Note that I’m lumping straight leg jeans into the “skinnies” category because for some, straight legs are their skinnies. Both skinnies and straight legs are tapered at the leg and that’s the important detail. 

My clients have had a lot of questions about bootcut and skinny jeans lately. Are bootcuts dated? Are skinnies dated? I feel frumpy in my bootcuts, but do I have the figure for skinnes? I’m sick of wearing skinny jeans, but what else can I wear when I lead a casual lifestyle and I don’t like bootcut jeans? 

All great questions, and here are my thoughts and suggestions.  

Are bootcuts dated? 

Absolutely not. I frequently shop with my clients for bootcut jeans. And when we can find a great pair of trouser jeans with a slightly more flared bootcut silhouette, they are always a hit with pointy toe pumps or booties. Skinnies, straight legs, flares, wide legs, boyfriend jeans and slouchy jeans styles are more fashionable, but bootcuts are definitely still stylish. If you love them, wear them. 

Are skinnies dated?

Absolutely not. Skinny jeans, and that includes straight legs, are still extremely on trend and totally mainstream. If you don’t like the extra narrow look on your lower leg, opt for the roomier cut of straight legs. I often pop ladies with an inverted triangle body type into straight leg jeans, especially when they wear two to three sizes larger on top than on the bottom, because the added width of the leg helps to balance out the proportions. 

I feel frumpy in my bootcuts, but do I have the figure for skinnes?

It helps to wear a heel, low or high, to temper the flat footed frump factor associated with bootcuts. Regarding skinnies and your figure, I believe that we can all wear a version of the skinny jean, which means that for some a roomier straight leg is best. It’s all about creating flattering proportions with the right fit of jeans, tops, and footwear. 

I’m sick of wearing skinny jeans, but what else can I wear when I lead a casual lifestyle and I don’t like bootcut jeans? 

You have options. Substitute skinny jeans with skinny cords or Ponte knit pants. Size up on skinnies to create a slouchier look. Wear boyfriend jeans. Wear casual pants like slouchy khakis or combat pants. Wear tailored trousers, either tapered or flared, with casual outfit elements. Wear casual skirts and dresses. 

By all means add your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear them! The tension between these two styles of denim can stir considerable emotions.