What Do I Wear When I’ve Given Up Skinny Jeans?

You might have heard: Skinny jeans are "out." In reality, nothing is ever really out and fashion trends come back around so quickly, it can give you whiplash. (To wit, skinny jeans are already projected to make a return next season.) But if you have started side-eyeing that skintight denim, there are numerous great — and more comfortable — options out there. Some styles are even sure to stick around for longer than a few seasons.

We like to look at denim in a tier system, meaning, how fashion-forward you'd like to go. Those having trouble seeing themselves in anything but skinny jeans are sure to like straight-leg denim, such as NYDJ Marilyn Straight Jeans. It's not a huge change, but a straight fit will look a bit wider below the knees than skinny jeans. It's a timeless, no-fuss style that you're sure to reach for for years to come.

Those looking to bump up their style will love bootcut and flared jeans. These styles are fitted through the thigh and knee, flaring out from the knee to the hem. How much of a flare you go for is up to you. J. Jill High-Rise Flare Jeans have just the right amount of kick to them.

If you're the type to go for trousers over denim, chances are, you'll live in wide-leg jeans, such as Boden High Rise Wide-Leg Jeans. They're loose and wide from the waist down to the hem, and can look dressed up or down depending on footwear. They're a bit more structured than boyfriend — or baggy — jeans, which are looser and even more relaxed, often with a lower rise. This style is effortlessly cool and slightly worn-in, mimicking the look of a borrowed pair from a boyfriend. Pilcro Baggy Slim Boyfriend High-Rise Relaxed Jeans are a good example.

The final tier of jeans we like to call the "trendy" level. These are styles that are less classic but still can be fun to try. Here you'll find girlfriend jeans (a tailored style between skinny and boyfriend), mom jeans (high-waisted with a relaxed fit and tapered ankles), and barrel jeans (fitted in the waist with a bowlike relaxed fit). The latter is the most daring, but we have to admit, Gap's High Rise Barrel Jeans are pretty perfect.