Are Skinny Jeans Actually Over? (2024)

Photo: Arturo Holmes/Getty Images.

I remember my first pair of skinny jeans tragically. Maybe because they were. At 12 years old, I convinced my mom to get me a pair from Wet Seal because I was tired of the bootcut and bell bottom styles she’d always buy me. But mainly, I wanted to look cool. Back then, cropped hemlines were not a thing. Instead, we wore ours a tad longer than needed, scrunching the hemlines to mask our ankles. With platforms on our feet, of course. But 15 years later, I have no skinny jeans in my closet. The last pair I bought (a comfy number from Everlane) I gifted to a friend in 2019, after I accepted to myself that I was over this trend.

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So when skinny jeans were banished by Zoomers earlier this year, I was surprised to see just how many millennials took it personally. By now, millennials know what it’s like to be blamed for the demise of mostly everything in society, from marriage and diamonds to beer and napkins. Certainly, skinny jeans couldn’t have been such a big deal to let go of. But mostly, I was eager to see if the Zoomers’ disapproval was actually enough to kill skinny jeans for good.

Turns out, it wasn’t. Skinny jeans are still here — like it or not.

Despite the fast growth of looser styles — be it baggy, slim-fit, or barrel jeans — consumer interest in skinny jeans hasn’t actually decreased in 2021. Skinny jeans were among Google's top fashion searches of the year. While most of those searches might have come from people wondering if they were cool or not — queries like “side part skinny jeans” and “skinny jeans date you” were some of the most searched — it appears any press is good press. According to global fashion platform Lyst, searches for skinny jeans have increased 77% month-on-month since September. (That’s not to say shoppers aren’t looking for other styles: Data shows they've preferred wide-leg and baggy jeans for most of 2021, with searches for both styles jumping by 110% since January.)

Skinny jeans have also been spotted on the runway, with designers defying TikTok’s memo. Take, for example, Saint Laurent’s pre-fall 2021 jean boots that made us all question what would happen if we wore them to a no-shoe party. Tom Ford also kept skinny jeans in his recent collections, with leather-looking low-rise numbers in his fall 2021 collection. And, most recently, Givenchy also approved of skinny jeans in the brand’s pre-fall 2022 collection including washed and ruched denim. What’s more, both luxury and retail brands are still *gasp* selling skinny jeans in both low-rise and high-waisted styles, from Balmain and Balenciaga to Levi’s, Good American, and Everlane.

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As for what will come in the new year, spring 2022 collections have already predicted that the 2010s — the era of skater skirts, thigh-high socks, cross T-shirts, and colorful jeans — are making a comeback, and with it high-low hemlines, gladiator sandals, fringe, and colorblocking. The recent spike in demand for skinny jeans may just be that: a dormant trend holding out until its companions come out to play for the upcoming spring season. So hold on to your skinny jeans, millennials. They might come in handy soon.

If you’re missing a pair, the options below might be a good solution.

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Are Skinny Jeans Actually Over? (2024)

FAQs

Are skinny jeans outdated 2022? ›

Although skinny jeans aren't totally trending (yet), L'OFFICIEL makes an argument for digging out that long-forgotten denim look with new styling tricks that just might change your outlook on the slim silhouette. In 2022, celebrities and fashion influencers have certainly found better ways to wear their skinny jeans.

What is Gen Z saying about skinny jeans? ›

Gen Z Has Officially Canceled Skinny Jeans

Interestingly, younger consumers are more likely to eschew skinny jeans than, say, baby boomers. In fact, NPD Group found that people born between 1946 and 1964 increased their skinny jean spending between 2019 and 2021.

Are skinny jeans still acceptable? ›

But you don't need to wait until skinny jeans are at the top of the denim trend list again to wear yours. Here are ways to style your tried-and-true pair to make them look cool in 2022.

Should I go a size bigger in skinny jeans? ›

Also only one size bigger will still be tighter than slim fit jeans in the legs etc so to get the legs how you wanted you would have to go up two sizes at least in the skinny jeans and two sizes will be way too big in the waist/hips. If you want slim fit jeans you need to buy slim fit jeans.

What is replacing the skinny jean? ›

Barrel leg, straight leg, boot leg, asymmetric and baggy jeans are all big winners this year, as seen everywhere from Victoria Beckham and Celine to Gucci.

