How to Style Straight-Leg Jeans: Your Dependable Denim Guide

Wearing jeans that fit like a glove is one of life’s little pleasures. There’s something special about a reliable pair that you reach for again and again. Do you have one or two in your closet that comes to mind? On that note, denim silhouettes go in and out of style just like fashion trends. We’re sure you’ve heard whispers from the TikTok community about how skinny jeans are not cool anymore. While that may be true, we believe that feeling great in our clothes takes precedence over any current trend. No matter what style of jeans you prefer, if you love them, you should wear them. However, if you’re eager to jump on the non-skinny denim bandwagon, we’re here for it, too. They’re ultra-chic and a fun way to try something new. Curious about how to style straight-leg jeans? You’ve come to the right place.

Straight-leg jeans are a classic silhouette and an excellent choice for everyday wear. With that said, they can be a little tricky to style. An outfit tends to look awkward if your jeans are a little too short (or too long). Plus, their wider hems aren’t easy to tuck into boots like the aforementioned skinny jeans are. Try to think of your straight-leg denim as just one piece of the outfit puzzle. By choosing the right tops and shoes, you’ll create a complementary ensemble from head to toe. Keep reading for the lowdown on how to wear this women’s wardrobe staple with confidence. 

Tops to Wear with Straight-Leg Jeans

When looking for guidance on how to style straight-leg jeans, take things from the top. Denim acts as a blank canvas, so you can pivot your outfit in any direction depending upon your shirt choice. Have you ever wondered what your personal style is? Are you into boho silhouettes, edgy details, preppy polishes or romantic styles? Once you’ve answered this question, you’ll be able to narrow down the best tops to wear with straight-leg jeans. After all, this is a stellar opportunity to express yourself through your clothes. If you’re staying true to who you are, you really can’t go wrong.

From graphic tees and frilly sleeves to polos and popover tops, you’ve got options. Above all, nailing the fit is what truly matters the most. Straight-leg jeans have a straight cut from the waist to the hem, without tapering at the ankle. They are available in baggy, boyfriend and slim styles, and are always roomier than skinny jeans. With this in mind, you’ll want to choose complementary fits on top to create a balance of proportions. 

How to Style High-Waisted Straight-Leg Jeans

Not only are high-waisted jeans comfy, they’re also superb at defining the waist and creating shape. Ladies, when deciding how to style high-waisted straight-leg jeans, opt for tops that draw attention to the sky-high rise. You can do this in more than one way. If you’re a fan of fitted silhouettes, go for a bodysuit to create a seamless look. Or, play with proportions and wear a crop top that hits right at the top of your jeans. This can be a flowy tee, ribbed knit tank or smocked blouse—just to name a few. Lastly, if you prefer oversized shirts, simply twist and tuck the front into your jeans for an effortless feel. Congratulations, you’re already one step closer to achieving stylish straight-leg jean outfits.  

How to Wear Straight-Leg Jeans with Boots

Are you unsure of how to wear straight-leg jeans with boots? If so, you’re not alone. As we mentioned earlier, there are a few potential hurdles to avoid when partnering these two closet staples. On the flip side, they’re actually a wonderful option in cold and wet weather (sorry, bell bottoms). Oftentimes, straight-leg jeans come in cropped lengths which prevents them from getting soaked in rain puddles. Speaking of chilly weather, boots are a prime shoe choice for fall and winter. When figuring out how to style straight-leg jeans as temperatures drop, boots are likely the winning shoe choice. Are you intrigued? Keep reading to discover a few of our favorite ways to style these denim and boot duos. 

How to Wear Ankle Boots with Straight-Leg Jeans

Our next fashion lesson tackles how to wear ankle boots with straight-leg jeans. Since women’s standard straight-leg jeans typically hit around ankle length, they can be difficult to style with ankle booties. Awkward overlapping can occur, as well as unwanted bunching of your denim, so let’s avoid that as much as possible. In order to do so, choose a pair of boots that have a narrow shaft that is fitted to your leg. This will help the cuffs of your denim glide over your shoes while you walk, sit or cross your legs. Going for a shorter pair of jeans? Make sure there’s always a small gap between the bottom of your jeans and the tops of your boots. Feel free to wear a tall sock to keep your exposed skin warm on cold days.  

