Jeans are a year-round wardrobe staple, but each season brings new ways to wear the timeless fabric. While you may have a favourite pair you always reach for, it's fun to occasionally step out of your denim comfort zone. Now's the time to experiment, too: there's been no shortage of cool but polarizing trends to choose from lately, including Y2K signatures like low-rise fits [1] and hip cutouts [2]. Whether you gravitate toward controversial looks or prefer practical [3] options, you'll find a trend that suits your personal style on the market the season.
The baggy slouch, for example, comes in several different styles this year. You can invest in a pair with rips throughout or a swingy leg that offers more movement when you walk. While the acid-wash finish is decidedly '80s-inspired, the bleached-out look actually goes as far back as the '60s. Either way, this style will help you add some edge to your wardrobe.
If you like denim styles that command attention, consider the deconstructed trend. With a raw-edge finish, this look is not only stylish, but it's also a nod to the handmade, repurposed approach of eco-friendly brands; think Sami Miró Vintage with its iconic Porterhouse style or E.L.V. Denim, a line that's fully produced from postconsumer waste. Of course, for this look, you can always take matters into your own hands by DIYing your old jeans with a scissor or razor.
Two more denim trends that will be everywhere in 2022? Slits and cargo pants. Side slits often feature zippers and are sometimes placed at the front of the pants for a bold look. As for cargo pants, the classic '90s style is getting an updated look this season with oversize pockets or contrast stitching.
Ahead, scroll through for our favourite styles from the best denim brands. You can also hop directly to the category you're ready to shop, knowing it's time to fill that hole in your denim drawer once and for all.
- Baggy Jeans
- Acid-Wash Jeans
- Low-Rise Jeans
- Deconstructed Jeans
- Slitted Jeans
- Cargo Jeans
- Trouser Jeans
- High-Rise Bootcut Jeans
Baggy Jeans
The baggy jean, also sometimes referred to as the slouch, is a winner for two key reasons: It offers tons of room, and it's perfect for pairing with fitted bodysuits to contrast the jeans' loose, swingy movement. Whether you prefer a wide flare or something that tapers at the ankle, you'll find a roomy fit that works for you, ahead.
Blank Denim Head In The Clouds Jeans
Blank Denim Head In The Clouds Jeans [5] ($98)
DL1961 Hepburn Wide Leg Jean
DL1961 Hepburn Wide Leg Jean [6] ($209)
Frame Le Jane
Frame Le Jane [7] ($258)
Madewell Baggy Straight Jeans in Cavell Wash
Madewell Baggy Straight Jeans in Cavell Wash [8] ($98)
Gestuz Glenda Wide Jeans
Gestuz Glenda Wide Jeans [9] ($179)
Acid Wash Jeans
The '80s are having a major moment with acid wash denim sets ruling the fall 2022 runways. The statement-making pants are even more head-turning in shades like turquoise and pink. But to embrace this trend in a more understated way, go for something lightly treated.
One Teaspoon Pink Haze Jackson Mid Waist Wide Leg Jeans
One Teaspoon Pink Haze Jackson Mid Waist Wide Leg Jeans [10] ($158)
Ganni Bleach Bleach Denim Betzy
Ganni Bleach Bleach Denim Betzy [11] ($275)
R13 Crossover Distressed Jeans
R13 Crossover Distressed Jeans [12] ($445)
Mother Denim Wrapper Patch Springy Ankle Train Stops
Mother Denim Wrapper Patch Springy Ankle Train Stops [13] ($258)
Stella McCartney High-Rise Straight Jeans
Stella McCartney High-Rise Straight Jeans [14] ($345, originally $575)
Low-Rise Jeans
While the low-rise pant trend has returned — much to the dismay of most millennials — the new iteration offers more styling options than before. Rather than just crop tops, try a turtleneck or bodysuit to balance out the low-slung waist. And don't think you have to stick to fitted styles; baggy low-rise jeans are just as chic.
H&M Flare Low Jeans
H&M+ Flare Low Jeans [15] ($30)
Diesel Straight-Leg Low-Rise Jeans
Diesel Straight-Leg Low-Rise Jeans [16] ($422)
Good American Good '90s Loose
Good American Good '90s Loose [17] ($155)
Tibi Jeans
Tibi Fundamentals Brancusi Cropped Tapered Jeans [18] ($385)
GRLFRND Courtney Low Rise Boot
GRLFRND Courtney Low Rise Boot in High Bridge [19] ($137, originally $195)
Deconstructed Jeans
Reworked denim is the product of eco-conscious brands using leftover pieces of material that would just be considered scraps otherwise. Instead of going to the trash, these pieces are incorporated into new designs in creative ways, whether it's applying a raw edge side panel to a pant leg or using excess fabric to taper the ankle. Reconstructed denim continues to get more inventive every season.
Jonathan Simkhai River Straight Leg Denim
Jonathan Simkhai River Straight Leg Denim [20] ($295)
AGOLDE Pieced Angled Jean
AGOLDE Pieced Angled Jean [21] ($248)
ASOS Curve Straight Leg Jeans With Faux Feather Hem in Blue
ASOS Curve Straight Leg Jeans With Faux Feather Hem in Blue [22] ($82)
Sami Miró Vintage Porterhouse Jeans in Vintage Blue
Sami Miró Vintage Porterhouse Jeans in Vintage Blue [23] ($375)
JW Anderson Raw Edge Wide-Leg Jeans
JW Anderson Raw Edge Wide-Leg Jeans [24] ($465)
Slitted Jeans
The side slit took hold a few seasons ago, but in 2022, the trend is becoming even more intricate. Look for details like zippers that add an extra flair. Unexpected placements too, like at the front of the pant leg, can set the stage for a serious shoe moment.
ASOS Design Curve Organic Cotton Blend Mid-Rise '90s Straight Leg Jean
ASOS Design Curve Organic Cotton Blend Mid-Rise '90s Straight Leg Jean in Midwash [25] ($58)
MOTHER The Rascal Sliced Up Jeans
MOTHER The Rascal Sliced Up Jeans [26] ($248)
Good American Good Boy Twist Slit Jeans
Good American Good Boy Twist Slit Jeans [27] ($155)
Nanushka Louis High-Rise Flared Jeans
Nanushka Louis High-Rise Flared Jeans [28] ($224, originally $320)
Rag & Bone Nina High-Rise Jeans
Rag & Bone Nina High-Rise Jeans [29] ($255)
Cargo Jeans
Cargo jeans — aka carpenter pants — have come a long way. While these used to be strictly utilitarian, we're now seeing cargos with heavy, oversize pockets or edgy mixed materials like nylon and leather. Pair your cargo jeans with chunky platform boots and a crop top for a quintessential '90s ensemble.
Zara The Worker Straight Jeans
Zara The Worker Straight Jeans [30] ($70)
Universal Standard Gwen High Rise Carpenter Jeans
Universal Standard Gwen High Rise Carpenter Jeans [31] ($148)
Alex Mill Phoebe High Rise Straight Leg Jeans
Alex Mill Phoebe High Rise Straight Leg Jeans [32] ($185)
H&M '90s Baggy High Waist Jeans
H&M '90s Baggy High Waist Jeans [33] ($30)
I.AM.GIA Naima Cargo Pants
I.AM.GIA Naima Cargo Pants [34] ($50, originally $100)
Trouser Jeans
One reason to love the trouser jean is that it cinches the waist, often with a built-in belt. This '80s-inspired silhouette usually features pleating near the pockets, and plays well with a tucked-in button-up shirt and a simple pair of flats.
E.L.V. Denim Sustainable Black Match Boyfriend Jeans
E.L.V. Denim Sustainable Black Match Boyfriend Jeans [35] ($399)
Nimes Pants Off White Jeans
Nimes Pants Off White Jeans [36] ($98)
Mango Wide Leg Belt Jeans
Mango Wide Leg Belt Jeans [37] ($80)
AGOLDE + Net Sustain Lark High Rise Boyfriend Organic Jeans
AGOLDE + Net Sustain Lark High Rise Boyfriend Organic Jeans [38] ($250)
& Other Stories Belted Flared Jeans
& Other Stories Belted Flared Jeans [39] ($89)
High-Rise Bootcut Jeans
The bootcut jean continues to be a beloved '90s style for its undeniable versatility. Not only does this classic silhouette elongate the leg, it's also one of those rare pieces that can be dressed up or down without overthinking it. Toss on your favourite crewneck sweatshirt and crisp white sneakers for a casual 'fit, or wear a halter top and strappy heels for date night.
Warp + Weft EZE '90s High Rise Loose Straight Riverie
Warp + Weft EZE '90s High Rise Loose Straight Riverie [40] ($98)
AG Alexxis Boot Cut Jeans
AG Alexxis Boot Cut Jeans [41] ($225)
Wray Drew Jean in Vintage Blue
Wray Drew Jean in Vintage Blue [42] ($111, originally $185)
Nicole Zïzi Studio Recycled Stretch Bootcut Denim Pants
Nicole Zïzi Studio Recycled Stretch Bootcut Denim Pants [43] ($275)
Denim Forum The Joni High Rise Jeans
Denim Forum The Joni High Rise Jeans [44] ($110)