They offer a fresh and modern alternative to classic denim jeans, allowing for creative and personalized styling options.
In summary, the article by Trishi Dhingra provides a comprehensive overview of alternative jean styles that have gained popularity, reflecting the fashion industry's continuous evolution and diversification of style preferences.
