They were the shape of the mid-90s. The hero slim-cut jean that flared out slightly at the bottom to accommodate a boot was the style of choice, and championed by brands like Earl. Now, according to the likes of Celine they are officially back in favour.
Unsurprisingly, as with all controversial denim trends, the world has mixed feelings about this one. But after weighing up the pros and cons, MOJEH has decided there is serious credibility in this former icon.
ALBERTA FERRETTI SS20
Firstly, they are universally flattering. Whatever your shape or size, the slightly flared leg offers a balanced silhouette. They work just as well with a good heeled pump as they do with fashion’s current infatuation with statement trainers. And the roomy calf space also happens to work with this season’s bulky western boots – another nineties favourite.
Let’s not forget that they ooze a special kind of comfort and nostagia for anyone who lived through their first rising, too. In fact, the only con we’ve come up with so far is that the floor-grazing styles don’t give you enough opportunity to show off your fancy footwear.
BRANDON MAXWELL SS20
So, how to wear them now?
Unfortunately, if you did hold on to your nineties staples, their low-slung waist makes them sartorially redundant. The new versions being offered by brands have a mid-to-high waist – perfect for a half-tucked knit or blouse – which brings them immediately up to date. If it’s all starting to feel too nineties, then opt for a crop – you won’t get the elongating effect but it’s a sure fire way to keep your look current.
A model wears bootcut jeans with a white tee and leather jacket outside the Chanel SS20 show during PFW
If an Indigo wash is one step too far, look for a velvet, or needle cord, for an autumnal ode, and dress top-to-toe in one colour – black is always a safe bet.
Influencer Sabina Socol is the epitome of autumn cool in this tonal ensemble
Make sure you follow fashion’s lead – everyone from Cindy Crawford and Kaia Gerber to the Duchess of Sussex has been stepping out in this cult denim shape. Remember, the pull of the boot-cut has always been its leg-lengthening abilities. So make the most of it and pop on a pair of heels.
This street style goer teams jeans with point-toe pumps to give the illusion of longer legs
Channel the 70s. A cross-body shoulder bag in tan, a chunkier boot, hoop earrings, et voilà! Alternatively, a great jacket can instantly pull your look together.
On the streets of fashion week – a perfect example of how to channel the 70s with a modern edge
Shop the style…
There are plenty of styles to shop at the moment, too. Some of our favourites include Frame’s Micro Boot Cut jeans – they have a retro feel and are extremely flattering when worn with heels.
FRAME
And Mother’s Runaway jeans. This pair evoke the 70s with the faded wash and slightly shorter-at-the-front frayed hem – perfect for sitting over trainers or showing off heels. This is The Duchess of Sussex’s favourite denim brand.
MOTHER
Citizens of Humanity’s Georgia jeans in cotton-corduroy have a flattering high-waist, and fall to the floor like a classic bootcut jean.
CITIZENS OF HUMANITY
- Words by Elaine Lloyd-Jones
- Images: GoRunway.com, Getty Images
