More relaxed denim silhouettes have been on their way back for a while now, and this season they’ve definitely hit the mainstream. Wide leg jeans are without a doubt the most prominent denim style I’m seeing in the stores where I usually shop.
While some ladies have embraced the trend wholeheartedly, others are intimidated by styling this tricky silhouette, and I’ve been getting a lot of questions about what to wear with wide leg jeans this fall.
PAIGE Anessa (29) // cashmere sweater (S) // Franco Sarto booties (8) // rag & bone belt (M)
I was a slow adopter to this trend, but now that I’ve figured out how to wear them, I’m totally on board. Wide leg jeans have a timeless appeal that I appreciate, and while it may not seem so at first, they’re actually quite versatile. The relaxed fit and wide leg openings allow for easy movement, and they can be dressed up or down.
If you do not like wide leg jeans, there are plenty of other options that are current. (See my post on Denim Trends For Fall 2024.) I’m certainly not suggesting that you have to wear wide leg jeans, but if you do like this look, here are my best tips for styling wide leg jeans and finding the perfect fit for you.
The Basics of Wide Leg Jeans
KUT from the Kloth Sienna High-Rise Wide Leg-Roll-Up (29) // Splendid Liza Pointed Toe Mule (8) // Reese Stripe Tank (S)
Wide leg jeans have straight fit through the hips and thighs, and they gradually widen from knee to hem. Some are more dramatic than others, so it’s best to experiment with different fits to see which works best for your body type and style preferences. Wide leg jeans are often high-waisted, but mid-rise styles can be found too.
You’ll find wide leg jeans in a variety of washes this season, from light and distressed to dark and polished, with either raw and finished hems. As a rule of thumb, dark washes tend to look dressier and more refined, while lighter washes lend a casual, boho vibe to your look. It’s all a matter of personal preference which way you go. Personally, I like to have some of each.
Finding the Perfect Fit
PAIGE Anessa Raw Hem Wide Leg Ankle Jeans (29) // FRAME tee in Surplus (XS) // sandals (8)
To ensure you look your best in wide leg jeans, finding the right fit is crucial. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Length: You’ll find wide leg jeans in everything from floor-grazing lengths to crop styles, and ankle lengths are out there as well. I actually prefer the new shorter full-length style where the hems skim the vamp of the foot without a breakline. Pretty much anything goes; it’s just a matter of figuring out what you like, and how to style them in a way that looks intentionally chic instead of sloppy.
- Waist: Decide whether you want a high-waisted or mid-rise pair based on your body shape and style preferences. High-waisted jeans can elongate your legs and cinch your waist for a flattering silhouette, but some ladies find them uncomfortable. If that’s you, a mid-rise can look just as current. They just might be a little harder to find.
- Width: Some wide leg jeans have dramatic, sweeping silhouettes, while others are cut close to the thigh and widen only slightly to the hem. Experiment with what you like best; personally, I feel best in styles that are closer to a relaxed straight leg silhouette. They still play to the current trends, but they look better on my body than more voluminous styles.
- Shop Around: Don’t expect to love the first pair you try. You may need to experiment with different brands and different lengths and sizes.
- Tailoring: If you can’t find the perfect fit off the rack, consider having your wide leg jeans tailored to your measurements. This small investment can make a significant difference in how they look and feel.
How to Style Wide Leg Jeans
Sanctuary stripe sweater (S) // MOTHER The Hustler Roller Skimp Flare Jeans (29) (similar for less) // Sam Edelman slingback pumps (8) // hinge bracelet // similar hoops // necklace set // Coach bag
Wide leg jeans can be casual chic, office ready, or date night glam. It’s entirely up to you! I tend to stick to more casual looks, but sometimes I like to dress up my wide leg jeans for date nights or dinner out with friends.
Shoes to Wear with Wide Leg Jeans
Choosing the right shoes to complement your wide leg jeans is the first hurdle. Since these jeans are all about drama and volume, you’ll want to select footwear that balances the look. Here are some shoes to pair with wide leg jeans for fall:
#1. Mules: I’m a huge fan of mules (and clogs) for transition season, and they provide a nice balance to wide leg silhouettes. The best part is, you can wear them with both full and ankle lengths.
