I figured out how to style boyfriend jeans long before they were trendy (and before I even had a boyfriend to steal jeans from). My preteen self used to scour the men’s rack to buy pairs of baggy jeans because the women’s department mostly displayed straight leg or skinny jean styles—silhouettes that didn’t align with my tomboy aesthetic.
I eventually became known for my too-large pants that, without the help of a belt, easily slid down my hips. So needless to say, I was grateful when boyfriend jeans gained popularity and denim brands started manufacturing a slouchy silhouette with a woman’s physique in mind. This is my very longwinded way of saying: I’ve been wearing boyfriend jeans for over a decade, and so I have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to tips and tricks on how to style them.
But first, it’s important to distinguish the difference between mom jeans and boyfriend jeans. Mom jeans resemble those ’80s high-waisted, classic Levi’s jeans that are neither too slim nor too baggy. They taper in at the hem yet are a little roomier than a straight-leg jean. Boyfriend jeans, on the other hand, are baggy jeans that typically hang off the hips—much like you would find on men’s jeans—though more modern iterations offer high-waisted versions as well. Think of them as extra-wide-leg jeans, providing optimal comfort and endless styling potential.
Ready? Here’s 10 different ways to wear boyfriend jeans for right now.
Preppy in a Striped Polo
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Preppy chic continues to reign in 2026, and striped polos happen to pair perfectly with this denim style. Whether you opt for high-rise jeans with a cropped top, as shown above, or low-rise boyfriend jeans with a slouchy sweater is up to you—both styles make for great spring outfits. Finish with some comfortable sneakers and a statement earring or sunglasses.
With a Model-Off-Duty Leather Jacket
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