More relaxed denim silhouettes have been on their way back for a while now, and this season they’ve definitely hit the mainstream. These days, wide leg jeans are without a doubt the most prominent denim style I’m seeing in the stores where I usually shop.
While some ladies have embraced the trend wholeheartedly, others are intimidated by styling this tricky silhouette, and I’ve been getting a lot of questions about what to wear with wide leg jeans this fall.
PAIGE Anessa (29) // cashmere sweater (S) // Franco Sarto booties (8) // rag & bone belt (M)
I was a slow adopter to this trend, but now that I’ve figured out how to wear them, I’m totally on board. Wide leg jeans have a timeless appeal that I appreciate, and while it may not seem so at first, they’re actually quite versatile. The relaxed fit and wide leg openings allow for easy movement, and they can be dressed up or down.
If you’re not a fan of wide leg jeans, there are plenty of other options that look current. (See my post on Denim Trends For Fall 2024.) I’m certainly not suggesting that you have to wear wide leg jeans, but if you do like this look, here are my best tips for styling wide leg jeans and finding the perfect fit for you.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: What Shoes to Wear With All Types of Jeans
The Basics of Wide Leg Jeans
Kut from the Kloth Amanda Boxy Twill Jacket (S) // AllSaints Stevie Cotton T-Shirt (M) // Hint of Blu Wide Leg Jeans (29) // Blondo Emmalyn Boots (8.5) // similar belt // JW PEI handbag // similar earrings // Tom Ford sunglasses (option)
Wide leg jeans have straight fit through the hips and thighs, and they gradually widen from knee to hem. Some are more dramatic than others, so it’s best to experiment with different fits to see which works best for your body type and style preferences. Wide leg jeans are often high-waisted, but mid-rise styles can be found too.
You’ll find wide leg jeans in a variety of washes this season, from light and distressed to dark and polished, with either raw and finished hems. As a rule of thumb, dark washes tend to look dressier and more refined, while lighter washes lend a casual, boho vibe to your look. It’s all a matter of personal preference which way you go. Personally, I like to have some of each.
Finding the Perfect Fit
PAIGE Anessa Raw Hem Wide Leg Ankle Jeans (29) // FRAME tee in Surplus (XS) // sandals (8)
To ensure you look your best in wide leg jeans, finding the right fit is crucial. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Length: You’ll find wide leg jeans in everything from floor-grazing lengths to crop styles, and ankle lengths are out there as well. I actually prefer the new shorter full-length style where the hems skim the vamp of the foot without a breakline. Pretty much anything goes; it’s just a matter of figuring out what you like, and how to style them in a way that looks intentionally chic instead of sloppy.
- Waist: Decide whether you want a high-waisted or mid-rise pair based on your body shape and style preferences. High-waisted jeans can elongate your legs and cinch your waist for a flattering silhouette, but some ladies find them uncomfortable. If that’s you, a mid-rise can look just as current. They just might be a little harder to find.
- Width: Some wide leg jeans have dramatic, sweeping silhouettes, while others are cut close to the thigh and widen only slightly to the hem. Experiment with what you like best; personally, I feel best in styles that are closer to a relaxed straight leg silhouette. They still play to the current trends, but they look better on my body than more voluminous styles.
- Shop Around: Don’t expect to love the first pair you try. You may need to experiment with different brands and different lengths and sizes.
- Tailoring: If you can’t find the perfect fit off the rack, consider having your wide leg jeans tailored to your measurements. This small investment can make a significant difference in how they look and feel.
How to Style Wide Leg Jeans
J.Crew barn jacket (S) // cashmere t-shirt (M) // MOTHER jeans (29) (option) // belt (90) // Matisse mules (8.5) // Madewell tote (budget option / splurge option) // YSL sunnies
Wide leg jeans can be casual chic, office ready, or date night glam. It’s entirely up to you! I tend to stick to more casual looks, but sometimes I like to dress up my wide leg jeans for date nights or dinner out with friends.
Shoes to Wear with Wide Leg Jeans
Choosing the right shoes to complement your wide leg jeans is the first hurdle. Since these jeans are all about drama and volume, you’ll want to select footwear that balances the look. Here are some shoes to pair with wide leg jeans for fall:
#1. Mules: I’m a huge fan of mules (and clogs) for transition season, and they provide a nice balance to wide leg silhouettes. The best part is, you can wear them with both full and ankle lengths.
These Splendid Liza pointed toe suede mules pair perfectly with these ankle-length wide leg jeans with the dramatic cuff.
