Not Barrel Jeans—These Are the Denim Trends Taking Over from Last Fall's Most Popular Styles.

      Denim trends tend to stick around long after they've had their moment in the spotlight. Over the past few autumns, we've seen barrel-leg jeans, extremely baggy shapes, and heavily embroidered items everywhere. However, as we approach fall 2026, I'm observing a shift towards denim that appears more refined and intentional. Instead of continuing with bold statements and exaggerated shapes, fashion enthusiasts are now leaning towards classic styles. This includes puddled flares, straight-leg fits, unexpected waistlines, and standout cuffs. If your denim collection is still brimming with last year's prominent styles, there's no need to worry. I'm not completely discarding the styles I've mentioned I'm "moving on from," and if you adore them, I encourage you to wear them as often as you wish. You don't have to replace everything all at once, but as an opinionated fashion editor, I’ll share my personal picks. Below are six changes I'm making for fall that feel distinctly fresh yet remain highly wearable.

      **Moving On From:** Overly Distressed Styles

      **Investing In:** Waistband-Free Jeans

      I've finally hit my threshold on jeans that seem like they've had a full life before I even wear them. The overly distressed styles that were prevalent in recent seasons are starting to feel stale for me. One of the simplest ways to give jeans that worn-in and trendy vibe this fall is to opt for waistband-free styles, which provide a slightly relaxed finish. If Zoe Kravitz wearing them on a date with Harry Styles isn't enough to sway you, I don't know what will.

      **Still Available:** New York Sport Jean

      **GRLFRND:** Jordan Low Rise Frayed Waist Boyfriend Jeans

      **Reformation:** Talissa Stretch Low Rise Trouser Wide Leg Jeans

      **Moving On From:** Barrel Leg Jeans

      **Investing In:** Loose Straight Jeans

      This is a contentious topic since some people are quite fond of barrel-leg jeans. If you love them, go ahead! They've had their moment, but their curved shape is feeling more trendy than timeless to me, so I'm looking for something that feels more like a lasting investment. Loose straight jeans fit the bill perfectly. They seem contemporary and deserve a lasting place in your closet.

      **Abercrombie:** High Rise 90s Relaxed Jeans

      **Reformation:** Val Baggy Distressed Straight Leg Jeans

      **Moving On From:** Traditional Baggy Jeans

      **Investing In:** Puddle Flares

      To be honest, I'll never fully move on from traditional baggy jeans. But if you're like me, your wardrobe is already stocked with them. The next iteration of relaxed denim is longer yet more refined. Puddle flares gently hug the hips and thighs before widening at the hem, pooling over your shoes with a polished '70s inspired look. As I broaden my collection, this will definitely be my next pick.

      **Good American:** Soft-Tech Good Legs Flare Jeans

      **H&M:** Flared Low Waist Jeans

      **Moving On From:** Patches

      **Investing In:** Kick Flare

      Patchwork denim has certainly had its time, but this season I'm yearning for something subtler that still feels youthful. Fortunately, the kick flare is making a comeback, and this time, it feels surprisingly modern. It's one of the easiest ways to showcase your favorite fall footwear.

      **R13:** Joan Kick Flare Jeans

      **Citizens of Humanity:** Goldie Mid Rise Kick Flare Jeans

      **J.Crew:** Charley Kickout Cropped Jean

      **Moving On From:** Exposed Buttons

      **Investing In:** Wide Cuff Jeans

      Exposed button flies have been a standard denim feature for years, but they’re starting to come across as more decorative than functional. This fall, I'm leaning towards jeans where the unique detail is in the cut. Cuff jeans are getting larger and more impressive this season, giving every pair of jeans a more thoughtful appearance.

      **Everlane:** The Way-High Sailor Jean

      **superdown:** Misa Cuffed Jean

      **Reformation:** Cary High Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans

      **Moving On From:** Spray-On Skinnies

      **Investing In:** Cigarette Jeans

      If you're a regular reader, you've heard me rave about cigarette jeans for quite a while. I'm not done singing their praises. Spray-on skinnies just aren’t the most flattering style for me, but cigarette jeans offer a similar effect with a more elevated feel. If you haven't jumped on this style yet, now's the time.

      **Gap Factory:** High Rise '90s Slim Straight Jeans

      **Reformation:** Cynthia High Rise Straight Jeans

      **Madewell:** The Jules Slim-Straight Jean