Throughout the years, we’ve seen denim fads shift in various cuts, styling and shapes. In the ‘90s, the very-functional mom jeans reigned supreme while the sartorial denim-on-denim stole the show in the early 2000s. When it came to 2010, skinny jeans ascended in popularity, but that was short-lived (of course) when wide-leg denim culottes took centre stage much recently.
This season’s denim drop is heading towards frayed ruffle edges, hyperbolic flared hems and patchwork-esque contrasting panels. Click through to see the most stylish denim pieces of the season that’ll up your denim game without you having to feel the pinch.
Peplum tops do justice to both skinny and curvy figures, playing up to your curves for the latter while adding more where there’s less for the former. Step out into the office with this peplum top for an edgier, more casual twist on understated elegance.
Style Tip: Match this with a pair of straight cut trousers or a midi skirt that’s not too tight on the hips for a classy look.
With the return of the ‘70s style, this style of jeans are back and better than ever. This cropped pair of mid-rise jeans seams on the knees before flaring out into a frayed hem. Take note not to pair this with an overly long top as it’ll throw off the proportions of your torso. Instead, always tuck your blouse into these jeans for a chic and flattering look.
Style Tip: Throw on a pair of stacked heels with this for a retro back-to-the-‘70s vibe.
Zara flared jeans with seams, $69.90
What we love most about this style of jeans is that they’re dramatic, fashion-forward, and most importantly, they’re just fun. The ruffled-edge detail commandeers attention, and denim has never looked this polished and fresh with two-tiers worth of ruffles as it did in on eye-catching number.
Style Tip: Go for something more subtle like a striped blouse to bring out the fun details in this pair of jeans.
Boohoo Frayed Ruffled Edge Jeans, $60.30
The contrast duo-wash denim trend takes form in this cropped jacket – uber-stylish much. The classic sharp collar and vintage button fastenings gives this jacket an antiquated look, and yet ironically – because, you know, referencing backward is now fashion’s way of looking forward – this jacket may just be the ultimate star-buy amongst this season’s denim trends. The jacket, with its frayed finish, is just fashion forward enough without being overdone; the perfect style combination for anyone to pull off.
Style Tip: We recommend wearing this as a top by fastening all the buttons, and pairing it with an A-line skirt to match.
We always rely on a pair of high-waisted jeans to help elongate our legs and slenderise our waistline. Talk about a flattering cut. The detail in the uneven frayed hems also adds to the unconventional appeal of this pair of jeans from Zara, guaranteeing a laidback, modish vibe.
Style Tip: Pair this with a pair of kitten heel boots and a crop top for a dressy silhouette.
Zara Culotte Jeans, $45.90
Every IT Girl and fashion spender owns a pair of two-toned denim jeans ever since Vetements made the cult-status reworked jeans famous more than a year ago. But if $1,450 for a pair of jeans sounds absolutely ridiculous to you, adopt this pair of duo-wash jeans from Zara.
Style Tip: Wear this with a simple button-down shirt for the office, or tuck your favourite slip dress in for a seamless transition to after-office cocktails with the girls.
Zara Contrasting Jeans, $69.90
Skorts have always been a running satorial joke; the tomboyish sister of our mini skirts. But it wasn’t the ‘best of both worlds’ appeal of the skorts which won us over, it was this à la mode number which changed the whole game for us : A pair of culottes disguised as a denim midi skirt. Pure genius!
Style Tip: Pair this with ankle boots and a lightweight tank top for a laidback style.
Zara Culottes with Skirt, $59.90
This dress is the perfect summer-time staple for us. Well, considering the climate of our sunny island, we’d have to change that to ‘all year-round staple’. The frills are not just fun and youthful, they accentuate your femininity.
Style Tip: Dress this up with laced-up heels and a charming and bold statement necklace.
Mango Frill Denim Dress, $59.90
Pencil skirts are indisputably a must-have in your styling arsenal. A super chic denim version such as this is can be a key player when it comes to matching your outfits in the morning. Just think of the many different looks you can create with it!
Style tip: Channel a classic ‘90s look by cozying up in a turtleneck top with this. Finish off your look with a pair of chunky heels.
Asos Denim Midwash Skirt, $64.65
The split-seam jean may just seem like the latest craze in denim you never dreamt of indulging in, but it’s completely wearable for us career-focused women as well… you just have to dress it up in a tasteful manner. Yes, the unfinished distressed hem is undoubtedly intimidating at first
glance, but this pair of jeans sports a laid back look that’s distinct enough to allow you to stand out from the crowd – in a good way of course.
Style Tip: Wear this with a billowing off-shoulder blouse or a simple white tee to nail your off-duty look.
Pull & Bear Split Front Jeans, $64.63