KUT from the Kloth Sienna High-Rise Wide Leg-Roll-Up (29) // Splendid Liza Pointed Toe Mule (8) // Reese Stripe Tank (S)
These leather heeled mules have a sleek pointed toe and architectural 3.5″ heel, and I love the croc embossed Espresso color. They work well with these full length wide leg jeans from MOTHER Denim (similar for less).
J.Crew barn jacket (S) // cashmere t-shirt (M) // MOTHER jeans (29) (budget option) // belt (90) // Matisse mules (8.5) // Madewell tote (budget option / splurge option) // YSL sunnies
#2. Ankle Boots: You can’t go wrong with a pair of ankle boots. I prefer boots with a bit of a heel, but they can be flat if you prefer. When I’m wearing ankle boots with wide leg jeans, I prefer the jeans to be long enough to cover the shaft of the boot, but that’s a matter of personal preference. Also, remember that a pointed or almond shape toe will visually extend the line of the leg.
Hint of Blu wide leg jeans (29) // Blondo booties (8.5) // Liverpool sweater (S) // earrings
Here’s how those Blondo boots look with ankle length wide leg jeans.
also wearing: KUT from the Kloth Meg (6) // AllSaints tee (M) // Blondo boots (8.5) // old AllSaints belt // JW PEI shoulder bag
#3. Fashion Sneakers: For a more laid-back, urban vibe, opt for platform sneakers or field sneakers. They add a playful twist to your outfit while keeping you comfortable and stylish. In this case, full-length wide leg jeans or an ankle-length style will work.
Madewell The Perfect Vintage Wide Leg Jeans (29) // Caslon thermal polo (S) // Vince Oasis sneakers (39)
#4. Pointed Toe Pumps: The ladylike footwear trend is taking hold this season, and I love how a pointed toe slingback (flats or pumps) pair with wide leg jeans for the office or date night. Again, these work with both full and ankle lengths.
Sanctuary stripe sweater (S) // MOTHER The Hustler Roller Skimp Flare Jeans (29) (similar for less) // Sam Edelman slingback pumps (8) // hinge bracelet // similar hoops // necklace set // Coach bag
#5. Platform or Wedge Sandals: For a more casual transitional look while it’s still warm outside, a wedge or platform sandal also works well with wide leg jeans. I often opt for cropped or ankle length jeans with my sandals because it seems more seasonally appropriate, but you can certainly wear full-length styles as well.
PAIGE Leenah Ankle Wide Leg Jeans (29) // similar sweater (S) // similar sandals
Read more about What Shoes and Boots are Trending for Fall 2024.
Styling Tips for Tops with Wide Leg Jeans
When pairing tops with wide leg jeans for fall (or any season, really) you have two main goals: balance the volume in the pant silhouette and define the waist. Here are some ways to do that:
KUT From The Kloth Meg (6) // Rails crop jacket (S) // AllSaints t-shirt (M) // Blondo booties (8.5) // JW PEI bag // earrings // old AllSaints belt // sunnies (option)
#1. Tuck in Your Top: Tucking in your top is probably the easiest way to define your waist with wide leg jeans, and you can do this with tops of various lengths. Try a fitted blouse, a tucked-in t-shirt, or a sleek bodysuit for a polished look.
#2. Cropped Tops: Pairing wide-leg jeans with a shorter top is another great way to show off your waist and create a balanced silhouette, and it can be fitted or a boxy style.
The top doesn’t have to be so short that it exposes any skin; the smocked shrunken shirt I’m wearing below is a perfect example. I like how it comes down just over the top of the waistband of the jeans, right about to the top of the pockets.
MOTHER Hustler Roller Skimp (29) // Vince smocked shrunken top (M) // Franco Sarto boots (8)
#3. Fitted Jackets: Adding a fitted blazer or jacket to your wide-leg jeans outfit can create a more structured and polished appearance. It’s an excellent choice for a business-casual or date night look.
#4. Belt It: Adding a belt cinches your waist, and it also serves as a statement accessory. I like to choose a belt that coordinates with the color of my shoes and/or handbag so it looks intentional.
KUT From The Kloth Meg (6) // Rails crop jacket (S) // AllSaints t-shirt (M) // Blondo booties (8.5) // JW PEI bag // earrings // old AllSaints belt // sunnies (option)
#5. Knot It: For a more relaxed vibe, try tying a knot at the front (or even the back) of your top. This adds a playful touch to your outfit and shows off your waist.
#6. Play with Proportions: Experiment with different proportions in your outfit. For example, pair super-wide-leg jeans with a more fitted or cropped top, or choose slightly flared wide-leg jeans for a more subtle look.
#7. Monochromatic Outfits: Wearing a top and wide-leg jeans in the same color can create a sleek and elongated appearance. It’s an easy way to look put together without much effort.
