Mark My Words: This Non–Skinny Jean Trend Is Making a Big Comeback

January 15, 2022 at 08:00AM

If I opened your denim drawer right now, I bet I could guess some of the key silhouettes stored inside—straight-leg jeans, skinnies and perhaps even an of-the-moment outlier like the wide-leg 90s cut. But what’s one style that probably hasn’t surfaced to the top of the pile as much lately? Flares. Sure, cropped flares have had their moment in recent years but the more polarising bootcut and bell-bottom styles (aka non–skinny jeans) haven’t been as popular— until now.

Designers from Alberta Ferretti to Dior reintroduced fresh flare jeans in their autumn/winter 2021 collections and the silhouette was cemented as the next It denim pick in the spring/summer 2022 collections by the likes of Saint Laurent and Rejina Pyo. Even celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Margot Robbie, and Harry Styles have already been following suit in ‘70s-inspired flares.

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To highlight the look further, below we’ve broken down how the flared trend is taking over the runway, celeb and fashion worlds right now, as well as linking out to some of the coolest cuts in case you feel ready to try the trend again this season. Keep scrolling for everything you need to know about flared jeans. 

Light-wash flares pop even more with black separates like this cropped black knit.

A tangerine-coloured jumper half-tucked into wide-leg bell-bottom jeans feels so on trend right now.

You needn’t stick to blue tones. In fact, fresh white pairs like Alexa Chung’s can feel more modern, especially when paired with Mulberry arm candy and an on-trend waistcoat. 

Bella Hadid gives her flares a Y2K spin with an oversized leather jacket, chunky ankle boots and miniature sunglasses. 

The split-seam opening at the bottom of the flare makes these jeans especially modern.

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Opt for a darker, more structured style for a smarter look. 

Flares are the best jeans to do the double denim look with. Just pair with a belted denim jacket a la Rejina Pyo. 

Coach proves flares can be relaxed too. 

That jeans-and-a-nice-top combination you always rely on? Dior showcased a new pairing to try: a lace top worn with classic blue flares (shearling trapper hat optional). 

Look for details like front seams and super-high waistlines to elevate your flare-jean look. 

Elevate dark flares with a modern blazer and classic white ankle boots.

A long duster coat works flawlessly with longer flares for an of-the-moment silhouette.

Light-wash flares fit the minimalist-style mold when paired with a simple asymmetric vest and a leather jacket. 

Slightly cropped, tailored flare jeans paired with a tucked-in top and blazer make a polished look for work or a night out.

Flares come French-girl approved. pair them with a turtleneck and layered knit for a chic 70s vibe.

Next Up: Check out what to wear with flared jeans here

This piece originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. and has been updated. 

Author Bobby Schuessler | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC