These 6 Outfits Have Convinced Me to Try This "Old" Jeans Trend

We devote a lot of our day to writing about denim, be it the latest trends we spot on the runway or the new jeans sweeping the fashion scene. As it's one of the hardest-working items in our wardrobes, we consider this time well spent.

Avid readers will know we've already given you the low-down on the need-to-know jeans, but now, as we find ourselves on the cusp of autumn, we're starting to see some fresh new trends emerge, with one throwback jeans style proving increasingly popular in style circles. With wider-leg options coming back in general, it was inevitable that flares would also make a return—we just didn't predict how impactful they would be.

Over the last few weeks, we've spotted '70s-style flare denim everywhere. From the streets of Copenhagen Fashion Week all the way to the celebrity-lined sidewalks in NYC right through to our Instagram feeds, flare jeans are set to be a staple part of our wardrobes this season.

We understand, however, if you're tentative to try the trend. After years of straight-leg jeans dominating the fashion agenda, embracing this exaggerated silhouette straight off the bat might feel daunting. So, to help ease you in, we've found six perfect examples of what to wear with flare jeans, which you should be able to re-create with items you already own.

Scroll on to see how those in the know style their flare jeans, and rest assured you'll be wholly on-trend for the rest of the year.

1. CARDIGAN + BASKET BAG + TAN SHOES

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(Image credit: @lenafarl)

Style Notes: A cardigan always makes for the ideal accompaniment to flare jeans, and a short-sleeve style will seamlessly transition your summer wardrobe into autumn. 

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2. COLLAR + BLOUSE + CONVERSE

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(Image credit: @yoyokulala)

Style Notes: For perhaps the most effortless jeans pairing, just add a pretty blouse. One with a contrasting statement collar will feel particularly fresh. Then, add a cool spin with a pair of Converse. 

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3. LEATHER JACKET + WHITE SHIRT + COWBOY BOOTS

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(Image credit: @ada_oguntodu)

Style Notes: Lean into the retro appeal of flare jeans by styling yours with a tan leather jacket (we predict this faux option from M&S will be a hit this season), and finish with a pair of on-trend cowboy boots. 

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4. LONG COAT + SHOULDER BAG + T-SHIRT

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(Image credit: @leasy_inparis)

Style Notes: You can still wear flare jeans if you subscribe to a minimal aesthetic. Choose a long coat, which will keep your overall silhouette streamlined, and pair with a fuss-free top and simple accessories. 

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5. CHECK BLAZER + CAMISOLE + HEELED SANDALS

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(Image credit: @ariadibari)

Style Notes: Flare jeans might be a current trend, but you can make them feel utterly timeless by wearing them with classic pieces. A checked blazer, camisole, and tan shoes are all you need to give flares everlasting appeal. 

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6. NICE TOP + LEATHER BELT + MULES

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(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

Style Notes: Upgrade your jeans-and-a-nice-top outfit with a pair of light-wash flares and a chic satin blouse. Then, toughen up the ensemble with sharp black accessories. 

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Next Up: 8 Cool Brands Fashion People Are Wearing Right Now

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.