8 modern ways to style bootcut jeans that will seamlessly take your wardrobe into the new year

When it comes to the most contentious style of denim in 2025, it's pretty neck-and-neck between skinny and bootcut jeans. Much to the chagrin of those who remember wearing them the first time around, both of these denim silhouettes have returned to the fore of fashion this year thanks to driving pop culture moments, coupled with the perpetual cycle of decade-centric trends.

While we might be able to stave off the return of the skinny jean for a little while longer, there's no denying that the bootcut is well and truly back. After Kendrick Lamar's Celine denim-clad performance at the Super Bowl, searches for the silhouette rocketed by 700% on Net-A-Porter, with specific styles such as Levi's super low bootcut jeans having seen a +2,750% increase in Google searches since the beginning of the year.

While the bootcut silhouette has close affiliation with the 1970s, a skinnier style of the flared jean was also a popular of choice throughout the 2000s, giving the style a surprising cross-generational appeal.

Kate Hudson in 2006

Beyoncé in 2004

How to style bootcut jeans for 2026

As the new year approaches, this denim style won't be going anywhere. Whether you'll be re-surfacing a vintage pair from your own wardrobe, or investing in some crisp new ones, read on for some Cosmopolitan inspiration on how to style bootcut jeans in a totally modern and fresh way.

The European look

European style has a distinctive edge to it, blending a variety of references as well as second-hand and new items. This outfit is the perfect rendition of cool city girl dressing, layering a structured biker jacket over a trending striped rugby shirt, mid-wash bootcuts and square-toe black leather shoes.

The white bootcut

Don't let thoughts of Abba put you off a white bootcut – when styled right, this is a classic piece that will see you through every season. The key to not looking like a tribute band lies in pairing with neutral shades, rather than an all-white ensemble. A light camel suede or corduroy jacket works well, as this outfit demonstrates, as would a cashmere knit jumper or white and beige striped button-down shirt.

The preppy look

While Blair Waldorf might no longer grace our screens in Gossip Girl, Leighton Meester proved her style is well and truly alive with a prim and proper spin on the bootcut jean in Paris. She styled a green and white dogtooth cropped jacket over a short-sleeve ivory knit top (both from British brand Me + Em), with a pair of front-pocket bootcut jeans and Ugg boots, for a preppy yet comfortable look. If Uggs aren't your style (we'll admit it's divisive), it's good to note that this look works well with a knee-high boot too.

The cropped bootcut

A slightly cropped bootcut style is the perfect length for showing off your favourite pair of ankle boots or loafers. It's also a slightly more refined style than the normal bootcut, which can feel more casual with it's floor-skimming length, making it a good denim piece to call on for evening plans. A cream knit top and oversized leather jacket makes for the perfect combination with the cropped silhouette, and matching your jacket with your shoes will bring the whole look together.

The downtown girl

Queen of the rodeo Bella Hadid has become fully at home in a pair of bootcut jeans thanks to her love of horseback riding, but as this outfit shows, there are plenty of ways to wear the silhouette outside of a Western-inspired outfit. Hadid kept her city look low-key with a white scoop neck tank top, worn leather jacket, matching belt and pair of Adidas SL 72's.

The Breton look

There's something about a striped top and pair of jeans that just works so well. The bootcut is no exception to this rule, but we love styling it with a twist; this cardigan and knit cropped top set brings a French Riviera feel to the outfit, while the chain belt and matching gold accessories give an elevated touch. If you can't find a matching set, a white tank or T-shirt underneath a cardigan will work just as well.

The boho bootcut

The allure of boho chic never wanes, but there's no doubt that Chemena Kamali has reinvigorated the style since taking over the reigns at Chloé. Take notes from the designer by pairing your bootcut jeans with romantic ruffles and floating blouses for a match made in boho heaven. For bags and footwear, look to soft suedes and buttery brown leathers.

The double denim look

This outfits brings together Western-inspired denim with British heritage for a classic look that can be leaned on time and time again. A dark wash brings a touch more sophistication to a double-denim ensemble, while a beige trench coat helps to break up the outfit. Add in some sleek accessories — a clutch bag and pair of sunglasses will do the trick — to keep the look modern.