It’s apparent that Gen Z disapproves of “out of style” thin jeans. Conversely, mom jeans are currently arguably the most popular silhouette and show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. We’re not referring to the famed SNL joke or the pleated, belly-pooch-inducing pairs of the 1980s. No, we’re referring to fashionable, high-waisted looks that you’ll want to flaunt in public. Because of its high-rise, waist-cinching shape and generous droop through the hips, this denim style has become a wardrobe standard. To be honest, we love any pair of pants that are cozy enough to sit in. Here are two outfits you should retire as soon as possible and 10 mom jeans ensembles you should wear in 2021.
1. Ruffled Blouse + Blue Jeans + Stiletto Heels
We love the idea of wearing cropped mom jeans with a flirty top and vampy heels (yes, they can be kitten heels if sky-high stilettos aren’t your thing). This is because loose-fitting denim tends to feel very casual and a little masculine (mom jeans and boyfriend jeans are pretty closely related, if you think about it). Expert advice: No matter the style, tucking in your top will make you appear smaller at the waist and prevent you from being lost under all that fabric.
Shop similar styles: J.Crew top ($98); Monki jeans ($50); DeMellier bag ($395); Vince Camuto heels ($99)
2. Cropped Jacket + Ankle-length Jeans + Booties
The waist-nipping effect of a structured jacket that falls just below the waistband of your jeans is similar to that of tucking in your shirt, but it’s much more comfortable and won’t cause any uncomfortable fabric bunching around your hips. You may utilize the style of your jacket to guide the rest of your ensemble. For example, go bold with bright boots and a floral top, or keep it simple with a stylish black turtleneck and block-heel, square-toed sling-backs.
Shop similar styles: Baum Und Pfergarten jacket ($279); Athleta shirt ($98); Levi’s jeans ($98); Marc Fisher Ltd. boots ($189)
3. Leather Jacket + Striped Top + Distressed Jeans + Booties
When it comes to this classic combination, the adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” is completely true. Although we won’t venture to declare that a striped shirt and leather jacket with jeans is hot right now, we do want to commend this dependable staple for holding up throughout the years. Additionally, a contemporary leather blazer will look just as good as a classic motorcycle style, so don’t feel pressured to stick with it.
Shop similar styles: Madewell jacket ($498); Boden T-shirt ($38); Mango jeans ($60); JW Pei bag ($69); Steve Madden boots ($100)
4. Long Jacket + Collared Shirt + Dark Washes + Boots
A greater rise is one of the main characteristics of mom jeans. Additionally, if you have a longer torso, this cut may compress your curves or cause your body form to appear distorted. You can add length and proportion to your overall ensemble by wearing a trench coat, long duster, or even just a jacket that falls past the broadest area of your hips.
Shop similar styles: Banana Republic coat ($170; $119); Maeve shirt ($90); Madewell jeans ($128); Marc Fisher boots ($90)
5. Basic Black Top + Faded Jeans + Black Sandals
Yes, there is a way to make loose jeans in light washes—even those with distressed knees and raw hems—look polished. Opt for minimalist black (or white, navy or brown) pieces in slim-fit silhouettes, like a high-neck tank top, fitted turtleneck tee, simplistic sandals or sock booties, to balance out your casual bottoms. And while you can definitely add a pop of color with a bag or fun sunglasses, stick to equally minimalist designs rather than patterned pieces or anything with too much detailing.
Shop similar styles: Bandier top ($68); Everlane jeans ($88); Tory Burch bag ($348; $199); Vince Camuto sandals ($100)
6. Oversize Sweater + Fitted Jeans + Pointy-toe Shoes
Do you recall our advice to always tuck your top inside your mother’s jeans? That law does have some exceptions, though. An example would be a warm sweater that falls just below your hips. Mom jeans with a slightly more fitting leg will go well with this ensemble. You can avoid looking shabby by completing your ensemble with a pair of printed pointy-toe shoes, either flats or heels.
Shop similar styles: Bershka sweater ($46); American Eagle jeans ($50); Sam Edelman heels ($150)
7. Silky Blouse + Cropped Jeans + Pointy-toe Ankle Boots
Because the hint of ankle helps to slim the line of your legs and keeps you from looking dowdy, we recommend cropped mom jeans over full-length models. So, how can a woman who wears boots maintain that little bit of sex appeal? Make sure the ankle boots you choose fit snugly around your ankle and have clean, sharp lines, such as a small heel or a pointy toe. Slouchy styles and western booties are out of vogue right now. For an added touch of style, it never hurts to pair your shoes with a high-end leather trench coat.
Shop similar styles: Babaton coat ($268); Maeve top ($120); Citizens of Humanity jeans ($228); Nisolo boots ($230)
8. Colorful Cardigan + Neat, Undistressed Denim + Coordinating Heels
No matter what knit and shoe designs, prints, or colors you decide on, this easy combination is perfect for any forthcoming events or parties where you want to blur the lines between elegant and casual. (Having saying that, we strongly advise against wearing anything too light or acid wash and instead recommend a mid or dark wash denim.) Do you want something really festive? Choose satin or patent heels, a cardigan with rhinestone buttons, and some eye-catching, glittering earrings.
Shop similar styles: LOFT cardigan ($65); BDG jeans ($69); Sancia bag ($199); Badgley Mischka heels ($225)
9. Patterned Top + Wide-leg Jeans + Heeled Sandals
Since wide-leg pants are currently quite popular, it should come as no surprise that hybrid wide-leg/mom jeans are likewise becoming more and more popular. The end effect is a playful ’70s mood that we advise embracing instead of avoiding. We recommend wearing your denim with chunky shoes and a patterned top (mixed prints and ruffles are really acceptable). Not to mention a lively blowout that would make Farrah Fawcett envious.
Shop similar styles: Free People top ($98); Warp + Weft jeans ($98); B-Low the Belt belt ($145); Alohas sandals ($172)
10. Black Trench + Black Top + Faded Jeans + Block-heel Boots
If in doubt, dress in black. Wearing a sleek black trench or duster coat is the simplest way to look like a sophisticated female. Additionally, ensure that all of your accessories are in the same shade of black, perhaps with the exception of your handbag, which might provide a striking flash of color.
Shop similar styles: Sam Edelman coat ($220; $150); J.Crew turtleneck ($37) BDG jeans ($69); Frame bag ($398); ASOS boots ($111)
