As the first month of the year draws to a close, SS23's most-talked-about catwalk looks have been distilled down and our Instagram feeds are now filled with snapshots of these trends in action. Whether it's a ’90s-style blazer or a lime green handbag, there are signs of 2023 everywhere you look.
While social media makes even the most out-there fashion feel more attainable, I still sometimes struggle to incorporate trending looks into my own wardrobe. And I think I've figured out why: if it doesn't work with jeans, it's probably not for me. I wear denim 90% of the time, treating it as a foundation from which to build all my outfits. So, if something jars when styled with jeans, I have to put a whole lot more effort into making it work. I promise I'm not lazy—just a creature of habit.
After getting to know the sartorial proclivities of the Who What Wear team, and having some clothes-related chats with friends, I've felt reassured that I'm not the only one who's wholly dependent on denim. I'm sure a lot of you are, too. With this in mind, I've deducted exactly which 2023 trends work dreamily with jeans, to make all our lives easier.
Scroll on to see and shop on-trend outfits that don't require you to depart from your comfort zone. You're welcome.
1. Moto Jackets
Style Notes: Biker and motocross-inspired outerwear is this year's answer to transitional layering. And you don't have to work hard to make it look cool—just add jeans and trainers.
SHOP THE TREND
Trying to break away from black? This cream leather iteration is a breath of fresh air.
Abercrombie's denim deserves more attention, in my opinion.
This designer buy comes with a hefty price tag, but it will never go out of style.
Now is the time to invest in the wide-leg denim trend.
2. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: 2022 was the year ballet flats made a comeback, and 2023 is the year they'll settle into our wardrobes as a permanent fixture. I'll be styling my simple black pair with blue straight-leg jeans.
SHOP THE TREND
The perfect straight fit.
Find me a more comfortable pair of shoes. I'll wait.
Levi's remains one of the most dependable denim brands around.
Invest in one tan pair, one black pair, and you're sorted.
3. Ultra-Crop Tops
Style Notes: Get ready to see super-cropped tops and bralettes everywhere as the weather warms, particularly worn with blazers and high-waisted jeans. So 2023.
SHOP THE TREND
Lime green is a majorly trending colour right now.
Washed black denim is easy to dress up for evening drinks.
Style this into the summer months.
A cropped top will let the unique waist detailing on this pair shine.
4. Tall Boots
Style Notes: Goodbye ankle boots, hello knee-highs. This of-the-moment footwear choice looks just as good with slim-fit jeans tucked in as it does with mini skirts, midi dresses, leather shorts... the list goes on.
SHOP THE TREND
You'll never run out of ways to wear this versatile cut.
The topstitching completely elevates this pair of suede boots.
Premium, planet-friendly denim.
These were added to my basket in record time.
5. Cross-Body Bags
Style Notes: Ever since COS' unisex crossbody was first sighted on Instagram, the fashion world has gone crazy for this style of bag. The fuss-free design works in tandem with jeans to create a relaxed look.
SHOP THE TREND
It's also available in chocolate brown.
Wide-leg jeans are hot-ticket items for 2023.
This limited edition bag looks a lot more expensive than it is.
Love-forever jeans.
6. Nostalgic Knitwear
Style Notes: 2023's take on cottagecore involves cosy, homespun-looking knitwear. Think cable-knit cardigans and fairisle jumpers—both of which are easily modernised with the right pair of jeans.
SHOP THE TREND
This is an incredibly high-quality cardigan that will boost every outfit.
Flares are back, and I for one am thrilled about it.
Carry this pastel knit with you into spring.
This shape is seriously flattering.
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I'm a Denim Expert—These 4 Styles Are Trending Now and Will Be Big in 2025Elevated silhouettes.
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Hailey Bieber Just Wore the Flat Shoe Trend That Makes Jeans Look Classier Every TimeSee for yourself.
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Pamela Anderson and French Women Agree—These $98 Jeans Are Second to NoneI bought mine at Nordstrom.
