How to Wear Straight Leg Jeans: A Conclusive Guide

published 12 August 19

The skinny jean has been mainstream now for nearly 15 years and there's no reason to believe the style will be disappearing anytime soon. But there is something freeing about giving your ankles a little bit of breathing room courtesy of the skinny's equally flattering sister, straight-cut. This is the quintessential jean style that transcends decades and fads. Adding it to your wardrobe this season is a no-brainer.

Font, Text, Logo, Brand, Line, Trademark, Graphics, Black-and-white,

Dior turtleneck, Stine Goya sweater vest, Redone jeans, Celine bag, Marc Fisher boots, Sézane Bangle, MCM sunglasses.

(Image credit: Hearst Owned)

Jeans, Photograph, Denim, Beauty, Tree, Fashion, Street fashion, Footwear, Textile, Photography,

This style's clean, no-frills attitude makes it a perfect work jean. Double up your knits, layering a printed vest over a turtleneck for a twist on classic dressing. Add a western boot and a poppy leather bag, and you’ll be dressed and out the the door in under five.

Stine Goya Lucas Vest Fair Isle

Re/Done High Rise Loose

Marc Fisher Jarli Pointy Ankle Boot

Celine Teen Triomphe Bag

Font, Text, Logo, Brand, Line, Trademark, Graphics, Photography, Graphic design, Black-and-white,

(Image credit: Hearst Owned)

Jeans, Clothing, Denim, Fashion, Shoulder, Room, Standing, Footwear, Textile, Waist, — Cult Gaia top, Redone jeans, Larkspur and Hawk necklace, Paris Texas mules, Edie Parker bag.

Slightly more relaxed than the skinny jean, a straight-cut style is an excellent date night option (um, it highlights legs for days). Pair the higher rise with a baby doll top, particularly with a button or two left open for a breeze and a peek of skin. Add a long-strap mini bag and tall mules in a fun pattern to pull the look together.

Cult Gaia Aurel Top Putty

Re/Done No. 27HRL1173641

Edie Parker Shorty Bag in Aura

Paris Texas Snake Mule 80 Heel

Text, Font, Logo, Line, Trademark, Brand, Graphics, Black-and-white, Parallel,

(Image credit: Hearst Owned)

Ceiling, Room, Interior design, Chandelier, Lobby, Home, House, Tree, Building, Furniture, — Miu Miu sweater, Redone jeans, Elizabeth Locke earrings, Vionic clogs.

Because of its clean, long line, the straight style has no trouble playing with proportion. Try a heavy knit sweater (instead of your go-to hoodie) and slip on a pair of clogs to run errands with the exact same effort as leggings and sneakers, but way chicer.

Miu Miu Wool Pullover With Ruffle

Re/Done High Rise Loose

Vionic Kacie Clog

Elizabeth Locke Peacock Pegasus Goddess & Moon Intaglio Earrings

Arm, Muscle, Font, Illustration, Line art, Press up, Clip art, Coloring book, Graphics,

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Julia Gall

Julia Gall is the former Style Director at Marie Claire, covering all things fashion, as well as styling tips, wardrobe upkeep and sustainability. Check her out at @juliasgall.