Flare Jeans Are Trending Yet Again — Here’s Why They’re the Ultimate Comeback Style
The Timeless Appeal of Flare Jeans
Fashion is cyclical—and flare jeans are making yet another bold return to center stage. First popularized in the 1960s and 70s, flare jeans have resurfaced as a go-to favorite among fashionistas and influencers alike. With their leg-lengthening silhouette and effortlessly chic vibe, these jeans are the epitome of retro-inspired modern fashion.
Today, flare jeans are not just a nostalgic throwback but a staple in reimagined streetwear, high fashion, and everyday closets. The resurgence of flare jeans underscores a larger movement in the fashion world—embracing personal style over fast trends while recycling classic silhouettes with a modern twist.
Why Flare Jeans Are Trending in 2024
1. The Shift Away from Skinny Jeans
For nearly two decades, skinny jeans dominated the denim landscape. However, as the fashion world becomes more receptive to relaxed and comfortable fits, flare jeans are being welcomed with open arms. Consumers are seeking alternatives to tight and restrictive clothing, especially in a post-pandemic era characterized by comfort-focused wardrobe choices. Flared denim offers a dramatic, flowy shape that still hugs the hips and offers a flattering high-rise structure—perfect for those craving both style and ease.
2. The ’70s Aesthetic Revival
Thanks to pop culture influences like Daisy Jones & The Six and the continued love for Coachella-inspired boho fashion, the 1970s are enjoying a cultural revival. Flare jeans, fringed vests, platform shoes, and oversized sunglasses are essential elements in capturing this free-spirited aesthetic. Whether high-waisted with a dramatic bell bottom or subtly flared toward the ankle, flare jeans are a cornerstone in achieving that dreamy vintage vibe.
3. Endorsement from Celebrities and Influencers
Social platforms like TikTok and Instagram are showcasing daily flair for flare. Celebrities like Zendaya, Gigi Hadid, and Hailey Bieber have all been spotted rocking flare jeans in recent street-style appearances. Influencers are styling them with bodysuits, cropped blouses, and boots—demonstrating the versatility and appeal of beige, black, and classic denim washes alike.
The amplification of this trend across social media has translated into high consumer demand. Retailers—from fast fashion to luxury houses—are moving swiftly to meet this craving for retro denim revamped for today.
Popular Types of Flare Jeans to Try
1. Classic Bell Bottoms
Nothing screams retro like the traditional bell bottom. These jeans feature a close fit through the thigh and a highly dramatic flare starting at the knee. Often styled with platform shoes or heels, bell bottoms create a statuesque silhouette that’s perfect for both casual and formal looks.
2. Bootcut Flares
If you’re new to the flare jean trend, bootcut jeans are a great entry point. These feature a much subtler flare compared to traditional bell bottoms and work wonderfully with ankle boots or sneakers. They strike the perfect balance between comfort and fashion forwardness, making them great for everyday wear.
3. Cropped Flares
Looking for a more summery or warmer-weather take on flared denim? Cropped flares usually end somewhere above the ankle and are perfect for showcasing statement shoes. They’re ultra-flattering and bring modern edge to the vintage silhouette.
How to Style Flare Jeans in 2024
Create Length with Heels
One of the best features of flare jeans is their ability to visually elongate the legs. Pair them with heeled boots or platform sandals to amp up this effect. Opt for pointed-toe shoes for a polished, refined finish to your outfit.
Tuck in Your Tops
Flare jeans often come with a high-waist cut, perfect for highlighting the smallest part of the waist. Tuck in blouses, tees, or pair them with cropped tops to keep proportions flattering and balanced. This also gives a streamlined silhouette that emphasizes your natural curves.
Layer with Structured Jackets
Balance the drama at the bottom with clean lines up top. Structured blazers, leather jackets, or cropped cardigans are ideal pairings with flares. It’s all about playing with proportion, especially if the jean has a wide or dramatic leg opening. Oversized denim jackets or trench coats also make for layered, street-style-ready outfits.
Sustainable Fashion and Vintage Flares
Another major reason behind the resurgence of flare jeans is the growing demand for sustainable and secondhand fashion. Many vintage stores and thrift shops are stocked with authentic flared denim from past decades. Consumers committed to reducing fashion waste are gravitating toward these nostalgic finds rather than purchasing fast fashion alternatives.
Moreover, several contemporary brands are now producing environmentally-conscious flare jeans made from organic cotton, recycled denim, or innovative water-saving washes. Conscious shoppers can now embrace the trend while aligning with their ethics and lifestyle values.
Top Brands to Shop for Flare Jeans
- Levi’s: Known for its timeless quality, Levi’s offers several updated flare styles ranging from cropped to bell-bottom flare, all with durable denim materials.
- Madewell: Madewell combines comfort with perfect fits for petite and tall shoppers. Their flare jeans are flattering and favorite-worthy pieces.
- Free People: As a brand with strong boho roots, Free People embraces the flare jean trend with gusto. Expect high-rise and ultra-wide-leg designs for statement-making looks.
- Abercrombie & Fitch: Making a huge comeback themselves, Abercrombie offers modernized flare jeans with curve-accentuating technology in inclusive sizing.
- Wrangler: Known for Western wear, Wrangler has always kept flare jeans as part of its core line. Their recent collaboration with fashion influencers has refreshed the cowboy-chic look.
Final Thoughts
Flare jeans are more than just another denim trend—they’re a symbol of self-expression, comfort, and timeless fashion. In 2024, they offer a fresh yet nostalgic alternative to straight legs and skinnies. From vintage thrift-store finds to high-end designer renditions, this iconic silhouette is adaptable, flattering, and empowering.
Whether you’re embracing their retro roots or styling them in an ultra-modern way, there’s no denying that flare jeans are here to stay. Ride the wave of this fashion revival, and let your denim make a statement.
Ready to channel your inner fashion icon? Step into a pair of flare jeans and let your personal style shine.