There's a big debate about how to wear slouchy jeans—yes, the relaxed style that dominated your teenage wares—and it goes very much like this: Should you wear heels or flats? And as for tops? Some argue that to counteract the looser fit, you should opt for something more fitted to elevate the denim to a more sophisticated look. Others say that you should embrace the slouchy style and choose a chunky knit and trainers.
Much like skinny jeans, a pair of slouchy blues are likely lurking in your wardrobe. Though other styles have been taking centre stage for the past few years, think straight legs or cropped flares, wide-leg and slouchy styles have made a comeback this year. Partly thanks to the resurgence of 90s and 00s styles, and partly due to the ease of wear, everyone from celebs to influencers has been opting for loose jeans styles for 2023. So, perhaps it’s high time we dug out our own pairs once more.
Turns out there are plenty of top influencers who can't get enough of the slightly oversized, low-slung silhouette of these '00s jeans. Further proof that you shouldn't give up on them—at least, not until you revisit them and draw a conclusion for yourself.
The key to making these jeans look the 2023 part lies in the styling. Now, you can push beyond the plain-T-shirt box—even if it is a look that continues to serve us, and Sylvie Mus, well. If you’re feeling bold, why not integrate some trend-led pieces to lift these jeans to cool new heights? Make Ellie from Slip Into Style your muse on that front.
If you’re curious about how to wear slouchy jeans now, we've found nine prime examples of said styling to inspire you. And should you find your wardrobe lacks any of the items needed to re-create these looks, we’ve shopped them out for you.
1. Balance Them Out With A Chunky Jacket
Style Notes: Beyond the comfortable appeal of this slightly oversized style, they come in handy when styling chunkier jackets. With winter safely here, we are all over our cold weather layers that can be balanced with this loose style jean. And as Grece proves, they still feel incredibly modern.
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At this price this beige aviator is a real find.
I'm obsessed with the pocket detail.
Upgrade your winter boots.
2. Add A Blazer For Some Polish
Style Notes: Ripped jeans made a big comeback on the denim scene last year, and the look still feels prevalent now. Dress yours up with a blazer and pretty jewellery like Ali did for a high/low outfit spin.
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A blazer this versatile is never a bad investment.
The perfect pair of ripped jeans does exist.
Pearl jewellery is everlasting in its appeal.
3. Embrace Saturated Hues
Style Notes: One of the most noteworthy (and unmissable) trends on the S/S 23 runways was saturated hues. Models wore them top-to-toe for maximum impact like Ellie did, but you can break them up with a pair of jeans to make them more palatable for everyday wear.
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This is a doppelgänger for Ellie’s.
Looking for could-be-vintage jeans? Abercrombie is the answer.
These mules are everywhere right now.
4. You Can't Go Wrong With Simple Suiting
Style Notes: No one can deny the chic appeal of jeans and shirts, though. If it were up for a debate, we reckon this look would seal the outcome. Effortless, easy, and elevated—what more could you ask for?
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I always rely on M&S for simple shirting.
The perfect amount of slouch.
A forever style that will always be in style.
5. Neutralise Statement Pieces
Style Notes: Monikh Dale is one of our denim-outfit muses—somehow she always manages to make them look interesting. Follow her lead and use yours to neutralise statement knitwear this winter.
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If you can't stretch to Monikh's Suzie Kondi cashmere knit then this Toast wool option should be on your radar.
Mother has some of the best denim out there.
These shearling clogs will see you through the changing seasons. Wear with chunky grey socks.
6. Don't Feel Restricted To Blue
Style Notes: Who says your slouchy jeans have to be blue. White and ecru tones can look just as sleek—if not more so—in the colder months, particularly when they’re paired with chunky knitwear.
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This cable-knit is perfectly oversized.
A fresh ecru pair.
These boots are bestsellers for a reason.
7. Give Your Wears A Fresh Take
Style Notes: Jeans have the power to give anything a cool overhaul. Just look at Yoyo Cao’s ensemble—the collared-blouse-and-knitted-vest pairing could look too twee, but the addition of her patchwork jeans gives the pairing an entirely different vibe.
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I have a thing for white collared blouses.
The v.neck silhouette is perfect for showing off a statement collar.
How are these high street?
8. Make Them Work Around The Clock
Style Notes: Looser-fit denim might feel casual, but there’s no reason you can’t wear them for drinks and dinners out. A simple vest and heeled boots are all you need to complete the transition.
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Racer vests will give your basic jeans looks some oomph.
Who knew grey jeans could look so elevated?
Just look at that angular heel. Pure art.
9. Remember Basics Will Always Look Good Together
Style Notes: We’ve already established that the easiest way to make most outfits look more sophisticated is to throw a sharp blazer over the top. We also love how Sylvie Mus has matched the shade of her blazer to that of her jeans in what feels like her own stylish interpretation of the Canadian tuxedo.
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Blazers are a always a good idea.
A favourite of our team.
Mara Hoffman jeans are practically part of the 2023 influencer uniform.
Next Up: Spring/Summer 2023 Fashion Trends: 21 Expert Approved Looks You Need To Know About
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.