Are skinny jeans out 2023? ›

You'll ditch the skinny jean

Over the last decade, skinny styles reigned supreme, going as far as the legging-jean hybrid, unfortunately described as the jegging. But the tide has now turned. In 2023, you'll likely find yourself buying straight leg jeans.

When did skinny jeans become unpopular? ›

The 2000s saw the continued rejection of slim-fitting pants and jeans throughout the early and middle years in mainstream fashion.

Is skinny jeans a trend or fad? ›

Trends come and go all the time, but skinny jeans, which rose to popularity in the 2010s, have proven to be reliable wardrobe pieces rather than a passing fad. That being said, it's never a bad time to explore new styles and try new things.

When did skinny jeans go out of style? ›

Wardrobes literally expanded in the 1980s as fits became oversized across the board. Both flared and skinny jeans became replaced by a loose straight leg with a high waist and tight ankle.

What style of jeans are in for 2022? ›

High-Rise, Wide-Leg Denim

This type of jeans provides coverage for colder months but offers breathability for the warmer weather. Sahara suggests styling your high-rise, wide-leg jeans with a shorter top or a V-neck tee to juxtapose the elongated hemline.

What body type fits skinny jeans? ›

Skinny jeans are best for these body types:

But we get it—they're divisive. It comes down to wash here: pear and hourglass shapes look best in dark wash skinny jeans, while apple and athletic shapes can try lighter washes year-round.

Is it better to get tighter or looser jeans? ›

Ideally, your waistband should fit tightly enough that you don't need a belt, but not so tight that it feels constricting. For raw denim this means you can fit maybe two fingers into the waistband, but for stretchier styles that number goes up a bit to maybe four.

Do skinny jeans make you look taller or shorter? ›

The bottom line is, skinny jeans are here to stay - and here is why; Skinny jeans will give you a more defined shape and reduce extra fabric around the knee, calf, and ankle that makes you look shorter and stumpier.

Are straight legged jeans out of style? ›

No matter the season, straight-leg jeans continue to reign supreme. A forever favorite of off-duty models and inspirational tastemakers, this silhouette of jean is understated and versatile, making a pair essential for your wardrobe.

Are ripped jeans still in style 2023? ›

Overly distressed jeans have seen their day.

Another denim trend you can let go of is overly distressed jeans, according to Sommer. Try elevating the dated trend by incorporating denim with unique details, such as ties, buttons, or fun patterns. Even subtle distressing or bleach tie-dye is fine, the stylist said.

Are high waisted jeans going out of style? ›

Are high waisted pants out of style 2023? High waist pants are out of fashion for winter 2023. And high waisted pants will be out of style for spring summer 2023, too. In fact, the high waist pants were not seen on the spring summer 2023 runways.

Are leggings still in style 2023? ›

Fashion people are becoming pretty adventurous with their styling, wearing simple black leggings with everything from structured blazers to slingback heels. We've seen office-appropriate looks, evening outfits and casual everyday ensembles, all centred around this basic item.

What does Gen Z have against side parts? ›

The side part tends to accentuate my forehead or make it look uneven, while the middle part evens out the look for both sides as well as overall appearance.”

Why do people like skinny jeans? ›

It conforms closely to the body and provides a sleek, streamlined silhouette that plays up all your best features. Since most skinny jeans styles have some stretch, they will look like they were tailored just for you. Comfort is another key factor why people continue to love the style.

Are skinny jeans timeless? ›

Yes, they are here to stay!

If you're looking for a timeless denim style that you can wear year after year, skinny jeans are a great option. They are versatile and easy to style, so you really can't go wrong with them.

How to stop wearing skinny jeans? ›

THE FIRST STEP BEYOND SKINNY JEANS

By going for styles that are looser from the knee down, you're giving yourself the chance to get used to jeans that don't hug your ankle. And if you're shopping in a store and can't tell which is which – take the bottom hem of the jeans and fold them up to the knee.

Is 40 too old for skinny jeans? ›

Can older people wear skinny jeans? It's not about age; it's all about the fit when it comes to wearing skinny jeans. You just need to adjust the style to your changing body shape. To get the correct fit, look at the waist rise, the upper leg, and the lower leg.

Why do skinny jeans go baggy? ›

Over time, it's normal for the cotton fibers in denim fabric to lose their structure. Frequent washing and constant wear can cause the material to loosen, but the good news is that the baggy shape doesn't have to be permanent.

