Move Over, Ripped Jeans—This Niche Denim Trend Is Preparing for a 2026 Takeover
Insiders are flocking to flocked jeans, but what’s the trend all about, and how do you wear them? We have the answers on this burgeoning denim trend.
It’s that time of the year when I assess my capsule wardrobe and pull together my 2026 style resolutions. There’s absolutely no pressure or reason to do this beyond deliberately shaking up my fail-safe London uniform to ensure I don’t get stuck in a styling rut or a shopping spiral.
Whilst it’s part of my job as a fashion editor to stay on top of the biggest developments and innovations, it’s impossible to try on much more than the ones that pique my interest on different levels. I usually prefer my denim in midi-skirt and dress form, but I’m seriously tempted to make an exception for flocked jeans. One of 2026’s most exciting anti-denim trends in the making, they align perfectly with the very achievable “experiment with jeans” goal I recently jotted down in my notebook.
You are not alone if you're wondering exactly what flocked jeans are. I had to conduct my research to discover that it’s the way the denim is treated that differentiates it from velvet and corduroy pairs, which may feel and look similar. Let’s get technical about it: the cotton denim base is covered in an adhesive before tiny fibres are electrostatically attached to the surface—all over or in patterns—whereas true velvet is woven, and corduroy ridges come from a weave and pile cutting process. Of course, as techniques are combined and textured denim is often grouped together, it’s the impact of the jeans when worn that matters the most.
I’ve already spotted stylish women effortlessly wearing flocked jeans in London and Paris and have been easily convinced to give them a whirl. I just can’t resist another tantalising but unexpected texture to nonchalantly throw into the mix when building winter looks around cosy knits, layered tops and furry boots. Besides the unique fabric, the other strong selling point for me is the modern boho spirit they radiate, which French brands like Sézane and Chloé (reinvented under Chemena Kamali’s creative direction since 2023) are known for.
The majority of the flocked jeans I’ve come across have been in different shades of brown (although COS have a brilliant black pair), and your ideal jeans silhouette is there for the taking. Barrel-leg, straight-leg and bootcut fits that hit the calf, ankle or the floor are all out there, and, thankfully, any footwear goes. Slip-on flats, sneakers, even a cute kitten heel for a more original spin on the winning “jeans and nice top” formula.
If you’re now as sold on flocked jeans as I am, shop the pairs I recommend below.
Shop the Flocked-Jeans Trend:
Such a verstaile colour and cut.
Work, drinks, weekend strolls — you can really wear these anywhere.
If you're into patterned tights, try these next.
Flocking in all it's textural glory thanks to the contrasting colours.
A great midi-skirt alternative to keep reaching for.
Channel festive cheer all year round in these.
