The denim trends 2022 has on offer deliver an instant spring refresh and with denim being a solid go-to for every day, we're always looking for new and exciting ways to wear an old favorite.
Underpinning many a capsule wardrobe, denim has become a wardrobe essential, used as the basis for both smart and casual looks. We're all guilty of leaning towards particular fail-safe styles, meaning trying new denim trends can feel rather daunting. Whether your best jeans are a pair of trusty skinnies or you love a retro mom jean, your style staples will always have a home in your closet, but it's good to mix it up with some more trend-led iterations each season. Whether it's a brand new cut, a rework of a classic design, or some fresh new washes, each season offers the chance to evolve our denim collections.
“Denim styles appeared across many of the SS22 catwalks, from Valentino to Balenciaga, and it’s exciting to see these trends now coming through on the high-street. There is clearly a heavy 90/00s influence across this season’s denim offering with baggy silhouettes, embellished styles, long skirts, asymmetric hems and even head-to-toe looks making a comeback," says Farrah-May Archer, Styling Team Lead at Stitch Fix UK
And it’s not just about jeans of course: denim crops up on a plethora of silhouettes from the best denim jackets to denim dresses, there’s barely an item of clothing that doesn’t get the denim treatment. "Whether it be oversized sleeves, maxi lengths, or statement details like gigantic pockets, more is definitely more with denim this season!" adds Farrah-May.
So if you’ve nailed all the fashion trends 2022, tapped into the shoe trends 2022, and are now on a mission to refresh your favorite fabric, we’ve rounded up our top denim trends from the runways to help you step into spring in style. And if you really want to get ahead of the fashion game, we’ve popped in a couple of autumn trends too.
DENIM TRENDS 2022 TO SHOP NOW
1. Baggy jeans
Valentino/MSGM/Missoni
Some cuts can define an entire decade and back in the mid-noughties, it was all about the best skinny jeans—in part thanks to supermodel Kate Moss. However, the past few seasons have seen a shift away from the figure-hugging style to a looser fit, and 2022 is no exception. Mirroring other early noughties trends, the slouchy—or baggy jean—has become the new go-to silhouette. A lot more forgiving than our aforementioned slim-fit style, the slouchy jean is relaxed, comfortable, and a little bit cool. You don’t have to commit to the low-slung style as seen on the runways though, phew! Look to high-rise cuts that will sculpt your figure and lengthen your legs for a universally flattering silhouette. One of the best jeans for curvy women, it's surprisingly easy to learn how to style baggy jeans. Simply offset the fuller bottom shape with a more fitted top half - try a tucked-in knit or one of the best t-shirts.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $39.99 / £29.99 | Simple and affordable, H&M is one of our go-tos when it comes to shopping for jeans. These have a flattering high waist and a wide straight-leg design to the ankle. Keep it pared-back and team with a white vest top and shoe trends 2022 favorite sporty sandals.
RRP: $97.52 / £75 | When you’re looking for slouchy cuts, try the ‘barrel’ leg. They have a vintage aesthetic that sits high on the waist, making them ideal for apple body shapes. The wide-leg tapers slightly at the ankle for a slimmer finish. The blue wash on these keeps them looking polished.
RRP: $115 / £75 | These slouchy denim jeans are cut from lightweight cotton that makes them ideal for the warmer months. They have that throwback low-rise waist for a relaxed fit, making them a good style for rectangle body shapes. Team with a longer tee or shirt if you want extra coverage.
2. Denim Midi Skirts
Louis Vuitton/Dior/Loewe
Of course, it’s not all about denim jeans. Give them a break and switch up your blues for its equally versatile sister—the denim skirt. In particular, the midi skirt. From Louis Vuitton to Loewe, the runways saw the just-below-the-knee skirt dominate and thankfully it's a lot more practical than a mini. Guaranteed to give your look a bit of a '70s-inspired spin, a denim midi skirt can pretty much be worn with everything. Dress it up with the best designer heels and a pussy-bow blouse or keep it lowkey in sporty sandals and a simple tee. One thing we do know, you’ll want to add a denim skirt into your outfit rotation pronto.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $45.90 / £29.99 | This denim pencil skirt is an easy silhouette to dress up or down. It has a washed effect for that lived-in look and the front slit allows room for movement. Sitting high on the waist it offers a curve-enhancing, ideal for highlighting hourglass body shapes. Wear with the best cashmere sweater and pumps for a pulled-together look.
RRP: $521 / £375 | Take it up a stylish notch with this designer number. The A-line shape and coordinating belt will pull you in at the waist and flare out over the thighs for a flattering finish. An ideal answer for how to style knee-high boots, team this skirt with a tan pair for a strong '70s-inspired look.
RRP: $93 / £70 | This tiered skirt offers a spring-ready boho vibe that’s perfect for holidays and laid-back weekends. The contrast stitching adds extra interest, making it look more high-end too. Wear with a floaty printed top and finish with raffia accessories.
3. Tailored denim
Chloe/Rokh/Emporio Armani
Denim is notoriously casual, but for 2022, it has been given a bit of a makeover, proving its sartorial talents have no bounds. The best blazers add instant polish to any look and thanks to the likes of Chloe and Emporio Armani, they’ve been given the denim treatment too. Stick to darker washes if you want to keep it sharp and look for structured styles to keep the look tailored. As well as blazers, there are nipped-in jackets, the forever-classic denim shirt and pencil skirts for a feminine take on denim tailoring. Mix with crisp white shirts, the best tote bags and smart mules to render it office-ready.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $85 / £85 | This belted design gives the classic denim jacket added shape for a more curve-loving finish. On warmer days wear it undone for a more relaxed vibe. Layer over floaty summer dresses or a pair of beige tailored trousers for a smart weekday look.
RRP: $388 / £360 | The best shirt dresses give tailoring a feminine spin and the same can be said for a denim shirt dress. This has an elasticated waistband to ensure you don't look overwhelmed and it's crafted from a rigid denim for a structured shape.
RRP: $108 / £75.95 | Comfort meets style with this oversized denim blazer. A chic alternative to the traditional denim jacket but just as versatile, layer it over the t-shirts, dresses, jeans and everything in between.
4. Dark Wash Denim
Max Mara/Dior/Saint Laurent
Move aside faded jeans, it’s all about deep washes for 2022. Think dark indigo and nearly-black for an extra sharp denim look. These kinds of washes are a lot smarter than lighter shades so this trend is great for making your denim look wearable for evening occasions. Invest in a dark-wash denim jacket for an instant classic piece you’ll wear for years to come. While you still can't wear denim to a wedding, you might just get away with wearing a dark denim jacket to the office.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $168 / £120 | Levi’s are pros at crafted top-quality denim and these barrel jeans are top of the denim game. They’re sustainably constructed from 100% cotton too. Make sure they stand the test of time and check out our guide on how to wash jeans.
RRP: $89 / £65 | The puff sleeves on this beauty give the classic denim shirt a modern update and more of a statement look. Keep the rest of your getup simple—opt for some dark wash jeans or a denim skirt and let the shirt steal all the attention.
RRP: $123.55 / £95 | We all know a denim jacket is a wardrobe staple so if you’ve yet to invest, now is the time. This slim-fit style keeps things polished making it appropriate for evening and daywear. The cropped hem means it's great for petites too.
5. Denim Dresses
Loewe/Kate Spade/Luisa Spagnoli
A denim dress is one of the best dresses to have in your arsenal. Easy to dress up or down, team it with some strappy sandals for a summer garden party or keep it casual with a pair of the best white trainers for weekend brunch. For 2022, we’re going uber feminine with our denim dresses. Think flattering puff sleeves as seen at Kate Spade, off-the shoulder silhouettes spotted at Luisa Spagnoli and romantic frilly hems spied at Loewe. Finish with delicate gold jewelry to give the tough fabric a softer edge.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $2,460 / £1,620 | This signature style from designer Alexander McQueen is well worth the investment. With a corset style waist, sweetheart neckline, swishy skirt and dipped hem, it flatters in all the right places.
RRP: $109 / £69 | Another classic you’ll reach for on repeat, this frock makes a stylish switch-up when you fancy a change from jeans. The ruffle detail adds a pretty finish and the classic fit and flare shape keep it playful and easy to wear.
RRP: $150 / £98 | Another summer staple that deserves a spot in your suitcase, this sleeveless frock is simple and elegant. Cut to a modest midi length it has a built-in belt so you can tailor the fit and there are some rather handy pockets too.
6. Patchwork Denim
Philosophy Di Lorenzo Serafini/Coach/John Richmond
Patchwork denim has had a bit of a resurgence of late and not just because it has that cool '70s vibe to it. With many of us trying to make more sustainable choices with our fashion, patchwork denim has a certain DIY look that lends itself to the upcycling movement and the art of reusing fabrics and offcuts—perfect if you're keen on sustainable clothing brands. There are really no rules when it comes to wearing patchwork denim, the trend is fun, retro and playful and you can go as bold or as subtle as you like, whether it's a patchwork pocket or a multi-patchwork jacket.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $198 / £198 | These limited edition jeans have a one-of-a-kind patchwork design for a unique finish so you know you’re getting something extra special. They are high rise and fitted at the waist with a straight, relaxed leg.
RRP: $199 / £99 | For a more subtle take on the patchwork trend, this stylish jacket from Whistles is a winner. It has a boxy fit with patch pockets for a laid-back look. Pair with block colors to let the jacket take center stage.
RRP: $440 / £365 | Another upcycled number that has that one-off finish, this patchwork skirt will elevate your off-duty outfits. Considered details such as the contrasting stitching give it a high-end finish. Style with a simple white tank.
7. Embellished denim
Blumarine/Dolce & Gabbana/Isabel Marant
Denim doesn’t have to be dull so if you’re looking to make more of a statement with the wardrobe staple then try this glitzy trend. The Dolce & Gabbana catwalk saw jeans adorned with gems and rhinestones whilst Blumarine added butterfly elements for another nod to early noughties trends. Of course, you don’t have to go quite so disco-ball style. Try throwing an embellished jacket over your LBD or team a plain cami with some sequinned jeans for a grown-up cocktail-ready look.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $365 / £219 | Give your denim jacket a tougher rock’n’roll edge with this studded iteration. It has a relaxed silhouette making it ideal for layering over tees or thicker knitwear. The black denim shade keeps it super versatile too for all-year-round wear.
RRP: $111 / £60 | Going out-out? Get your jeans party-ready with this glamorous embellished pair. Cut to a flattering high waist mom fit they will up the ante on your mom jean outfits. Pair with a simple cami and finish with an oversized blazer.
RRP: $40 / £20 | Shorts weather is just around the corner—although these would look equally stylish with tights too. Style with the best leather jacket and boots for a festival-ready look or a simple pastel knit to render it weekend-ready.
8. Head-to-toe
Max Mara/Balenciaga/Saint Laurent
There are few red-carpet moments that are as iconic as Britney and Justin’s double denim look and double denim is still one of the coolest—if not controversial—ways to rock your denim. Layer a denim trench coat over your denim dress or a jacket with jeans or a full-on denim boilersuit for a head-to-toe look. For denim trends 2022, it’s all about sticking to the same wash for a more coordinated aesthetic—whatever you do, don’t go switching shades. You can break up this look with splashes of color such as a vibrant bag, a patterned design or some metallic heels.
"Head-to-toe denim is not one for the faint hearted, but a subtle way to embrace the trend is to team high-waisted, wide leg jeans with a cropped denim jacket and a plain white tee. If my clients are looking for wide leg jeans, my go-to brands are Whistles, Only, and Wrangler, as they offer a great variety of washes and fits to suit any style," explains Farrah-May.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $99.99 / £59.99 | An all-in-one denim jumpsuit nails the look, with little effort required. This has a zip fastening, making it easy to slip on and off. Fitted at the waist, you can add a belt for extra definition. Finish with a low mule heel to help elongate your legs.
RRP: $495 / £375 | Inject some fun to your denim with this printed jacket. Perfect if you want to make more of a statement—especially when paired with the matching pants. Or style with a white cotton dress for a more lowkey look.
RRP: $325 / £225 | These straight-leg jeans feature a fun floral print and a high waist. They have no stretch and can run small so you may want to size up. Wear with a simple white or pastel-hued tee or the matching jacket for a bolder vibe.
9. Utility denim
Trussardi/Isabel Marant/Stella McCartney
The utility trend was featured on both the spring/summer and autumn/winter runways so you know it’s a worthwhile trend to invest in. Where function meets fashion, the defining characteristic of the utility trend is practicality, pieces you can dress up and down with minimal effort required. If you buy one thing, make it the cargo jean. Featured across the catwalks, this is another throwback trend that’s made a strong comeback. Steer away from the slightly dodgy style of the noughties and keep your cargos smart with more figure-hugging cuts, darker washes and finished off with a pair of heels or cowboy boots.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $98 / £98 | A shirt-jacket hybrid—or shacket as it’s often known—is a stylish choice for those in-between weather days. This has a boxy, oversized fit that can be easily layered over dresses and jeans. The patch pockets offer a nod to the utility trend too.
RRP: $219 / £129 | This sleek pair proves that cargo pants can be smart. In a washed black hue, they sit mid-rise with a tapered leg and elasticated cuffs for a flattering finish. The shorter hem allows you to show off some fancy footwear too.
RRP: $45.90 / £27.99 | These straight leg cargo jeans have got instant classic written all over them. They have the signature statement pockets on the leg and they sit high on the waist too. Team with white and cream hues.
10. Denim Accessories
Fendi/Loewe Autumn Winter 2022
One of the easiest ways to try a new trend without stepping too far out of your comfort zone or blowing the budget is with a sweet accessory. Luckily denim has made its way onto accessories too with the fabric cropping up on bags and shoes. You can go for a bolder look and team your denim bag with a denim dress for a double dose as seen on the Fendi runway, or just add some denim pumps to the best midi dresses for a laidback spin.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $45 / £29 | When it comes to headgear, the bucket hat has taken over the fashion-sphere for 2022 so why not give it the denim treatment too? A great summer hat that will give any outfit a cool '90s feel to it.
RRP: $245 / £219 | Logo bags are one of the top handbag trends 2022 so get on board with this chic number from Sandro. It has a leather trim and a metal chain shoulder strap for a luxe finish.
RRP: $115.95 / £84 | The hunt for the perfect summer sandal is over thanks to this cool denim pair. In a sporty silhouette with a cute daisy detail and raw cut tassels they really pack a punch.
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