Not Skinny Jeans—Fashion Enthusiasts in Their 40s Are Embracing This Retro Denim Style Paired with Ballet Flats.
It's often said that everything eventually comes back into style, and I find this particularly applicable to denim. Just last week, I spotted Kylie Jenner wearing studded jeans and Sarah Pidgeon in a two-tone pair. Even Victoria Beckham has jumped on the vintage denim trend, showcasing low-rise capri jeans in the Victoria Beckham x Gap collection. Most recently, Katie Holmes was seen in patch-pocket jeans paired with ballet flats. This week in NYC, Holmes was photographed casually walking through the streets in a spring denim outfit. She donned patch-pocket jeans in a faded black wash, complemented by a black T-shirt and a brown suede bomber jacket. For footwear, she opted for glove flats, which are very much in style for 2026. The combination appeared intentional, as the modern design of the shoes provided a refreshing touch to the "dated" denim.
For those who may need a reminder, glove flats are a minimalist shoe made of soft leather that fits closely to the foot. This snug design offers more coverage than typical ballet flats and feels less cluttered without the bow details. Some styles have a V-cut vamp, while others feature a straight design. Regardless of the cut, they all have a sleek appearance that enhances any outfit, including vintage jeans. Scroll down to explore my curated selection of the most stylish patch-pocket jeans and glove ballet flats to pair with them.
**Shop Patch-Pocket Jeans and Ballet Flats**
**Madewell**
*The Emmy Wide-Leg Jeans*
These stretchy jeans provide comfort throughout the day.
**Nordstrom**
*Maddox Ballet Flat*
**Reformation**
*Alyssa Stretch High Rise Wide Leg Long Jeans*
The stunning faded medium-blue wash is eye-catching.
**ZARA**
*Leather Ballet Flats*
**Quince**
*Bella Stretch Patch Pocket Wide Leg Jeans in Deep Sea Blue*
Showcase your favorite flats with this cropped pair.
**The Row**
These new flats are expected to sell out by June 1.
**Veronica Beard**
*Beverly Patch-Pocket Skinny-Flare Jeans*
Leave it to Veronica Beard to make a retro denim style feel contemporary.
**Maeve**
*The Colette Full-Length Wide-Leg Jeans*
Offers endless styling options.
**AEYDE**
*Moa Leather Point-Toe Flats*
The pointed toe adds a refined touch to any denim look.
**Frame**
*Le Slim Palazzo Modernist Pocket*
If you're considering updating your white denim for summer, take this as your cue.
**Sam Edelman**
*Alie Ballet Flats*
Pairing white jeans with beige flats is a classic and reliable choice.
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Not Skinny Jeans—Fashion Enthusiasts in Their 40s Are Embracing This Retro Denim Style Paired with Ballet Flats.
Seen in New York City.