The fashion world is witnessing a significant comeback as skinny jeans, once considered passé, are making a return. This resurgence first caught attention on the runways, where designers showcased revamped versions that are more tailored than their skintight predecessors. American Eagle has reported a growing interest in skinny jeans, indicating a shift in consumer preferences. Meanwhile, TikTok sensation and Gen Z influencer Alix Earle has spurred excitement by introducing an exclusive pair of skinnies with denim brand Frame in January. The buzz around skinny jeans, however, began building even before Earle's debut.
Renowned fashion professor Shawn Grain Carter highlights that the latest iterations of skinny jeans are crafted with highly tailored fabrics. At the same time, retail analyst Janine Stichter notes that whispers of their return have been circulating for the past six months. Celebrities have also started gravitating towards these reimagined jeans, which now offer a more relaxed fit compared to the ultra-conforming styles of the past. By summer, consumers can expect to see skinny jeans appearing more widely in stores, with a potential surge closer to fall as shoppers seek new wardrobe additions.
Fashion runways and influencer videos have been instrumental in reintroducing skinny jeans. A diverse range of styles, including pants and jeans, has emerged, signaling a renewed interest. Google search trends further suggest that skinny jeans could soon reclaim their status as a closet staple.
"On the runways, Prada, Isabel Morant, Tod's, they all did very slim silhouette pants. They're calling them skinny pants. The difference is that they're doing them in plaid, not just solids. They're doing them in these very tailored fabrics," – Shawn Grain Carter
Retail analyst Janine Stichter believes this shift could trigger a broader fashion cycle.
"Anytime you have a big silhouette shift, it's positive for restocking cycles. It's also positive for footwear because you need different footwear to go with the bottoms, and then you don't just buy the bottoms, you tend to need different tops to go with the bottom so it can kind of catalyze a whole closet refresh … That's kind of what we're looking out for." – Stichter
The growing trend isn't limited to runways and influencers; celebrities have started wearing these updated skinny jeans, which offer a comfortable yet stylish look.
"We're seeing some of the celebrities wear these skinny jeans, but they're not nearly as conforming … it's different from the jeggings that you saw [between 2009 and 2011]… It conforms to the leg, but it doesn't have to necessarily hug it so tightly that all you see is an outline of a woman's leg." – Shawn Grain Carter
Retailers are anticipating an increase in demand for skinny jeans as consumers prepare for seasonal wardrobe updates. Google Trends data indicates that searches for skinny jeans spiked during the week of January 12 and have been gaining momentum since then. Additionally, searches on Reformation's website reflect a rising curiosity about these iconic garments.
"Certainly, there's a lot of activity on skinny. I would like to say there's a styling thing that's happening, the high boot situation, and high boots and skinny jeans work, so that's definitely taking hold," – Jen Foyle
High boots paired with skinny jeans have emerged as a popular styling combination, further boosting their appeal. Experts advise fashion enthusiasts to hold onto their skinny jeans as the trend continues to gain traction.
"While we don't have a crystal ball, don't get rid of your skinny jeans," – Gass