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The millennial-beloved pant has gotten a modern makeover.
As part of the great fashion circle of life, denim trends come and go. What was once the height of fashion will one day become cheugy, before inevitably coming back into favor again. So where does that leave skinny jeans? Are they still in style? Fortunately for millennials, the answer is yes—even if TikTok tells you otherwise.
Granted, today’s best skinny jeans have evolved since the late aughts. For one, the skinny jean silhouette has softened. Originally low-rise, the waistline of skinny jeans has fluctuated over the years, too. Wear them low, high, or mid-rise—whatever you prefer. At the end of the day, the focal point of skinny jeans is a tapered ankle and a snug fit throughout. They’re incredibly versatile, which is what makes them so appealing. But in case you’re not sure how to style skinny jeans, we’ve got you covered.
To give your most beloved pair of denim a refresh, check out our favorite skinny jeans outfits below.
Try a Stirrups Spin-Off
You've heard of stirrup leggings, but what about stirrup skinny jeans? These Victoria Beckham-approved bottoms pair perfectly with a knit crop top and matching shrug.
Add a Western Twist
Calling all coastal cowgirls: Do your favorite cowboy boots a favor and wear them with a pair of skinny jeans. Combining a new trend with a wardrobe staple will give the latter an instant refresh.
Say "Yes" to Denim on Denim
Canadian tuxedos don’t have to leave you swimming in yards of denim. Give denim on denim an update by pairing embellished skinny jeans with a matching denim top. Leave a few unbuttons undone for that street-style star touch.
Channel the Girl Next Door
If jeans and a T-shirt are your go-to outfit formula, you're bound to love this slight variation. Sub in your tee for a crop top, and throw in some strappy sandals while you're at it. It's simple yet sexy, making it the quintessential girl-next-door look.
Break Out a White Pair
A slinky metallic blouse is practically begging to be paired with white skinny jeans. Strappy sandals are the finishing touch to this going-out outfit, but white sneakers will work just as well.
When choosing your footwear, chunkier and/or platform styles—e.g., boots, loafers, and sneakers—tend to balance out skinny jeans. Alternatively, try a pair of heels for a more elevated look.
Go Slightly Shorter
Draw attention to a pair of chic loafers or flats with cropped skinny jeans that hit at the ankle. This look works well with minimal, quiet luxury staples but is also a great backdrop to show off a statement jacket like Olivia Palermo does here.
Embrace Two Tones
One clever way to update a skinny jeans outfit is to skip a single shade and embrace a two-toned or dual-textured pair. Similar to how brightly colored jeans add flair to a ‘fit, leather-trimmed skinny jeans instantly elevate an OOTD.
Finish With Heels
Perhaps the most celeb-y way to wear skinny jeans is with a sleek heel. The look is a classic for a reason and infinitely customizable depending on your personal sense of style.
Throw on a Blazer
Light-wash skinnies lean casual but become instantly elevated when paired with a blazer. Finish with flats, heels, or even sandals, depending on the exact formal-to-informal ratio you’re going for.
Load Up on Layers
There’s nothing more effortless and edgy than a pair of skinny jeans worn with ankle boots, as demonstrated here. Layer with statement outerwear, sweaters, and the like for the ultimate wintry ensemble.
Strike a Balance
Balance casual and chic by pairing denim flats and a sleek duster. The silhouette of the duster is pure high-end fashion, while flats in a shade of denim that matches your jeans add a touch of street-style minimalism.
Reach for a Statement Top
Skinny jeans are truly the "less is more" jean style. They create a subtle, muted backdrop for whatever else you're wearing, making them the perfect pants to pair with a major statement piece, like this ruffle top.
Find Your Personal Style
When putting together your skinny jeans outfit, it’s all about balance. In terms of silhouette, color, and feel, this look checks all the boxes. Destroyed denim gets a sophisticated spin when paired with sleek Oxfords and a blazer. Meanwhile, a green bandana adds a pop of color and personality to an otherwise all-black ensemble.