Yesterday I rounded up the top 2024 spring fashion trends, and over the next few days, we’re going to take a deep dive into some of the most important wardrobe categories. Let’s start with denim trends for spring 2024!
shop hereFirst, let’s review how trends work. Most trends exist on a spectrum, gradually increasing in popularity until they peak, and then slowly phasing out over time. As each trend rises and falls in popularity, it overlaps the other trends that are also rising and falling, but they don’t rise and fall in synchrony. Older styles get phased out as newer styles arrive on the scene, and your eye will adjust as the new styles become mainstream.
Also, where you live has a lot to do with when these trends rise and fall and which ones have the most staying power. Point being, you don’t have to ditch all your jeans and start fresh every season. It’s totally okay to wear a variety of denim styles, and phase them in and out of your closet as your budget allows. In fact, that’s the way it should be done.
That said, there are styles that look more dated, and styles that look more fashion-forward, and sometimes it’s the smallest details that make all the difference… such as the rise or wash of your jeans. So… what are the hottest denim trends for Spring 2024?
What are the biggest denim trends for Spring 2024?
These are the most popular trends this spring, as I see it, and the ones that I feel are the most wearable for the everyday woman. There are plenty of other styles and silhouettes that look current; these are just the ones that feel particularly fresh to me this season.
#1. Wide Leg Silhouettes
photo credit: Anthropologie
The most fashion-forward denim silhouette this spring is by far and away the wide leg jean. We’re seeing all lengths, from cropped to full-length styles. They usually have a high rise (11-12 inches), but there are some mid rise (9-10 inch) options out there too.
The key to styling wide leg jeans is to wear a top that highlights the waist, whether it’s fitted, tucked in, or a cropped style. A structured jacket can also help achieve this goal.
I realize this is not a silhouette that appeals to everyone, nor is it flattering on every woman, but if you’re drawn to them at all, you should give them a try. You may be surprised by how much you like them, and you don’t have to wear a super dramatic wide leg to participate in the trend.
Personally, I try to find wide leg styles that are cut closer to the hips and upper thighs, such as the PAIGE Anessa and KUT from the Kloth Jodi. I find those easier to wear than those that create an A-line shape from hip to hem.
In fact, there’s a fine line between a looser flare leg and a slim wide leg, and that’s the line I try to walk when wearing this trend.
Here are some wide leg jeans to consider!
#2. Darker Washes
photo credit: Anthropologie
While light washes are still relevant, we’re starting to see more of the deep blue shades popping up, and I’m happy to have the variety. I feel like the popularity of the darker washes will only continue to grow over the next few seasons.
My only caveat to this “trend” – which, of course, is not really a trend at all; dark wash jeans are always out there – but that’s the thing about it. It can easily look dated or frumpy, so keep your silhouettes loose and relaxed for a modern take on this traditional denim wash, and be sure to style them in a current way.
Shop dark wash denim here:
#3. Ecru
photo credit: Anthropologie
I included this in last year’s denim trends post, but I didn’t really see it taking off until this year. Now it’s everywhere in the mall stores and gracing my favorite influencers.
I love how this off-white shade plays into the neutrals but can be paired with bright and bold colors as well. If you don’t care for the newer leg styles, consider updating your spring/summer wardrobe with this natural wash in your favorite denim style.
Shop ecru denim:
#4. Cargo & Utility Details
photo credit: Evereve
Cargo pockets and other utility details have popped up this season on all denim silhouettes, and this trend is taking off big-time. I think it’s because it’s not that foreign to us; cargo pants seem to always be around in some capacity, some years a little more of a prominent trend than others. So cargo pockets on jeans is something many of us are willing to try.
It is a bit of a rugged look, so that doesn’t appeal to everyone, but I’ve seen some that look more sophisticated, and they can be styled to look more elevated, as I tried to do here.
The other nice thing about this trend is you can find utility details on jeans in all silhouettes, so if the wide leg isn’t for you, you can still participate in this trend. I especially like the KUT from the Kloth Reese Utility Straight, as there are no bulky cargo pockets on these, and the slim straight ankle-length style is easy to wear for most women.
