5 BEST DENIM TRENDS OF 2021
The long reign of skinny jeans is over, much to the dismay of many.
But fret not! 2021 is welcoming a host of new shapes, washes and fits for all. Whether it’s the move towards comfort from our tighter denim, or the move away from yoga pants, this new trend of baggier fits share one thing in common: nostalgia.
From clean looks like the straight legged jean, to trendier varieties such as the 90’s baggy jeans, this article will explore the best denim trends of 2021.
Straight Legged Jeans
A must-have for all wardrobes, the straight legged jean is a classic yet contemporary staple for all.
If you love skinny jeans but also want to traverse into the world of looser fits, the straight legged jean is a great place to start— it’s slimming, elongating and can make any casual outfit look polished.
They come in many different washes to suit various occasions, but I find that neutral or white solid shades make the best alternatives to pants.
Experiment with tops that flatter your body shape— for example, if you have an emerald cut body, try on a v-neck top to give yourself more curves.
If you are petite or have shorter legs, I recommend hemming the bottom to show off your ankles, or throwing on your favourite pair of heels to give you extra height and elongation.
90’s Baggy Jeans
If you’ve been accustomed to the comfort and safety of high-waisted jeans, the dreaded comeback of the low rise jean may cause some stir and panic.
The good news— I believe society has come to the consensus that low-rise jeans are not for everyone!
2021 is seeing a little alteration on the waists, keeping it mid-to high-waisted so it’s flattering for most body types, while maintaining its cool and effortless baggy look.
The wide legs make them comfortable to wear, but similarly, if you have a more petite silhouette, you may want to consider wearing heels or cuffing the hems slightly to give you more height.
Play with your proportions— half tuck a shirt to maintain the oversized look while keeping it chic, or wear a crop top for the ultimate 90’s vibe.
This year is also seeing a trend for upcycled and consciously-sourced materials, so this is a great excuse to dig your closet for your old pairs, or better yet, steal your partner’s jeans!
Belt your oversized jeans for a more updated, cinched-in paperbag waist.
Flared Jeans
Curvier women can now celebrate the comeback of flared jeans!
Flared jeans generally widen from the knees and continue all the way to the ground, giving you the perfect illusion of longer and slimmer legs.
Particularly, if you’re pearl-, teardrop- or hourglass-shaped, these jeans bring balance to your beautiful hips and thighs.
They go amazing with most tops and outerwear, so mix different textures to create interest.
Barrel Leg Jeans
An interesting variation of mom jeans, the barrel leg jean have risen exponentially in its popularity.
Sometimes also known as balloon leg jeans, they feature a higher waist and wide legs, but taper in towards the ankle and are cropped just above it.
Some contend that they’re a ‘smarter’ version of the mom jean, and we see why that might be the case. While they are quite similar, mom jeans often have a looser fit around the crotch, making barrel leg jeans a cleaner cut in comparison.
These jeans work on most, if not all body types, so they may just be your next favourite pair!
Pop on some vibrant heels and accessories to liven up your outfit and elongate your silhouette.
Asymmetric Waist Jeans
We’re not sure if the popularity of asymmetric jeans will last forever, but while they are hot and trendy, it’s worth to see what the hype is all about.
Not to be confused with the other trending (and arguably more bizarre) item, which is made with two entirely different leg fits, the asymmetric waist jeans get their name from their interesting waistline.
While they almost look like they’ve been buttoned wrongly at first glance, the stepped waistband can actually be flattering on certain body shapes!
Emerald cuts are great for this style, as the slanted waistline adds shape to an otherwise straight bodice.
The waistband also highlights your waist, so whether you’re curvy or not, these jeans will give you the illusion of an hourglass figure.
So there’s that— the top 5 trending denim items to wear in 2021.
Don’t forget to play with your accessories to update your denim!
WHAT TO SHOP | STYLE STAPLES TO LAST YOU THIS SEASON.
When we go through difficult times, our bodies intuitively crave comfort, whether it is in the food we eat, or the clothes we wear.
While I can relate to the temptation to pull the easiest thing to wear, we must remember that intentional dressing — that is, being mindful about what we’re wearing— can shape the course of our day. It can inspire, uplift and even make us more productive!
Without throwing you into the deep end, here are some styles that are oh-so-chic, yet do not sacrifice comfort.
The Street-Smart One.
The knit-and-jean combination has been around for years (and for good reason).
However, it’s easy to fall into the trap of wearing clothes that hide or overwhelm your frame.
Instead, neaten up your look with a pair of classic high-rise straight-legged jeans. They are neither tight nor baggy, so they flatter most people. You can choose to wear it as it is, or you may even cuff it to show off your boots (just remember not to exceed the double roll!).
