12 Boyfriend Jeans Outfits to Revitalize Your Denim

If you know your fashion history, you'll remember the popularity of boyfriend jeans in the early '00s and '10s. Back in the day, it felt like every celebrity was wearing the low-cut, very-cuffed style, usually over a pointed-toe heel and with a studded belt. Original boyfriend jeans could be tricky to pull off, but these days, it's a ubiquitous style staple. The fit, which is often relaxed through the thighs and calves with a slight taper, can be just as comfortable and multifunctional as the boot, flare, and straight-leg jeans. 

If you're hoping to give the style a try this year, or just looking for ideas on how to wear boyfriend jeans, keep scrolling for some outfit inspiration.

With a Sneaker

For a look that keeps you stylish during your commute, boyfriend jeans with some Converse or Adidas sneakers is a casual and fun way to style the pants. Here, the distressing at the knee and higher waist keep the look from feeling dated, and the black skinny belt matches the leather jacket and crop tank.

As a Contrast

A patterned or tweed jacket requires something a little more basic on the bottom half. Pair it with high-rise boyfriend jeans (bonus points for a frayed hem) and a more substantial shoe that complements the details in your top half.

With Chunky Boots

The chunky boot (Doc Martens in this case) is always a fun shoe choice, and the cuffed boyfriend jean allows you to show it off. Add a more feminine top and bag for some contrast, and the whole look will feel casual but put together.

In Washed Black

If you like your outfits all black, choosing a slightly lighter wash adds textural contrast and makes the look feel lived-in. The frayed edges here also make the outfit more casual, in contrast to the more structured bag. The jeans hit right at the ankle bone, which helps your legs look longer than with a crop.

In a Wide Leg Cut

More modern boyfriend jeans can sit on the waist instead of at the hips, a huge win for those of us who don't like low-rise pants. It also runs wider and has light distressing on the sides and a longer inseam. A tighter top and a more upscale heel can make the look feel tailored, or you can pair it with sneakers to be more casual.

As a Neutral

When your look has some color, rigid jeans in a neutral color like black add structure to the look without becoming the focal point of the outfit. And if you've got a chunky shoe you're dying to show off (like these Yeezy sneakers), boyfriend jeans with a slight crop (these are Re/Done) are the perfect way to do it.

With Big Rips

Highly distressed denim can be a look. Make sure you get a pair with a high waist and longer hemline so the rips don't look overwhelming. Pair matching colors on top and bottom, like this green vest and green shoe, so the eye doesn't stop at your knee. 

In a Barrel Shape

In contrast to a tapered or wide leg, a barrel pant flares at the knee and then tapers towards the ankle. It creates a unique but flattering shape, particularly if the top is shorter or more fitted. The structure also moves the eye downward towards the feet, which makes it perfect for wearing more elevated, formal shoes.

Cropped With a Cool Shoe

If you usually pair your cropped pants with flats, why not switch it up with a more surprising choice? The "wrong shoe" theory (popularized by stylist Allison Bornstein) encourages us to find a shoe that feels surprising or counterintuitive compared to the rest of the look. These boyfriend Levi's are perfect when cropped to showcase these (Sinobio) platform flip-flops. 

Underneath Some Layers

Much like a wide-leg or bootcut jean, the boyfriend jean works as a base layer. It's easy to add brighter colors or necessary layers when it's cold (in this case, a bralette, utility shirt, and jacket) over top. The more relaxed fit on the bottom is modern, but it still channels the classic boyfriend shape. 

With Heels

Much like a sandal, a delicate heel can feel like the "wrong shoe" that adds dimension to an outfit. If you're cuffing the pants, adding socks to the heel (or wearing a sock boot) means there won't be a gap between the hem of the pants and the start of the shoe, which offers a more streamlined look.

As the Focus

This outfit could not be simpler, but each item is classic and chic: black top, black loafers, Chanel bag. So, the boyfriend jean actually takes center stage here, with the lighter color, relaxed shape, and mid-rise giving dimension to an otherwise monochrome look.

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