Barrel, palazzo, cigarette, bootcut, or straight: what’s your go-to denim style? The denim trends that have been all the rage lately are set to make a comeback in winter 2025-2026, bringing some nostalgic vibes and a fresh twist to your wardrobe. You’ll find relaxed, retro looks, plus some fun styles if you want to stand out. Want to know more? Check out the latest denim trends with us!
From baggy to retro: what will you wear this winter?
One of the coolest things about denim is that there’s really something for everyone. It’s one of the most versatile fabrics out there, perfect for any fit and easy to match with anything you have.
This winter is no different, and you’ll find a bunch of styles to nail that denim look you love. Whether you’re digging through your closet for old favorites, shopping for something new, or checking out second-hand finds, there are plenty of options. Wide-leg and baggy jeans are still super popular with the younger crowd, but you can also bring back those retro cuts for a fun touch of nostalgia.
Barrel and baggy jeans
Barrel jeans are one of the hottest denim styles right now and don’t seem to be going anywhere. With their sculpted, rounded shape, they add some nice definition to your legs while keeping things comfortable and easy to move in. You can pair barrel jeans with fitted tees or knits for a fun mix of volumes, or throw on a structured coat to boost that contemporary vibe.
Baggy jeans are still a go-to for Gen Z, thanks to their laid-back, gender-neutral look. However, they’ve got that slouchy and relaxed fit that feels super comfortable and works for just about every age. Pair them with cropped tops, slim tees, or even corsets for a stylish yet casual contrast that blends comfort with a curated, chic touch. They also look great with oversized hoodies and sweaters if you’re all about that cozy life.
Wide-leg and palazzo jeans
If you’re into wide jeans that have a lot of fabric but don’t want them to be too slouchy, go for wide-leg jeans. They usually have a straight but roomy fit, giving you a laid-back yet polished vibe. One of the best things about them is that they work for different body types and styles without being overly voluminous or long.
Palazzo jeans are in this same family, featuring a wide, straight look that starts at the hips and flows down to the ankles. They have soft, draped lines that enhance your shape without feeling tight. In the winter, they’re great to wear with short jackets or long coats; there’s really no in-between.

Cigarette and cropped jeans
If you want a style that’s slim but not too tight, cigarette jeans are a great choice. They’ve made a comeback since the 1980s and strike a nice balance between straight and skinny looks. They get their name from the shape of the legs, which are narrow and go straight from the knee to the ankle, kind of like a cigar. Usually, they hit right at the ankle, giving off a chic vibe that reminds you of the fashion from back in the day.
Cropped jeans are also a good option if you want to add a bit of style without giving up the comfort of denim. They hit just above the ankle, so you can pair them with pointed-toe heels for a classy vibe or swap them for flat shoes to nail that retro look.
Bootcut and flared jeans
Then, there are bootcut jeans, that classic Midwest style that never really goes out of fashion. However, they made a big comeback after Kendrick Lamar wore them during the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show. This style takes inspiration from the ’90s and widens towards the ankle, giving off a timeless vibe that feels both relaxed and put-together, and making an excellent choice for winter that plenty of people love.
Bootcut jeans aren’t as dramatic as the flare styles from the ’70s, which periodically make a comeback with some minor updates to fit current trends. In winter 2025-2026, flare jeans are still popular and give off a romantic, nostalgic vibe. They add a cool, boho touch to any outfit, and the cuts are less exaggerated and more contemporary compared to the classic ’70s versions.
Regular-fit and straight jeans
Finally, regular-fit jeans are a timeless style that we can always celebrate. They’re incredibly versatile and look good on just about anyone, making them easy to wear with almost any outfit thanks to their classic, straight-cut design.
Sometimes, regular and straight fits can overlap, but they can also have a few minor differences. Both styles strike a nice balance—neither too tight nor too loose—giving you a comfy fit all the way down the leg. However, straight jeans always keep a steady width from the hips to the ankles, while regular-fit jeans might narrow a bit towards the hem, depending on the brand or designer.

Dark indigo and chocolate brown are the favorite hues
Designers are allowed to get creative with denim, not just in terms of fits. The range of colors and washes is constantly growing, giving everyone more ways to show their unique style. While classic indigo and black will always be a go-to, there are a ton of fresh and unexpected washes coming into play.
Dark indigo and even raw denim have been showing up a lot in recent fashion shows, proving they never lose their charm and add a touch of everyday elegance. But now, many new collections are playing with unconventional dyes that have won over fashion lovers. This winter, chocolate brown is particularly on trend. This play-safe seasonal favorite is definitely making its mark in the denim scene.

Some funky winter denim trends you should keep an eye on
Among these more conventional macro denim trends, there are some niche styles that not everyone may be ready to embrace, but they can certainly refresh your winter wardrobe:
- 2YK-inspired low-rise jeans: these jeans are taking us back to the nostalgia of the early 2000s, especially in light-washed styles. Perfect for Millennials looking to relive their teen years!
- Decorated denim: think glitter, crystals, and metal embellishments. This trend has been around for a bit and is still a fun way to spice up classic denim.
- Vented hem jeans: this denim comes with vents at the hem to partially show off your shoes, and they’re extra long, often hitting the ground.
- Denim on denim: this trend might not be as out there as some others, but denim jackets and shirts usually scream warm weather. The thing is, denim is actually perfect for layering, so why not pull that denim suit out of your closet?
Sure, these styles might not be for everyone, but isn’t denim all about having fun and trying new things?