KUT from the Kloth Sienna High-Rise Wide Leg-Roll-Up (29) // Splendid Liza Pointed Toe Mule (8) // Reese Stripe Tank (S)
#2. Ankle Boots: You can’t go wrong with a pair of ankle boots. I prefer boots with a bit of a heel, but they can be flat if you prefer. When I’m wearing ankle boots with wide leg jeans, I prefer the jeans to be long enough to cover the shaft of the boot, but that’s a matter of personal preference. Also, remember that a pointed or almond shape toe will visually extend the line of the leg.
Hint of Blu wide leg jeans (29) // Blondo booties (8.5) // Liverpool sweater (S) // earrings
#3. Fashion Sneakers: For a more laid-back, urban vibe, opt for platform sneakers or field sneakers. They add a playful twist to your outfit while keeping you comfortable and stylish. In this case, full-length wide leg jeans or an ankle-length style will work.
Madewell The Perfect Vintage Wide Leg Jeans (29) // Caslon thermal polo (S) // Vince Oasis sneakers (39)
#4. Pointed Toe Pumps: The ladylike footwear trend is taking hold this season, and I love how a pointed toe slingback (flats or pumps) pair with wide leg jeans for the office or date night. Again, these work with both full and ankle lengths.
Sanctuary stripe sweater (S) // MOTHER The Hustler Roller Skimp Flare Jeans (29) (similar for less) // Sam Edelman slingback pumps (8) // hinge bracelet // similar hoops // necklace set // Coach bag
#5. Platform or Wedge Sandals: For a more casual transitional look while it’s still warm outside, a wedge or platform sandal also works well with wide leg jeans. I often opt for cropped or ankle length jeans with my sandals because it seems more seasonally appropriate, but you can certainly wear full-length styles as well.
PAIGE Leenah Ankle Wide Leg Jeans (29) // similar sweater (S) // similar sandals
Read more about What Shoes and Boots are Trending for Fall 2024.
Styling Tips for Tops with Wide Leg Jeans
When pairing tops with wide leg jeans for fall (or any season, really) you have two main goals: balance the volume in the pant silhouette and define the waist. Here are some ways to do that:
KUT From The Kloth Meg (6) // Rails crop jacket (S) // AllSaints t-shirthirt (M) // Blondo booties (8.5) // JW PEI bag // earrings // old AllSaints belt // sunnies (option)
#1. Tuck in Your Top: Tucking in your top is probably the easiest way to define your waist with wide leg jeans, and you can do this with tops of various lengths. Try a fitted blouse, a tucked-in t-shirt, or a sleek bodysuit for a polished look.
#2. Cropped Tops: Pairing wide-leg jeans with a shorter top is another great way to show off your waist and create a balanced silhouette, and it can be fitted or a boxy style.
The top doesn’t have to be so short that it exposes any skin; the smocked shrunken shirt I’m wearing below is a perfect example. I like how it comes down just over the top of the waistband of the jeans, right about to the top of the pockets.
MOTHER Hustler Roller Skimp (29) // Vince smocked shrunken top (M) // Franco Sarto boots (8)
#3. Fitted Jackets: Adding a fitted blazer or jacket to your wide-leg jeans outfit can create a more structured and polished appearance. It’s an excellent choice for a business-casual or date night look.
#4. Belt It: Adding a belt cinches your waist, and it also serves as a statement accessory. I like to choose a belt that coordinates with the color of my shoes and/or handbag so it looks intentional.
KUT From The Kloth Meg (6) // Rails crop jacket (S) // AllSaints t-shirthirt (M) // Blondo booties (8.5) // JW PEI bag // earrings // old AllSaints belt // sunnies (option)
#5. Knot It: For a more relaxed vibe, try tying a knot at the front (or even the back) of your top. This adds a playful touch to your outfit and shows off your waist.
#6. Play with Proportions: Experiment with different proportions in your outfit. For example, pair super-wide-leg jeans with a more fitted or cropped top, or choose slightly flared wide-leg jeans for a more subtle look.
#7. Monochromatic Outfits: Wearing a top and wide-leg jeans in the same color can create a sleek and elongated appearance. It’s an easy way to look put together without much effort.
KUT From The Kloth pants (6) // rib tank (S) // Evereve Camp Jacket (S) // similar belt // STAUD Dante Leather Flip Flops (38) // raffia hoops // raffia bag // Jenny Bird bangle // Madewell necklace set
Of course, you’ll want to experiment with different tops, footwear, and accessories to flatter your unique body and showcase your personal style; but I hope these tips help you style your wide leg jeans for fall.
Shop Wide Leg Jeans
I rounded up some of my favorite wide leg jeans below, and if you need petites, here’s a petite wide leg denim shopping widget just for you!
