6 Outfits That Make 2024's Most Casual Denim Trend Feel So Fresh
The baggy denim renaissance is understandably divisive; not everyone wants to relive this thoroughly noughties trend. But love it or hate it, all it takes is a scroll through Instagram to see a rush of fashion people wholeheartedly embracing the slouchy look. Sitting on the opposite end of the spectrum to equally polarising skinny jeans, roomy denim is having its moment in the spotlight.
We're here (along with some of our most trusted influencers) to convince you that these trending jeans are, in fact, worth your time and money—and not just because of the comparative comfort they offer. Let's face it—as chic as straight-leg cuts are, sometimes they feel slightly restrictive. Baggy jeans, on the other hand, look and feel wholly more relaxed. And then it's up to you whether you lean into the casual look or add a dressy flourish to your denim.
If you're wondering how to make this laid-back shape feel more elevated, you've come to the right place. All you need is a couple of items to take your loose-fitting jeans from Y2K streetwear to modern must-have, and I've found six outfits that do just that.
Scroll on to see the looks, and prepare to be converted.
1. Relaxed Blazer + Heeled Mules
Style Notes: Jen Azoulay makes a strong case for stonewashed denim with this high-low look, using a navy blazer and heels to smarten up her baggy cargo jeans.
Shop the Look:
I'm not usually a cargo girl, but these jeans may have convinced me.
It's hard to pick favourites from this season's heeled sandals selection, but these mules are definitely a front-runner.
2. Strapless Top + Kitten Heels
Style Notes: On your next night out, don't overlook those loose-fitting jeans you recently added to your wardrobe. Sleek kitten heels and a strapless top are all it takes to give them the evening treatment.
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3. Waistcoat + Hoop Earrings
Style Notes: Tailoring holds the power to transform even the most casual items in your wardrobe. Yes, baggy jeans included. Tap into the waistcoat-as-top trend during the summer, then swap it for a blazer come autumn.
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4. Trench Coat + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: When it comes to outerwear, it doesn't get classier than a trench coat. This French style staple holds the power to make even the slouchiest jeans feel ten times more sophisticated, especially when paired with simple ballet flats.
Shop the Look:
A love-forever style like this is worth investing in.
5. Corset Top + Court Shoes
Style Notes: Fashion people love giving their wide denim a pretty flourish, pairing it with corsetry-inspired tops, mini bags and court shoes. Barbiecore is in the air, after all.
Shop the Look:
If you want to try out the baggy denim trend without breaking the bank, turn to Monki.
6. White Blouse + Elevated Accessories
Style Notes: The "jeans-and-a-nice-top" formula truly never fails. A crisp white blouse will soften your blue denim, then use smart accessories to dress up the ensemble.
Shop the Look:
You'll pull out this pretty blouse for many years to come.
6. Tweed Jacket + Pointed Flats
Style Notes: Annabel Rosendahl's pairing of a tweed jacket with baggy jeans has 2023 written all over it. Cool and classy in equal measure, this would work well for a lunch date or relaxed afternoon meeting.
Shop the Look:
When you're not wearing these with baggy jeans, style them with a floaty midi dress.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: I'm a Stylist—These Are the 8 Jeans Brands That Are Genuinely Worth Investing In
Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.
A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.
In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.
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