Individuals in their 20s and 30s are opting for this denim style rather than straight-leg jeans—featuring a significant distinction.
The rumors are indeed accurate: bootcut jeans have made a significant return. Throughout the year, we've been highlighting the unexpected resurgence of this denim style, including the non-boot footwear fashion enthusiasts are pairing with them, the lovely tops that complement them nicely, and the petite-friendly options recommended by our 5'1" editor. I would even argue that bootcut jeans are starting to overshadow straight-leg jeans as the go-to choice for casual wear. While it may be a bold claim, I believe their popularity is here to last since bootcut jeans are not just a niche trend favored by adventurous young adults—they are being embraced universally across various ages and styles. Individuals from their mid-20s in the Lower East Side to those in their 40s in Tribeca are incorporating bootcut jeans into their daily wardrobes, with one significant distinction: the waist rise of their jeans. Typically, those in their 20s tend to wear their denim lower on the hips, whereas those in their 30s, 40s, or even 50s and 60s are opting for a high-rise fit. This reflects a classic generational trend. Regardless of age, one can often gauge a person's generation—or at least their decade—by the position of their jeans on their waist. Of course, it's essential to wear what you enjoy at any age, but this is a pattern I've noticed.
For a visual comparison of low-rise versus high-rise bootcut jeans, check out the outfits below featuring celebrities like Bella Hadid and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and then browse my top picks based on your age—or, rather, preference.
How People in Their 30s Style High-Rise Bootcut Jeans
How People in Their 20s Style Low-Rise Bootcut Jeans
Shop High-Rise Bootcut Jeans:
- SAINT LAURENT High-Rise Bootcut Jeans
- FRAME The Reboot Mid-Rise Bootcut Jeans
- Reformation Blair High Rise Baby Bootcut Jeans
- Madewell Relaxed Bootcut Jeans
- Polo Ralph Lauren Bootcut Jeans
- Dl1961 Bridget Bootcut High Rise Instasculpt Jeans
Shop Low-Rise Bootcut Jeans:
- Agolde Low Rise Bootcut Jeans
- Still Here Tomorrow Low Rise Jeans
- ZARA Trf Low Rise Bootcut Jeans
- Favorite Daughter The Alba Low Rise Bootcut Jeans
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Individuals in their 20s and 30s are opting for this denim style rather than straight-leg jeans—featuring a significant distinction.
With this significant distinction.