Denim Trends 2025: What’s In and How to Style Them

Trend Report: What’s In

Skinny to Baggy: The Silhouette Shift

Skinny jeans might never truly vanish, but their dominance has clearly been replaced. In 2025, baggy denim silhouettes—think slouchy, wide-leg, and straight cut—are reshaping the way we perceive casual cool. Backed by streetwear's evolution and TikTok's Gen Z-led nostalgia, the baggy trend has roots in '90s hip-hop culture and 2000s skate fashion.

Brands like Balenciaga and Diesel push oversized jeans in campaigns, while resale platforms like Depop and Grailed report a consistent increase in searches for "baggy fit denim." The fit speaks to both comfort and anti-polish rebellion—a silent protest to fast fashion minimalism and corporate dress codes.

Baggy styles are also more forgiving and inclusive across body types, making them versatile for all-day wear. Pro tip: cuff the hems if you're on the shorter side, and pair with tailored tops to balance proportions.

Barrel & Bootcut Revival

Barrel-leg jeans are fast becoming a go-to silhouette for those wanting movement without the extreme volume of wide-leg pants. Their structure—a cinched waist, voluminous thigh, and tapered ankle—adds architectural flair to an outfit.

Often seen in Japanese workwear labels like Kapital or Scandinavian minimalists like COS, barrel jeans are rooted in both utility and design-forward aesthetics.

Meanwhile, bootcut jeans—once an early 2000s staple—are re-entering with subtle updates. The modern iteration includes high-stretch denim, cropped hems, and unwashed selvedge.

Gigi Hadid, Zendaya, and even Harry Styles have all been seen rocking bootcut fits, proving they’re not just for throwback Thursdays. The silhouette flatters curvier bodies while elongating the legs, especially when paired with heeled boots or pointed loafers.

Jorts & Long Shorts

The rise of jorts—jean shorts often falling just above the knee—is no longer an ironic style choice. Blending Y2K nostalgia with Gen Z minimalism, jorts are everywhere from Uniqlo to Jacquemus runways.

Their transformation from dad-wear to streetwear staple has been swift, thanks in part to TikTok stylists who showcase pairings with oversized blazers, chunky sneakers, or ribbed tanks.

Longline silhouettes add balance, providing modesty and mobility at once. For a cleaner finish, opt for tailored jorts with contrast stitching or pleated fronts.

Whether raw-hemmed or sharply pressed, long denim shorts now bridge the gap between laid-back weekenders and experimental streetwear. Just avoid pairing them with oversized tops unless you're going full monochrome to streamline the silhouette.

Distressed & Dirty Denim

Distressed denim has always danced between edgy and overdone, but 2025’s version is intentionally raw and gritty. Brands like Acne Studios, Maison Margiela, and Bottega Veneta are bringing back bleach stains, uneven hems, and pseudo-oil smudges in what’s dubbed the "dirty denim" revival.

The look isn't about neglect but instead controlled chaos—meant to look lived-in, defiant, and imperfect.

The DIY aesthetic also aligns with sustainability trends; rather than trashing worn denim, reworking it into new art forms or distressed aesthetics gives garments second life.

Plus, it evokes an underground ethos—reminiscent of punk scenes or skate culture. Pair it with clean basics or soft knits to balance the visual abrasion.

Dark Wash & White Denim

Deep indigo jeans—often selvedge or raw—are making a strong return as fashion leans into uniform dressing. They're versatile enough to wear with everything from tailored blazers to casual crewnecks.

Raw denim, in particular, offers a personal patina over time, telling the story of its wearer through creases and fades. Brands like A.P.C. and Nudie are capitalizing on this narrative with limited-edition indigo releases.

On the flip side, white denim is now seen as a year-round staple, no longer restricted to spring or vacation. Full white sets (jeans + jackets) give off a crisp, intentional vibe—especially when layered with warm neutral tones or metallics. Pro tip: opt for off-white shades for more dimension and easier maintenance.

Embellishment & Chain Belt Accents

In 2025, denim isn't just about the cut—it’s a canvas. Embellishments are coming back in a major way. Think rhinestones, contrast patchwork, visible mending, embroidered back pockets, and even hand-painted graphics. This maximalist flair is a departure from the hyper-minimal aesthetics of the early 2020s.

