The Rise of the Wide-Leg Jean
Wide-leg denim continues to dominate, but the new version is more tailored and structured. Instead of slouchy shapes, this season’s wide-leg jeans have:
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High waists
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Sharp pleats or clean fronts
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Long inseams that skim the floor
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Straight, uninterrupted lines
These jeans create an elongated silhouette that pairs well with everything from slim turtlenecks to oversized blazers. The wide-leg cut also balances seasonal trends like chunky knits and statement shoes, making it one of the most versatile shapes in denim right now.
Dark Wash Denim Makes a Strong Return
The biggest color shift this year is the revival of dark-wash denim. Deep indigo and inky black-blue tones are replacing the faded, vintage washes that defined the last few seasons. Dark denim feels dressier and more structured, making it easy to style for both casual and elevated looks.
Why it’s trending:
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It looks polished with minimal effort
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It pairs well with the quiet luxury aesthetic
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It transitions seamlessly from day to night
Dark denim is also flattering and timeless, which gives the trend longevity beyond seasonal hype.
The “Clean Girl” Jean
Minimalism has reached denim through what many are calling the “clean girl” jean—simple, structured, and free from distressing. These jeans typically feature:
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No rips
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No whiskering
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No heavy fading
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Crisp seams and smooth finishes
The look is sleek and intentional. Paired with a white tank, a black knit, or a camel coat, clean denim creates that effortless, put-together aesthetic that’s everywhere right now.
The Return of Long Inseams
An important detail of the denim shift is length. Cropped styles are taking a back seat, while full-length jeans are leading the trend. Floor-skimming lengths—worn with flats, sneakers, or heels—create a modern silhouette that feels refined and more elevated than traditional ankle cuts. This small change in proportion updates the entire look.
Structured Denim Over Stretch
Rigid denim is making a comeback as people gravitate toward fabric that holds shape. The new structured denim still has comfort, but with a firmer handfeel that creates cleaner lines and sharper fits. This gives wide-leg and straight-leg cuts a more tailored appearance, contributing to the overall polished effect.
How to Style the New Denim Trend
The updated denim shapes work best with simple, clean styling. Try:
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A fitted tank with dark wide-leg jeans and a long coat
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A crisp button-up tucked into clean straight-leg denim
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A minimal knit with dark jeans and pointed flats
Oversized blazers with structured denim for a balanced silhouette
The goal is effortless refinement—nothing overly complicated or trendy.