This Style Of Jeans Is Your Shortcut To Longer-Looking Legs

If you're a petite gal or simply want to make your legs look miles long, look no further than flared jeans. Sure, jeans got baggier in 2024, but if you desire a more streamlined look that adds length, you'll want to go the flared route. Personal stylist and image consultant Cynthia Kennedy, who's also the creator of Your Style Transformation Academy, exclusively explained to Glam just what makes this silhouette so flattering. "Flare jeans are basically a stylist's optical illusion. Because they hug the hips and thighs, then gradually widen past the knee, they draw the eye down and out, which creates this continuous, elongating line," she shared with us. "When the hem just skims the top of your shoe (especially with a heel), it makes your legs look like they go on for days. It's a total style cheat code, and I'm here for it."

When shopping for flared jeans, don't go for the low-slung styles of the '70s, which can make your legs look shorter. Instead, opt for a high-waisted pair, which flatters any body type and will nip in your waist, making you look slimmer and taller. Additionally, stay away from cropped versions, as they cut you off at the ankles. The legs of your jeans should be as long as possible, and with the right styling, you'll instantly add inches to your frame.

Choosing a 'fit around your flared jeans may be tricky, as you want to balance out the widening silhouette at the bottom, which is why stylist Cynthia Kennedy loves pairing them with fitted tops. "Think a tucked-in tee, a sleek bodysuit, or a cropped sweater that hits right at the waist," she exclusively told Glam. "A structured blazer instantly polishes the look, and a belt always helps define your shape. As for accessories? Oversized sunnies and a slouchy shoulder bag give off that effortlessly cool vibe without trying too hard."

As for the perfect shoes to wear with your flared jeans, you can never go wrong with platforms. "They give you height and keep the flare from dragging, but they still feel walkable," Kennedy stated. "A pointy-toe boot is also a great choice because it keeps the leg line super clean. If I'm going casual, I'll do a chunky sneaker or even a low block-heel mule — anything that gives a little lift without disappearing under the flare." And remember, although you want your legs to look longer, you never want the hem of your jeans to be skimming the ground, as that will look sloppy. Be sure to find a good tailor who will know just where the legs of your jeans should end to give you that perfect, statuesque figure.