Controversial to say the least - skinny jeans are back. After years of wide-leg jeans and baggy trousers, I am personally thrilled; our style director is not. Read on to learn why this 2010 style trend has been voted back in by fashion royalty, says editor Trudi Brewer.
Top left: Celine summer 2026. Middle Gucci pre-fall 2026. Top right: Celine spring summer 2026. Bottom left: Dior Spring 2026. Bottom right: Isabel Marant spring-summer 2025.
It has taken me a few years to finally part ways with my skinny jeans. Unfortunately, after some light teasing and gentle persuasion from my younger counterpart, style director Louise Hilsz, I shelved them in 2024 in favour of wide-legged trousers—a style I’ve never really loved. While I am not a slave to fashion, I do enjoy following trends, and some work for me while others don't. So you can imagine my joy and satisfaction when I came across an Instagram post from a global fashion website announcing that skinny jeans are officially back in style.
Now, if the thought of skinny jeans, a trend from 2010, makes you want to roll your eyes, hear me out. Fashion, like art, is subjective, and we strongly advocate wearing whatever makes you feel good. However, when runways start showcasing slim-legged pants, you can bet that trend will eventually trickle down to retail.
Buoyed in part by Michael Rider's debut at Celine, Marni and Prada are also betting on the return of figure-hugging silhouettes for spring and summer 2026, and I couldn’t be more excited.
From jeans to tapered pants, Acne Studios and Loewe are displaying slim-cut office pants paired with crisp white shirts, loafers, and leather totes. Gucci’s pre-fall 2026 collection featured painted-on, skinnier-than-ever jeans with split hems, styled with knife-edge stilettos and sleek leather bomber jackets—it looks incredibly sexy.
Slim-cut trousers with a nod to Boho style appeared in the Isabel Marant 2025 spring/summer collection, while brands like Mugler, Proenza Schouler, and Sportmax have shown their support for black skinny pants with slits. They assert that it is a key piece for spring-summer as well, best paired with pointed heels or statement sandals. At Dior, slim jeans and heels created a casual look elevated by their iconic tweed jacket. If, like me, you prefer slim-fit pants, it’s time to celebrate. There are numerous styling options to explore, whether you lean towards minimalist, casual, or edgy. When it comes to shoes, the key to giving your new skinny jeans a modern refresh is to pair them with ankle boots (something I still have plenty of) or wear loafers for a preppy touch. A kitten heel and a strappy sandal also feel fresh and elegant; however, I draw the line at ballet flats—this is one trend that both Hilsz and I passionately dislike.
Back to me and my wardrobe, I could not be happier that skinny jeans have made a comeback, proving that a classic never dies. I’m dusting off my skinny jeans as we speak. To our style director, Louise Hilsz: Fashion royalty has spoken—skinny jeans are worth investing in again.
Read on to discover the skinny pants currently available and find styling tips to help you ease back into this trend.
Levi's Women's 720 High-Rise Super Skinny Jeans, $110. Zara Mom Fit Comfort High Waist Slim Jeans, $66. Just Jeans Curve Amaze High Rise Skinny Jean in Full Length, $100. G-Star Kafey Ultra High Skinny Jeans, $299.
HOW TO WEAR SKINNY JEANS IN 2026
Stick to a minimal colour palette: Demin on demin is perfect. Or pair denim or skinny black pants with a tailored jacket, a small handbag, and slingback flats. This simple formula works every time.
A long coat or trench with heels and an oversized tote bag creates a flattering, elongated look.
Consider slim-leg pants: If skinny jeans aren't your style, opt for slim-leg pants. Darker shades are easiest to style without overthinking. You can pair them with classic staples such as a white T-shirt, a cross-body bag, and sneakers.
Focus on hemlines: To elongate your legs, pay attention to your jeans' hemline. While some people hesitate to wear skinny jeans because they can be unflattering, selecting a pair with a split hem can enhance the appearance of your legs.
Choose comfort over tightness: Many people dislike skinny jeans because early versions were too tight. Consider trying skinny jeans with a low-rise waist or sizing up for a slouchier silhouette. Additionally, you can add height with heeled mules or the Isabel Marant Bobby platform sneakers, which are also making a comeback.
Here’s how to wear them in 2026.