In the ever-evolving fashion world, what's old will always be new again. Take skinny jeans, for example. After a few seasons banished to style Siberia, they appear to be mounting a comeback.
A quick temperature check of the Fall 2024 runways confirms their return — only the new incarnations are a little different from the rigid, unforgiving denim styles from the early 2000s. The skinny has evolved, adapting to a modern aesthetic with innovative fabrics that offer comfort and updated cuts that flatter more than stick-thin body types and won't cut off circulation. Fashion experts have also confirmed skinny jeans are on their way back into our wardrobes. In a recent interview with British Vogue, Beyoncé's stylist Paige Adams-Geller declared skinny jeans were "not far off on the horizon."
Perhaps it was the unexpected resurgence of indie sleaze in 2022, a style celebrating looks popular between 2006 and 2012 — including vintage thrift store finds, band tees and leather jackets — that first signaled the impending return of skinny jeans. Or maybe it's because as far as wardrobe fashion staples go, denim, no matter how it's currently masquerading, will always be a go-to. And then there are those that will testify the skinny jean never really went away.
"Skinny jeans never left the stage. [They're] always rock 'n' roll. Skinny jeans and pants should always be styled with a twist of glam or punk. Blouses that flow, belts that shine, boots so pointy you can poke someone's eye out," says Los Angeles-based stylist Georgia Mitropoulos. We're pretty sure Kate Moss, whose style always has a rock edge, would agree. The 90s supermodel was recently snapped out and about in London rocking a skinny jean and we all know wherever Moss treads, her legions of style fans follow.
Here's a look at how skinny jeans resurfaced on the Fall 2024 runways.
Distressed at Balenciaga
Reviving what once seemed like a tired trend, Balenciaga paired distressed versions with skin-tight tall boots. The look felt fresh when paired with an oversize leather jacket, 80s-esque aviator sunglasses and a maxi scarf. If, like Moss, you like a little rock edge, look for jeans with unexpected details, like prominent seams and a low-rise fit.
Damaged Opulence at Alexander McQueen
Under the direction of Seán McGirr, Alexander McQueen's collection drew inspiration from the kind of iconic personalities one might encounter in London's East End. Speaking to Vogue, McGirr revealed that his collection was inspired by "This idea of damaged opulence." The designer's take is decidedly looser yet still plays with the idea of constriction featuring denim ribbons below the knees.
@tessaverga love it or hate it but skinny jeans are making a come back #fall2023fashion #greenscreen
♬ original sound - Tessa
As we transition into spring and think of fun new ways to refresh our sartorial game, you might want to pull out your skinny jeans. To bring it totally into the now, embrace unexpected pairings by matching your pair with contrasting proportions, such as an oversize, lightweight blazer, a baggy hoodie or a timeless, loose-fitting trench coat. Complete the ensemble with ballet flats or the shoe of the moment, the minimalist glove flat. Or go for a classic loafer, only this season it's all about white.
