It Might Take Me a While to Get Used to "the New Jean Shape"

When it comes to new denim trends, keeping an open mind is always my objective going in, especially when it’s one that’s endorsed by Net-a-Porter. But this look is certainly a departure from the rest of my denim collection, which mostly consists of straight-leg styles, cropped flares, and the occasional pair of skinny jeans. So back to Net-a-Porter; the site just posted a story pinpointing “the new jean shape,” and I was intrigued to see that the look that was all over the runways of S/S 18 (including Alexander Wang and Monse) has officially hit the mainstream: baggy yet tapered jeans, many of which are distressed and high-waisted.
This emerging denim trend is a shape we last saw in such a big way in the ’90s (which explains the resurgence, since everything from that decade is now cool again), and it’s basically the antithesis of skinny jeans. So what’s the key to pulling it off? Opt for a pair with a slightly cropped length, pair with heels, and keep the rest of your outfit clean and simple. Now all you have to do is choose a pair. Below are the ones I’m considering with an open mind.
This is a good “starter” option.Available in sizes 23 to 32.
Re/Done's take on the trend looks especially authentic.Available in sizes 24 to 30.
This Saint Laurent pair looks just vintage enough.Available in sizes 24 to 31.
I’d gladly wear these with crisp white tops all summer.Available in French sizes 34 to 44.
If you really love the '90s, this pair is for you.Available in sizes 25 to 29.
The sleeves are detachable, in case you want to mix things up.Available in sizes 24 to 30.
Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater arts. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.
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