Gen Z and Millennials Agree—This Once-Dated Jeans Trend is the Key to Looking Elegant With Minimal Effort

I have to say, I’m something of a connoisseur when it comes to jeans. I own over 25 pairs (the last official count had me closer to 28), and there isn’t a shape, style or design I haven’t tried. A go-to bottom option for most people I know, jeans are timeless, versatile and incredibly hardworking, making them a staple in women's wardrobes across the world. Yet, despite my devotion to denim, there’s actually one style I haven’t yet tried: the drawstring jean.

As with many of my fashion revelations, it all began with an idle Instagram scroll and an image of Margot Robbie. When I spotted the actress wearing a pair at the airport and looking incredibly chic doing so, it got me thinking—why haven’t I tried drawstring jeans yet? Ideal for all times of year, drawstring denim is having a moment right now thanks to its relaxed look and slight edge, which is worlds away from the drawstring trouser styles of the past that often had a frumpy, scruffy-looking feel. Heavily influenced by loungewear, and often spotted slung low on the hips of my Gen Z peers, these jeans share similarities with the ever-popular baggy silhouette thanks to their slouchy shape. But it’s the simple, adjustable tie detail at the waist that really sets them apart, making them, in my opinion, 2026's need-to-know silhouette.

But where did they come from, and why does it suddenly feel like they’re everywhere? Popularised in the late ’90s and early ‘2000s by the streetwear scene, drawstring jeans were quietly adopted by those in hip-hop and skate fashion circles. Still, they remained relatively under the radar—until now. The modern resurgence can be traced back to the last few years, particularly with TikTok trends around 2020, where TikToker’s began tying laces around their baggiest jeans to keep them up. This DIY approach reignited interest in adjustable denim and paved the way for the drawstring style’s return. Fast forward to the spring/summer 2025 runways, and designers like Gabriela Hearst and Rachel Comey are offering slouchy, drawstring iterations that gave the trend legs that Gen Z and millennials alike would wholeheartedly approve of.

Since then, plenty of my favourite brands have hopped on the drawstring jeans train. From Citizens of Humanity's high-waisted barrel-legged iteration to M&S elasticated-waist jogger-esque look, there is a style to fit everyone. And styling? It couldn't be simpler. A roll neck jumper and stove pipe jean would suffice, or jazz it up and pair them with a trench coat and trending trainer. Convinced? Scroll down to see the best pairs of drawstring jeans for summer 2025 and beyond, as chosen by me, a fashion editor.

Shop the Best Drawstring Jeans

1. Under £50

Style Notes: With a pared-back allure, you can easily elevate your drawstring jeans this winter through the addition of a sweeping maxi and plush funnel neck knit. Not only will this pairing keep you toasty but, when finished with an on-trend faux fur stole, creates a look perfect for winters icy chill.

Shop the Best Drawstring Jeans Under £50:

2. Under £100

Style Notes: With a variety of on-trend colours available, its never been easier to create an elevated look. Offset a inky black straight legged pair would look chic with the plethora of patterns trending right now (think leopard, zebra or deer), whilst a cool-toned grey will look balanced amoungst the other neutrals in your winter capsule wardrobe.

Shop the Best Drawstring Jeans Under £100:

3. Under £150

Style Notes: Less tricky to style than other trending shapes, drawstring jeans unique polish makes them perfect year round. From faux fur shoes to heeled boots, theres rarely a combination which doesn't work.

Shop the Best Drawstring Jeans Under £150:

5. Under £500

Style Notes: Whether walking your dog or on a coffee date, the comfort of a drawstring will never go amis. The ideal balance of practicality and style, they even look make a simple trench-cap-and-trainer combo look elevated!

Shop the Best Drawstring Jeans Under £500: