If I opened your denim drawer right now, I bet I could guess some of the key silhouettes stored inside—straight-leg jeans, skinnies and perhaps even an of-the-moment outlier like the “grandpa” cut. But what’s one style that probably hasn’t surfaced to the top of the pile as much lately? Flares. Sure, cropped flares have been, well, cropping up over the last few years, but the more polarising bootcut and bell-bottom styles (aka non–skinny jeans) haven’t been as popular until recently.
Designers from Alberta Ferretti to Dior reintroduced fresh flare jeans in their autumn/winter 2021 collections as the next It denim pick for the forward set. Even celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Margot Robbie, and Harry Styles have already been following suit in ’70s-inspired flares. And it’s a look that isn’t about to slow down.
To highlight the look further, we broke down how the flared trend is taking over the runway, celeb and fashion worlds right now. We also shopped out the coolest cuts of the moment in case you feel ready to try the trend again this season. Keep scrolling for everything you need to know about flared jeans.
Light-wash flares pop even more with black separates like this cropped black knit.
A tangerine-coloured jumper half-tucked into wide-leg bell-bottom jeans feels so on trend right now.
You needn’t stick to blue tones. In fact, fresh white pairs like Alexa Chung’s can feel more modern, especially when paired with Mulberry arm candy and an on-trend waistcoat.
Bella Hadid gives her flares a ’90s spin with an oversized leather jacket, chunky ankle boots and miniature sunglasses.
The split-seam opening at the bottom of the flare makes these jeans especially modern.
Celine sent a slew of models down the runway. This denim-on-denim vibe with the slouchy white blazer is where it’s at.
Flares don’t have to fit tightly on the thigh. Alberta Ferretti kept its flare jeans on the loose side all the way up.
That jeans-and-a-nice-top combination you always rely on? Dior showcased a new pairing to try: a lace top worn with classic blue flares (shearling trapper hat optional).
Look for details like front seams and super-high waistlines to elevate your flare-jean look.
While the longer bell-bottom silhouettes generally reigned supreme on the runway, this Alberta Ferretti ensemble proves that cropped flares still have a home in your wardrobe.
Elevate dark flares with a modern blazer and classic white ankle boots.
A long duster coat works flawlessly with longer flares for an of-the-moment silhouette.
Light-wash flares fit the minimalist-style mold when paired with a simple asymmetric vest and a leather jacket.
Slightly cropped, tailored flare jeans paired with a tucked-in top and blazer make a polished look for work or a night out.
Adding a multi-patterned turtleneck to your denim ensemble is a simple way to make a serious impact.
