These 'Outdated' Jeans Are Coming Back In 2025, And You've Probably Been Missing Them

2025.04.17

Denim is one category of fashion that is beholden to the wearer, but we can never stave off the onslaught of denim silhouettes coming in and out of style, regardless if we like them or not. Between everything from ankle-hugging jeans to baggy jeans, there has been a constant swing across the denim-clad pendulum, and 2025 is seeing the resurgence of flare jeans.

Flare jeans, the slightly exaggerated bootcut jean style, might be a more welcome sight than a controversial cut such as skinny jeans. Because the denim silhouette is just retro enough to get the nostalgia stirring, while also being many people’s favorite and most flattering retired jeans style. Whether you’re ready or not, here’s why it might be time to step back into flare jeans in 2025.

History of Flare Jeans

1970s

Flare jeans—also referred to as bell bottoms at the time—became a popular women’s fashion trend starting in the 1970s, with the likes of Farrah Fawcett and Jane Birkin donning the wide-leg trousers alongside feathered hair and chunky heels. While perhaps a bit more exaggeratedly flared at the bottom than modern flare jeans, the silhouette seems to have inspired later renditions.

2000s and 2010s

Flared wide-leg jeans became popular again in the early aughts, often featuring low-rise waists that eventually fell to the wayside in favor of more universally flattering (and comfortable) mid- and high-waisted styles. Flare jeans were perhaps the most popular denim style alongside skinny jeans during this era.

How To Wear Flare Jeans Today

Elongate Your Legs

While more straight-legged and baggier denim styles have become more popular in the past five to ten years, flare jeans are decidedly coming back to the conversation, and many women are wondering why they ever stopped wearing them in the first place. Flare jeans are, in short, usually quite flattering, especially when paired with heeled shoes that help elongate the appearance of legs. For those who prefer a tighter jean above the knee, flare jeans make a stylish option.

Choose Your Own Silhouette

For those who do not want the classic fit-and-flare silhouette, you can alternatively go for a version that fits your own preference. You can choose a wider-leg option that is looser up top, or choose a less flared option that leans more bootcut for a more subtle look.

Pair With Any Top

Moreover, you can pair flare jeans with almost any top you’d like, from blouses to blazers to sweaters. They can be dressed up or down easily, depending on the color. And for anyone who has been dreading the comeback of skinny jeans, or the baggy styles of the past few years, can officially rejoice. Your flattering wide-leg is back.