How to Style Straight-Leg Jeans: 8 Styling Tips

Straight-leg jeans have a straight up-and-down cut through the entire pant leg, from waist to hem. This jean style can be baggy, like boyfriend jeans or relaxed-fit jeans, or have a slim fit. Clothing manufacturers do not taper slim-fit straight-leg jeans at the hem, which differentiates them from skinny jean styles.

Straight-leg jeans can be low-cut, mid-rise, and high-rise at the waistband. The hems of a pair of straight-leg jeans typically hit the ankle, but some people prefer to wear this style rolled or cropped.

Styling straight-leg jeans the right way allows you to craft a flattering, comforting, and on-trend look. Here are some tips to consider when styling straight-leg jeans:

1. 1. Add a blazer. Pair your high-waist straight-leg jeans with an unstructured blazer over a fitted top for a casual yet sophisticated look. The blazer balances out the form-fitting top by adding some relaxed shape to the upper section of your outfit. It also creates a line that lengthens your body. This styling piece allows you to take your ensemble from the office to a casual, post-work affair.
2. 2. Choose the right length. A standard pair of straight-leg jeans should be ankle-length or hit your legs right above your ankles. Straight-leg jeans that extend past your ankles tend to bunch up and look messy.
3. 3. Dress it up. Add some sophistication to your straight-leg jeans by styling them with a black bodysuit or turtleneck. Finish the look with a sharp pair of stilettos or high, black pumps. Add a peacoat over your shirt to lengthen the look.
4. 4. Mind your outfit proportions. Pairing high-waisted straight-leg jeans with too many oversized pieces won’t accentuate your shape. Try to incorporate at least one other fitted piece when styling straight-leg jeans in an outfit, which can help create a flattering silhouette.
5. 5. Try a leather jacket. A cropped motorcycle jacket accentuates your waist and adds extra warmth to your ensemble, especially when wearing a form-fitting top with straight-leg jeans. Style a pair of ripped, dark-wash straight-leg jeans with a classic white tee under a fitted leather jacket and black booties for an edgy and casual look.
6. 6. Tuck or crop your shirts. Straight-leg jeans go with any number of tops, including T-shirts, turtlenecks, or button-down blouses. Always choose a top that accentuates your waist when styling straight-leg jeans. Tucking your shirt in at the waist accomplishes this effect. Wear a bodysuit or crop top if you don’t want to tuck your shirt.
7. 7. Wear flattering shoes. Style your straight-leg jeans with shoes that flatter the untapered pant leg. High-top sneakers are a great casual option. Loafers (without socks) give your outfit a collegiate look. Pointed-toe black leather or brown suede ankle booties will give your ensemble a chic, edgy look.
8. 8. Make your own rules. There are no hard and fast rules for wearing straight-leg jeans. If a particular outfit combination makes you happy—from denim-on-denim styles to oversized sweaters—wear it. Fashion is subjective, and you should always wear clothes that make you feel like yourself.

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