Beating skinny jeans as the preferred silhouette, boyfriend jeans have become a fan-favorite staple among Gen-Z and millennials alike. The slightly tailored cut is revered for its distinct high waist and comes in a range of washes. But it’s the versatility of the style—its ability to go with, basically, anything—that’s really cemented its spot as a true wardrobe icon.
Whether you have plans to dress your pair up with heels or prefer to keep your denim casual, you have options when it comes to boyfriend jeans. This relaxed fit is especially great for desk-to-drink situations that call for quick outfit changes at a moment’s notice. This means they can just as easily create a smart ensemble when paired with an oversized blazer and loafers, as they can hit the town by simply swapping out the brogues for a pair of mules or pumps.
For those who still aren’t quite sure how to wear boyfriend jeans, just ahead are 11 outfit ideas suited to fit an array of lifestyles, personal aesthetics, and occasions, too.
The Everyday Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit5-Everyday-634f985ab6364148b378f7643ed7205a.jpg)
Give your boyfriend jeans a casual yet elevated feel with a collared bodysuit and platform sandals. Add luxe accessories, like a pair of trend-forward sunglasses or a statement bag to complete the look.
The Sneaker Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit9-Sneaker-48f5bb0ec40e46b58099697c484d0be0.jpg)
When wearing sneakers with your boyfriend jeans, balance the super-relaxed feel with minimally chic pairings so that the outfit doesn’t feel too informal.
The Beach-to-Street Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit1-BeachtoStreets-5f8b37d2fff74024a0fa7db02431b516.jpg)
Next time you’re on vacation, slip a pair of distressed boyfriend jeans over your bikini to wear the look both poolside and to dinner right after.
The Desk-to-Drinks Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit2-DesktoDrinks-9c68c32d9df841b488af82205374b6cd.jpg)
Similarly, wearing boyfriend jeans also works well when transitioning between night and day. All you need are a few quick accessory changes to alter the overall feel of the ensemble.
The Off-Duty Model Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit6-TheOffDutyModel-d23a039ac2784a6f87f46b68e8ceeb8a.jpg)
Embody your favorite supermodel on their day off by pairing a second-skin tee with boyfriend jeans, hoops, and a logo-emblazoned baseball cap.
The Smart Blazer Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit8-TheSmartBlazer-9a7fae1daf004c3e81c6a35f97ef4750.jpg)
A key tip in wearing boyfriend jeans to the office is adding smart pairings into the mix. Give the look a little extra lift with strappy mules.
The Trend-Driven Oufit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit11-TrendDriven-a6eb302029104b5885b8b82d3d0a45d2.jpg)
Looking to make a statement? Try slipping a long tunic or dress over your jeans for a cool, layered look. Also, don’t be afraid to play with color—add complementary accessories but don’t necessarily match conventionally.
The Effortlessly Cool Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit4-EffortlesslyCool-3be9b541afb84b2e96c444fc6ac91102.jpg)
On days that may call for a little less effort, all you need is a graphic bowler-style shirt and sporty sandals of the variety we’ve seen all over Instagram.
The Transitional Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit10-Transitional-9f194fe5b5c3434882da5ec6935a9eae.jpg)
When the weather is a bit unpredictable, opt for convertible layers and slip-on footwear that you can wear with or without socks, should conditions change dramatically.
The Early 2000s Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit3-TheEarly2000s-88d6597ef05d4386b086f5c9452d3434.jpg)
The early aughts are back, and all you need to recreate a Y2K look for 2021 is a fitted, cropped T-shirt and a vintage bag.
The Plain White T-Shirt Outfit
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Outfit7-ThePlainWhiteTee-d13c505b1adf4aaea2cdab47a4c4689f.jpg)
Sometimes you want to wear boyfriend jeans and a plain white tee. In that case, add tall leather boots and a trucker jacket to round out the look.