All the 'Fits That Prove Cropped Flare Jeans Are the #1 Summer Denim Trend

All the Ways to Wear is a monthly series where we round up the personal twists the Who What Wear team is putting on one particular item, style, or trend. Whether it's the trending denim of the moment or the season's It print, we hope to inspire your daily outfits and up the cost per wear on some of our favorite items.

I love a good denim trend as much as the next person, but let's be real: Some of them are less practical than others. Low-rise jeans? Not for me. Split-hem denim? Sadly, I'm not tall enough. Luckily, summer 2022's biggest denim trend—the cropped flare jean—is equal parts cool and wearable. I'm excited about the popularity of this style because it's perfect for showing off all my new summer sandals. The specific pair Who What Wear editors can't stop talking about is the Wanda Jean from L'AGENCE, a brand that carries endless elevated wardrobe essentials. From the high-rise waist to the raw hem, the details on these jeans can't be beat, and our team is already putting this perfect pair to the test and creating their best summer 'fits.

"Denim is always what I turn to when I want to feel 100% myself. I have been leaning more into a classic way of dressing and plan on tapping into that 'clean girl' aesthetic more this season. While I normally reach for a classic blue wash, this white pair has become my new go-to this summer. I styled these with a breezy striped button-down (another go-to basic of mine in the summer) and added some color via the blue flat slides. This is the perfect outfit to wear for a casual summer day, which, for me, usually entails a lovely meal with friends and watching the sunset." — Lauren Eggertsen, editorial director

"A moment for the most reliable combo of all time: on-trend denim teamed with what I will forever refer to as a 'going-out top.' I end up with one outfit that becomes my default look every season, and it's invariably the one that requires no figuring out, that I always feel good in because I'm never overdressed or underdressed. This summer, that outfit consists of relaxed-fit jeans in a light wash paired with this perfect off-the-shoulder top (note the not-too-puffy sleeves) that can handle both park hangs and fancy restaurants with zero effort. It's equally as good with platforms, fisherman sandals, or strappy heels. A structured wicker handbag and lots of gold jewelry are foolproof final touches." — Natalie Cantell, VP of brand studios

"I'm convinced there's no fabric more timeless and versatile than denim. I love how I can dress up a pair of jeans with a blazer and heels or dress them down with a simple white tee and sneakers. It's the great common denominator of my wardrobe. For the last three years, I've strictly worn high-waisted jeans, so the Wanda jeans fit perfectly in my rotation. Plus, the light wash and cropped length are ideal for keeping things cool in NYC this summer. Overall, this look from L'AGENCE is the perfect representation of my personal style: a mix of classic and trendy. I'll be wearing this outfit on repeat from the office to happy hour all summer long." — Natalie Gray Herder, associate editor

"I wear jeans practically every day—they're incredibly versatile, not to mention easy to dress up or down with the right top, shoes, and accessories. Since they're one of the most hard-working staples in my year-round wardrobe, I'm always looking for fresh and comfortable styles that suit my busy lifestyle and fashion-forward aesthetic. The Wanda jeans from L'AGENCE are incredibly soft, and while I appreciate rigid denim now and then, I always prefer a comfortable fit over anything else. I'm really into this easy silhouette for summer—relaxed throughout the leg, high-waisted for a more flattering look, and slightly cropped to show off cute sandals! This time around, I styled the jeans with a silky, colorful camisole top and chic white slides—an effortlessly cool summer look I'd wear for early evening cocktails with friends. I could also easily wear this to meetings with the addition of a blazer or on the weekends with sneakers." — Judith Jones, market editor

SHOP MORE FAVE TOPS TO WEAR WITH DENIM