I Live in My Basic Jeans, But I'm Eyeing These 6 Controversial Denim Trends for My Wardrobe
Just when we thought denim had settled into a quiet, classic groove, spring 2025 showed up to stir the pot. While I'm constantly living in my French girl–inspired straight-leg pants, I'm eyeing a change this April and May. This spring's most controversial denim styles are anything but subtle. Think high-water hems that hit well above the ankle, two-tone washes that look intentionally mismatched, and drawstring waistbands that blur the line between loungewear and streetwear.
I've been keeping tabs on what's popping up on the runways, on celebrities, and, yes, on my Instagram Explore page, and it's clear that controversial denim is having a moment. Some of these styles are bound to be divisive, and that's exactly what makes them interesting.
Ahead, I'm breaking down the controversial denim trends that are turning heads—for better or worse—and why you might want to try them anyway. Even if you're loyal to your straight-leg staples, there's a chance one of these might surprise you.
Skinny Jeans
They never really left, but this season, skinnies are sneaking back into the spotlight—this time styled with oversize layers and sharp accessories. Love them or loathe them, they're proving they still have range (and stretch). Consider it a quiet comeback, not a full-blown takeover… yet.
MOTHER
The Mid-Rise Rider Flood Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans
PAIGE
Gemma High Waist Skinny Jeans
MOTHER
The Rascal Frayed Ankle Slim Jeans
ZARA
Sculpt High Waist TRF Jeans
Printed Jeans
From subtle florals to full-on brand logos, printed jeans are having a moment that's hard to scroll past. They add instant personality to your look—no styling gymnastics required. Whether you go abstract or classic, they're the statement piece you didn't know your closet needed
Reformation
Cary High Rise Slouchy Straight Leg Jeans
Loewe
Anagram Appliquéd High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
Marimekko
Maridenim Unikko Loose Fit Jeans
Free People
Good Luck Floral Print Barrel Jeans
Drawstring Jeans
Equal parts comfy and confusing, drawstring jeans are the unexpected mashup of loungewear ease and denim structure. Think of them as the fashion world's version of soft pants with ambition. Sure, they're relaxed, but when styled right, they can still look pulled-together.
Mango
Wideleg Denim Pants With Belt
Citizens of Humanity
Brynn Drawstring Trouser
Gap
Mid Rise Knit Easy Baggy Jeans
Aligne
Ida Tie Waist Jeans
Madewell
Low-Slung Baggy Jean: Airy Denim Edition
Two-Tone Jeans
The denim equivalent of Gemini, two-tone jeans are bold, unexpected, and strangely versatile. Whether it's a patchwork effect or a sharp contrast at the seam, they give your outfit a built-in edge without trying too hard. Pair them with a simple white tee to let the jeans do all of the talking.
Gap
High Rise Patchwork Barrel Jeans
Grlfrnd
Vera Seamed Tonal Flare
Rails
Getty Paneled Wide Leg in Twilight Shadow
Levi's
Baggy Dad Pieced Jeans
Embellished Jeans
Grommets, sequins, florals—denim is dressing up this season. Embellished jeans are ditching subtlety for sparkle, and somehow, it works. Worn with basics or clashing prints, they're proof that your jeans can party harder than your going-out top.
Alice + Olivia
Roxie Embellished Jean
Reformation
Cary High Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans
We the Free
Tennessee Low-Rise Shine Boyfriend Jeans
High-Water Jeans
Say goodbye to full-length styles. Cropped jeans are cutting it short this spring—much like their hemmed counterpart, cuffed jeans. Whether you're showing off ankle boots or chunky sandals, they're all about putting your footwear on display. They're slightly awkward in length but effortlessly cool in effect.
Zara
Flared Cropped High Waist TRF Jeans
Gap
High Rise Kick Fit Jeans
ZARA
High-Waisted Z1975 Cropped Wide Leg Jeans
Levi's
Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans
Madewell
The Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Crop Jean
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