6 Ways to Make This "Dated" Jeans Trend Look Very 2023

In fashion, once something is deemed "out", you can never be sure it's gone for good. This is a great news for those of us who pride ourselves on investing in capsule pieces, timeless classics and forever staples.

At a certain point, it felt like skinny jeans were a thing of the past—first with the emergence of the slightly slouchier straight-leg, followed by the ongoing baggy jean craze. But thanks to the likes of Catherine, Princess of Wales and Gisele Bündchen, who refuse to let go of their skin-tight denim, we've been reminded just how sleek this controversial cut can look. 

And they're not the only ones set on keeping skinnies around. Scrolling through Instagram recently, the whole Who What Wear UK team has sensed a fitted-jeans comeback. Style tastemakers including Anouk YveAnne-Laure Mais and Lorna of Symphony of Silk are all showcasing chic summer looks built around this rediscovered staple. Consider us inspired.

So, to assist in spreading the word that skinny jeans are indeed back, we've rounded up some of our favourite outfits featuring this divisive denim style. Scroll on to see, and we promise you'll soon be digging out your skinnies or adding one of the below styles to your wish list.

1. Tank Top + Mid-Waist Jeans + Heeled Sandals

Style Notes: Super high-rise skinnies can feel a little 2010, so tuck your tank top into a mid-waist pair and add some trending accessories to give the look a modern spin.

Shop the Look:

Take this as your sign to try out Reformation's basics.

These come in three different lengths. 

Aeyde's summer footwear is unmatched.

2. Striped Shirt + White Jeans + Plimsolls

Summer skinny jeans outfits: @anoukyve wears skinny jeans with a striped shirt and plimsolls

Photo:

@anoukyve

Style Notes: A striped shirt is a sartorial fix-all, especially if you choose classic blue and white. Opt for ecru jeans and plimsolls in the summer months, then switch over to indigo denim and boots come autumn.

Shop the Look:

You'll reach for this timeless staple for years to come.

Comfort and practicality, without sacrificing style.

3. Blazer + Mid-Blue Jeans + Espadrilles

Summer skinny jeans outfits: @lenafarl wears skinny jeans with a blazer and espadrilles

Photo:

@lenafarl

Style Notes: Let a pair of summery shoes like espadrilles peek out from the bottom of your skinny jeans, then chuck on a lightweight blazer. To make this look evening-appropriate, take note from Lena Farl (pictured) and layer a silk shirt underneath.

Shop the Look:

I like to stick to linen blazers in the warmer months.

Toteme knows how to make simple pieces feel exciting.

Every year, this French staple seems to come back stronger.

4. White Shirt + Distressed Jeans + Mini Bag

Style Notes: To balance out the formality of your white button-down, team it with a pair of distressed jeans and a colour-pop mini bag. Bonus points for a cropped silhouette, like Marina's Torres's (pictured). 

The splash of colour your outfit needs.

5. Black Tee + Cropped Jeans + Loafers

Style Notes: As is the case with other types of jeans, a simple tee is all you need to make an outfit—but smart black loafers and touches of gold will elevate the combination.

Shop the Look:

You won't regret picking up this easy essential.

True-blue skinny jeans belong in every wardrobe.

Everyone I know who owns these loafers swears they're worth the investment.

6. Crochet Top + High-Rise Jeans + Shoulder Bag

Style Notes: If you've decided to go for high-waisted skinny jeans, style them with an on-trend crochet crop top. This way, your outfit will look wholly 2023.

Shop the Look:

This set would be ideal for a festival.