KUT From The Kloth pants (6) // rib tank (S) // Evereve Camp Jacket (S) // similar belt // STAUD Dante Leather Flip Flops (38) // raffia hoops // raffia bag // Jenny Bird bangle // Madewell necklace set
Of course, you’ll want to experiment with different tops, footwear, and accessories to flatter your unique body and showcase your personal style; but I hope these tips help you style your wide leg jeans for fall.
Shop Wide Leg Jeans
I rounded up some of my favorite wide leg jeans below, and if you need petites, here’s a petite wide leg denim shopping widget just for you!
Stay In Touch
If you liked this post, be sure you’re signed up for my email newsletter. In addition to my most recent blog posts, you’ll receive exclusive newsletter content like special sales, my newest favorite finds, and an occasional peek behind the scenes — all delivered right to your inbox.
I would also love for you to join my JLS Fashion Insiders Facebook Group! This is a friendly place to discuss all matters of fashion and style with other women, share your outfits, get advice, and stay up to date on all the happenings in our community.
This post contains affiliate links. When you shop through my links, it helps support my business (at no additional cost to you) so thank you!
34 Responses
If you know cropped, tucked and belted tops don’t work for your body, should you give up on wide leg jeans?
I need an answer to this too. I am very short and short waisted.
Me too Paula. I have been trying really hard to like them, but they just don’t look right.
I am petite and short waisted, and no matter how I have tried, I cannot get the wide leg jeans to look right on me. I can’t tuck or belt, either. So I’m skipping this trend.
I have read that the rule of thumb is if you wear baggier clothes on the bottom, the top should be more fitted…if you wear baggier on top, then you should have more fitted clothing on the bottom. Younger generations in my circle who have embraced wide legged styles for a couple of years now follow this suggestion :-). I have realized not all pant styles work for me and that is okay! There are so many cuts and styles that are in style right now which makes it an awful lot easier to look modern!
Totally agree Wendy and came to say the same thing! I think the people who nail this concept (Jolynne imcluded!) are the ones who look intentional and chic vs sloppy. I also think it’s true regardless of what’s trending.
It depends on if you like them enough to try to make them work for you or not. Sometimes you just need to go shorter than your usual, not cropped. Or if you belt it, you can wear a jacket on top (as I did in my example) so the belt isn’t creating such a long horizontal line across your middle. And some women look great with more relaxed tops and wide leg jeans, for a more fluid silhouette, but that’s not my thing. If you love them, you have to play around a bit to figure out what works for you, but if you don’t like them, there’s no need to work that hard for it. Ya know?
I have a big tummy and don’t feel right about “exposing” it with a short top, even though it does not show any skin. Are there any tunic type tops that would look good? All I saw on your posting were short/tight. Thanks
I’m short & short-waisted as well. I love how I look in the full-length, high-waisted blue jeans WHEN I go monochrome with a heather-blue v-neck, U-hemmed t-shirt, that I tie to the side (the knot sits at my side waist, giving the shirt a ruched bottom that is VERY forgiving. I top it all with my blue denim jacket & slightly pointed, slightly heeled black (dark blue would be better)shoes.
Thanks, Jo-Lynne! I’m curious about the Liverpool sweater. Did you end up keeping it?
I did not. 🙂 I didn’t feel like it hung quite right on me. It’s a little long, and it doesn’t front tuck nicely. It’s a pretty top, tho!
Great post, thank you for all your hard work and details. I have tried a few wide leg styles but need to try more on-the ones I tried just appeared so baggy on me and added extra volume in areas I don’t need (pear shape)— lol! The Hint of Blu pair looks nice will need to check out
Good tips on how to style. That’s what I have been doing. I embraced this style a couple of years ago. Recently I added wide leg trouser jeans to my collection. Like you said it’s a matter of finding the right style for your body. As a petite woman I don’t like the over the top wide ones. Too much fabric.
What a great post! I love the wide leg jeans personally. Need to add some new tops to complete the look and maybe a new shoe here or there. Glad you are feeling better! Hope you have a wonderful day!
Thanks, Karen. Doing better!
All of these outfits are super cute!! I have some wide leg crops that are about 3 inches above fhe ankle. Is that too short? Is it okay to wear them until it gets cold. I’m short anyway. My inseam is 27 for regular length, 25 for ankle length, and 23 for crop. They look okay on me. I just didn’t want people to think I had on “highwaters.” Back when I was young, that was a bad thing. Ha!!
Only you can answer the question, are they too short? Do you like how they look? I would keep your top shorter, if you have on crop pants, to balance the proportions. You can always pop into our JLS Insiders Facebook Group and post pix and ask opinions… although, I will warn you, it may be overwhelming. LOL!