Style Tip: Do you want to go the extra mile when determining how to wear straight-leg jeans? To create a nice color contrast, pair dark-wash jeans with lighter boots, and vice versa. Doing so will break up the outfit in a flattering way allowing both your jeans and shoes to shine. 

Combat Boots offer a 90s Grunge Vibe

Calling all of our grunge-loving gals, this one is for you. Looking for direction on how to style straight-leg jeans with a nonchalant twist? Add a gritty flair to your getups by borrowing from a popular 90s fashion trend: combat boots. Pull off this look by wearing a longer pair of straight-leg jeans that cover the tops of the laces. The bottom of your jeans should just skim (not completely cover) the tops of your feet. A lug sole or platform bottom will help modernize your outfit and add height in a comfortable way. Acid- or light-wash jeans offer a full throwback effect. In addition, opt for distressing as a nod to true grunge style. Toss in a faded band tee, flannel shirt or leather jacket, and you’ll blend right in with the nonconforming crowd.

Wear Cowboy Boots for an Americana Aesthetic

From fringe trims and Stetson hats to double denim outfits, western-inspired styles are back on the fashion scene. If you’re loving the rise in the Americana aesthetic, you might be wondering how to style straight-leg jeans with cowboy boots. Traditionally, bootcut jeans are the prime pick when wearing these ranch-ready boots since they can accommodate a wider boot style. However, we have a few tricks up our sleeves. Instead of a classic tall cowboy boot, opt for a shorter shaft. Maintain that Wild West flair with a leather finish, decorative embroidery or snakeskin print. Choose a pair of straight-leg jeans with side slits to show off your boots on your next horseback riding adventure. Top off your look with a chambray shirt and a flat-brimmed hat for a prize-winning outfit in the fashion arena. 

How to Wear Straight-Leg Jeans with Sneakers

For all of our casual ladies, you might be curious about how to wear straight-leg jeans with sneakers. Jeans and tennis shoes are an effortless combo, but can easily lean more toward the “dad aesthetic.” You know what we’re talking about: The combo of shapeless denim and chunky trainers. Dad jokes aside, we understand that look may be appealing to some, and we’re here for it. However, if that doesn’t resonate with you, we’ve got you covered. For a more feminine feel, reach for a pair of low-profile, pull-on sneakers. An all-over white laceless shoe offers a clean feel and is über versatile. Plus, they look awesome with straight-leg capris for spring and summer. 

Are you wanting a bolder option when deciding how to style straight-leg jeans? Bright-colored kicks or a pair with a color block pattern will add that pop you’re looking for. Think neon green, electric orange and hot pink. These statement-making sneakers are sure to bring a smile to your face. For another youthful choice, turn to a classic high-top sneaker as a nod to the popular collegiate fashion trend. Although we love all of the above options, high-tops are our favorite. Why, you ask? They effortlessly bridge the gap with cropped denim but also layer under long straight-leg jeans with ease. A win-win all around.

The 411 on High Heels and Straight-Leg Jeans

We’re happy to announce that high heels are a foolproof choice when choosing how to style straight-leg jeans. They’re not only date-night-approved, but they’re also perfect for elevating a casual jeans and tee combo. Whether you’re a fan of modest block heels or sky-high stilettos, you’re in luck. Our biggest piece of advice when styling non-skinny jeans and heels are to avoid any bulky embellishments at the ankle. A simple strap or sling-back will maintain a seamless finish. In addition to being easy to style, heels help elongate the leg—especially the pointed-toe variety. So step into your favorite heels, and step out of the house with confidence. 

Are you ready to dive into the straight-leg denim deep end? Our expert stylists are here to lend a hand. Take your style quiz, order a Fix and request an assortment of straight-leg jeans. Five styles will arrive on your doorstep for you to try on in the comfort of your own home. Try before you buy, keep what you love and send back the rest. While you wait for your Fix to arrive, head over to Stitch Fix Freestyle™ to find items selected for your style and size. Shipping, returns and exchanges are on us.