Chain belts—often sourced vintage—are also making a major comeback. Worn low-slung over loose denim or looped through high-rise jeans, they channel both '90s clubwear and punk attitude.

When styled correctly, a chain belt can elevate the simplest outfit and add depth through texture and shine. Boring Monday’s upcoming capsule might even embrace custom embellishment pieces—watch this space.

Cropped, Cuffed, Turn-Up Styles

Small styling tricks make big impact—and cuffed or cropped denim is proof. Whether it's a thick turn-up showing selvedge stitching or a raw-cut hem cropped above the ankle, this styling cue adds character and breaks visual monotony. It's also practical: cuffing can adjust fit, show off statement socks or footwear, and breathe new life into old pairs.

This detail works particularly well with footwear-driven outfits. From chunky boots to loafers and sandals, a turn-up can balance proportions and give the illusion of tailored pants. Pro tip: ensure symmetry in both cuffs unless you’re purposely going asymmetrical for effect.

Denim Color Trends in 2025

Beyond the typical blues, 2025 is exploring bold and unusual hues:

• Washed Olive & Khaki – ideal for fall layering.

• Muted Red & Rust – pairing well with leather and neutrals.

• Faded Lavender & Dusty Pastels – a gentle Y2K callback for warm seasons.

These colors appear in runway looks from Scandinavian brands and experimental Asian labels.

Runway & Celebrity Highlights

• Stella McCartney: Crystal-studded full denim outfits.

• Whitney Peak: Baggy jeans + chain belt for Chanel.

• Anne Hathaway, Natalie Portman: Cuffed jeans, styled with precision.

The Rise of Genderless Denim

Brands now produce collections with one fit for all. Gender-neutral sizing with oversized silhouettes has gained traction from names like Weekday, Levi’s, and local disruptors. It's about inclusivity and personal style.

How to Wear 2025 Denim Trends

Styling Formulas

1. Relaxed Runway: Barrel-leg jeans + cropped blazer + loafers.

2. Day-to-Night Edge: Embellished dark jeans + silk blouse + heels.

3. Weekend Ease: Baggy jeans + tee + chain belt + sneakers.

4. Summer Smart: White denim jacket + crisp jorts + sandals.

Seasonal Adaptations

• Spring/Fall: Pair dark denim with flannels or technical outerwear.

• Summer: Wide-leg cropped denim or jorts with linen shirts.

• Winter: Bootcut jeans with turtlenecks and longline coats.

Indonesian Denim Scene: Local Trends to Watch

Indonesia’s denim game is growing fast. Brands like Oldblue Co., Elhaus, and Pot Meets Pop are experimenting with:

• Acid washes & slub textures

• Vintage American cuts

• Custom chain-stitched patches These labels define the streetwear backbone of Bandung and Jakarta.

Sustainability & Denim Innovation

Enzyme Wash & Eco-Fabrics

Modern denim uses enzyme washing instead of harmful chemicals, reducing water waste and fabric stress.

Circular Denim Brands (MUD Jeans)

MUD Jeans leads with denim you can lease and return—recycled into new garments. This model promotes zero-waste production and full traceability.

AI & Tech in Denim Production

Some Japanese mills now employ AI in weaving and finishing processes to reduce defects. Blockchain is also used for tracking denim lifecycle and material origin.

Denim Do’s and Don’ts in 2025

Do:

• Mix relaxed jeans with structured tops

• Try earthy or pastel denim colors

• Embrace cuffed hems & accessories

Don’t:

• Wear ultra-tight skinny jeans with tight tees

• Go all-out embellishment without balance

• Be afraid of white or experimental denim shades

Takeaway: Build a Trend-Forward Denim Closet

• Explore new cuts: barrel, bootcut, jorts

• Play with finishes: distressed, embellished, raw

• Try bold colors: lavender, khaki, rust

• Shop ethically and support local denim artisans

Final Thoughts

2025’s denim fashion trends are bold, sustainable, and inclusive. Whether you're chasing relaxed silhouettes or polished runway inspiration, denim remains your most expressive uniform.

Need help crafting your 2025 denim wardrobe? Talk to our stylists here.