STYLED FOR DENIM TIMES: THE DEFINITIVE JEAN FIT GUIDE

Denim can be worn anytime, anyplace, by everyone. It's the true backbone of every wardrobe – a staple you can always rely on. If it feels overwhelming trying to decide which shape to go for, don't worry – that's where we come in. We're here to give you the scoop on the key jean silhouettes to know for 2026. Read on to find out everything you need to know about the six styles that'll be dominating the streets this season, courtesy of Senior Buyer Chloe Hayes.

Calvin Klein Jeans signature 90s straight jeans, £85

We couldn’t curate a list of the best denim shapes without straight jeans. With a comfortable mid-rise and uniform cut from hip to ankle, they’re a certified staple – sure to boost both casual and dressy looks. Chloe agrees: ‘This classic and versatile fit is a head-office favourite. The straight leg feels very 90s – cut close to the body and the thigh, then falling straight all the way down.’ It's true. Celebrities in the 90s were always papped in straight-leg jeans. And the trend cycle has gone full circle because we're still referencing those same looks today. ‘This timeless silhouette works across seasons and styling choices. You’ll love them forever.’

ASOS DESIGN Curve high waist wide leg jeans, £40

If you prefer your denim with a looser leg, we’ve got you. Wide-leg jeans are a key silhouette this season. ‘This fit gently hugs you at the hip and falls to a slightly wider hem, giving an effortless and slightly more femme feel than our other shapes,' says Chloe. 'Teamed with the right shoe, it can also elongate the legs and look very flattering.’ Their proportions also promote maximum movement, so comfort isn't ever in question.

Levi's super baggy barrel jeans in indigo, £110

The barrel jean debuted at the tail-end of 2023, and its momentum has yet to slow down. Chloe's a firm supporter of the contemporary jean shape: ‘This is the jean of the season. If you’ve not tried them yet, you’re missing out!’ Popularised by the likes of Alaïa and Loewe, the barrel is a refreshing silhouette, intended for unapologetic statement-makers and best paired with similarly directional pieces. ‘This fit gently hugs your waist and then relaxes from the hips downwards, with its very cool curved-leg shape. The barrel illusion delivers a modern, sculptural silhouette, making every outfit you wear feel relevant.’

ASOS DESIGN slim fit pencil jean in midwash, £34

The slim jean seamlessly blends the best of the skinny and relaxed shapes, so they’re not as vulnerable to the ever-shifting trend tides as other denim silhouettes. ‘Cut close to the body, the slim-fit jean follows the natural silhouette of the leg without feeling tight. It’s a sharper, more tailored fit than the skinny jean. It’s clean and streamlined, ideal for any occasion,’ says Chloe. We’re expecting a sea of slim jeans to take over the streets come spring/summer, so secure yours in advance.

ASOS DESIGN low rise baggy jeans in washed black, £36

Prefer your denim on the chill side? Enter: relaxed jeans. Another fresh silhouette for the season, this style is the definitive answer to all your off-duty needs. ‘The relaxed jean offers a looser, more effortless fit through the hip and leg for all-day comfort. The relaxed drape gives casual street-ready appeal – think off-duty model vibes,’ affirms Chloe. They're designed with a longer length that pools at the hem, so they’re a match made in heaven with heels.

Good American good legs flare compression jeans, £156

The style of the 70s is arguably just as iconic as the 90s – the flared jean is proof. You’ll almost always find them in some capacity among boho-inspired collections alongside romantic ruffles and suede. But we're here to tell you flared jeans aren't a fleeting trend; they're actually super flattering. Chloe agrees: ‘Flared denim is fitted through the hip and thigh, then widens at the knee for a dramatic finish – and they give the illusion of longer legs! They’re a statement 'fit with vintage-inspired appeal that’s firmly on the rise.’ Chloe approves, Stevie Nicks approves – what’s not to love?