Are skinny jeans still in style? The truth revealed

From the 17th-century French aristocracy to the punk rock rebellion of the 1970s and the emergence of ultra-skinny styles in the 2000s, skinny pants have had a fascinating and often surprising history. This exploration examines the cultural and social factors that have influenced this enduring fashion trend, tracing its evolution, its impact on different generations, and its relevance in contemporary fashion.

The rise of skinny jeans

Skinny pants have a rich history that dates back centuries. For instance, a Northern German tribe sported very tight trousers in the 4th century, and 18th-century aristocratic young men donned high-waist fitted breeches. The trend originated in France during the 17th century and quickly spread throughout England and the rest of Europe.

The modern rise of tight jeans began in the 1950s with the introduction of cigarette jeans, which were favored by icons like James Dean, Marlon Brando, and, notably, Elvis Presley. Although these jeans weren’t as tight as today’s skinny jeans, they began to symbolize rock ‘n’ roll and countercultures. The androgynous Beatnik movement also embraced slimmer-fitting trousers, marking a distinct departure from mainstream fashion. Iconic actresses such as Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot, and Marilyn Monroe wore high-waist, slim-fit jeans, further establishing them as symbols of progressive fashion.

In the 1960s, the UK Mod subculture, particularly Mod girls, preferred slim-fit trousers matched with tailored jackets, creating a polished look. This style transitioned from counterculture to mainstream thanks to celebrated actresses like Doris Day and the popularity of sewing patterns, which encouraged people to create their own garments at home. Renowned bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones also incorporated slim-fit jeans into their recognizable, rebellious aesthetics.

Cigarette jeans emerged in the 1970s as a reaction to the flamboyance of disco culture and flared jeans. The punk era of the 1980s adopted even tighter styles, becoming a counterculture once again. Bands like The Ramones and The Sex Pistols used fashion to assert their anti-establishment messages.

However, the late 1970s and early 1980s brought significant innovations, including the introduction of stretch denim fabrics. This new material enabled the creation of tighter yet more comfortable and softer jeans than before, offering a form-fitting style that felt like a second skin while maintaining its shape over time. By the 1980s, stretch jeans became essential pieces in women’s wardrobes globally.

The evolution of skinny jeans, as we know them today, emerged in the early 2000s, coinciding with a cultural shift towards extremely skinny body types. Low-waist skinny jeans became a defining trend for both men and women, particularly within the emo subculture. Designer Hedi Slimane played a crucial role in popularizing this look as the creative director of Dior Homme, blending the indie-rock aesthetic with pop culture, leading to an expansive influence among stars like Kate Moss, Pete Doherty, and bands like The Strokes.

However, the trend began to shift in the 2010s, with the resurgence of mom jeans—high-waist, straight-leg styles reminiscent of the late 1980s and early 1990s—regarded as more relatable than previously perceived. Today, baggy and wide-leg jeans dominate Gen Z fashion, reflecting a broader movement towards comfort and individuality. As fashion is cyclical, we’ve witnessed a subtle reintroduction of skinny jeans in some recent fashion shows. It will be interesting to see which styles resonate with the upcoming Gen Alpha.

Are they still a fashion choice?

Gen Z has shifted the fashion narrative, moving away from skinny jeans and embracing a looser fit. This transition was notably highlighted on TikTok, where they playfully criticized Millennials for their preference for skinny jeans. As a result, a growing trend toward wide-leg jeans has emerged, marking a departure from what some consider outdated styles.

The preference for looser fits reflects not only a desire for differentiation from previous generations but also a commitment to inclusivity and body positivity. Interestingly, this trend was amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many people opted for more comfortable clothing while staying at home.

Data from consumer research company Circana reveals that women’s jeans sales in the U.S. declined by 3% in the year ending September 2023. Of this decrease, $8 out of every $10 lost was due to the fading popularity of skinny jeans. Nevertheless, skinny jeans still represent 30% of total jeans sales, indicating that they continue to have a place in the market.

Current denim trends showcase a strong inclination toward wide-leg jeans, yet there is an exciting openness to diverse styles today. Unlike the past—when dominant cultures often overshadowed subcultures—fashion now encourages exploration and creativity. Many are drawing inspiration from vintage trends, allowing individuals to select styles that resonate with them personally.

Moreover, we’re witnessing a revival of Y2K-inspired fashion. For instance, Kendrick Lamar has been spotted wearing bootcut jeans, a style that predates skinny jeans. Given fashion’s cyclical nature, it’s entirely plausible that skinny jeans could re-emerge as a trendy option. Lila Moss, inspired by her fashionable mother, already appears to be tapping into this potential resurgence.

Modern alternatives to skinny jeans

When it comes to choosing jeans, the options are plentiful, allowing you to find the perfect fit that aligns with your taste and style. If the tight-fitting jeans of your youth no longer appeal to you, there are many great alternatives that strike a balance between comfort and style.

Slim-fit jeans offer an excellent compromise between skinnier styles and more relaxed options. They are designed to enhance your body’s shape while providing comfort, contouring the hips and calves without restricting the ankles. This style allows for greater freedom of movement, making it suitable for a variety of body types. Consider high-waisted versions to create a streamlined silhouette.

If you feel that form-fitting jeans aren’t quite right for you anymore but are hesitating to go completely loose, straight-leg and regular-fit jeans might be the perfect solution. These versatile cuts provide a comfortable fit that includes different shapes and styles without being overly wide. Additionally, mom jeans offer a high-waisted option that combines a relaxed fit through the hips and thighs, channeling a comfortable, 90s-inspired aesthetic.

Lastly, flared jeans are making a fashionable comeback. They fit snugly through the hips and thighs before gradually widening at the knees and toward the ankles. If you’re looking for a subtler option, bootcut jeans offer a more understated style without the dramatic flair of bell bottoms while still incorporating a touch of retro appeal to your look.