The Tamesis
We’re all on a journey to find the perfect pair of jeans. In fact, denim is one of (if not the this) the most hard-working wardrobe essentials ever. But jeans actually have their own fashion cycle, with each season designers working on fits, wrinkles, cuts and rinses that we’ll be eager to get our hands on in the year ahead. Denim trends run the gamut in 2026, from body-hugging leggings (yes, they’re back!) to classic straight cuts and the widest wide-legs you can imagine. It’s all about filling your denim wardrobe with a variety of proportions, ensuring you always have the perfect pair for any styling scenario.
fashion magazine Favorite denim picks
Citizens of Humanity Annina straight-leg jeans
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Major brands like Dior, Balenciaga, Valentino and Celine (not typically known as a denim-forward, streetwear brand) are all bringing denim into their spring/summer collections in new and exciting ways. Celine went for skinny jeans, while Dior and Valentino paired straight cuts with romantic tops, capes and jackets. Stella McCartney and Loewe experimented with volume and texture, while Khaite delivered another instantly covetable cut and wash.
This season’s theme isn’t just blues, either. While we’ll always love classic mid-washes, we’re big fans of white denim and are excited about the earth-toned attempts we’re finding on the denim market. Whether you’re a fan of tried-and-true silhouettes or you’re a brave denim experimentalist, this season’s denim trends are sure to inspire you. Shop our favorites below.
Get to the point
Thanks to multiple haute couture rotations on spring and summer runways, the ever-classic straight cut has become the denim of the moment. Brands like Dior, Jil Sander and Calvin Klein all feature the same classic pieces, such as button-downs, crewnecks and trench coats. When purchasing a cut, make sure your legs are extended straight From hips to ankles – Considerable fit at the thighs, while becoming roomier from the knees down.
skinny jeans
No, this isn’t another 2016 throwback post, in fact, skinny jeans are coming into 2026. Celine went all out with the Saran Wrap look, while Khaite and Balenciaga left a little flare at the ankle to help us ease back into the idea. The beauty of skinny jeans is their leg-elongating properties (especially high-waisted jeans), and they just happen to balance perfectly with oversized tops, blazers, and jackets. Not to mention they can really show off the shoes. If you’re ready to get back to skinny jeans, keep an eye out for keywords like “slim” and “cigarette” to guide your jeans shopping journey.
event
In contrast to the resurgence of skinny jeans, big jeans have never been bigger. Low, loose silhouettes have been hugely popular in recent years, but this season pleats and panels are adding more volume at brands like Dior, Alaïa, Stella McCartney and more. Enhance the oversized look with an equally baggy jacket, or balance the proportions with a ruffled jacket. Whatever style you choose, just make sure the hem falls completely to the floor.
light array
Year-round white officially approved in 2026. We love winter whites just as much as we love spring creams, summer bleaches, or fall beiges. Whether you wear slim-cut bootcut pants with an equally polished white button-down or keep it casual with a loose fit and a leather jacket, light-colored jeans can freshen up your look.
Worn and well-loved
Enough of the quiet luxury, we’re ready for some bold, distressed denim. Tibi, MM6 and Coach made the case for rough and tumbled jeans, sending them down their runways with paint splatters, tears and faded washes. A pair of sun-faded and heavily distressed jeans can tell a story in its patches and tears.
earth tones
We’re loving earthy, colorful denim this season. Earth-toned denim comes in colors ranging from clay and terracotta to stone gray and bark, with dusty, washed shades appearing at Loewe, Celine and Dior. Denim brand Ossou has perfected the naturalistic look with a series of earthy washes.
long story short
In 2026, the love affair with long shorts is still going strong. These transitional length shorts pair perfectly with leggings and knee-high boots during the colder months, and they’re equally perfect for beach days as the temperatures warm.
Tailored jeans
Although denim may have a casual reputation, it can be tailored to fit like any quality pair of pants. Valentino and Chloe showed us how, with shoes with crisp front creases and tailored legs. Pair it with a sharp collarless jacket for a very chic office ensemble.
rinse wash
In the timeless world of denim, washes reign supreme. The dark blue selvedge has a professional and polished edge while being reminiscent of vintage workwear that will blend in over time. It’s a style that’s perfect for any occasion and a great addition to your jeans cycle.
