A versatile pair of boyfriend jeans is one of the best foundation pieces for your wardrobe. The cut first gained popularity in the early 2000s, and its comeback is helping millennials bid goodbye to skinny jeans.
If you’re new to this silhouette, check out our guide to learn how to style boyfriend jeans. Whether you’re heading out for a casual night with friends or a classy first date, we’ve got you.
These two cuts are among the most popular relaxed denim styles. While they seem similar, these jeans have a few distinct differences that set them apart.
Boyfriend jeans have a loose fit, suggesting you borrowed the denim from your special someone’s closet. Styles often come cuffed or cropped, boosting the casual feel. And adding to the tomboy vibe, the pants also boast roomier pockets positioned lower down on your backside.
On the other hand, mom jeans are high waisted, with the timeless tapered leg ending at or below the ankle. They’re still considered a relaxed cut, but they offer a more tailored fit than boyfriend jeans. You'll also recognize them by the smaller pockets resting closer to the waistline.
So, how do you wear boyfriend jeans? Maintaining proportion is the key to unlocking these pants’ relaxed fit.
If you’re ready to build outfits with boyfriend jeans, here are a few of our favorite combos to inspire you.
Pairing straight-leg cuts with a crisp white or neutral fitted shirt creates a classic outfit. Dress it up with tasteful gold jewelry for a more refined style, or go bold with a pop of color from a statement necklace or matching bag. No matter the vibe, elongate your legs with neatly cuffed hems and your favorite heels for an understated, put-together look.
Combine boyfriend jeans with your favorite white kicks and a basic tee for a casual fashion statement. This versatile style can take you from afternoon thrifting with friends to an evening at a bar. If it’s chilly, layer up with a tweed or patterned blazer that compliments either the sneakers or the shirt.
Try matching a cropped pair of boyfriend jeans with a lightweight, duster-length cardigan or coat for a laid-back feel. The outer layer's figure-hugging effect balances the proportions to keep the silhouette sleek yet flowy. Add a lacy top, matching hat, and heeled ankle boots to get ready for your next music festival or farmer’s market visit.
Want something a little more girly without entirely giving up the tomboy aesthetic? Snag a frilly floral top and tuck it halfway into your favorite boyfriend jeans. Accessorize with feminine accents like hoop earrings and matching bangles for extra charm. And remember to cuff your pants to show off your strappy sandals.
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When styling an edgier vibe, pair your boyfriend jeans with a black leather jacket, matching belt, and moto boots. If you're going for something even more casual, try frayed hems that hit at the ankle bone or a few strategic tears. Add an oversized bag, and you're good to go.
An all-black ensemble doesn't have to be boring. Choose a lighter black-wash pair of boyfriend jeans, grab a black blouse, and add some visual interest with a few silver accessories. Then, take to the street in some classic black loafers, turning heads as you go.
Enjoy the boardwalk with a sleek beach look that combines your favorite flared boyfriend jeans, a cropped linen shirt, and a pair of slip-on sandals. Wear a straw hat to keep the sun out of your eyes, or put on a colorful wrap to stay warm during the chillier dusk hours.
For a fun seasonal style, pair medium-wash jeans with a knit sweater in a warm autumn color like burgundy or mustard. Accessorize with a chunky scarf in a complementary color and a crossbody bag. Finish off the look with a wide-brim felt hat and leather ankle boots for a pumpkin-patch-ready outfit.
Learning what to wear with boyfriend jeans makes these pants a versatile wardrobe staple. ThredUp has an extensive collection of relaxed-fit denim, and you can easily explore it using our Improved Search feature.
Once you find the perfect pair for your body type, build an entire outfit around them using our Style Chat. Describe an outfit, and watch the AI-powered app build a look based on your prompt. If the ensemble is a winner, AI generates a selection of in-stock tops, bottoms, shoes, and accessories for you to shop.
ThredUp’s clothes are easy on your pocketbook, and buying (and wearing!) secondhand clothing instead of new clothing reduces carbon emissions by an average of 25%. Great clothes and a healthy planet? It's a win-win.
Boyfriend jeans are a great addition to both casual and elevated outfits. Pair them with fitted tops to balance their loose fit, and experiment with different styles—like cuffed hems, blazers, or statement accessories—to create your desired look.
You usually don't need to size up for boyfriend jeans since they're meant to have a relaxed fit. But if you prefer an even looser look, try a size up. Before picking out a pair, check the brand's sizing guide, as fits vary between companies.
These pants are called boyfriend jeans because they have a slouchy fit, like you borrowed a pair from your boyfriend’s closet. This relaxed style gives off a casual, laid-back vibe, making them a popular choice for a comfortable yet stylish look.
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