You read that right. I haven’t worn a pair of jeans in over 12 months. Previously considered a wardrobe must-have by fashion editors, stylists and trend experts, I – almost entirely by accident – happened to ditch the denim that I previously lived in last year.
Scroll back through my Instagram, and you’ll find it was October 2022 was the last time I pulled on my Levi Rib Cage Straight Legs for a day in Manchester. 15 months ago.
It wasn’t a rebellion against denim per se. You want the truth? On morning in 2023, I pulled my legs through the familiar holes and began to button them up. 1, 2, a struggle for 3 and no chance of 4 and 5. My jeans didn’t bloody fit me any more. I’d gained weight and my once comforting, perfect fit pair felt tight, restrictive and unflattering.
But rather than succumbing to frustration and despair, I saw an opportunity. A chance to expand my fashion horizons, rediscover forgotten pieces in my wardrobe and branch out from the familiarity and monotony of denim and make more conscious, more adventurous styling choices.
And honestly, I’d recommend a denim detox to anyone. And while I am finally no longer afraid to put on my jeans – the main reason I’d left it so long – I no longer gravitate automatically towards them and instead remember I have so many other interesting options I can work with in my wardrobe. So if you fancy ditching the jeans, too – even if only for a little while – here are some of my favourite alternatives.
River Island Red Pleated Wide Leg Trousers – £40
Let me tell you why these trousers are already one of my best purchases of 2024. Not only are they an incredible shade of red, a beautiful wide leg and smart enough for work or play – but they have a secret elasticated waist at the back which makes them so comfortable and ideal if your weight fluctuates. The quality is gorgeous and I even have the coordinating blazer for a serious power outfit. These River Island trousers really do make you feel unstoppable. Why would you want to wear jeans when you can wear these?
Needs No Label Champagne Maxi Skirt – £34.99
The maxi skirt is a trend that has absolutely dominated the fashion scene over the last 12 months – and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. They’re such an elegant and feminine alternative to jeans, making them perfect for both casual and dressier occasions and can be paired with so many different tops to switch up the look depending on your personal style. This champagne version from Needs No Label is great for channelling the quiet luxury aesthetic, and can be dressed up with blouses and waistcoats, or down with a chunky knit and trainers. It’s my go-to for a ‘safe’ outfit on the days where it feels like nothing else in my wardrobe fits.
New Look Brown Tortoiseshell Print Satin Bias Cut Midi Skirt – £20.99
Ask anyone (but more specifically, my nail technician) and they’ll tell you of my love for a tortie design, be it my nails, sunglasses or the heels of my favourite pair of boots. As such, this New Look midi skirt has had countless outings since I bought it in August. Originally £27.99, it’s currently on sale for £20.99, but you’ll have to be quick if you want to bag one for yourself. Complete with a high elasticated waistband and bias cut it’s comfortable, versatile and incredibly flattering. I’ve tried dozens of satin midi skirts from the high street, and New Look has consistently impressed for their quality and fit. Style it with ribbed vests and chunky boots for an effortlessly chic vibe, or or take it up a level with a brown vintage-style oversized leather jacket with a chocolate-coloured sweater.
Stradivarius Loose Fitting Linen Trousers – £22.99
Ideal for summer, these linen trousers from Stradivarius provide a breezy and comfortable alternative to denim, perfect for warmer days. I have these in cream and sage green, but would love to pick them up in some darker colours, too. Offering a combination of style and functionality, they breathable fabric is great for keeping cool and allows for free movement while shading legs from the sun. Again, the elasticated waist makes them really comfortable for all-day wear.
New Look Blue Denim Split Hem Maxi Skirt – £32.99
Okay, I didn’t ditch denim all together. Over the summer, the denim maxi trend fast-became a go-to in my wardrobe as an alternative to trousers, effortlessly combining comfort and style while adding something a little more interesting to everyday looks. My beloved Blue Denim Split Hem Maxi Skirt is from high street favourite New Look, costs £32.99 as part of the retailer’s affordable Obsessed for Less collection. I did have to size up in these (I bought a 12) as the fit is generally quite small, but once you get the sizing nailed, it’s so flattering and a dream to wear. Find out some of my favourite ways to style it here.
Little Mistress Wide Leg Cord Trousers from Little Mistress
For something a little smarter, these stone coloured cord wide leg trousers are perfect for meals out or drinks with the girls, and seamlessly transition from day-to-night. They’ve got a high waist that makes me feel really secure and means you can pair them with slightly more cropped tops like this denim waistcoat for a touch of glamour without feeling like you’re baring all. Sadly, they’re sold out after going in the sale for £18, but I’ve found a similar style here.
New Look Black Leather-Look Straight Leg Trousers – £32.99
If you shy away from leather trousers for fear of ending up like Ross in Friends, then this pair is your bestie. Effortlessly chic, these leather-look trousers are perfect come day or night. The straight leg is super comfortable, and the lining doesn’t allow the trousers to stick to you or make you too warm, and you don’t squeak when you walk. Team them with chunky loafers and a chiffon blouse for the office, or sky-high stilettos and a satin cami for all your Saturday night plans.
Dresses
One of the easiest ways to ditch jeans is to trade them in for dresses, because then you don’t even have to think about what top to wear. Some of my favourites have included the black Adele Dress from FatFace, which I’ve styled four ways here, as well as the pink version, which I styled for this Mum vs Millennial.
I also love this leopard number from H&M which has the most voluminous sleeves, while this sheer red River Island dress has been one of my most frequently worn over the winter as it’s perfect for layering over and now only £15 in the sale.
Flares
Flared trousers are another great way to wear trousers without opting for jeans. For a casual, running errands style, these black ribbed flares from PrettyLittleThing are fantastic. For more formal occasions or nights out, Topshop velvet flares and a H&M glittery variation – both purchased secondhand – offer a gorgeous and flattering shape. But if I wanted to make a bold statement, I’d go for these vibrant orange leather-look flares from Ghospell, which inject a burst of colour and even a bit of a western feel.