A great knit to have is one that’s cropped, so there’s not too much excess fabric that will add bulk to your silhouette.
If you’re not one to drown yourself in accessories, wearing a sophisticated necklace is a fool-proof way of upscaling any casual outfit.
Instead of your usual pair of white sneakers, experiment with a cool pair of boots— you won’t regret it!
Finish your look with a bright pop of pink lipstick.
SHOP MORE STRAIGHT LEG JEANS.
BLACK ESSENTIAL
Black jeans are a wardrobe essential, and we love FRAME's classic straight-leg style. This pair is cut to sit high on the waist and is blended with just enough stretch for a close but comfortable fit.
STYLE NOTE:
Pair these jeans with sling-back heels, beautiful flats, or boots that are a slim fit around the ankle.
RELAXED HERO.
This jean is made using Australian cotton, blended with a hint of elastane for stretch and comfort. It has a high rise waist with a straight leg.
STYLE NOTE:
Indigo pairs beautifully with green as much as it does with cream.
A SENSE OF STYLE.
These straight-legged, 100% cotton jeans have a beautiful pipping feature that helps elongate the silhouette. With a flattering angled yoke.
STYLE NOTE:
Combine these jeans with a heeled bootie and colours such as mustard and maroon.
THE DISTRESSED EFFECT.
Boot legged and high waisted, these blue cotton jeans are your coffee run go-to’s.
STYLE NOTE:
For an edgy look, pair these jeans back with lace-up booties. Balance it with a puff sleeve knit.
SPRING CHIC.
This jean is made using Traceable Australian cotton, blended with a hint of elastane for stretch and comfort. It features a high rise waist with a straight leg. Country Road has partnered with the Better Cotton Initiative to improve cotton farming globally.
STYLE NOTE:
Add a beautiful patent black leather to polish and and texture to the look. White denim can be the base of any coloured or printed sweater.
The Confidant.
I love a good neutral jumper. It’s safe and familiar, and the easiest base for any accessory.
If you want to add more personality and life to your outfit, however, consider choosing a fun and vibrant piece, or a piece with an interesting detail (or both!). This abstract colourblock sweater from Farm Rio is the ultimate statement sweater that could live through multiple lives and not grow weary. It’s especially flattering for teardrop-shaped ladies, as the shoulder detailing adds balance to your silhouette.
The Tex high ankle boots offer a subtle pop of colour and texture which won’t distract from the main star of the show.
Add a pair gold earrings for some metal accents to your overall look and you’re good to go!
SHOP CREW NECK SWEATERS.
SAND DUNES.
The S/B/ Ava Crew Neck Knit is made from premium speckled yarn. It features a relaxed fit with a crew neckline, dropped shoulders and a slightly cropped body.
STYLE NOTE:
Combine with indigo blue jeans for a polished look.
SUBTLE HIGHLIGHT.
Textured and two-toned. This knitted crewneck is your ultimate outfit pleaser to transition your looks from Winter through to Spring.
STYLE NOTE:
Freshen this piece with white denim.
COLOUR BOMB.
Bold, cosy and fun! This colour block crewneck sweater has long sleeves with shoulder flaps. A pullover style striped rib collar, cuffs and hem.
STYLE NOTE:
Tone it down by pairing this stylish statement piece with distressed jeans. Or elevate it with black.
LOUNGE IN LUXE.
This classic crewneck sweater is cut from supersoft cashmere with a bold colorblock design.
Naadam is 100% sustainable with all materials for both their products and packaging coming from renewable or recycled sources and they promote ethical conditions for the animals and people behind their raw materials.
STYLE NOTE:
Maintain her cool with black denim. Otherwise, this knit can pair perfectly with our JASMINE ALEXA DISCOVERY PANTS.
COLOURSATURATION
It is essential to own a saturated shade like this angora wool crewneck sweater. With three-quarter sleeves, ribbed cuffs and hem, this knit can be worn above a button-down collared shirt and jeans.
STYLE NOTE:
Refine the knit with indigo blue denim. For a punch of street style, wear lace-up boots!
The Bold and Beautiful.
Black jeans are a staple to every wardrobe. It’s arguably easier to transition to less-casual venues with black jeans, compared to blue ones. I’m not entirely sure why, but maybe it’s because it could appear as a pair of pants at first glance.
The real question is— how do you make sweaters look a little more polished? This cashmere sweater may be the answer.
The fitted cuffs and hem are ultra-flattering and neat, making it easy to transition between places.
Add a pair of sleek black boots and intricate earrings to add interest to your look.
