Boyfriend jeans are the denim equivalent of joggers — as versatile as they are cool. You can dress up your boyfriend jeans outfits for an edgy take on smart casual. Or, you can dress them down for a chick, low-maintenance vibe.
When a piece can be worn so many ways, though, it can be hard to land on your way.
Not to worry. I put my Instagram research skills to work to find nine gorgeous boyfriend jeans outfits you can mimic. Scroll down for essential boyfriend jeans buying tips, plus the IG fashionistas who are doing boyfriend jeans right.
4 women’s boyfriend jeans buying tips
1. They’re not always called boyfriend jeans.
If you are new to this style, there are some things to know upfront. First, the term “boyfriend jeans” is only loosely defined. Generally, the boyfriend jean has a straight cut, relaxed fit, and sits just below your waist. You can find those elements in jeans that may or may not be called “boyfriend jeans.”
Set out to buy women’s boyfriend jeans specifically and you’ll find some good options–but you may miss out on some options too. Be open to browsing styles that have similar qualities, but possibly a different name.
2. Look for shapes and lengths that suit your body type.
If you have a long torso, for example, you probably don’t love pants that sit low on your hips. Don’t force the issue with boyfriend jeans. Just find a pair that rests higher up on your body. Sure, you won’t have that super slouchy look. But you’ll end up with a more flattering pant that you’re more likely to wear.
Similarly, if you have super long legs, you might not like floor-skimming hemlines. So find a pair of cropped boyfriend jeans, or wear your jeans cuffed. You’ll like that look better.
3. Try on if you’re unsure
Even if online shopping is your go-to, head to a store to find your first pair of boyfriend jeans. Or shop using Amazon Prime Try Before You Buy. Because the fit is relaxed, the wrong shape can easily be shapeless and/or unflattering.
4. Balance with structure and sleekness
Be sure to wear the right clothes for your boyfriend jean try-on session. This style looks best when paired with a structured or sleek top. That means a blazer, tucked-in top, crop top, fitted sweater, or something similar.
9 gorgeous boyfriends jeans outfits
Now that you’re set up for shopping success, let’s get to the style inspiration.
1. Blazing new trails
@ich_bins_griseldis shows us a masterclass in style. The tweed blazer, sharp white button-down, paired with the relaxed jean balances structure and comfort so perfectly. And those accessories? The gold necklace peeking through the open collar, the classic brown belt, taupe bag, and textured loafers…it just doesn’t get any better. Every choice elevates the denim, to the point where you almost have a hard time calling them boyfriend jeans at all.
2. Stiletto savvy
@givemeallthepretties leans on a pointed-toe heel (literally) to add interest to her boyfriend jeans outfit. Here, the cuffed jeans draw attention to those fabulous shoes and the newsboy cap adds a touch of playfulness.
3. Cuff ’em
@kelseyybarnes shows off cuffed jeans, paired with ankle boots and a pretty top. She can get away with that flowy, feminine top because she’s teeny tiny. If you have a less forgiving shape, you might try tucking in your pretty top.
4. Oversized everything
@pernilleteisbaek looks fabulous in oversized denim topped with an oversized blazer. The belt and body-hugging, tucked shirt keep things from being overly oversized, if you know what I mean.
5. Bomber brilliance
@monikh makes so many brilliant style choices in this outfit. The gorgeous cropped bomber and equally beautiful bag in the same color steal the show, of course. Her soft blue denim is the perfect bridge between those coordinating pieces and her fabulous dad sneakers.
6. Super in stripes
@matildadjerf’s casual day look is comfortable and stylish. Her shoe choice, a simple back loafer, adds structure and seriousness to an otherwise baggy ensemble.
7. Layers of style
@lefevrediary shows us how to wear boyfriend jeans to the office. Smart layers plus a stylish, closed-toe block heel create this incredibly polished outfit around her loose-fitting jean. As a result, she looks like she’s going somewhere to do something that’s both important and exciting.
8. Statements abound
If you’ve been around Budget Fashionista for a while, you’ve probably heard me advise against wearing more than one statement piece at a time. But here I see I’ve been wrong. @greceghanem proves you can combine multiple bold accessories to a fantastic result.
9. Simply stunning
@sylviemus_ uses simplicity to make her statement. Turns out you only need a cozy black top and pointed-toe pumps to look incredible in boyfriend jeans.
