Full-length straight-leg jeans are everywhere this fall, and I’m kind of liking the shift. They feel modern without trying too hard, and the longer length instantly makes an outfit look a little more polished, especially with ankle boots. I’ve been playing around with a few new styles lately, so today I’m sharing some easy outfit ideas with my current favorites.
In last week’s post, Which Straight-Leg Jeans Are In This Fall, where I tried several new full-length relaxed straight-leg styles, a few of you asked whether straight-leg jeans are getting wider. They can definitely vary quite a bit; the defining feature is simply that the cut stays straight from hip to hem. Because of that, the lines between a relaxed straight and a true wide leg can get a little blurry.
I get the confusion, because I feel it too! Here’s a quick visual I whipped up that might help:
And if you want a deeper dive, my post on Women’s Pant Styles and Hem Lengths Demystified breaks down the subtle differences between the various pant silhouettes.
All that to say, lately I’ve noticed straight-leg styles getting longer and more relaxed, which is making my slimmer ankle-length cuts start to feel a bit dated. In last week’s try-ons, I was specifically hunting for more relaxed straight-leg styles for casual everyday wear, and I found a couple pairs that feel promising and have been fun to experiment with.
Like any pant silhouette, the denim-and-shoe pairing is the biggest challenge, so today I’m sharing the shoes and boots I’m liking best with relaxed straight-leg jeans and how I’m styling them right now.
How to Wear Straight-Leg Jeans with Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are the easiest shoes to wear with straight-leg jeans in fall and winter, but the style of boot makes a huge difference in the overall vibe.
Casual Ankle Boots for Everyday Looks
Western-inspired ankle boots pair especially well with relaxed straight-leg jeans. The squared-off toe and slightly chunkier heel create a laid-back, everyday look that feels modern without trying too hard.
I like how the Quince Bella Relaxed Straight works with the western-inspired Dolce Vita Vaydin Bootie in black leather. The fair isle sweater ties in the black and blue tones, and the navy suede tote adds another pop of blue for a cohesive finish.
Quince Bella Stretch Relaxed Straight in Cool Blue (size 30/30) // Dolce Vita Vaydin Bootie (8.5) // Z Supply Perci Sweater // Madewell Tote
Those boots also work well with the longer AGOLDE Harper. I wore that pairing with a fitted scoop neck tee and fun faux fur vest for a chic date night look.
AGOLDE Harper (30) // Dolce Vita Vaydin Bootie (8.5) // Avec Les Filles Faux Fur Vest (S) // LOFT Scoop Neck Tee (M) // Treasure & Bond belt in Chocolate (M) // Clare V. Petit Moyen Messenger // Jane Win pendant
And the Dolce Vita Faint suede Chelsea boot in dark brown also has that subtle western shape that adds interest without overwhelming the jeans. I styled them here with the AG Brinley (on sale at Nordstrom!) and a trendy faux suede bubble-hem bomber jacket (a budget-friendly Amazon Fashion find!). I tucked in a fitted tee and added a belt to define the waist and give the outfit an extra point of interest.
AG Brinley Straight (29) // Dolce Vita Faint H2O Waterproof Chelsea Boot in Dark Brown Suede (8.5) // bubble hem bomber jacket in Army Green (S) // LNA Harrison Tee in Heather Oat (M) // Treasure & Bond suede belt in Chocolate (M) // Clare V. Moyen Messenger
I also wanted to include a look with washed black denim, since it’s one of my most-worn colors in fall and winter. These are the KUT from the Kloth Selena, which the brand labels a “Baggy Low Rise Straight,” but that’s really just another way of saying a relaxed straight. And the 10″ rise definitely feels more like a mid-rise on me. I really like these, and they’re currently 25% OFF w/ code BF25!
I paired them with black leather Chelsea boots and topped them off with a sporty vest and long-sleeve tee. I love how the sleek shaft and almond toe of the boot balances the slightly fuller leg.
KUT from the Kloth Selena Baggy Low Rise Straight (6) (on sale 25% OFF w/ code BF25) // similar Chelsea boots // EVEREVE Ollie Varsity Vest (S) // Treasure Bond Rib T-Shirt (M)
Sleek Heeled Ankle Boots for Dressier Looks
When I want a more elevated look with my straight-leg jeans, I like a dressier boot with a sleek profile but still substantial enough to balance the fuller, straight-leg cut. The Sam Edelman Saige Bootie is my current go-to because the slender square toe visually lengthens the leg, and the demi block heel keeps the line clean and streamlined without feeling too delicate. It still has that modern vibe that straight-leg denim needs.
I styled them here with the AGOLDE Harper Straight, a bold red v-neck sweater, and a faux fur jacket.
AGOLDE Harper Wide Leg Jean (30) // Sam Edelman Saige Bootie (8.5) // Gap Factory Relaxed Faux Fur Jacket (S) // Aritzia Bare Cashmere V-neck Sweater (M) // Clare V. Petite Moyen Messenger
The slightly shorter sweater helps extend the leg line even more, and the heeled boot adds just enough height to keep everything looking long and lean.
Here’s the same boot-and-denim combo with a more classic pairing: an oatmeal v-neck sweater and a long brown herringbone coat. This is one of those timeless fall/winter outfits that always looks pulled together.
AGOLDE Harper Straight (29) // Sam Edelman Saige Bootie (8.5) // Abercrombie Tailored Topcoat (S) // Jenni Kayne Flynn in Oatmeal (S) (similar for less) // Treasure & Bond belt // Clare V Petite Moyen Messenger // Tom Ford sunnies
I also love this look with a chocolate brown crewneck sweater and a bold blue-and-brown plaid coat.
The sleek boots ground the outfit and keep it polished while the coat does all the talking.
AGOLDE Harper Straight (29) // Sam Edelman Saige Bootie (8.5) // EVEREVE Wesley Plaid Coat (S) // Nordstrom Cashmere Crewneck (M)- on sale! // Clare V Petite Moyen Messenger // Tom Ford sunnies
How to Wear Straight-Leg Jeans with Sneakers
Sneakers can be tricky with full-length straight-leg jeans because the hem has to land just right. I like a low-profile sneaker that allows the jeans to “break” over the top without puddling or bunching. This keeps the line clean and modern, especially with more relaxed straight cuts.
The Quince Bella Relaxed Straight pairs perfectly with these low-profile Gola sneakers in shades of blue and burgundy. I kept the look streamlined with a simple blue pullover sweater so the colors tie together without feeling overly coordinated. It’s an easy, everyday outfit that feels sporty but still put-together.
Quince Bella Stretch Relaxed Straight in Cool Blue (size 30/30) // Gola Torpedo (8.5) // Sanctuary Zip-it Sweater (S) // similar earrings
I also like the AG Brinley (on sale at Nordstrom) with my adidas Spezials, and as you can see, this vest-and-tee combo works just as well with blue jeans and sneakers as it does with washed black denim and casual black boots (shown above). It’s a great example of how swapping the shoe can completely change the vibe while the outfit formula stays the same.
AG Brinley Mid Rise Straight Leg Jeans (29) – on sale! // adidas Spezial (8) // EVEREVE Ollie Varsity Vest (S) // Treasure Bond Rib T-Shirt (M)
How to Wear Straight-Leg Jeans with Clogs
The Quince Bella Relaxed Straight also works really well with the earthy Birkenstock Boston clogs. They add that easy, laid-back vibe that pairs so naturally with straight-leg denim. The weight of the clog helps anchor the fuller leg, and the wider opening at the foot balances the straight line from hip to hem.
I kept this look casual and cozy with a washed-red henley pullover. It’s the kind of simple, everyday outfit I reach for when I want to feel comfortable but still look put-together.
Quince Bella Stretch Relaxed Straight in Cool Blue (size 30/30) // Birkenstock Boston Rivets Clog (39) // Rowan Henley Sweatshirt (M)
And here’s a similar look, where I swapped out the sweatshirt for a chunky cardigan, and these are the Abercrombie High Rise 90s Relaxed Jeans. I’m wearing the size 30, and they were a little big. I think the 29 would be a better fit, but this short length is perfect for me with flats.
Abercrombie High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean (30 Short) // Birkenstock Boston Rivets Clog (39) // Wild Fable Cable Cardigan (M)
How to Wear Straight-Leg Jeans with Flats
Finally, flats can be a stylish option with straight-leg jeans, but they’re definitely the trickiest pairing. The key is getting the inseam right. You want the hem short enough that it doesn’t puddle or buckle, but not so short that it looks cropped. Mary Janes work really well with this silhouette because the more structured shape helps balance the volume of a fuller straight leg.
Even though the Abercrombie 90s Relaxed Jean didn’t end up being the best fit for me, I think this outfit shows how nicely straight-leg jeans can pair with Mary Jane flats. The sleek, structured shape of the shoe contrasts nicely with the relaxed leg, keeping the overall look polished rather than sloppy. I kept the rest of the outfit soft and classic with a cashmere cardigan and a trendy woven leather bag.
Abercrombie High Rise 90s Relaxed Jean in Medium(30 short) // Sam Edelman Michaela Flats (8) – on sale! // Madewell Cashmere Cardigan (M) // Clare V. Moyen Messenger
While this certainly isn’t an exhaustive list of straight-leg jeans and shoe pairings, I hope it gives you some helpful ideas for what feels current and easy to wear right now. Are you liking this silhouette, or are you reaching for different denim styles these days?
Shop My Favorite Straight Leg Jeans
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36 Responses
Thank you for your suggestions, it’s been tough transitioning from skinny jeans. To be honest, I feel like the only shoe that does look good with this style jeans are the boots.
Honestly, I’m a little frustrated with that too. I was specifically looking for jeans for flats and sneakers, but I do like all of these best with boots.
I live in NE Ohio, and mostly see all ages wearing skinny jeans still. It’s my opinion many here wear what they are comfortable in and not what is trending. Our mall is pretty lame and to find modern fashion, I.e., Nordstrom, Loft, Evereve, I have to order online or travel to a more bougie area of Cleveland. lol
I pulled mine out and decided to wear when the mood strikes!
Good Morning Jo-Lynne!! Thank you so much for this! I struggle with jeans. I would almost rather go to the dentist that look for jeans. Almost!! LOL Question: Are Chelsea Boots out? I’ve been wearing my chelsea boots with straight and wider leg and flare leg jeans. I need to update my ankle booties but so many choices it’s overwhelming. Anyway, Have a fabulous weekend!
No, Chelsea boots aren’t out—they’ve just evolved. The chunky lug-sole versions had their moment, but the core style (stretchy side panels and a pull tab so they slip on without zippers) is a classic. What’s trending now are the more refined versions with lower profiles, sleeker toes, and simple block or low heels, like this and this.
I’m sorry to say I just don’t think the straight leg slightly baggy jeans are attractive loook on me and I dare say on most women. It kind of strikes me as a little bit sloppy and doesn’t really accentuate a woman’s body but then I did buy one pair and I kind of confirmed it for myself.
Completely agree! I feel it’s sloppy to my eye as well, yet I tend to be more tailored in my wardrobe.
Thank you for saying it so well. They just seem to add so much visual weight to almost any woman; add the feeling of sloppiness and to me it is a pass. I’d rather be a bit dated but polished looking, so I’ll stay with slim straight.
Im so glad to see other people who feel the same way! I thought it was just me!. I just don’t think its the best look for me, it just adds weight and looks sloppy. I’m so glad that there are so many jean styles that are trending at the moment. I will stick with my flares which are the most slimming on me.
Robin! I have found a “baggy” jean looks a lot better with a fabric content that includes some Lyocell or polyester, so that it drapes better. I have one pair of wider legged jeans that are 100% cotton, very stiff. They look horrible on me!! Sometimes I will try to size down on a pair that are too baggy, and the waist is too tight and uncomfortable. I have a pair of AG boyfriends that are my favorite, and a great combo of soft drapeyness (is that a word??) and edgy “baggyness” HAHA
Which AG boyfriend jeans do you have?
I totally agree! I’ll leave the baggy look to the teens. It suits their relaxed look but on us it reads sloppy. I’ll stay with the slim straight that has a more polished look when in dark indigo and black and reads more casual in light wash.
I agree. I also feel sloppy or not quite put together in a relaxed style jean; not my style I guess.
Hi! I’ve been working on rebuilding my denim wardrobe lately and have had to pay super close attention to measurements more than ever! One straight or relaxed straight is not like the other, and for me a lot of that comes down to the circumference of my legs. My eyes have also needed to adjust big time! Seeing the dazzler feels super dated and out, yet I recall getting my first pair and thinking how trend forward I was with them because they were such a strong departure from a skinny!
I love a solid straight, slightly relaxed straight really, that can go with a sneaker or a heeled boot! That’s my current sweet spot! You showed a great example of a simple shoe swap from a heeled boot to a sneaker changes the entire vibe of a look! Thank you!
I do love me a slim wide leg too! So so much! The Fidelity Katie has been on repeat for that silhouette and somehow I’ve been able to make it work with both sneakers and heeled boots. I feel like it looks super similar to the relaxed straights you’ve shown us here.
So many small aspects to be mindful of when finding the just-right fit!
And, if you’ve read my novel thus far… please know, I truly appreciate this post!
Yes, nuance a real thing with these denim silhouettes. It is a fine line between slim wide leg and relaxed straight. It seems to come down to how fitted they are in the hips and thighs. Wide leg can fit a bit closer because it flares a bit from hip to hem, and relaxed straight is baggier overall. I always like myself better in styles that hug the hips and thighs so I think that’s why I find wide leg easier. I ordered the Bookie Sneak you recommended, which is really a bootcut, but I think it reads as a straight. It’s a nice option but the pockets were weird on me. More in my next try-on haul!
So very true — The denim-and-shoe pairing is the biggest challenge! I struggle with this constantly, and then get annoyed with myself because I feel like I am making it way too hard to get out the door. I have the same question as Lorrie about the Chelsea boots. I cannot wait to dive into this post. I know I need to make some wardrobe updates, but I am realizing that it is going to take some thought and effort to figure how these current silhouettes can realistically work for my lifestyle, climate and size 11 feet. (You girls that can easily find shoes and get your feet into them can’t believe how this limits a person!) I digress. Have a great Friday, everyone, and a big thanks for this information!
Hi Jolynne, This is a great post and very timely too. I actually just purchased a pair of Levi 501 90’s. I laughed when I put them on because I felt like I was back in my college days but plowed forward and wore them. I had three people ask what brand of jeans they are! And several more compliments. For me though…. I thought they made me look very heavy and a little sloppy! I’m glad they were very reasonably priced as in spite of all the compliments I dont know how much I’ll wear them! Alas I too miss how flattering skinnies are!😜. Thank you for teaching us!!!! Blessings Krista
I see a lot of the younger influencers wearing those! Too funny.
I didn’t realize you had the varsity vest. I love it!! I’ve been pining for it ever since you first posted it. Do you think it will go on sale for Black Friday? I’ve never purchased from that brand before.
I expect they’ll do 10% off.
Hey! FYI, your first photo under with sneakers doesn’t match the description (it shows with boots & striped sweater). Just wanted to make sure you knew. ❤️
I have found I prefer trouser jeans the best. 🙂 But I do like this silhouette and have a pair in my closet.
Though when I thought about mine again just now, they’re more slim straight. But they are full length.
I appreciate the graphic you put together, but I feel like there’s a straight leg style jean missing from it: something in-between the “slim straight” & “relaxed straight.” I truly think jeans that define a woman’s body a little better are more attractive and definitely more polished. I know the “young” girls are embracing that relaxed and looser fit but I don’t think I need to dress like them to be fashionable. I suggest trying Paige (my go-to brand) which has a few straight leg styles that fit closer to the legs and are more feminine looking. COH also has some good ones too.
Amen! Wear a silhouette that mirrors your silhouette.
Thank you Jolynn, this post was really helpful for me. I recently bought a pair of AG boyfriend jeans and they have been sitting in my closet. I put them on and to my eye they just make me look wider and heavier. They are so soft and comfortable though and I know they are in style. I’ve been wanting to find a way to wear them. Your pictures and combinations really helped me. Everyone’s style and preferences are different, but I noticed particularly with the Quince Bella jeans that I preferred the look with the slimmer fitting Sanctuary zip it sweater. So I am going to try the jeans again with different slim fitting tops that don’t add visual bulk and see how that goes.
Yes, this post focused on shoes, but tops are just as important. I definitely like shorter tops better with more voluminous bottoms.
I have to say that straight leg is my least favorite of all. In addition, I think they add weight to everyone. I will be glad when this trend ends.
I don’t think I’ll be buying any relaxed straight jeans. I did try a few pair on in a store and they looked sloppy and dumpy on me and added visual weight which I certainly don’t need! I’ll stick to my slim straight or flare jeans.
Unlike most of the rest of you, I love my 90s jeans. They’re comfortable and I think they’re cute – maybe no one else does, but they’re my favorite. I wear them with Chelsea boots, loafers, and some western-ish boots. I also have several pairs of Chelsea boots that are going to stay in my rotation for a while – I consider them classics at this point. I’m working on losing weight, and my 90s jeans are almost too big, and they aren’t made anymore…so I’ll have to start looking around, sadly. Thanks for a great post!
I agree with others that the relaxed straight seems too relaxed, as in there’s too much material to flatter my backside. I feel the same about barrel-leg jeans, after I let a salesperson convince me that I wasn’t too old to pull off the style. Big mistake, sadly.
Well, yeah, I fell for the Abercrombie relaxed straight jean–and it was horrid on me! Couldn’t return it fast enough! I guess I stick with slim straight. That varsity vest is cute!
Thanks for this post! I really like the NYDJ Marilyn straight jeans. They are comfortable, well-priced and not baggy or sloppy!
You’ve got it down for the modern look. Great show pairings too. I’m liking my slimmer wide leg Kut brand and the Quince Bella straight…..Not the relax ones. It’s trial and error for me with shoe pairings but I usually just know if the shoe is right. Great post.
Thanks so much for the suggestions! I recently was in Loft and purchased a pair of straight leg relaxed denim. I was wearing Mary Jane flats at the time and loved how they looked. I’ll also pair them with sneakers as that seems to be my go-to these days. Comfortable and casual. I love all of these looks tho. You look beautiful!! As always.
Cheers!
And……as if we haven’t all struggled with the high rise relaxed straight lately, at a recent college tailgate, every co-ed was wearing LOW rise relaxed! Something fun to look forward to…..ha! I can’t keep up.