Can I wear sneakers with skinny jeans? ›

Wearing Your Skinny Jeans with Your Favorite Sneakers

The most important thing to know is that skinny jeans pair well with practically every sneaker. Also, you'll never have to sacrifice comfort for style and vice versa. Live out your denim dreams in your favorite pair of sneakers – you do you!

How do you make skinny jeans look classy? ›

Non-dated outfit tip: Pair your jeans with something colorful, and keep proportions in mind. Something more oversize always complements a pair of fitted skinny jeans. Non-dated outfit tip: A pair of It sneakers and a pretty silk top are an unexpected match that always works with skinny jeans.

Are ripped jeans back in 2022? ›

RIPPED JEANS:

Yes, ripped jeans are still on trend for 2022! If you're wondering if you're too old to wear ripped jeans, ask yourself this: how do you FEEL when you wear ripped denim? If the answer is good and confident then, by all means, ROCK em!

What type of jeans are trending now? ›

Cargo, Low-Rise, and 6 More Major Denim Trends For 2023
  • Denim Trend 2023: Pleated Trousers.
  • Denim Trend 2023: Ankle-Cropped Jeans.
  • Denim Trend 2023: Bootcut Flares.
  • Denim Trend 2023: Cargo Jeans.
  • Denim Trend 2023: Tapered-Leg Jeans.
  • Denim Trend 2023: Low-Rise Jeans.
  • Denim Trend 2023: Pooling Wide-Leg Jeans.
Dec 19, 2022

What shoes to wear with straight leg jeans? ›

What Kinds of Shoes to Wear with Straight-Leg Jeans
  • Flats. Flats are the favorite go-to footwear. ...
  • Ankle Boots. Ankle boots are the perfect companion to straight-leg jeans. ...
  • Sneakers. ...
  • Chelsea Boots. ...
  • Heels and Pumps. ...
  • Slingback Sandals.

What jeans are out of style in 2022? ›

Skinny jeans are going out of style after about a decade, but there are plenty of other jean options for your wardrobe. For the better part of the last decade, and certainly for what feels like longer than that, the prevailing trend in denim fashion was making jeans as skinny and slim-fitting as possible.

What style of jeans will be for 2022? ›

Straight Leg

This year's answer to the skinny jean is the straight-leg. Cut from nonstretch denim and sitting right below the natural waist with legs that are the same diameter from hip to ankle, it's a universally flattering silhouette that shows your shape without being skintight.

What jeans are in 2022 trends? ›

High-Rise, Wide-Leg Denim

This type of jeans provides coverage for colder months but offers breathability for the warmer weather. Sahara suggests styling your high-rise, wide-leg jeans with a shorter top or a V-neck tee to juxtapose the elongated hemline.

What style jeans are in for fall 2022? ›

“For this season, we strongly believe in the more slouchy, straight fit with a mid-rise in rigid denim. Much like our new style called Niagara, with a relaxed straight leg for the boyfriend silhouette, designed to sit confidently on the hip.

Are leggings out of style 2022? ›

Yes, leggings are still in style for 2022 and even going into 2023. They're one of those wardrobe essentials that can always be styled to be in style.

What style is in right now 2022? ›

2022 Fashion Trend: Voluminous Silhouettes

From oversize shirting to ballooned silhouettes and a continuation of the puff sleeve trend, dresses and tops will retain their volume through the end of the year. If anything, the latter will spice up all the soft pants you'll probably still be rocking on the bottom.

What denim is in style 2023? ›

Two-toned or color block jeans are one of the more adventurous jean trends hitting shelves in 2023. The colorblocking acts like a contour for your legs and will make them appear longer than they are. Look for a pair with a slight flair to really play into the optical illusion.

Will baggy jeans go out of style 2022? ›

Sure, 2022 was the year of the baggy jeans, and though trends certainly come and go in the blink of an eye, this one is more than just a simple fad. And we're predicting even bigger things (pun intended) for them in 2023, mark our words. Shop the trend below.

Are mom jeans still in style 2022? ›

The mom jean shape may have been very uncool for a couple of decades (even the name implies their lack of trendiness) but, thanks to our nostalgia for all things 90s they're now firmly back in fashion.

How do I look good in mom jeans? ›

To streamline your silhouette, wear a slim-fit T-shirt or rollneck to lengthen the body. If it's cold outside, opt for fishnets under your ripped jeans for a high-fashion twist. Keep it casual with a pair of kitten heels and a sweater during transitional seasons.

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