2021 Denim Trends To Try Now That Skinny Jeans Are Dead

Scroll To See More Images

I don’t think I will ever get tired of buying jeans. Yes, searching for a pair that actually fits me perfectly can sometimes be challenging, but I feel downright euphoric whenever I find The Perfect Pair. If you’re a denim-lover like me, you’re going to flip out over these 2021 jean trends. And if you’re even half the shopaholic that I am, you’ll want to buy a few new pairs right now.

While I’m definitely not advocating for a mass clean-out from your denim drawer, I am a fan of adding at least one new and trendy style to your rotation every few months. The mid-summer sartorial slump is really real this year and I’m not totally sure why. Honestly, it’s probably because I’ve worn all of my favorite pieces so many times this already summer. But, all of that is changing right now, and I think that bringing a new pair of trendy jeans into my life will revitalize my style. Here’s hoping!

So, I scoured the internet to get you the scoop on all things denim for the end of the summer season and the beginning of fall because yes, it’s coming up! Hint: These pairs are anything but boring. For instance, sites like Saks Fifth Avenue and Urban Outfitters sell jeans that prove low-rise denim really is cool again. So are flares, baggy silhouettes and even patterned picks. Oh, and skinny jeans, according to Gen Z, are pretty much out.

Whether you’re a hardcore denim fan who wears jeans with every outfit or just someone who wants to look like they stepped right out of a 2021 Fashion Trends Pinterest board, I’m here to help. Read on to shop a bunch of the trendiest jeans of the season.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Saks Fifth Avenue is a STYLECASTER sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Speaking of massive trends, I’m here to tell you that low-rise denim is officially back in a big way in 2021. It looks like my mom was right when she said that trends repeat themselves every 20 years! Does anyone know where my old jeans from middle school might be?

Courtesy of Rag & Bone.

Dre Low-Rise Slim Boyfriend Jeans

These boyfriend jeans by Rag & Bone really put the “low” in low-rise. But, the relaxed fit makes them feel modern rather than like a relic from your middle school wardrobe.

Courtesy of Urban Renewal.

This pair from Urban Renewal is even bigger and baggier, which makes for a super old-school pop star vibe.

We’ve already discussed that retro-inspired denim is popular again in 2021—and the ’70s are just as popular as the ’90s! Flare jeans are everywhere right now, in a ton of colors, washes and patterns, so you can choose how retro you go.

Courtesy of Warp+Weft.

Mia High Rise Flair Jean

Warp+Weft is known across the Internet for its range of inclusive and on-trend denim styles. This light-wash pick doesn’t have a massive flare at the bottom, so it’s a great option if you’re still easing into the look.

Courtesy of We The Free.

Just Float On Flare Jeans

Want to go big with your flare?  This groovy version from We the Free will look amazing when styled with a chunky pair of platform boots and a long-sleeved crop top.

Skaters have long been a source of style inspiration, especially when it comes to their denim preferences. Get the look whether or not you own a board with baggy, loose jeans with just the right amount of knee rippage.

Courtesy of Zara.

ZW The ’90s Full-Length Jeans

Zara’s denim selection is simply unmatched. This pair of ‘90s Full-Length Jeans comes complete with tons of rips and other faded details for a cool skater-girl-approved fit.

Courtesy of Abercrombie & Fitch.

Right now is a great time to completely reinvent your style with some patterned jeans, don’t you think? There are so many options to choose from, whether you choose an all-over print or a more subtle checkerboard pattern.

Courtesy of Reformation.

Joyride High Rise Straight Jeans

If spring and summer 2021 were all about the colors, then this next season is going to be all about going back to black (and white!). This pair of jeans from Reformation even has a matching denim jacket.

Courtesy of Wild Fable.

Super-High Rise Checkered Straight Jeans

If a really out-there pattern isn’t for you, then these Super-High Rise Checkered Straight Jeans are a great option. They’re a little different from your normal printed selection and they’ll look great with all of your fall sweaters.

A version of this article previously appeared in December 2020.