Denim evolves every season, but when it comes to what jeans are in style 2026, be prepared for some surprises! The 2026 denim landscape is firmly focused on effortless dressing, with evolutions in styles, cuts and fits. What's out is now in but one thing remains the same: Levi’s® is at the centre of what’s trending and what’s timeless.
TLDR; which jeans are in style in 2026?
There's consistent denim trends from 2025 that are staying strong, but with an added 2026 flavour. Wide leg, baggy, loose fit and barrel still lead the way, but two nostalgic designs are making a comeback: the low rise and skinny leg. Perhaps triggering for anyone over the age of 30, they're back with some much-needed updates.
Your summer 2026 fashion trends bring bolts of colour, like chartreuse green, with preppy styles and athleisure making an appearance. Detailed accessories, like ties and bows, as well as high-quality fabrics both work to elevate looks in every direction. And while the memo is 'be bold and playful', the return to heritage pieces with a modern twist is the headline.
5 denim trends in 2026 to add to your rotation
As we welcome in relaxed fits and darker washes, plus the reappearance of double denim (thought lost to the early 2000s), jeans are going through an evolution of their own. Put hybrid fits, statement silhouettes and vintage washes on your radar because the denim wave is well and truly here.
Here's a breakdown of the 5 styles you need to add into your weekly fit check to stay on trend this year.
Style #1: Wide Leg Jeans
Why we love them:
- Flattering, suit most body types
- Comfortable, spacious and roomy
- Versatile, can be casual or dressed up
Are wide-leg jeans in style for 2026? You better believe it. This dominant denim is one of the most influential silhouettes for 2026: effortless, versatile and universally flattering.
For styling, pair with a fitted top or tee to create a balanced silhouette, or keep it casual by adding a knit or sweater for extra cosy feels. The best thing about a wide leg is that it's very forgiving, which only adds to its reemergence in denim trends over the past few years.
Levi's® picks:
Style #2: Baggy Jeans
Why we love them:
- Nostalgic, a nod to 90s hip hop
- Gender-neutral, everyone's invited
- Cozy, breathable in the right ways
This is one of the 2026 denim trends that has carried over from previous years, and for good reason. Championed by Gen Z as a rebellion against skinny leg jeans, baggy jeans have become a symbol of easy street fashion.
Styling this denim trend means experimenting with layers. A half-tucked tee is a baggy jean's BFF. Add a Levi's® Shrunken 90s Crop Trucker Jacket plus chunky sneakers and you've got yourself a certified fit.
Levi's® picks:
Style #4: Barrel Leg Jeans
Why we love them:
- Fashion-forward, runway endorsed
- Structured, for a shaped silhouette
- strong>Balanced, evens out proportions
There's an emerging pattern in what jeans are in style for 2026: inclusivity. Barrel leg jeans bridge the gap between casual fashion and runway chic in a cut that's flattering for many body types. Wider at the thigh and tapering down to the ankle, they give the illusion of a longer leg with less fabric bunching.
For a crisp look, opt for double denim in a one-tone wash (black or dark blue). Or slip a Levi's® Relaxed Blazer on over your work outfit for an effortlessly sleek pairing. But if your mood is casual, a touch of light layering with a trench coat and boots will give you that carefree feel.
Levi's® picks:
Style #5: Straight Leg Jeans
Why we love them:
- Streamlined, alternative to skinny and baggy
- Timeless, always on trend
- Low-effort, easy to style and wear
Straight-leg jeans are the definition of enduring style. A streamlined shape that adapts effortlessly to changing trends and in 2026 they’re the Goldilocks of jeans: not too skinny, not too baggy, but offer a balanced fit.
One of the perks of a straight leg jean is its versatility with footwear. Loafers and flats work beautifully just as much as boots and heels do. Up your denim game with Levi's® 501s, the blueprint for a robust, durable straight leg that wears in buttery soft. If you embrace a 90s aesthetic, they're the perfect match for a turtleneck sweater or anything with stripes.
Levi's® picks:
New (old) jeans on the block
The return of low rise
That's right, in 2026 you can expect the low rise to make a triumphant return to the wardrobe... but with a few key differences. In the early 2000s, this cut featured mostly on skinny jeans, but 2026 denim trends offer bootcut, slouchy and baggy alternatives this time around. Thank the 'comfort-first' attitude of Gen Z for these upgrades!
Skinny, but more slim-fit
One of the most surprising denim styles is the rise of these polarising jeans. Everyone's wondering: are skinny jeans out for 2026? The answer is no, they're very much in. Except now they wear more like a super-slim or slim-straight cut, in softer and stretchier fabrics. The cherry on top is a higher waist, making this once constricting pair of jeans a roomier cousin to the standard straight leg.
Now you know what jeans are in style in 2026
No matter what's popular, choose fit over trend to get the most out of your jeans. Shop Levi's® picks to stay on trend this year and add legacy denim and apparel to your wardrobe. Explore our full range online and score free shipping on all orders (T&Cs apple), with new arrivals and best sellers to browse for inspiration.
