High-Waisted Jeans Are the Backbone of My Wardrobe—11 New Ways to Wear Them
When it comes to jeans, I'm unquestionably loyal to a high-waisted cut. In my mind, they're the universally flattering style, cinching in the waist and skimming over the hips into your leg silhouette of choice. Plus, the styling options are endless, not only in the variety of leg style (from this season's trending wide-leg to the ever popular straight cut), but also with what to wear with them. And in considering the endless options ahead of a new season, who better to look to then some of my favourite influencers?
As we move into the cold months, high-waisted jeans become the key base for a mix of layered looks. Starting with a tucked-in white t-shirt or button-down, you can add a luxe cashmere jumper, or just throw over a trench or floor-sweeping wool coat. Then there are the shoes—thanks to the leg-lengthening look of high-waisted jeans, these styles work perfectly with the season's trending flat footwear, loafers and ballet pumps. But if you need a little lift—or want to take your favourite jeans from day to night—a pair of heeled boots or kitten heels will do the trick.
Whether you're coveting a vintage-looked style of wide-leg jeans or a versatile black pair, there are plenty of high-waisted jean outfits to create this season. These are just a few of the looks I'm planning on recreating.
1. TRENCH COAT + WHITE T-SHIRT
Style Notes: The square-toe loafers are such an excellent finishing touch for this understated look.
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Loafers are the flat shoe of the season, and these are such a luxe option.
2. BLACK LAYERS + SUEDE BOOTS
Style Notes: Anouk proves that the brown and black combination is undeniably chic.
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3. DOUBLE DENIM
Style Notes: Yes, you really can do a double denim look this season. Just follow Jessica's lead and break up the blue with pops of white.
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I see so many of my favourite influencers in this pair of jeans.
It's an investment, but the Puzzle bag is a fashion industry favourite for a reason.
4. DOUBLE JUMPERS
Style Notes: Black and grey are the failsafe cold weather colour combination. And what's better than one jumper when the temperature drops? Two, of course.
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I think that Marks Spencer's cashmere is the best on the high street.
This is perfect for tying over your shoulders, and layering on top when the chill hits.
5. BROWN LAYERS
Style Notes: Brown is one of the key trending colours this season, and Lucy proves that it works particularly well as part of a high-waisted jeans outfit.
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I love the vintage wash of these jeans, as well as the modern seam detailing.
Toteme's coats strike the perfect balance between classic and contemporary, making them more than a worthwhile investment.
6. LACE SHIRT
Style Notes: As Harriet proves, high-waisted jeans are so versatile and can easily be styled for a cool evening look.
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Be bold like Harriet and style with a black bra underneath for an evening look, or layer over a white t-shirt for day wear.
These light-wash jeans have a distinctively vintage feel.
Not pictured, but these slingback kitten heels would go so well with the look.
7. SHIRT + JUMPER
Style Notes: Crisp, clean and understatedly chic—a minimalist's dream look.
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Use With Nothing Underneath's monogramming service for a personal touch.
I love this mole colour, and the slouchy shape makes it ideal for tying over your shoulders.
8. LEATHER TRENCH + TURTLENECK + CONVERSE
Style Notes: A leather trench is an easy way to make the simplest outfit look that bit more fashion-forward.
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9. STRIPES + WHITE DENIM
Style Notes: White jeans look particularly sophisticated when layered with striped knitwear in the cold months.
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The grey tones make this the ultimate autumnal trainer.
10. BLAZER + T-SHIRT + LOAFERS
Style Notes: I'm obsessed with Brittany's colour-blocked loafers, which bring a playful touch to her otherwise understated look.
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Such a jazzy take on the classic loafer.
11. BODYSUIT + HEELS
Style Notes: Gia expertly styles her jeans up for a night out by pairing them with a bodysuit and heels.
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Don't sleep on Abercrombie's new-in section!
Next up: Trust Me, These 4 Types of Shoes Always Look Amazing With Baggy Jeans
Opening image: @symphonyofsilk
Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.
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