From Puddle Hems to Low Rises, Denim Is Going Its Own Way
Balenciaga, Khaite, and The Row are reconsidering the proportions of an everyday staple.
With snow showers on the horizon, it’s officially time to pull out my trusty lineup of sweater-and-jeans outfits. It’s a foolproof combination that strikes the perfect balance between cozy and chic, making it ideal for casual office days and relaxed weekend hangouts. This winter, though, I’ve decided to give my rotation a revamp with fresh denim trends inspired by fashion’s latest resort collections.
Balenciaga and Khaite featured puddle jeans with pooling hemlines that spilled over loafers and pointy heels. Stella McCartney and Dior deliberately opted for an undone look, showcasing distressed jeans that were ripped and slightly faded. Gucci and The Row went full-on retro, filling their resort assortments with low-rise jeans that embodied a strong Y2K appeal. Elsewhere, tapered jeans took center stage at Nili Lotan and Valentino, proving that the polarizing pants trend isn’t going anywhere during the colder months ahead.
While distinct in their own right, this season’s top denim styles have one major thing in common: they’re incredibly versatile. Given that you can dress them up or down—with sweaters or whatever top you prefer—they’re great for outfit repeaters who want to get the most out of their jeans. So, go ahead and do just by shopping the curated edit below.
Puddle Jeans
Lean into a "more is more" look with puddle jeans that graze the ground.
There’s no denying that puddle jeans look effortlessly cool. Defined by a hemline that extends beyond the ankle and drapes around the foot, the floor-sweeping style boasts an extremely nonchalant feel.
For styling inspiration, follow Balenciaga and Stella McCartney by wearing flat shoes that exaggerate the “puddle” effect. If this feels like too much of a tripping hazard, elevate your outfit with lofty heels, as demonstrated by Khaite.
Balenciaga, Stella McCartney, Khaite Resort 2027.
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Distressed Jeans
Balance out your ripped jeans with a neatly layered sweater and a polished pouch.
For the latest resort season, Valentino, Dior, and Stella McCartney ditched prim-and-proper denim for distressed alternatives with a lived-in appeal.
Channel your inner grunge girl with the selection of frayed jeans below, which are guaranteed to give your winter wardrobe some edge.
Valentino, Dior, Stella McCartney Resort 2027.
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Y2K Low-Rise Jeans
A cinched belt will ensure that your low-rise jeans won't slip down.
According to Gucci, Khaite, and The Row, low-rise jeans of the early 2000s are so back for 2026. Provided that you’re feeling a bit nostalgic, consider the hip-hugging trend for yourself.
Show some skin by pairing your low-slung jeans of choice with a cropped sweater, or go for a full-coverage look with oversized knitwear.
Gucci, Khaite, The Row Resort 2027.
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Tapered Jeans
There's something so flattering about a pair of jeans that gradually taper toward the ankle.
When you think of tapered jeans, billowing barrel bottoms might come to mind (similar to the ones pictured below from Nili Lotan’s Resort 2027 collection). However, there are plenty of fitted silhouettes that exist, too—just take a glimpse at Valentino and Gucci's narrow jeans.
Whether you decide on a spacious or slim fit, you can rest assured that this trend is here to stay.
Valentino, Nili Lotan, Gucci Resort 2027.
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