How to Style Flared Jeans for Any Vibe

If there is one denim silhouette that has truly stood the test of time, it’s the flare. From their free-spirited 70s origins to their early 2000s revival, flared pants are back in full force today—and for good reason. They are incredibly lengthening, universally flattering, and instantly add a dose of drama to an outfit.

However, the unique silhouette of flares—tight through the thigh and kicking out below the knee—can sometimes make them tricky to style. It’s all about mastering proportions.

Whether you are trying flares for the first time or looking to update your current rotation, this guide breaks down exactly how to style flared jeans to look effortlessly chic.

1. Know Your Flare: Bootcut vs. Bell

Before you start styling, it helps to know what level of drama you are going for.

• The Bootcut: Think of bootcut jeans as the entry-level flare. They offer a subtle widening at the ankle, designed originally (as the name suggests) to fit over boots. They are versatile, work-appropriate, and great for a balanced, everyday look.
• The True Flare/Bell Bottom: This is the main event. These jeans fit snugly through the hips and thighs and flare out dramatically starting just below the knee. This style creates the most significant hourglass illusion.

2. Picking Your Aesthetic

Flaired jeans are surprisingly chameleon-like; they adapt to whatever vibe you pair them with.

The Modern Minimalist
Keep it sleek to let the denim silhouette do the talking. Pair high-waisted, dark-wash flares with a fitted black turtleneck or a crisp, tucked-in white bodysuit. Throw an oversized blazer on top for a sharp, architectural look.

The Y2K Revivalist
The early aughts are having a massive moment. To nail the Y2K flared jeans look, opt for a mid-to-low rise pair. Style them with a baby tee, a butterfly top, or a denim corset for that full “Canadian Tuxedo” effect. Don’t forget the tiny shoulder bag.

The 70s Free Spirit
Lean into the heritage of the flare. High-waisted, lighter-wash denim pairs perfectly with flowy peasant blouses, crochet knit tops, or suede jackets. Tucking in your top is crucial here to highlight the waistline.

3. The Shoe Dilemma Solved

The most common question when wearing this denim style is: which type of footwear suits with flared jeans?

The golden rule of flares is the hemline. Ideally, the hem of your jeans should just graze the top of your shoes, sitting about half an inch off the floor. You don’t want them dragging, but you also don’t want them looking like high-waters (unless they are intentionally cropped flares).

• For Maximum Height: Platforms & Wedges.
  This is the ultimate pairing. Because flares are wider at the bottom, they can handle a chunky shoe. Platform boots, wooden wedges, or chunky heels give you extra height, making your legs look miles long under the denim.
• For a Sleek Look: Pointed-Toe Boots.
  A sleek, pointed-toe heeled boot poking out from under a wide flare creates a sophisticated, sharp line that elongates the leg.
• For Casual Days: Chunky Sneakers.
  Yes, you can wear sneakers with flares, especially if you are channeling that Y2K vibe. A chunky “dad sneaker” works best to balance the volume of the pant leg.

4. Where to Buy the Best Flares

Ready to add this staple to your wardrobe? Finding the perfect fit—one that hugs the hips just right and has the perfect amount of kick at the ankle—is key.

If you are wondering where to buy flared jeans that offer great silhouettes with a bit of edgy flair, you need to check out the latest collections. We are currently loving the variety of washes and cuts available online.

Don’t be intimidated by the volume. Flared jeans are all about confidence and balancing proportions. Once you find the right shoe height and a top that complements the rise of the denim, you’ll find they are just as easy to wear as your favorite skinny jeans—but a whole lot cooler.