From ultra-glam disco to effortless boho and punk rock, the ’70s remain one of the most eclectic, boundary-breaking and sought-after fashion decades of all time. So, it’s no surprise that style influences from that era keep coming back in fashion— including in 2022. Sky-high platforms, crochet pieces, miniskirts and yes, even flared jeans are everywhere — from the runways to the red carpet to TikTok — bringing on a slight ‘70s resurgence from head to toe.
What are flared jeans?
If you’re confused about the difference between flared, bootcut and wide-leg jeans, you’re not alone — especially because some jeans can veer between different cuts. However, a few key design elements distinguish flared jeans from the other styles. Flared jeans typically fit snug around the waist, hips and legs and then flare or widen towards the bottom. A relaxed fit or wide-leg might fit looser beginning around the lower thighs and knees, and can be long or cropped.
The tighter fit across the hip and thighs paired with the flared-out leg makes flared jeans a flattering bottom that elongates the legs — even more so when paired with a heeled shoe or boot. As for today’s flared jeans trends, Ahmed notes they differ slightly from those OG looks from the ’70s. Current trends are a little more modernized than ‘70s flares. For example, raw hems and split hems are everywhere. Also, back then, you would most likely wear a chunky heel or heeled boot, but today a lot of people are wearing their flares with sneakers or flat shoes.
How to wear flared jeans
If you’re used to wearing mostly straight-leg or skinny jeans, coming up with flared jeans outfits may seem daunting at first — but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, flared jeans are such a statement piece that most times they pair best with basics. To play up the flare, fellow New York-based stylist Andrew Gelwicks recommends topping off flared jeans outfits with heeled shoes or boots.
The different types of flared jeans
High-Rise Flared Jeans: The most ‘70s-inspired way to rock flared jeans, a high-rise style will hit slightly above or right at the belly button to cover most of the stomach. This style is ideal if you plan to tuck shirts into your jeans, or if you want to pair them with crop tops.
Mid-Rise Flared Jeans: Mid-rise flared jeans typically hit just below the belly button, making them a versatile option for either tucking in shirts or leaving them out.
Low-Rise Flared Jeans: A low-rise waist typically sits around the hip bones, a couple of inches lower than the belly button, and does not cover the stomach at all. Also hugely popular in the early 2000s, this cut can be worn with slightly oversized tops or sweaters — or crop tops to play up the Y2K look.
Cropped Flared Jeans: For a more subtle take on the look, cropped flare jeans give the shape and elongating cut of a flare but feature a mid-calf or ankle-cropped length. This style is especially good for wearing during spring and summer and pairing with sandals or sneakers.
NOT SURE FLAIRED JEANS ARE FOR YOU? CHECK OUT AMAZON PRIME'S TRY BEFORE YOU BUY