What to Choose Instead of Skinny Jeans: 6 Stylish Alternatives That Are Just as Fashionable (and Much More Comfortable)

      There’s no fashion term more unpleasant, anxiety-inducing, or shocking for those of us who grew up in the 2000s and early 2010s than skinny jeans. As snug as leggings and so form-fitting that they seemed spray-painted on, just hearing the name of this tight denim style takes me back to the days of struggling to force my leg into what felt like the opening of a boa constrictor's mouth, all in the pursuit of looking as appealing as the models from Hedi Slimane’s Saint Laurent.

      Kate Moss is the iconic figure of skinny jeans. From cafés to clubs, skinny jeans were universally accepted (provided they were paired with an infinity scarf, leather jacket, and wired headphones, of course). The dominance of this silhouette among fashion enthusiasts has certainly decreased over time, leading to the question now being asked in these circles: instead of "What to wear with skinny jeans?" it’s now, "What should I wear instead of skinny jeans?" Regarding this, I have several suggestions. As someone who hasn't worn skinny jeans in over 15 years, I’ve discovered various stylish alternatives that still maintain that polished and structured appearance without making you look like you’ve stumbled into an indie sleaze costume box. Nowadays, my trouser collection mainly includes pleated, wide-leg options, reminiscent of the Olsen Twins. While I still appreciate jeans that contour to the body—there’s truly nothing better than a pair that beautifully hugs your bum—I’ve come to realize that you don’t have to risk suffocation to look chic.

      Below are some appropriate denim alternatives to quench your skinny-jeans craving, as well as options on the opposite end of the spectrum: styles that are loose and flowing yet sculpted enough to give your outfit an interesting shape. From the jeans trends favored by celebrities to the nostalgic trouser styles that designers have been bringing back, continue reading for a fashion writer-approved list of what to wear instead of skinny jeans.

      ### What to Wear Instead of Skinny Jeans: 6 Trousers That Are Just as Chic

      1. **Straight-Leg Denim**

       **Style Notes:** Instead of skinny jeans that narrow at the bottom, choose a cut that allows your ankles more freedom, like straight-leg jeans. This style remains fitted at the top of the thigh but falls in a gentle line that looks much more sleek than ultra-skinny jeans.

       **Shop the Look:**

       - **COS**: Column Straight-Leg Jeans

       - **KHAITE**: Danielle High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans

       - **Abercrombie & Fitch**: Curve Love High Rise Loose Jean (available in sizes 23-38 with five leg lengths).

       - **AGOLDE**: '90s High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans (a great option for investment denim).

      2. **Capri Pants**

       **Style Notes:** Among the styles listed, capri pants are the most similar to skinny jeans. A true staple for the French girl, think of capris as the flirtier, well-traveled younger sibling of skinnies. Ending just below the calf, capris are equally stylish but won’t have you struggling to get into them, which is definitely a plus.

       **Shop the Look:**

       - **Toteme**: Jersey Capri Pants (crafted from a fluid stretch material for comfort).

       - **SKIMS**: Smooth Layers Jersey Capri (this high-waisted pair enhances the silhouette with smoothing fabric).

      3. **Cuffed Jeans**

       **Style Notes:** As proven by past trends, denim styles are ever-changing, and cuffed jeans have stood the test of time. The charm of this cut is quite simple: instead of letting the hem drag on the ground, just roll it up to add contrast and dimension to your look. Take inspiration from Kendall Jenner and Lila Moss.

       **Shop the Look:**

       - **COS**: Facade Turn-Up Straight-Leg Jeans

       - **Reiss**: Straight-Leg Turn-Up Jeans in Mid Blue

       - **Agolde**: Fran Mid-Rise Straight Jeans

      4. **Satin Trousers**

       **Style Notes:** Among the fashion trends from the 2010s that have received a modern update, satin trousers may have undergone the most significant transformation, making them an excellent substitute for skinny jeans. Not only do they echo the same era, but they also exude a level of elegance and sophistication that skinny jeans cannot match.

       **Shop the Look:**

       - **ARKET**: Drawstring Satin Trousers

       - **COS**: Satin Wide-Leg Trousers

       - **& Other Stories**: Drawstring Satin Trousers (burgundy is a fabulous transitional color).

       - **Reformation**: Gale Satin Mid Rise Bias Pant

      5.