Not Stovepipe, Not Skinny—6 Summer Denim Trends That Will Help You Move On From Your Current Jeans…

      Ah, denim—the essential fabric that forms the foundation of many of our daily outfits, particularly for those of us who practically live in jeans (guilty as charged). However, beyond the traditional blue denim, there are countless variations of this cotton-rich staple that allow us to be a bit more creative while staying comfortable. Welcome to the 2026 denim trends that are taking the spotlight this summer: each one effortlessly wearable yet just intriguing enough to enhance any wardrobe. Think bright and bold jeans—the latest eye-catching trend making waves, echoing the recently revived 2010s aesthetic. Chore jackets are perfect for when the temperature inevitably dips. Then there’s the resurgence of 90s light-wash jeans, largely influenced by the return of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's minimalist style. Each option provides a fresh perspective on summer outfits, moving beyond just classic denim cut-offs and everyday jackets. Whether you opt to wear them together—a contemporary take on the Canadian tuxedo—or choose to invest in just one piece, these are the six denim trends that the most stylish women online are embracing.

      **6 Summer Denim Trends to Bookmark Now**

      1. **Strapless Denim Tops**

      **Style Notes:** Whether it's by Levi's, Jean Paul Gaultier, Reformation, or Agolde, strapless denim tops, corsets, and bustiers are plentiful this season. They are distinctive enough to be interesting, yet simple to wear. I pair mine with everything from bubble skirts to jeans for an effortlessly chic look.

      **Shop the Look:**

      - **GAP**: Harlem's Fashion Row Mid Wash Denim Corset Top

      A few years back, Gap was off the radar for many fashion enthusiasts. Now, thanks to Zac Posen, the opposite is true.

      - **Jean Paul Gaultier**: Denim Corset in Blue

      Jean Paul Gaultier is renowned for corsets, and this denim version perfectly exemplifies why.

      - **Reformation**: Gabbriette Stretch Denim Top

      Reformation's denim collection is well worth exploring this season.

      - **AGOLDE**: Lara Strapless Paneled Denim Bustier Top

      This peplum bustier offers a stylish solution for smart-casual dress codes.

      2. **Vibrant Jeans**

      **Style Notes:** When considering denim trends, we often visualize traditional cuts in beloved blue shades. However, for those seeking something more dynamic, welcome to the bold-coloured jean era. Shades like red, yellow, pink, and green are making their way into our favorite stores.

      **Shop the Look:**

      - **Free People**: We the Free Libre Wide-Leg Jeans

      If Fisayo's yellow jeans look doesn’t sway you towards the color, I’m uncertain what will.

      - **MANGO**: Mid-Rise Balloon Jeans

      Poppy red has emerged as a key color this season, and these balloon jeans deliver.

      - **Jigsaw**: Tyne Wide Leg Cropped Jean

      Pretty in pink, I'd style this Jigsaw denim with a simple shirt, brown tees, and even bolder greens, yellows, and blues.

      - **Kai Collective**: Khala Denim Barrel Leg Logo Embroidered Jeans

      While the Kai Collective yellow jeans are nearly sold out, this deep purple shade is equally eye-catching.

      3. **Denim Culottes**

      **Style Notes:** If 2025 was all about jorts, then 2026 is celebrating culottes that hit the calf rather than the knee. The 70s revival is in full swing, evident from the Spring/Summer 26 runway shows by Fforme, Max Mara, and Celine showcasing these cropped trousers.

      **Shop the Look:**

      - **Topshop**: Light Weight Wide Crop Jean in Bleach

      With a wide-leg silhouette and unique stitching, these denim culottes feel very current.

      - **Anthropologie**: Pilcro Ultra Wide-Leg Cropped Jeans

      Darker wash denim presents a slightly more formal option than lighter variants.

      - **Filippa K**: Jean Work Shorts

      The mid-calf length makes these denim culottes versatile enough for both work and weekends.

      - **The Frankie Shop**: Brunoy Denim Culottes

      The Frankie Shop has become a staple for nearly every chic woman I know.

      4. **Denim Chore Jacket**

      **Style Notes:** Ideally, UK summer fashion would consist solely of mini dresses, shorts, and sandals. However, it isn’t always warm. Thus, a lightweight jacket is essential, with labels like Loro Piana, Bottega Veneta, and Dôen making compelling cases for chore coats. They are practical too, which is always a plus.

      **Shop the Look:**

      - **With Nothing Underneath**: Delon Chore Jacket: Denim, Mid Blue

      With Nothing Underneath is the