Ripped jeans are making a comeback—fashionable girls in Paris and Oslo are styling them like this in 2026.
Denim is currently a captivating subject of discussion. Unlike previous seasons, there are no clear-cut silhouettes that are decidedly "in," nor are there many styles that can be considered "out," with the notable exception of extremely skinny jeans that fit too tightly around the ankles. This trend allows denim enthusiasts the liberty to wear whatever they prefer, embracing various styles from stovepipe cuts to frayed-hem jeans and even ripped variations. Indeed, as mentioned in the headline, ripped jeans are making a comeback. From Oslo and Paris to New York City and Portland, fashion-forward individuals are sporting distressed denim in a way that feels fresh for 2026. The trick is to choose loose, relaxed fits with tasteful rips, mainly around the knees. The styling of these outfits revolves around ease; nothing appears overly sophisticated or too casual. There's a harmonious balance, an effortless blend of structured and relaxed, fitted and oversized, with a hint of nostalgia. To see the specific pieces that these stylish individuals are teaming with their ripped jeans, continue scrolling.
**Polo Knit + Ripped Jeans**
Polo knits are currently quite popular. While they are often paired with elegant items like pencil skirts and tailored pants, they are also seen paired with denim, particularly ripped jeans. The great thing is that there's a wide variety of polo knits available, catering to all styles.
**Shop the look:**
- Gap: 100% Cotton Relaxed Polo Sweater
- AGOLDE: Amos Stretch-Lyocell Polo Shirt
- Almina Concept: Lightweight Wool Polo
- ZARA: Plain Knit Polo Shirt
**Open-Toe Kitten Heels + Ripped Jeans**
Oslo-based content creator and accessories designer Annabel Rosendahl is a fashion authority who consistently knows the best footwear to pair with jeans. For ripped jeans, she asserts that open-toe kitten-heeled sandals are an ideal match, especially minimalist styles like elevated thong sandals or those featuring a single strap over the foot.
**Shop the look:**
- Open Edit: Tori Kitten Heel Sandal
- Aeyde: Zelia Nappa Leather Creamy Sandals
**Graphic Tee + Ripped Jeans**
Pairing ripped jeans with a graphic tee may seem outdated—this can be true if done incorrectly. Instead of opting for skinny ripped jeans with oversized tees, consider a relaxed pair of jeans with a fitted graphic T-shirt. Finish the outfit with a sleek coat, like a suede jacket or car coat, and choose loafers or kitten heels for a polished finish.
**Shop the look:**
- RE/DONE: Classic Tee Tini Time
- Sunny Somewhere: New York Ringer Tee
- Junk Food: Unisex Good Sport '98 Oversized Tee
**Collarless Jacket + Ripped Jeans**
At Who What Wear, our preferred way to style ripped jeans involves pairing them with an unexpected, polished element—such as a collarless jacket. This is well illustrated by this fashionista in Paris. Initially, the combination may appear mismatched—one piece is casual and distressed while the other is polished and structured—but this contrast is what makes the look work and appear chic.
**Shop the look:**
- Nordstrom: Collarless Textured Jacket
- ST. AGNI: Utility Cocoon Suede Jacket
- COS: Collarless Wool-Twill Blazer
- HEIRLOME: Catalina Twill Blazer
**Retro Sneakers + Ripped Jeans**
In many European cities, the prevalent way to style ripped jeans is with retro-inspired sneakers. This pairing prevents the denim from leaning too heavily into grunge by introducing a sporty touch. This combination feels fitting in cities like Copenhagen and London, which prioritize comfort and clean lines while subtly nodding to nostalgia.
**Shop the look:**
- Veja: X Baserange Jitsu Sneakers
- Jacquemus: les Fefe Canvas Sneakers
- A.emery: Adams Low Sneakers
**Shop Ripped Jeans:**
- RE/DONE: Originals High Rise Loose Jeans
- POLO RALPH LAUREN: Distressed Straight-Leg Jeans
- ZARA: Trf Low Rise Ripped Straight Leg Jeans
- GRLFRND: Bella Low Rise Boyfriend
- AGOLDE: Amryn Distressed High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
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Ripped jeans are making a comeback—fashionable girls in Paris and Oslo are styling them like this in 2026.
From polo shirts to vintage sneakers.
