The Coolest Denim Trends To Try
Looking for a new denim style to try? This year, denim trends are oversized, widening the color sphere, and embracing all types of embellishments.
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Denim has gone through every variation of color/cut/shape/length under the sun, but this year, jeans are bigger (literally and figuratively) than ever before. While that “purchased in every wash because it’s so amazing” essential pair of jeans can — and should! — still exist, there’s also nothing wrong with incorporating something new into your wardrobe every now and then to keep it fresh and updated.
Whether you’re looking for a variation in shape with an extra-wide flare, or even just trying to switch it up with a different shade of denim wash, here’s every denim trend we’re seeing this year.
1. Barrel-Leg Jeans
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous than a traditional “boyfriend-style" jean, but trying to avoid another pair of skinny jeans, barrel-leg jeans are exactly what you need. The best way to describe a barrel-leg jean is that it’s a bit oversized in the knees but tapers in at the waist and ankles, kind of like, well, a barrel. These jeans truly look good on everyone and come in various lengths and sizes. They’re cool, but just as suited for a night out as for a Saturday morning brunch with the family.
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2. Utility-Style Jeans
Bob the Builder as a fashion trend was far from most people’s style predictions for 2024, but here we are — and looking more chic than ever. Cargo pants and utility-style jeans are having a huge moment: Not only do they feed into the same baggy style and look as barrel jeans, but they also are practical. A large pocket can give dimension to any style, and these jeans are pockets galore. You’ll never lose anything again.
Shop the trend:
- J.Crew High-Rise Superwide-Leg Cargo Jean In Dark Wash For Women
- Levi's Baggy Dad Utility Women's Jeans
- Everlane The Way-High® Gardener Cropped Jean Washed Black
3. Oversized is Everywhere
The revival of ’90s and ’70s fashion is showing absolutely no signs of going anywhere. But while the ’90s had oversized denim pants as a representation of grunge subculture, and ’70s flares represented disco, 2024 takes those trends to the absolute extreme. Everything is bigger and better, with an even wider flare. Throw on a white tee and have some fun with this oversized style.
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4. Silver and Gray Denim
If you’re into a light wash when it comes to your denim, why not approach something in the same vein, but less blue? White and off-white denim has dominated for the past few years, but this year we’ve seen a rise not only in gray denim washes, but also in silver jeans. While silver jeans may not be an everyday staple, they’re a great switch-up for any going-out outfit. Gray denim, meanwhile, is universally wearable — it can easily fit into your wardrobe if you’re looking for something that may be a bit unconventional but not too over-the-top.
Shop the trend:
- EB Denim Frederic in Foil
- GANNI Bright White Silver Foil Stary Jeans
- Gap High Rise Vegan Leather Cheeky Straight Pants
5. Indigo
The ever-forgotten member of the ROY G. BIV family, indigo is essential when it comes to denim. And it’s going to be everywhere in terms of jeans this year. The deep blue shade has never fully fit into the “dark jean wash” category but wasn’t exactly a traditional “blue jean” shade, either. That’s part of why we love this trend, though. Indigo is a soothing color, and pairs beautifully with almost everything in your closet.
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6. Embellishes Galore
The decorative jean trend is bigger than ever, and we’re obsessed with the multitude of options on the market. Fashion brands are getting more creative and having fun with their embellishments, so whether it’s a cut-out, a sparkle, or pretty embroidery, there’s an option for anyone to update their jean wardrobe. And just because it’s an embellishment doesn’t mean it has to be big and loud — there are plenty of subtly bedecked styles that feel just as special.
Shop the trend:
- Ramy Brook Wilder Floral-Embroidered Denim Shorts
- Rag & bone Harlow Rhinestone Straight Leg Jeans
- Alice and Olivia Karrie Embroidered Heart Cutout Jean In True Blues Dark
7. Seams & Tucks
If the aforementioned embellishments are still a bit too wild for you, there are some truly stellar options and interesting features being worked out in denim seaming, too. This year is bringing variations in seam placement to create designs and change shapes in denim. The ultra-flattering middle seam is all over the market and we’re thrilled by that — but brands are also using seamwork to create long lines and interesting shapes. It’s a little less stand-out than an embellished jean, but great for everyday wear and elevating any outfit. And if you're feeling like diving head-first into the trends, we're reluctant to report that capris are back.
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8. The Return of the Denim Skirt
The true mark of the Y2K phenomenon: denim skirts. Denim skirts give the ultimate late ’90s to early ’00s vibe, because they feel like something both Lisa-Ann Walter and the late Natasha Richardson would wear in Napa and London (respectively) in The Parent Trap. A denim skirt is functional but chic. A column skirt paired with a button-down top feels draped in European style, while a mini skirt can be flouncy and precious, too.
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This article is for general informational purposes only.
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