09/21

4 Fall Denim Trends That Will Make You Want to Wear Jeans Again

By Caitlin Burnett

If it’s been a while since you put on a pair of jeans, you’re not alone. After months of working from home and leaning heavily into loungewear, the thought of stiff rigid denim just hasn’t sounded as appealing as it once did. But if you’re anything like us, one look at fall’s upcoming denim trends will change your mind and have you reaching for your favorite pairs stat. No fall outfit is complete without a great pair of jeans and the 2021 trends are both chic and wearable—meaning the styling possibilities are plentiful and outfit planning will be easy.

The best part of the denim trends for the upcoming season is that they’re relatively low-key rather than being overtly trendy and out there—This guarantees they withstand the fast-paced trend cycle and can be worn for years to come. Some denim trends are overly complicated and can feel a bit forced but this year is all about classic silhouettes with modern updates. From leg-elongating flares to baggy silhouettes, below are the four biggest denim trends to know for fall 2021 plus key shopping picks if you want to get a jump start on shopping for the season.

Loose proportions

@bridget

Relaxed fits are poised to be perhaps the biggest denim trend for fall ‘21, ranging from straight-leg to all out baggy. Credit the pandemic and our new affinity for comfort, but loose denim styles are blowing up right now. Designers across the board are leaning into looser fits, from luxury labels like Khaite to denim powerhouses like Levi’s and Re/Done. These relaxed silhouettes offer an air of cool to your outfit, allowing you to look polished but never like you’re trying too hard. A looser leg looks equally chic with boots, loafers, and sneakers so the styling choice is totally up to personal preference.

Flare

@basicstouch

While flare jeans never truly go out of style, they tend to rise and fall in popularity in a cyclical fashion. Be prepared to witness the sharp rise this fall, with flare jeans recapturing the fashion world. Flares are hands down one of the most flattering denim styles, hugging the thigh and then expanding below the knee to create a long, lean silhouette. Styling tip: Pairing flares with a heeled stiletto or boot adds height and elongates the legs even more.

Low-Rise

@clairerose

Before you panic, these aren’t the dangerously low-rise jeans you remember from the early ‘00s. The 2021 version of low-rise jeans just sit a bit lower on your hips in comparison to the ultra-high rise styles that have been trending the past few years. Most of the current low-rise denim offering also features a slightly looser, slouchier fit for an overall relaxed vibe. Pair with a slouchy sweater and sneakers for a cool daytime look or a ribbed bodysuit and boots for a night out.

Dark Hues

@rebeccalaurey

Inky blues and indigo washes are coming your way this fall and it’s a nice alternative to the lighter washes we’ve been seeing for the past few years. While light washes aren’t going anywhere, you’ll notice darker hues popping up this season. The deeper indigo washes also pair well with the classic fall color scheme of burnt orange, browns, neutrals, and black so it’s easy to incorporate a pair into your existing wardrobe. They also tend to feel a bit more polished, making them easy to dress up for an event or date night.