Skinny jeans are back!
Love them or loathe them, skinny jeans are officially back on the fashion radar. After several seasons dominated by wide-leg, straight and relaxed denim, designers and high-street brands are once again embracing a slimmer silhouette.
So why now? Fashion is cyclical, and after years of oversized shapes, we’re seeing a shift back towards more streamlined dressing. Skinny jeans also offer something many women crave: ease. They’re practical, flattering when styled well, and work seamlessly with boots, trainers and smarter outerwear.
That said, it’s important to say, just because skinny jeans are back doesn’t mean you have to wear them. Many women never stopped wearing them and if they’re not your thing, there are still plenty of other modern denim shapes to choose from. Style should always be about what works for you, not following trends blindly.
The key to wearing skinny jeans in midlife is balance
The biggest mistake women make with skinny jeans is styling them the way we did in the early 2000s with tight tops, short jackets and flimsy footwear. The modern way to wear them is all about balancing the lower half with stronger, more structured pieces on top.
Think:
- A relaxed blazer to add polish and structure
- A chunky knit or roll-neck to create softness and confidence around the midsection
- Slightly longer-length tops that skim rather than cling
This balance instantly updates the look and makes it feel intentional rather than dated.
- Shoes play a huge role in making skinny jeans feel current:
- Ankle boots or knee-high boots ground the look beautifully and add sophistication
- Trainers (especially clean, minimal styles) keep things modern and relaxed
Avoid overly delicate shoes, which can throw off the proportions
- Fit and fabric are everything. Look for:
- A high-rise waist for support and comfort
- Stretch denim that holds its shape (no sagging by lunchtime)
- A clean, dark or mid-wash for the most flattering and versatile finishyourself.
Brands I recommend;
You’ll find excellent options across both high street and premium brands:
- High street: Marks & Spencer, New Look, River Island
- Premium: Paige, Mother, Good American
These brands understand fit, stretch and structure which makes all the difference, particularly for midlife bodies.
Skinny jeans aren’t about reliving your twenties. When styled with confidence, balance and modern proportions, they can be a sleek, practical and flattering option at any age. And if you decide they’re not for you? That’s stylish too.
Fashion should support your life, not dictate it.
Get in touch for your Lisa’s Wardrobe Review and let’s start this stylish journey together!
Lots of love
Lisa x
