Jeans [1] are a perfect blank canvas upon which anything is possible. But even with classic wardrobe staples [2], trends come and go. While denim does, indeed, stand apart with the notion that a straight fit in a true-blue colorway will remain in favour, there are certainly head-turning cuts, of-the-moment silhouettes, and specific decades-old washes that cycle in and out of style. And modern touches (for example, an asymmetrical waistband or an overly exaggerated slit) mean anything is possible.
In 2023, we'll see a rise in popularity of the ankle crop [3] and distressed treatments that range from unfinished hems to redone patchwork. Pleated trousers, dramatically pooling wide-legs, and formfitting bootcut flares [4] are also everywhere, with these more standout shapes hailing from the '70s, '80s, and '90s. Meanwhile, the low-rise [5] from the early aughts isn't going anywhere, with celebrities [6] favouring the look particularly when completed with a visible logo brief or a strappy thong pulled high to achieve hip cleavage.
Whether you love to mix up your denim outfits with oversize knits and statement tops or keep the combination understated in a bodysuit or simple white tee, scroll through the following categories one by one to see the top denim trends of 2023 that you can try on for size. Or feel free to skip ahead to the section you already know you're in the market for, and browse a range of washes for all different body types and budgets.
- Denim Trend 2023: Pleated Trousers
- Denim Trend 2023: Ankle Cropped Jeans
- Denim Trend 2023: Bootcut Flares
- Denim Trend 2023: Cargo Jeans
- Denim Trend 2023: Tapered Leg
- Denim Trend 2023: Low-Rise Jeans
- Denim Trend 2023: Pooling Wide-Leg
- Denim Trend 2023: Patchwork Jeans
— Additional reporting by Sarah Wasilak
Denim Trend 2023: Pleated Trousers
High-rise, pleat-front trousers in denim are everywhere. With a fitted waistband, these jeans are anything but your dad's favourite pair from the '90s, giving them more leeway to be styled with slim bodysuits and bralettes alike. That said, the roomy leg makes for a fluid silhouette that has dressed-up appeal.
Pleated Trousers: Madewell Baggy Straight Jeans
Go for a dark style [7] ($98) that mimics the look of a standard wool trouser, but is crafted from good old denim instead.
Pleated Trousers: Reformation Montauk High Rise Jeans
Opt for a style [8] ($168) with a high-waist that allows the pleats to form more of an elevated look; rather than a slightly baggier, low-rise one.
Pleated Trousers: Nili Lotan Flora Jeans
For an off-duty favourite, you'll love these lower-rise, wide leg flares [9] ($425) that allow for a slimmer fit in the waist and roomier leg.
Denim Trend 2023: Ankle Cropped Jeans
Whether you wear yours with ornate, embellished heels, classic ballet flats, or casual sneakers, ankle cropped jeans expose just a sliver of skin, without going for a full-blown pedal pusher moment. What's more, this silhouette is a season-less classic that can be styled with skimpy silk camisoles and wool overcoats alike.
Ankle Cropped Jeans: Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Button-Fly Sky-Hi
Go '80s with a light, slightly acid washed treatment. You'll love these slim ankle-crop jeans [10] ($50) for their off-duty vibes and lower price point.
Ankle Cropped Jeans: Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans
There's nothing like a Levi's 501 [11] ($108) fit when it comes to the classics, and the American brand has crafted its forever favourite in a flattering ankle crop, offered in nearly every denim wash under the sun.
Ankle Cropped Jeans: Raey Crop Organic-Cotton Straight Leg
These greyed jeans [12] ($112, originally $160) are great for morning or night. With a straight leg fit, they're easeful without being too roomy.
Denim Trend 2023: Bootcut Flares
When it comes to this '70s throwback style, search for a slight flare from the knee down to the toe. A bootcut length means a peek at your shoes, so whether you opt for a pointed-toe flat; an early-aughts look with sporty sneakers; or platform boots to elongate your legs, you'll depend on your footwear for ultimate outfit balance.
Bootcut Flares: Abercrombie Ultra High Rise Flare Jean
Between the ultra-high-rise of the waist and the slight flare of the slim leg, you'll feel taller in height wearing these Abercrombie jeans [13] ($89), whether you're in heels or off-duty sneakers.
Bootcut Flares: J.Crew Skinny Flare Jeans
These flared jeans [14] ($158) feature a traditional five-pocket design, but what's not visible to the naked eye is that they're made from polyester recycled from plastic — which would have otherwise gone to landfills.
Bootcut Flares: Frame Le High Flare in Blue Stripe
Take the bootcut flare [15] ($258) to eye-catching status with a blue pinstripe print down the leg.
Denim Trend 2023: Cargo Jeans
The '90s are back in full force, including the utilitarian trend of cargo pants. This season, allow the off-duty look to infiltrate your denim collection, shopping everything from tailored high-waisted styles to slouchy baggy silhouettes with a nostalgic fervour that is unmatched.
