I Ran to Buy These $98 Gap Jeans After Seeing the Proenza Schouler Runway
Metallics have officially reached a fever pitch, with high-shine accessories selling at the speed of light these days. Well, let me introduce you to everyone's next obsession: metallic jeans. Both Proenza Schouler and Gabriela Hearst both showed styles during NYFW last month, and they immediately caught my attention for their oddly low-key feel, considering the statement pants were styled with wardrobe mainstays like blazers and ankle boots.
It didn't take long before the runway shows sent me into an internet rabbit hole in search of a similar pair I could shop for now—and not have to wait another six months for. As if reading my mind, Gap released a set of jeans in both silver and gold colorways. Even better, they ring up for under $100, making them a no-brainer buy for someone like me who's fixated on recreating these runway looks. But my research didn't stop there. I've since spent hours hunting down the best pairs to shop and I'm pleased to report that I've sourced 17 pairs for you here.
Ahead, see where we're spotting the silver jeans trend from the recent runways to Instagram, and then shop our faves.
On the Runways
Proenza Schouler debuted a pair of shiny metallic trousers on their fall 2023 runway just last month during NYFW and I haven't quite been the same since. Metallics can easily feel intimidating and yet the down-to-earth styling with a tailored coat and ankle boots was surprisingly approachable and, dare I say, easy.
Metallic pants popped up at Coach this season, too, where they were married to shiny shearling-lined jackets and accessorized with bright-pink accents.
The '80s glam that defines Isabel Marant was as present as ever this season. The brand showed a menswear look consisting of slouchy silver jeans and a metallic-thread sweater that I'm praying they produce in a womenswear-friendly size range, too.
Another designer on board is Gabriela Hearst. Her fall collection features a pair of metallic jeans that peek out from underneath a long dress coat. It proved that even just a sliver of shiny fabric is enough to make an impact.
Even though the fall collections were heavy on the metallics, the theme was already starting to percolate for spring 2023. Here, Isabel Marant's summer-friendly idea involves silver cargo trousers and a delicate strapless top.
The runways presented a united front on how to wear the silver jeans trend, aka with classic pieces in neutral tones. Whether it's a blazer, coat, or simple top, styling them with our everyday wardrobe foundations is the way to go.
On the Fashion Set
My colleague Sierra just wore silver jeans with a blue denim jacket, and now I'm officially inspired to do the same.
A fun graphic tee and layers of jewelry is an easy way to bring down the disco-looking jeans into the daytime.
This trend is made for a night out. Wear the jeans with a black blazer, bodysuit, and embellished pumps to really let them have their moment.
Of course, if you're feeling especially bold, a full-on metallic-coated Canadian tux is always an option.
I wouldn't have thought to wear them with ballet flats and a woven bag, but something about this contrast just works.
Amp up the disco energy with a leather jacket.
After seeing Machine Gun Kelly's silver suit at the Grammys, I'm suddenly noticing similar outfits everywhere.
In My Cart
And now, the $98 Gap jeans that sparked today's deep-dive.
I'd regret skipping this on-sale Nordstrom pair if I were you.
Despite the foil-like texture, this pair is actually soft and slightly stretchy.
When the denim brand fashion people swear by is making silver jeans, you know the fit is going to be A+.
Leave it to Net-a-Porter to style silver pants in a way that makes them look shockingly easy to wear. Just add a tee and blazer.
While these aren't silver, this light-pink metallic shade was just too pretty not to include.
A white tank and layers of jewelry is all you need to style them.
Another gorgeous designer pair that, while certainly an investment, looks flawless with wardrobe heroes like black ankle boots.
Skinny jeans that might actually feel on-trend right now.
Speaking of micro-trends, see 11 more that are altering my brain chemistry right now.
Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.
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