#5. Big Cuffs
photo credit: Evereve
I’m seeing big cuffs everywhere right now on all denim silhouettes, so I definitely wanted to give this trend its own category. The nice thing about this one is, you can purchase jeans already cuffed, or try it out by cuffing a pair you already have.
A lot of ladies feel like this is hard to pull off if you are vertically challenged, but I’m going to make a case for trying it anyway, if you like it. It might just be a matter of balancing the overall proportions of the outfit. It’s a fun and an easy way to add a trendy element to your outfit without having to make a big investment.
Shop cuffed jeans here:
#6. Barrel Leg
photo credit: Everlane
The barrel-leg silhouette has been steadily gaining traction for a while, and this year I’m seeing more of it across the board. They’re also called horseshoe jeans. Basically, they fit loose in the thighs and narrows toward the ankle, and they can be subtle or quite dramatic.
These jeans are definitely A Look, so they might not be your cuppa tea, but I wanted to give them a mention because they can fit a variety of body types and personal style aesthetics.
Shop barrel jeans:
#7. Pintuck Jeans & Front Patch Pockets
photo credit: J.Crew
I’m combining these two in one because they’re smallish details, and I feel like they both give your denim a more elevated look and feel. Plus, you can incorporate these details onto any denim silhouette.
The front patch pockets (sometimes called a bardot pocket) are a carry-over from last year, but the pintuck detail is one I’m just starting to notice this spring, and I really like it.
Last year, the white PAIGE Leenah with the front patch pockets were my go-to white jeans for dressier looks, and I can’t wait to pull them out and start wearing them again. I just ordered a couple pairs of the pintuck jeans to try.
Shop pintuck jeans and patch pockets here:
#8. Denim Skirts
photo credit: Gap Factory
Denim skirts are BACK and I could not be happier. They haven’t been on the forefront of the fashion scene for many years, and I love this alternative to jeans.
The midi and maxi lengths look the most fresh and modern to my eye, but if you don’t care for the midi lengths, try this A-line style with the released hem. I would just steer clear of the knee-length pencil skirts, they don’t look nearly as current as the other styles.
Shop denim skirts:
What Denim Styles are OUT?
I’ll make this section brief, but I think it’s helpful to mention the styles and silhouettes that you may want to retire or at least move to the back of your closet for a while, if looking current is important to you.
Everyone always asks about skinny jeans, so I’ll reiterate that the low-rise painted-on legging skinny jeans we wore for so long have been “out” for some time, but slim-cut jeans with a mid or high rise can be worn without looking dated if they’re styled in a current way.
Low rises look more dated than mid and high rises at the moment, and denim with excessive distressing and all over rips and tears is looking very tired to me. If you like distressed jeans, a fresher look is the clean rips to the knee as opposed to all-over distressing.
Unless it defines your personal style, jeans with a lot of embellishments and embroidery aren’t really a thing right now. A more current way to add interest to your jeans is with dramatic hems (released hems, big cuffs, exaggerated trouser hems, etc.) or interesting seaming details.
I’m sure there are more I’m not thinking of. What other questions do you have??
In Conclusion
I can hear the protests in the comments already, lol! Once again, you should always wear what you like and what feels most authentic to your personal style. Maybe you’re ready to jump right into some of these new trends, maybe you want to wait a while and see how they play out, or maybe you’re going to sit them out entirely.
Like all matters of style, the way you interpret these trends is up to you. I’m open to new trends, but I don’t like to take big risks with fashion, so I’m a bit of a slow adopter with those trends that don’t immediately resonate with me. The most important thing is to have fun with it, and wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident!
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35 Responses
Back in 2004 my mom and I went to France. The south and Paris….I took a denim skirt and as it turned out its really the only bottom I needed to take. It was spring so I would start the day with tights and a cool orange denim jacket I took and then strip off the tights and jacket as the day got warmer. I have never found a more versatile travel outfit since. Practical and stylish….glad to see this trend come back. Could have packed carry on only before that was a trend lol.
I like dark wash and ecru, but the rest of the jean trends just don’t work for my body type. Too much going on and too much fabric. I’ll keep my basics: skinny, straight leg and baby boot cut silhouettes. Denim skirts, I do like the idea, but I haven’t yet found one that looks flattering on me.
Did you size down in the Kut from the Kloth Jodi or get your regular size. I saw a review that said they bag out and to size down and am wondering how these jeans worked for you.
I got the 6 and it’s perfect.
Thanks for this post! I am excited to try some of these new styles. I love trying new things with the fashion. It’s fun! And as I approach 40 I don’t want to get stuck in my ways and look outdated and frumpy! I bought a pair of ecru wide legs in the fall and I’ve hardly worn them but I think it is because they are too long. They are raw hem which will be really easy to cut but now I’m wondering if I should try a big cuff at the bottom! Looking forward to the rest of the week!
Barrel leg… wow not forgiving. Skinny girl st church on po raise team wore some and just a bit hip accentuating and actually make your legs looks weird when the barrell is extreme
Yeah, that is kind of the point, though. 🙂
Some of the more dramatic styles actually make the model look bow-legged. Not exactly flattering.
Yeah they do. I wonder how many women realize that if they are bow legged, skinny jeans show that too.
Another great list! I actually bought a pair of washed black jeans on eBay, thinking they were straight leg, but they’re actually more barrel. I decided they’ll look good with sandals so I’m saving them for spring/summer. I am intrigued by the wide-leg; I have a dark pair I wore with heels the other day and I’m looking for a lighter pair. Kut is more in my budget, so I will start there. I have the Reese utility jeans and LOVE them.
I folded the legs back on a pair of full-length straight leg dark wash jeans to achieve that wide cuff, and it worked. I wore them with loafers and got compliments.
By following your blog, Jo-Lynne, I have been enlightened by what’s out there! And I do have fun with trying new things; if something doesn’t work in the fitting room, I laugh and move on. Fashion should be fun!
So, thank you, Jo-Lynne, for your assistance in all things style!
Thank you, that is so nice to hear. I love your attitude.
Sandie,
I also love the Kut jeans and have the Kelsey crop flares in dark wash and wear them every chance I get.
Jolynn,
What a helpful post! I am loving the Kut Sienna lighter wash you are featuring today. The last model in this post for Gap wearing the denim skirt with the cordovan loafers brings me way back. Everyone in the late 60’s wore the Bass Weejuns loafers in cordovan; so funny to see them again!
What is the difference, if there is one, between the “cigarette” leg and the slim cut? Also, what belts are trending now?
Not much, a cigarette leg is a slim straight jean, usually ankle length.
Belts – I did this post, maybe it will help? I did a round up of belts at all price points.
Are cropped jeans still in-they come to the ankle?
Yes, for sure. They will be more prevalent in the spring/summer months.
Those Kut from the Kloth Reese jeans spoke to me a week or so ago when you posted them. I ordered them, they arrived yesterday. I love them! They fit like a dream and looked so fresh and updated. I’m not a fan of the big cargo pockets so these seem to work for me. Thanks JL!
So happy to hear that!
So I bought a pair of the cuffed jeans and they hit right at the top of my foot, (I’m 5ft 4) I see them cropped a lot but also full length, do you think this style looks correct in the full length or is your opinion they should be cropped or more ankle length? ( I know you say wear what we love but I’m not sure I’m sold on these because of the length 🤔)
Thanks Jolynn!!
Yeah, I think they look best if they’re somewhat cropped. I had the same issue with the first pair I tried. If they are full length, they need to be almost to the floor so it looks intentional.
I like them all except the barrel jeans. I like the cuff look too but I know they will shorten my legs. If I do cuff I will do it on light wash jeans because the contrast in color between the fold and jeans won’t be extreme like in a dark wash. I tried it with my light wash bootleg jeans and it didn’t look bad. I love pintuck seams. It’s been spring like here the past couple of weeks. Snow is pretty but I don’t want it.
Thank you! Great post, I pour over all your detailed information and love learning the new trends and styles. I appreciate the range of price points you share too. I’ve never looked great in skinny denim, so I quickly moved to other styles and am enjoying it!
I find it a little funny that wide leg jeans are listed as a new trend. I have a pair of Mother high waist wide leg jeans I bought 3 or 4 years ago. Maybe they were a new trend that year and faded out and now are back?? Just a thought😊
I did not say they are new, they have been working their way back into popularity for several seasons. What I said is, they are the most fashion-forward and prominent trend in the mainstream stores at the moment.
As I pointed out in my intro, trends exist on a spectrum, and they arrive at different places at different times. I’m going off of the mainstream retailers where most of the women reading this blog shop.
I enjoyed this post! I noticed you didn’t callout flares/bootcuts but is that because they’re not trending hard like the other silhouettes? I just got the Mother Weekender “We the animals” flares and highly recommend! Great wash and a little stretchy but not going to bag out. I have Mother Dazzler ankle jeans I bought 2 years ago in “Cream puff” and I think that qualifies as ecru?? They’re kind of off white. I also love dark wash jeans and am waiting for the crop flare Rag&Bone jeans you recommended to come in.
I would say flares are definitely trending hard, right behind the wide leg. They actually kind of overlap a bit, as I mentioned. I just listed on the one silhouette I feel is most prominent, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any other silhouettes that are trending. The relaxed straight and baggy fits are also still very relevant. I think the Cream Puff qualifies, although I feel like the deeper beige is a little fresher for this season, but they are all out there. And white is too.
Thanks for doing so much research to put this informative post together for us. There are some trends that I won’t be participating in.
I’m petite (and over 60), so some of these trends can be tricky—I like to look current, though, because I work in retail. I just have to find the right fit for my body type, which can involve a bit of trial & error… I bought a pair of wide leg jeans from Old Navy that you featured last year but never wore them because, even though they fit great, they’re really heavy! But I’ve found a couple of others since that work great—as you say, they need to be more fitted at the top & a bit slimmer through the thigh to work for me. I love the ecru & cargo/utility jeans but will pass on the barrel leg. I just ordered the Liverpool cuffed jeans from Nordstrom but they haven’t arrived yet—thinking they’ll work great for spring/summer!
Thanks for this post, Jolynne! I am loving all of the variety in denim styles!
So, you are a perfect height and have a beautiful figure and I love pretty much all of these on but not sure I could pull some of them off. I’m 5ft 5in and not slim right now due to health issues but wonder about those who are my height or smaller. Are they suitable for my height and lower? Thanks 😊
I am 5’5″ also, for what it’s worth. 🙂 And I am not necessarily suggesting I can pull all of these off. Like, I’m not personally a fan of the barrel leg on me, and I have to be very selective with wide leg and cargo styles. This post is less about what trends I want to wear, and more about providing information for a variety of women and personal styles and body types.
To your question about these trends being suitable to women 5’5″ and under, most of them can be, it just depends on body type and how you style them. In other words, you may have to try and see, but there is no reason why you shouldn’t at least give them a try, if they suit your style. I hope that helps.
Great roundup. I see some trends I’ll try, and others I’ll skip. I’m glad to see the pintuck trend listed here. I’ve not noticed it anywhere else, but it would look nice combined with the dark wash wise leg trend. Thanks again for doing all this research so we don’t have to!
Great round up! I tried so hard last year to find a great pair of ecru jeans but ended up not liking any of them. I’m glad they are going to be in this year again so I will continue the search! I am short (5’4″-ish on a tall day lol) but I have always loved the versatility of wide cuff jeans. I prefer them without the tacked hem so that I can alter the length as needed to go with different shoes and situations. I think they are a fun, casual style that don’t take things too seriously. Definitely skipping the barrel legs. I really hope they move on and don’t become mainstream so that I won’t feel a need to attempt them. Ha! And lastly not sure if I can do the denim skirts. Those longer straight denim skirts were such a thing when I was in college (late 80s/early 90s). They just feel frumpy to me. I do like the a-line released hem version you highlighted though. I might be able to dip my toe into something like that. Thanks for doing these spring posts. Living in south Georgia spring will be here before we can blink.
I think blue jeans are a great way to express personality. I also think the names given to the different styles hold connotations, whether negative or positive. Do you want barrel legs? Or do you want skinny jeans? LOL As for me, I love them all and I can’t wait to wear them all.
What about denim overalls or jumpsuits? In or out?