Me too Paula. I have been trying really hard to like them, but they just don’t look right.
How do I wear my Kut from the Kloth olive wide leg jeans for a business casual event?
You could wear them with pointy toe slingbacks, mules, or ankle boots. And then I’d wear a simple base layer and a blazer or bomber jacket on top.
I love wide leg jeans! I wear them with everything… tee shirts, blouses, sweaters and mostly mules, sneakers and birks. I live in Northern California and it plays so nicely into the relaxed vibe where I live. They are so comfortable and non restrictive
I have read that the rule of thumb is if you wear baggier clothes on the bottom, the top should be more fitted…if you wear baggier on top, then you should have more fitted clothing on the bottom. Younger generations in my circle who have embraced wide legged styles for a couple of years now follow this suggestion :-). I have realized not all pant styles work for me and that is okay! There are so many cuts and styles that are in style right now which makes it an awful lot easier to look modern!
First of all, I agree with this 100% – “I have realized not all pant styles work for me and that is okay! There are so many cuts and styles that are in style right now which makes it an awful lot easier to look modern!”
No one should feel they have to wear wide leg jeans and pants to look modern, if they don’t like them or don’t feel they work for them.
As far as the rule of thumb you mention, that is the conventional wisdom, for sure. These days, we are seeing a lot of those “rules” being challenged, and it’s considered modern and stylish to play around with proportions and wear combinations that are not traditionally the most flattering. So it really is up to each of us to figure out what works for us and what makes us happy.
My 19-y/o looks adorable in her wide leg jeans and tight cropped tops. She doesn’t bare her belly, but she likes the tops that come right to the top of her pants. I actually played with that look in the outfit with the smocked shrunken top – that’s my “adult version” of the look. But I had to wear shapewear to feel confident wearing that out and about b/c my middle is not what it used to be. 🤪
I see so many women our age wearing the wide leg jeans with more traditional tops, and they make them work by front tucking or layering jackets on top. I like that look for my personal style and stage of life. Like the outfit with the Rails jacket, for example. Even the one at the top with the cashmere sweater, although that is not my favorite, I will admit.
Sandy does this look really well, I think. Here is an example. And another.
Great conversation! 🙂 I think the most important thing is to not take fashion too seriously, and experiment before making up our minds about a trend.
The pictures you linked of the model wearing a completer piece with a tucked in shirt is exactly how I like to create a more “fitted” top half with my wide leg pants! My idea of “fitted” is more about not being a long baggy tunic, but something tucked and in the correct proportion. Your blog has taught me so much about playing with clothes and outfits to find what works well for me. I feel put together and pretty and your blog has played a big part…thank you!!
I’m so happy to hear that!
Yes, this was a very helpful post, so THANK YOU! I do like wearing wide legged jeans and I have several pairs in my closet. Now I will enjoy wearing them even more by applying these great tips.
Hi all, while it’s great to have advice/guidance on how to wear a new trend but please go with your gut. I’m 5”4 and wear wide leg jeans with fitted tops, and dare I say it wide jumpers to the hip with trainers or pointed pumps. Check out the Cos website for looser fit ideas. Go with what feel good for you. Enjoy your clothes. Xx
Thanks, Linda, I totally agree. Thanks for the input. I would love to see how you do the wider tops, it can definitely work and look really cute on some ladies. Checking out the Cos website now. I love this look, for a way to wear a more traditional top with wide leg pants in a modern and stylish way.
This model looks amazing in wide leg jeans. She is beautiful and looks healthy and normal. I like the dark ones at the end. However they all look wonderful.
New fashions!! I can’t even get the tucked shirt right!! Like the wide legged jeans but am looking for a pair that is of a light weight denim s as in ones you’ve had for years. Light weight and with a good fade but no holes. Ideas??
They’re pricey, but this PAIGE Anessa is lightweight and very soft. I would also say the KUT Meg is pretty soft and lightweight.
I’m a petite person and I love wide leg pants. Which I have several pairs. Wearing them, makes my silhouette appears taller. What would be the appropriate top to wear with wide leg pants or jeans for a petite person.
I’m in the same boat with the others who are petite and have a tummy, so tucking and/or belting is out of the question. I typically wear tunic tops, but they don’t do well with wide leg pants. SoI now have two pairs of wide leg jeans, one black and one blue, and I love how they look on me. I plan to wear them mostly with my chelsea boots. You gave me some ideas with some of these tops that are not tucked but are a bit shorter than tops that I have, so thank you for that.
I’m glad it’s helpful. If you find tops that are the exact right length and fit, it can work without having to tuck or belt.