The Best Ways To Style Wide-Leg Jeans In 2024
It's finally time to ditch your skinny jeans and make room for wide-leg denim. The wide-leg jean trend took root in 2023 alongside the '90s fashion revival, and in 2024, jeans are getting even baggier by combining the relaxed cargo style with a dramatic '70s flare. In fact, this oversized denim look found its way into several spring/summer 2024 runway collections, including that of Loewe, Stella McCartney, and Balenciaga.
Each of these fashion houses flaunted a unique take on this slouchy silhouette this year, accomplishing the impossible by aligning style with comfort. If this year's spring/summer collections prove anything, it's that wide-leg jeans provide a versatile base that elongates the legs and enhances the fluidity of an otherwise static outfit. That said, creating a cohesive outfit from scratch with oversized denim as a base piece can be challenging if the proportions are off. As such, note the following style tips to learn how to curate your own designer-worthy ensemble.
Pale denim is perfect for spring
Now that the weather finally permits it, expect a sea of outfits with wide-leg jeans to take center stage. What's the secret to standing out in a crowd of like-minded folks, you ask? Well, the key is to get creative with your purchases by, in this case, adding ecru denim to the mix. Don't forget to slip on a pair of beige-tan mules and a faux leather jacket to elevate your white jeans.
Complement dark wash jeans with deep tones
Dark denim will also upgrade your fashionista status, so don't hesitate to rock a deeper, richer palette. To break up the darker shades, style your wide-leg jeans with a complementary blue tone or a soft neutral for contrast. "We saw [richer hues] coming through from the likes of Loewe, The Row, and Alaïa," Katie Rowland, buyer director at Mytheresa, told Marie Claire. In other words, a creamy white knit with a sweetheart neckline would pair seamlessly here, especially with rich burgundy accessories and heels.
Rock denim on denim
Stacking denim on denim stays true to '70s fashion, and when it comes to head-to-toe denim outfits, you can't go wrong if you pair lighter shades with dark washes. Opt for black wide-leg jeans and a mid-blue jean jacket to give the classic Canadian tuxedo a modern upgrade. Complete the look with white sneakers and a tote bag for the ultimate street-style 'fit.
Coordinate a preppy outfit
Whoever said wide-leg jeans can't look sophisticated was sorely mistaken. To transform baggy jeans into a chic wardrobe piece, pair them with a posh, tweed jacket — preppy fashion is poised to be big in 2024, after all — and dainty accessories. Loafers and kitten heels are the perfect shoes to wear with wide-leg jeans, but even white sneakers will do if the rest of your outfit is sufficiently light and classy.
Step into spring with denim and trenchcoats
Jeans and a beige trenchcoat make up the foundation of a classic spring ensemble. In fact, many would argue that one belongs with the other, forming two halves of the same whole. You truly cannot go wrong with either of these pieces, so play around with the accessories and hairstyles to create different looks. For instance, opt for pointed heels and sleek accessories for a stylish day 'fit or a fancy handbag and a slicked-back bun for after-work drinks.