Boyfriend jeans were fringe in 2009, but over the last three years have become completely mainstream in a large assortment of fits. There’s a large variety of washes and levels of distressing, although most boyfriend jeans are currently in a shade of blue denim. There’s also the occasional pair in white or grey. 

I believe that boyfriend jeans went mainstream because we desperately needed an alternative to super tight jeans. At their slouchiest, they are the polar opposite to the body con fit of sausage casing skinnies. Roomier boyfriends are also in line with current fluid and oversized fit trends, and appeal to those who enjoy wearing comfortable and forgiving clothes. 

You rarely see jeans on the runway, but the few pairs I did see for Fall 2014 were boyfriends. Let’s take a peek: 

Of course, these boyfriend jeans are heavily distressed and the outfits are maximally styled for a theatrical runway effect. The point is that boyfriend jeans are currently the strongest and most fashionable denim silhouette. And by the looks of it, this is going to continue. 

ALL body types can wear boyfriend jeans, and I am especially talking to pretty pears who might need a little more convincing. It’s a question of choosing the fit that works for you. Opt for a slimmer fit, or size down if you’re not into slouchy looks. Size up if you like them extra baggy and slouchy. If you’re an inverted triangle or apple shaped body type, and therefore relatively narrow on the hip and leg, choose to size up on a pair of straight leg jeans to create the boyfriend jeans look. You might find that strategy less overwhelming on the bottom half. On the other hand, if you’re curvy on the bottom and conscious of looking bigger in relaxed styles like regular boyfriend jeans, size up in relaxed skinny styles like Adriano Goldschmied’s Nikki Relaxed Skinny Jean. 

95% of my clientele, who span a range of sizes, body types and ages, wear boyfriend jeans. For some it’s the only style of denim they are wearing at the moment. And their responses to trying the look have been quite similar. A little dubious at first, but later… my word, why didn’t they try this style sooner? 

Add a boyfriend style to your wardrobe for an updated look and as an alternative to tight jeans. In fact, add several pairs if you love the vibe because they are not a fad. The roomier denim silhouette will instantly refresh your casual style and feel very comfortable. Belt and tuck, or partially tuck the top. 

I love my baggy boyfriend jeans and have three pairs that are in regular rotation. I also love my relaxed skinnies which are in my mind  “Boyfriend-Lite”, because I sized up for a baggier look. Boyfriend jeans provide a roomy change to my straight legs, which I also wear frequently. 

Three years into this mainstream trend and I’m curious to hear how you feel about it. Are you wearing boyfriend jeans, and if so, what do you like about the style? If you’re not wearing boyfriend jeans, tell us why they don’t tickle your fancy. And if you’d like to wear boyfriends, but feel challenged by styling or fit, let’s get you sorted in the comments section. 

Boyfriend Jeans on the Runway