You'll spot this versatile jean in your local cafes and on high fashion runways in Europe. Loved by supermodels and supermums alike, women's wide leg jeans have been a constant in the denim landscape for the better half of a century, and for good reason. Flattering and fashion-forward, styling this iconic design can be effortless – but you have to know how to leverage its unique details.
A history of rebellion
Wide-leg silhouettes have appeared throughout fashion history, from early workwear to the cultural shifts of the 60s and 70s. As denim evolved, the shape became a symbol of self-expression: relaxed, expressive and easy to wear.
Levi's® has championed the wide leg cut for decades with a loose fit becoming one of our trademark styles. Wide leg jeans in Australia wouldn't be the same without Levi's® attention to detail and mastery of durable denim, but what makes this pair of jeans such a popular option?
The different rise options for wide leg jeans
Styling wide leg jeans starts by understanding rise. This is the distance from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband, with a longer rise sitting much higher on the hip than a shorter rise. Levi's® offers options for your jeans, from low to super high, which is key to getting the most out of a wider leg fit.
High rise
A very flattering option, high rise wide leg jeans lengthen the leg and cinch in the waist. This creates balance between the legs and torso which has the effect of elevating almost any outfit.
Levi's® Women's Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans
Features:
- Super high rise for waist definition
- Lightweight breezy blend of cotton and linen
- Super-slimming and lengthening design
Levi's® Ribcage Wide Leg Jeans blend buttery soft, airy fabric with a super-slimming design. As far as high waist wide leg jeans go, you get the best of both worlds: a funky 70s-inspired leg with a classic 90s high waist.
For casual styling, a mid wash denim is your go-to because it taps into the 80s heritage of the wide leg cut. Match a neutral tee and Levi's® Shrunken Trucker Jacket for a vintage-inspired fit.
Mid rise
A high waist is a popular choice, but mid rise wide leg jeans are versatile enough to suit any body type. They can skim over the hips and thighs, or, when paired with the right top and footwear, shape curves into an hourglass for a more defined waist.
Levi's® Women's 318 Shaping Wide Leg Jeans
Features:
- Supersoft Levi's® Stellar Stretch for everyday wear
- Smoothing built-in tummy panel for extra support
- Available in plus size wide leg jeans
Don't trade comfort for style with Levi's® Women's 318 Shaping Wide Leg Jeans. Hugging in all the right ways, their volume can offset broad shoulders, balance out pear or apple body shapes, and make for easy styling, day or night.
Embrace a darker wash to instantly level up your outfit for a more refined aesthetic. Amplify this with Levi's® Relaxed Blazer and you'll be ready to paint the town red.
Low rise
Low rise wide leg jeans give a similar powerful silhouette to a mid or high rise. Complimentary to hourglass figures and longer torsos, the lower rise is slouchy and cool, a more laidback fit for breezy, casual days.
For carefree styling that's cowboy-inspired, opt for a lighter vintage wash and Levi's® Iconic Western Shirt to complete the look.
How to style wide leg jeans
With Levi's® wide leg jeans as the foundation, anything's possible. Whether it's an everyday outfit for work or celebrating the night away with friends, there's an infinite number of ways to style your wide leg jeans.
What body type should wear wide leg jeans?
Generally speaking, the wide leg cut is loose-fitting, from hips to ankles. That's what makes it a flattering style for every body type, but for hourglass figures especially. Choose a high or mid rise to maximise waist definition, which also gives form to triangle or pear shapes too, by adding structure and volume via the legs.
What to wear with wide leg jeans
One of the best things about a wide leg is the freedom it gives you to express yourself.
- Shirts: What tops go with wide leg jeans? Fitted tees, looser shirts with a french tuck, or anything cropped.
- Jackets: When it comes to what jacket to wear with wide leg jeans, the Shrunken Trucker Jacket is the winner. Shortened at just the right moment, this jacket is to a wide leg silhouette what Beyonce is to Texas: legendary!
- Footwear: The answer to what shoes to wear with wide leg jeans is simple... anything that balanced out the volume of the pant leg. Loafers and chunky sneakers if you're keeping it casual, pointed heels or ankle boots to step it up a notch.
Casual weekend fits
When the weekend rolls around, slip on your high rise wide leg jeans with a tucked in shirt. It's low-effort but high aesthetic impact. All eyes will be on your long legs and cinched-in waist, not on the second or third latte you just drank.
A cozy winter wide leg jeans outfit to try
When temperatures drop, pair black wide leg jeans with an oversized sweater or knit. This polished and comfy combo creates a balanced silhouette ideal for grey days or late night adventures in that crisp wintry air.
Need more outfit ideas? Explore our best sellers and new arrivals to pick up a few tips and tricks.
Wide leg jeans are for every style, body and taste
Wide leg jeans are a timeless part of the Levi’s® archive and continue to evolve with each season. Whether you're new to the world of a wide leg or it's the only cut you wear, there's a pair of wide leg jeans to suit your taste and body type. Scroll our collection online (get free shipping, T&Cs apply) or find your fit in store using our store locator.
