With fall (aka autumn) just around the corner, there’s one wardrobe staple I recommend that you pick up ASAP – and that’s a pair of wide leg jeans. High-quality denim is an essential element for any capsule wardrobe. This year though, there has been a trend towards oversized, wide-leg silhouettes. Particularly when looking at summer denim, and particularly in washed shades. If you’re wondering how to style wide leg jeans, then you’ve come to the right place.
Wide leg jeans are perfect for transitioning from summer to fall. Their relaxed feel and versatility make them an ideal choice when you’re looking for a staple piece to add to your wardrobe. I personally think that they’re one of the most underrated pieces of clothing out there. They’re the backbone of many outfits, no matter the weather conditions. Just an overall old faithful.
If you love this basic, and are wondering what others to add to your wardrobe, make sure you read How To Build A Capsule Wardrobe.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – how do wide leg jeans work for all seasons? Let’s take a look.
How To Style Wide Leg Jeans
If you’re wondering what to wear with wide leg jeans, don’t worry – the options are endless. First things first though, before we dive in we need to talk about fit. Wide leg jeans should fit snugly around the waist or hips and then flare out from the thighs. Now I’m not saying they need to flap in the wind, a slight flare will do – just enough to create that relaxed, wide-leg look.
I personally love mid-rise jeans, as I find they’re great for everyday wear. But, high-waisted are less trendy and you’ll probably hold on to longer because they give just make your legs look great (more on this later). Once you have the right fit, here are some ways to style them:
For Summer
For an effortless streetstyle summer look you’ll want to pair your wide leg jeans with a crop top or cute tank top. This combination will keep you cool while showing off your waistline and the loose fit of the jeans. You can also add some statement accessories, like a pair of vintage gold earrings and a belt. Don’t forget to also add a stupidly oversized but practical off-duty bag too. If you find it’s already getting cool in your area, an oversized leather jacket won’t go a miss either.
Wondering what shoes to wear with wide leg jeans? In terms of summer trends, you can easily through on a pair of summer sandals like you see above. I think this is a cool way to dress up wide leg jeans, making them suitable for a lunch date or shopping day with friends. Definitely feels like a summer outfit when your toes are showing. In the same way, a pair of strappy heeled sandals will give you a more dressed up vibe if that’s what you’re after.
For Fall
As the weather starts to cool down, this is when they truly come in handy. You can still wear your wide leg jeans by layering them with long sleeved tops, sweaters and jackets. Pair them with a chunky knit sweater for a cozy fall look. I personally think this looks really Parisian chic when you belt it.
You can also add a touch of sophistication by pairing them with a blazer and some ankle boots or cowboy boots as well as your summer tanks. That way, you’re getting the most out of your summer staple pieces too.
Now, what shoes to wear with wide leg jeans for fall you might ask? If you’re planning on going out in these jeans, they look great paired with some pointed heels or boots. I don’t know about you, but I’m kind of obsessed with having the tip of a shoe peaking out just a little—especially if they’re a statement metallic or red. Even a square-toe cowboy boot can make them look so cool. But never wear them over your jeans, always under. Remember that.
If you’d like to see how to style these for every season, check out our other post How To Style Wide Leg Pants
Now, Which Colour? Black Wide Leg Jeans.
Black is a perfect colour for literally any season, so it’s a no-brainer when it comes to choosing a pair of wide leg jeans. While black wide leg jeans might sound boring, there are actually a lot of different shades you can choose from. I’m personally going to veto any kind of coloured jeans, including blue, because they’re just not as timeless. We’re aiming for longevity with jeans this year.
Washed black jeans are having a moment right now with a slightly distressed look. No holes though—we don’t need to be encouraging the “you need a new pair of pants” Dad jokes. You can even get a slight rusted wash now which I think give it a very vintage cool type of feel. These I’d reach for more during the day with an Anine Bing style t-shirt and some sneakers. But, swap out the sneakers for boots and it could easy be night. You do you.
For a dressier more ‘put together’ option, go for jet black jeans with a structured slightly straight leg silhouette. These, again, look amazing with a statement belt and black pointed toe boots. The entire black on black bottom half will also make you legs look a thousand miles long. And who doesn’t want that?
There you have it – a guide on how to style wide leg jeans from summer to fall. Wide leg jeans overall are a versatile piece of clothing (some might even say capsule wardrobe must-have) that can be easily styled for both summer and fall. With the right fit, you can effortlessly embody the off-duty model look all year round.
Interested in learning about more wardrobe staples? Here are some good blog posts to find some incredible fashion finds:
