3 Of The Hottest Denim Trends For Spring 2025 (& 3 That Are Outdated)

We might have given up jeans during the pandemic, but now, it's official: denim is back! There are a multitude of denim trends you'll be seeing everywhere in 2025, including the return of the controversial denim-on-denim look, which has come a long way since the early aughts. But not all jeans are created equal, and for every style we're eager to wear this spring, there are plenty we are ready to leave behind. So what's hot? There's a distinct throwback theme to this year's denim trends — both to the flirty jean trends of the '00s and the loose, retro vibes of the '70s.

"As we move into spring, silhouettes are getting slouchier and more flowy, as comfort remains center stage in fashion," says Jordan Stolch, a personal stylist with Mikado Virtual Styling. That means we're embracing jeans that are effortless, relaxed, and versatile. They're flattering without sacrificing comfort. Each of these denim styles makes a great foundational basic and these styles can be dressed up or down. In other words, you'll be equally comfortable whether you're drinking cocktails at an upscale bar or running out for coffee on a Sunday morning.

Low-rise has gradually been returning to the forefront of denim trends. "Low-rise jeans made a huge comeback in 2024, and this year they're only becoming more popular," Jordan Stolch exclusively tells WOMEN. But these aren't your '00s era low-rise styles. Rather than the super tight cuts of the early Millennium, the low-waisted jeans of today are baggy for an effortless, louche style. These jeans are less restrictive of movement, which makes them easy to wear.

The trick to styling them? Think in terms of contrast, a key styling tip for loose denim. "To balance the proportions of this look, opt for something more fitted up top, like a tucked in band tee or body-hugging crop top," says Stolch. One great option for spring is the PacSun Casey Jean in a medium wash, which will pair nicely with any floral or pastel shirts.

Skinny jeans have been flirting with trendiness for the last couple of seasons — never quite out but never fully back in either. But spring 2025 might be the true death knell for this persistent style. "Skinny jeans never made the comeback that was predicted," says Jordan Stolch, who explains this is a denim cut that is simply too hard to style. "Contrary to what a lot of women think, this is one of the least flattering cuts of denim, and most likely the reason consumers aren't choosing it now that they've seen their bodies in better fits."

That said, you don't need to throw out your skinny jeans. After all, there are some tricks to style your skinny jeans so they don't look outdated. But, in general, fashion is moving away from constricting silhouettes.

Another early '00s denim trend that's set to make a huge comeback? Capris. These sleek, retro-feeling pants are usually cut to end just below the knee. It's a feminine and playful style that's a good warm-weather alternative to full-length denim. This can be another fun chance to experiment with low-rise looks if you're trying to channel Y2K vibes, or opt for a higher waist with Levis Strauss Signature Capris to get a more Audrey Hepburn-inspired look.

"We're seeing a huge insurgence in the capri and culotte denim trend, as retro styles continue to dominate, paying homage to the '60s style aesthetic," says Jordan Stolch. She recommends reaching for a fitted top to complete the look. "Add in a layer to provide depth to the look — an oversized blazer or trench is perfect — then finish it off with a heeled mule or sandal." One great option to

Steer clear of distressed denim that's shredded or ripped. While effortless is in, exposed knees and torn-up jeans are a little too casual. "Consumers are gravitating towards more refined construction and a naturally polished, worn-in jean," says Jordan Stolch. Distressed jeans just aren't suitable for all venues or all outfits, which means they aren't very versatile. You can't exactly pair your tattered pants with a blazer and expect to be able to wear them to work.

Instead, spring denim trends favor styles that look more intentional and sophisticated. The great news is it means you'll get more mileage out of each pair since, by sidestepping uber-casual distressing, you'll be choosing a pair of pants that can go almost anywhere.

After several years of refined and subtle styles, eclectic maximalism is coming for denim. "Style is undergoing a very specific transformation, as we say goodbye to quiet luxury and minimalism, and hello to dramatic detailing and maximalism," says Jordan Stolch, who says to look out for artistic accents including detailed trim, statement weaves, or even rhinestone accents.

Self-expression is the name of the game. These otherwise straightforward jean designs get a playful edge from their unique detailing, which adds visual interest and a sense of refinement. Style these embellished jeans by letting them take center stage in your ensemble. "Pair these jeans with simple tops and footwear, letting the denim be the statement moment," says Stolch.

In line with a trend toward more comfortable denim styles, super high-waisted jeans look to be on the way out. "Ultra high-rise, which sit above the belly button, have become far less popular this season after many years of being in style," says Jordan Stolch. So say goodbye to the days of pinched waists because the low, loose styles of the current trend cycle are going to be a lot less constricting.

So what should you look for in lieu of those ultra high-rise jeans? "They've been replaced by the rise in popularity of the low and mid-rise, which offer more comfort and versatility," says Stolch. These styles are so comfortable, you'll be reaching for your jeans as your default comfort pants all the time.