More than two years ago Vogue declared those unflattering skinny jeans dead, and yet here we are, still clutching to the corpse.
How have we gone so far down this sartorial cul-de-sac? The desire to create the illusion of a leaner figure, combined with comfort, proved too alluring. We have been feeding our teenage insecurities by wearing “sexy” and “slimming” trousers that put on display anatomy that is better left unseen.
As Vogue market editor Kelly Connor put it, "A lot of people think skinny jeans are their most flattering silhouette, but honestly, they just need to try on different types: wide-legged jeans are such an easy shape on anyone, especially a flare or a boot cut. It's all about playing with proportions."
Need inspiration? Think Françoise Hardy in her boot-cuts, Jane Birkin in her flares and plain white T-shirt or Debbie Harry in her tight and high Levi’s 505s. These are women with serious style, and with the jeans they wore came a confident, carefree authenticity.
The denim revolution is not just about a nostalgic look backwards, however; brands such as Vetements and Cos have been producing modern takes on the classics.
Quitting skinny jeans will not be easy but spring-summer’s denim stock might make the detox a little easier. The denim on the catwalks is thick and real, loose- fitting and flattering. The only obvious theme is comfort and lots of room to move around in.
The flare
The 1970s are back. If you are looking for leg elongation, look no further. Be sure to buy the correct length. Try flares on before buying and remember that tailors can easily take them up but it’s not so easy to lengthen them.
Long skirt
The long denim skirt makes me do a little inward scream and think of 1990s primary-school teachers, but this season, geek is chic.
The wedgie fit
Yes, this is a thing. Wedgie-fit jeans are similar to mom jeans. Wear loose but as high as possible on the waist. Not for the faint-hearted.
Boyfriend fit
These is the ultimate relaxed jeans. Sitting on the waist and falling off the thighs, the style is laid back and comfortable. If you’re aiming for ‘took me five minutes to look this cool’ then this might be a style to consider.
Cropped wide leg
It takes time to get used to this new silhouette. The style shows off the ankles, but don’t think the ankles have to be bare; a pair of midi-ankle boots will be comfier.
High-waisted
A high waist is one of the most flattering denim styles around. Nipping you in at the narrowest point and holding you secure, this style is that holy-grail combination of flattering and comfortable.
Embellished denim
Denim won’t be banished to the lower half. From shirts and dresses to bags and shoes, we will be seeing it doubling up everywhere. Especially popular will be embellished denim.
