It's Not Just Skinny Jeans—4 Denim Trends You'll Actually Like in 2026

It’s Not Just Skinny Jeans—4 Denim Trends You’ll Actually Like in 2026

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When it involves denim traits for 2026, there’s nonetheless whispers of a thin denims renaissance. And certainly—sure—the controversial silhouette that by some means can perception concern in millennials and Gen Z alike, is going on. But there’s so many different denim traits that are not being talked about which are additionally quietly discovering their option to the mainstream, and with far much less controversy. If something, the most important denim traits we’re observing for the yr are literally fairly likable and will not ship a shiver of concern down your backbone.

Below, the 4 denim traits we’re enthusiastic about seeing extra of and attempting out in 2026.

Straight Leg Jeans

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If skinny denims intimidate you however barrel denims are too massive, take into account straight leg denims as a substitute. The silhouette is a basic form that’s delicate and non-intimidating. You may also go for a barely baggier possibility that is not close to barrel ranges of outsized or a pair that is extra tight however nonetheless feels worlds away from the slimness of a typical skinny.

What we love most a couple of straight leg jean is that it is an ideal base for something. Unlike a extra slender jean, straight leg denim does not pigeon gap you into one aesthetic. And when you want any inspiration, simply have a look at Alexa Chung’s instagram. The fashion icon has been rocking the search for years.

Denim Mini Skirts

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Everyone is saying that 2026 is the brand new 2016. And if that’s certainly true (we pray it’s), then denim mini skirts shall be in every single place. The skirt was a cornerstone of the aesthetic of the time (paired with a velour turtleneck and black choker, IYKYK).

There was a miniskirt second after the viral Miu Miu mini of 2021, however the miniskirt motion of 2026 shall be quite a bit much less particular. It’s not only one mini skirt that may reign supreme, however the look as a complete. Feel free to fashion in a 2016 manner, with tall boots and a pastel tie-top, if you wish to be biblically correct. But you may also put on with a pendant necklace and a polka dot prime for a glance that feels twee however nonetheless very now.

Dark Wash Jeans

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Light wash denim has been in every single place for years now, which suggests it is lastly darkish wash’s flip. Like the miniskirt, the darkish wash jean was in style in the 2010s. And contemplating how a lot the millennial optimism look has been trending on TikTok for months now, it is no shock this jean wash is going on once more.

For a glance that feels classic however recent, take into account a pair of low-rise darkish wash denims. It’s what a manic pixie dream woman would put on if she had the social media of right this moment.

Denim Capris

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Capris aren’t going away anytime quickly. If something, they’re coming for 2026 in a complete new kind: denim capris. Alexa Chung, who we already talked about as being main denim inspiration at all times, proved they’re fabulous at Paris Fashion Week earlier this yr. When the climate begins to heat up, these are the proper possibility if you wish to actually exhibit your summer season sandals and kitten heels with out having to fret about them getting lined by a jean cuff.