Image Credit: Clare Gallagher for The Campus Trainer
Much like plaid fabrics or leather boots, denim is a fall staple that constantly reinvents itself each year, and the fall 2021 season is no exception. While the mom jean trend has eclipsed skinny jeans over the past few years, this fall we are seeing a much wider variety in denim. The mom jean trend is still going strong, but flares, boyfriend and even skinny jean cuts are equally as popular. Alexis Lefebvre, Visual Merchandiser at American Eagle, said that, “the 90s are back and better than ever” in stores right now. She added that specific styles such as “baggy and flare jeans for women are a must have for this fall.”
The popularization of these styles is a notable resurgence, given that it's been quite some time since we’ve last seen them. But with so many different styles of denim on trend this season, it can be difficult to discern which ones you may want to try out. Perhaps the most controversial trend as of late is low-rise jeans coming back in style given that not everyone feels they are flattering on their body type. However, the beauty of having so many options is that you get to pick and choose which ones are right for you. Luckily, some University of Maryland Terps shared with us which jean cuts they’ll be gravitating towards during the fall 2021 season.
Fashion content creator and student Michelle Drabovsky said she’s loving “any type of oversized jeans,” which she pairs with a “small tank top” for a “small top, big jeans vibe.” Drabovsky also added that, “with fall weather being so unpredictable,” you can also layer a sweatshirt on top.
Sophomore government and politics major Sydney Toole said she loves “denim patches on top of denim,” particularly when they incorporate a mixed variety of washes. Toole said that the patches “add a texture and complexity that makes the piece more interesting.” She has been wearing “a lot of denim on denim looks,” which she believes “looks really good” when done well.
Image Credit: Clare Gallagher for The Campus Trainer
Personally, one denim trend I am most excited about this season is straight leg jeans. Similar to the mom jean, the straight leg cut is tighter on the hips and looser down the leg. But the straight leg focuses more on creating a silhouette of a straight line on the legs. I find them both flattering and classy given that the cut resembles pants you could wear in a professional or business setting. Looser denim also tends to be more comfortable, which is always a pro in my book. Finally, the other denim trend I will be wearing a lot this fall is flare jeans. While the “Mamma Mia” vibes are an obvious plus, I find them extremely flattering. I also love how much variety you can create with them. They can be a simple one-tone wash, have different patches or even embroidery to spice them up.
Overall, flare jeans are definitely going to be one of my must-haves this season. Regardless of whichever denim you're eyeing this fall, there is definitely a style for everyone.