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 summer, 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, summer 2025’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 H&M's elasticated-waist jogger-esque look, there is a style to fit everyone. And styling? It couldn't be simpler. A ribbed tank top and leather sandals would suffice, or jazz it up and pair them with a lace blouse and kitten heels. 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:
The Best Drawstring Jeans Under £50:
These have gone straight into my basket.
With an elasticated waistband and made from soft denim, these are as comfy as they are chic.
This looks far more luxurious than its high-street price tag.
I’ve seen this pair all over my socials.
These have a Chloe-esque bohemian feel that I just love.
The Best Drawstring Jeans Under £150:
With a high waisted finish and a leg length that starts at 29 inches, these drawstring jeans are perfect for all my tall girls out there.
Available in 5 shades, these are the perfect pull-on-and-go iteration.
I am thoroughly obsessed with this wash of denim.
Pair with a white tank and fisherman's sandals for an easy summer look.
Simply sublime.
The Best Drawstring Jeans Under £500
This is how I would wear drawstring jeans.
How chic!
The wide leg feels considered.
This would pair just as well with a strappy sandal as it would with your favourite trainers.
These are the infamous jogger jeans that went viral on TikTok last year.
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No, Really—This Denim Color Is Easier to Style Than Blue *and* Black JeansAnd everyone with taste is wearing it with loafers for fall.
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From Sweden to London: The Surprising Jeans Color European Fashion People Are Reaching for This FallHere's how to pull it off.
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It's Controversial (I Know), But Frequent Fashion Flyers Swear By This Jeans Outfit for Long FlightsIt involves an elegant leather coat and chic luggage.
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Skip the Flats—Cindy Crawford's L.A. Denim Trend Looks Better With HeelsSpotted in West Hollywood.
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Just so You Know, These Are the Cult-Favorite Hailey Bieber Approved Jeans Every Celeb Is WearingSpotted on Kendall Jenner and Dakota Johnson, too.
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If You Plan to Cuff Your Jeans This Fall, Only Do It With *This* Specific Denim Wash and *These* ShoesEveryone with good taste is wearing cuffed denim this way.
