I said what I said! Plain jeans are over. It's time to elevate your denim game with studs, crystals, fringing, metallics...basically anything that says 'bedazzled'. This is a trend that isn't going anywhere, with various iterations appearing across the Spring/Summer 2026 shows last month (meaning their popularity will continue well into next year).
At New York Fashion Week, designer Anna Sui styled her floral studded jeans with a tartan peter-pan collar dress.
And over at Paris Fashion Week, Casablanca went full head-to-toe crystals, with a cropped T-shirt and low-slung sparkly denim.
As we gear up for party season, a pair of swagged out jeans are going to be your ultimate wardrobe staple. Below are some outfit ideas from the street-style set to save and replicate when those invites start rolling in — or simply to test out at brunch, the office, whenever you feel like it. Because why not liven up your day-to-day look as well?
With thigh-high boots and a vest
As we're sure you're well aware, boot season is upon us. Tucking your jeans into a knee or thigh-high pair (we're particularly into this wearer's burgundy, heeled ones) is a style statement on top of a style statement. Keep things simple on top with a white tank top.
With a cape top and clutch bag
Capes were another trend seen throughout the shows last fashion month — get ready for them to be everywhere in 2026. Mix the high and the low by pairing an evening top and clutch bag with embellished jeans. This wearer's crystal-fringed polka dot pair have got us in a chokehold.
Everyone's clicking on...
With a blazer and a bandeau
A blazer and jeans is a tried and tested combo for good reason. If it ain't broke, don't fix it! A simple bandeau top underneath keeps the ensemble simple yet sexy, and this wearer has added extra sparkle to her carrot-leg jeans with her crystal flats. Chef's kiss.
With a fringed jacket and statement earrings
If you're going for a more subtle embellishment on your jeans, that leaves more room for details up top. Hello fringed striped jacket and sculptural flower earrings! Despite so much going on, this wearer manages to look cool and casual. Her red loafers, bead bag and tinted sunglasses are the perfect finishing touches.
With a corset and long sleeves
Sometimes you've just got to go all out. Match your top and your bottom half like this stud-covered babe. The contrast of the baggy denim and fitted corset creates a striking silhouette.
Rebecca Jane Hill is the Senior Fashion Editor at Cosmopolitan UK. She has previously contributed to publications including Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Refinery29, The Face, Glamour and Stylist. She started her own magazine, Sister, in 2012 whilst at university. Focused around feminism, fashion and culture, it went on to produce 12 globally stocked print issues, as well as countless events and partnerships. She closed the magazine in 2023.
Rebecca has been an associate lecturer at London College of Fashion since 2018, where she teaches on the Fashion Journalism course. She is a passionate second-hand shopper and is constantly on the lookout for new design talent.
