If you haven’t heard the rumor… Gen Z has claimed skinnny jeans are gone for good. Along with the side part. A feud taking social media by storm, I’m overly amused by all the claims and rebuttals. Gen Z grabs their baggy cargo pants and thinks they’re being uber original. Millennials are scoffing because we rocked those in middle school and we’ll part our hair however we want. The irony makes me laugh. What’s old is new!
Regardless, I have yet to have a friend get through a conversation on the topic without asking… “but really, what can I wear besides skinny jeans?” The trim denim has ruled our lives for the past decade and it’s a little intimidating to move on. Well, I’m here to help. I’ve been branching out over the past couple years and honestly, I reach for my skinny jeans on a rare occasion now. Not because Gen Z told me what to do, but because the alternatives really are great!
What to wear besides skinny jeans
Straight leg jeans
A personal favorite. I’ve become a big fan of straight leg jeans as a skinny jean alternative. The silhouette doesn’t stray far from what skinny jeans accomplish, yet the entire outfit feels a bit more modern. A high-waist pair makes the transition easier, lengthening the legs and making them more flattering on all body types. I personally go with a petite length if it’s available (I’m 5’5″). The crop look is easy to style with all kinds of footwear – ankle boots and sneakers being my go-to. When it comes to choosing a top, the options are endless. Grab a graphic tee on the weekend or tuck a sweater in for a casual day at the office.
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Wide leg pants
Wide leg pants can be intimidating. It can quickly remind you of awkward middle school years and unflattering proportions. Just me? Even so, I promise this is a trend worth exploring. You definitely don’t have to stick with denim to pull off a wide leg pant look. Think soft, flowy crops or a pleated work pant. I also love the wide cut in black denim. Slimming isn’t quite the word, but the dark color makes for a chic silhouette. As for styling a wide leg pant, I keep everything pretty minimal. A pair of mules and a thin turtleneck or bodysuit work perfectly.
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Cropped flare jeans
Flare jeans are making a huge comeback. I have yet to go full on flare like I did in middle school. Those rain-soaked and dragging hems give me nightmares. IFYKYK. But I’m all in on the cropped flares. Honestly, my favorite pair I picked up at Abercrombie (still available here) this year are so flattering and comfortable. I’ve worn them with everything from long sweaters to blazers. I do believe a high waist makes them feel more modern, but there are a lot of options out there – find what’s right for you!
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Joggers
All the trending loungewear of 2020 has inspired a more casual 2021. And I’m here for it. Joggers aren’t just for your couch anymore. They’re being styled with structured jackets, moto boots, white button downs, heels and of course, matching sweatshirts. Even though it’s super casual, the outfits feel super fresh. So, if you’re not into ditching your skinny jeans, I think joggers are a great way to fool those Gen Zs.
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Where I frequently purchase jeans
Once I find a denim brand I like, I rarely branch out. Over the years I’ve worn all kinds of jeans, but as of late, Abercrombie, Old Navy, Banana Republic and American Eagle are my go-to spots. If I’m looking for a trendier pant like plaid, wide-leg or joggers, I’ll browse H&M, Zara or Mango.
Why you should keep your skinny jeans
Don’t throw your skinny jeans away! They still deserve a spot in your closet, I promise. Especially if you’re comfortable in them. We’re headed into spring and skinny jeans look great with flowy, floral tops with a pair of mules. If you want to modernize the look, pair them with sneakers, buy a high-waist option and pair with a shorter top.
No need to panic. The “feud” should be taken lightly. Wear what makes you feel confident!
xoxo. B
