The Denim Guide: How to Wear Skinny, Wide-Leg, and Bootcut Jeans
Denim jeans are a timeless style and a staple piece in every woman's wardrobe. They're versatile, comfy, and you can style them with almost anything! So, it should be impossible to get in a style rut with denim by your side... right?
Actually, if you're struggling to know how to wear denim jeans, you're not alone. From time to time, we're all guilty of simply throwing on that same old top and calling it a day.
We created this guide to show you all the wonderful ways you can style denim jeans. So, whether you love skinny, wide-leg, or bootcut shapes, you'll never get stuck for inspiration again!
Ready to give your denim outfit a makeover? Let's get styling!
The Different Types Of Jeans
What are Skinny Jeans?
Skinny jeans are tight-fitting denim trousers, designed to hug your body from the waist and hips all the way down to the ankle. Unlike wide-leg and boot-cut jeans, skinny trousers have a small ankle opening of about 9 to 20 centimetres.
What are Wide-Leg Jeans?
Wide-leg jeans are loose-fitting styles that stay wide from the top of the leg to the ankles. Wide-leg jeans are similar to bootcut shapes, except that the bootcut jeans' flare doesn't start until the knee.
What are Bootcut Jeans?
Bootcut jeans have a tight fit from the waist to the lower thigh, then flare gradually below the knee. Though the original 1970s bootcut jeans were typically high-waisted, you'll find modern bootcut jeans in both low-rise and mid-rise designs.
How to Wear Skinny Jeans
Although skinny jeans might've dipped out of fashion a few years ago in favour of wide-leg and baggy styles, they've become a wardrobe staple yet again. Except this time, we're pairing them with over-sized knits and boxy blazers for a look that's more balanced and easygoing. Here are some fun new ideas on how you can style your skinny jeans.
Create Balance with Oversized Knits
The key to styling any good outfit is balance. A general rule of thumb is, if you've got a lot going on, on the top half, keep the bottom half simple and vice versa. This keeps your style looking intentional rather than thrown together.
That's why oversized knits are perfect for pairing with skinny jeans. Their roomy, relaxed fit contrasts beautifully with your tight-fitting trousers to create an outfit that feels cosy, casual, and flattering all at the same time.
Bringing a splash of colour to your denim jeans style is a great way to freshen things up, so choose a jumper or cardigan in a bold seasonal shade, and you'll take your skinny jeans from drab to fab!
Dress it Up with a Blazer
One thing we love about skinny jeans it that they're so easy to dress up for a chic smart casual style. Whether you're dressing for the office or a night out, skinny jeans strike the perfect balance between fun and refined.
An effective yet effortless way to dress up your skinny jeans is to style them with a blazer. Boxy and over-sized fits are the best choice for maintaining that balanced silhouette, but you can go for a fitted style if you want to define your figure.
During the day, create an elegant old money aesthetic by pairing your skinny jeans with a tailored blazer, complete with all those classic heritage details. When night falls, swap it for a black blazer for an evening look that's both sassy and refined.
Get Rock 'n' Roll Ready with a Leather Jacket
The leather jacket and skinny jean look has been the ultimate rockstar ensemble since punk rock fashion took the world by storm, and it's still just as stylish today. Both rebellious and timeless, it's a fabulous way to revive your denim jean outfits.
You can go classic with a black leather jacket, or you can make your own statement by choosing a jacket in a bold shade such as dark red, teal, or even an eye-catching pink.
Lean into that rebellious attitude with a punky graphic t-shirt and black skinny jeans, or bring a more feminine touch with a pretty embroidered blouse and light blue trousers.
How to Wear Wide-Leg Jeans
There's been a huge shift in the fashion world over the last few years with the revival of many beloved 1990s and Y2K trends, and with more women reaching for easygoing, casual styles over the restrictive tight-fitting shapes that have previously dominated women's styling.
Because of this, wide-leg jeans have become the go-to for everyday outfits. We're loving wearing our Joe Browns tops, knitwear, and jackets with these trousers. Here are some of our favourite ways to style them.
Choose Cropped T-Shirts or Tuck Your Top In
Because wide-leg jeans are baggy from top to bottom, it's best to avoid anything to floaty or oversized as your outfit might end up looking shapeless.
Instead choose fitted, slightly cropped t-shirts and tops. This will flatter your figure and create a lovely, balanced silhouette. Of course, we know crop tops aren't for everyone, but not to worry! Tucking in your top works just as beautifully.
A statement belt is the perfect way to finish off this denim jeans outfit, refining the look and bringing a unique touch to the whole ensemble. If you want to make the look truly unique, you could even tie a printed scarf around your waist instead!
Add A Little Drama with a Long Coat
Pairing your wide-leg jeans with a long coat can create a bold statement look that's sure to capture attention, whether you're going out or grabbing coffee.
Start by choosing a cosy coat that falls just below the ankles. You can go with a trench coat or military-inspired style to give the look a trendy, streetwear aesthetic.
Opt for bold black or leopard print designs if you want to add a little edge and drama to your denim jeans outfit. Finally, choose a pair of leather ankle boots for a remarkable finishing touch.
How to Wear Bootcut Jeans
If you're looking for a truly iconic way to wear jeans, bootcut styles are your answer! Made popular by rock and pop divas, like Stevie Nicks and Cher, bootcut jeans soared to popularity in the 70s and they've remained a women's fashion staple ever since!
Wearing bootcut jeans creates a free-spirited that's perfect for those who love boho fashion, but how do you style these retro darlings for the modern day?
Turn Back Time with a Vintage Graphic T-Shirt
If you love retro styling as much as we do, you'll adore this timeless denim jeans outfit. Not only is a graphic tee a fun and easy way to elevate your jeans, but it's a great way to showcase your individuality too.
The most important thing is that you choose a graphic t-shirt that shows off your personality, whether it's your favourite band's logo or an adorable animal print for nature lovers. Acid wash designs will give your outfit that authentic vintage look. Choose between a relaxed or fitted shape, depending on your personal sense of style.
To style this look, lean into that '70s vibe with a western-style suede jacket and finish it off with some brown leather shoes.
Go Boho with a Vibrant Printed Blouse
If you want a denim outfit that's confident, colourful, and full of personality, a vibrant paisley print blouse is the perfect piece to style it with.
Choose a blouse printed with all your favourite colours and, to really make your outfit pop, look for all those quintessential boho features - think ruffled sleeves and tie neck details. Tuck your blouse into your bellbottom jeans, and you're ready to start accessorising!
Western and boho styles go hand in hand, so give your denim jeans look a chic western twist with a suede waistcoat. Add some knee high western boots and a suede shoulder bag for a stylish finishing touch.
Whether you prefer skinny, bootcut, or wide-leg jeans, we hope this guide has given you all the inspiration you need to create your own totally unique denim jean outfit!
If you loved this blog, check out the Official Joe Browns Blog, where you'll find everything from style guides to design stories and behind the scenes content!