Cargo Jeans: Aqua x Maeve Reilly High Rise
Keep it classic with a slim bootcut [16] ($98) and a single cargo pocket on either side, just like you did in the '90s. You might even want to mix in a sweet pointelle baby tee to really get into the mood.
Cargo Jeans: Asos Design Curve Cargo Jeans in Washed Black
Go for a casual look with a pair of mid-rise cargo jeans [17] ($49) that also boast oversize pockets, but can be worn with a wide range of tops thanks to a dark and versatile wash.
Cargo Jeans: Isabel Marant Vokayo Acid-Wash High-Rise Jeans
For a more head-turning look, shop these straight-leg jeans [18] ($790) that have not one, not two, but nine striking pockets.
Denim Trend 2023: Tapered Leg
If you're looking for a looser leg through the thigh that comes to a polished nip at the ankle, consider another vestige from the '90s by way of a tapered leg jean. This slightly bow-legged style adds intrigue to your overall outfit, and pairs nicely with combat boots.
Tapered Leg Jeans: Ganni Stary Cropped High-Rise Tapered Jeans
These black jeans [19] ($215) offer a twist on your favourite '90s straight leg, featuring a tapered ankle that keeps them from feeling too oversized.
Tapered Leg Jeans: AGOLDE Luna Pieced High Rise Jeans
These heavyweight AGOLDE jeans [20] ($228) can be balanced with a lightweight crop top for an effortless daytime look that feels even more relaxed with a distressed hem.
Tapered Leg Jeans: COS Tapered-Leg High-Rise Jeans
Style these COS jeans [21] ($120) with a pair of loafers to draw attention to their curvature at the bottom of the leg.
Denim Trend 2023: Low-Rise Jeans
The low-rise denim [22] trend from the early aughts isn't going anywhere. While some celebrities [23] are utilising this fit to reveal briefs and thong straps, you can easily work the slouch with an oversize sweater or bodysuit to give it a more easygoing, covered-up look.
Low-Rise Jeans: Rag & Bone Piper Low-Rise Straight
Just because your jeans are a low-rise doesn't mean that you're forced to lean into a loose '90s hang. You'll love this classic straight leg fit [24] ($255) that simply boasts a slightly lower rise than the rest.
Low-Rise Jeans: Silver Jeans Co. Britt Low Rise Slim Bootcut Jeans
The '00s are calling in a big way with the subtle bleaching at the pockets of these low rise jeans [25] ($94). The slim bootcut also works nicely with a block heel for a more polished look.
Low-Rise Jeans: Kaia x Zara Straight Leg Jeans
You can easily bare a hint of skin when you rock low-rise jeans [26] ($70) with a matching cropped denim jacket. Add a sturdy Western boot, and your coordinated outfit will feel easier than ever to construct.
Denim Trend 2023: Pooling Wide Leg
If you're going to go big, go big. This season, jump head first into the ultra-wide leg with jeans that drag behind you and almost entirely cover your shoes. You might even want to size up in your favourite pair to really lean into the look with a fit that's already trustworthy and familiar, since this exaggerated look is for the bold.
Pooling Wide Leg: Reformation Cary High Rise Slouchy Jeans
The addition of studs at the seams of the Reformation Cary jeans [27] ($198) make them feel even more timely. Even though they're baggy, they're made from rigid material, so they won't over-stretch.
Pooling Wide Leg: Abercrombie Curve Love Mid Rise Ultra Wide Leg Jean
Many reviewers say these Abercrombie jeans [28] ($60, originally $110) come with the perfect amount of bagginess, helping to achieve the model off-duty look they've become synonymous with.
Pooling Wide Leg: Raey 90s Organic Cotton High-Waisted Jeans
This Raey style [29] ($180) features a wide leg that isn't overwhelming, and the hem puddles without feeling frumpy. What's more, the waist is a flattering high cut that looks great with slim bodysuits and tucked-in tees alike.
Denim Trend 2023: Patchwork Jeans
Go artsy this year with jeans that feature a patchwork design, oftentimes clad with mixed material panels that incorporate cotton or faux-leather. It's a one-and-done way to play with texture wearing nothing but your true blues.
Patchwork Jeans: Frame Le Original Patch Mending Jeans
If you want the patchwork look without too much complication, opt for this style from Frame [30] ($100) with a single contrast denim patch in the middle of each leg.
Patchwork Jeans: Good American Good ‘90s Jeans Redesign
Marry a mix of denim washes and patch sizes for an overall crafty look in these Good American jeans [31] ($137, originally $195).
Patchwork Jeans: Cider Patchy Straight Leg Jeans
If you're a fan of coloured denim, you'll love the '70s influence of these Cider jeans [32] ($36) with contrast pockets at the back. Let them fully own the spotlight by coordinating with a fitted white T-shirt.