The Skinny Jeans Comeback - Are They Really Returning for 2026?
Fashion trends move in cycles, and few items demonstrate that better than the humble denim jean. Skinny jeans were once an everyday staple for Millennials and Gen Xers, but in recent years were loudly rejected by Gen Z, and saw us gradually transition away from skinnies to the baggier fits popular in the 80's and early 90's.
Trends come and go, but it looks like skinnies could be set to make a comeback and 2026 could be the year we start the transition away from wide legs and relaxed fits and back to skin-tight and stretchy.
Why Skinny Jeans Fell Out of Favour
After dominating wardrobes for more than a decade, skinny jeans eventually became the thing everyone wanted a break from. Wider silhouettes, think straight leg, mom jeans, barrel cuts and cargos, felt fresh, relaxed and more comfortable after years spent in skin-tight denim that was less than forgiving.
Add social media influencer trends and the post-lockdown drive towards comfort and loser styles, and skinnies suddenly looked dated to younger generations and weren't something we wanted to return to after discovering the lockdown joys of loungewear and leggings.
Why They’re Creeping Back In
Despite the anti-skinnies noise, they never fully disappeared. They stayed alive in everyday wardrobes because they’re practical, easy to style, and flattering on a wide range of body types.
For 2026, designers are reintroducing streamlined shapes as a counterbalance to years of oversized fits. Runway shows for AW24/25 have quietly featured tapered denim, slim cuts and leggings-style silhouettes, signalling a subtle but definite shift back towards fitted styles.
Whilst the term 'skinny' jean might not return, you're likely to see a increased number of fashion retailers offering slimmer and more tailored styles with names like "super slim" or "cigarette-leg", a modern take on the skinny jean that's less extreme than those of the past.
Who’s Embracing the Return?
Unsurprisingly, Millennials and Gen Xers are the first to welcome skinnies back with open arms - they’ve always loved them. But interestingly, some Gen Z influencers are also starting to mix slim denim into their otherwise relaxed wardrobes, usually styling them with chunky knits, oversized hoodies or statement boots.
It’s not a dramatic “they’re back!” moment more of a gentle, creeping comeback, so our advice is, if you're still on the fence and aren't sure about how you feel about skinnies, stick with what you love and feel most comfortable in!
How to Style Skinny Jeans in 2026
If skinnies do reclaim their space in your wardrobe, they won’t look quite the same as they did in the 2010s. Here’s what the updated styling will likely look like.
Balanced proportions
Skinny jeans paired with oversized layers, from slouchy cardigans to boxy tees and half-zip fleeces.
Elevated basics
Think monochrome outfits, clean lines and high-quality essentials to give skinnies a more polished, grown-up feel.
Boot-forward styling
Knee boots, chunky boots and biker styles tuck perfectly over skinnies—one of the reasons they’ve never stopped being practical.
Smarter denim
Darker washes, black denim and structured stretch fabrics will take the lead.
Always Best With Holé Button Covers!
If skinny jeans really are on the way back, one thing won’t change, denim jean buttons can still catch and damage delicate tops. So whether you're wearing slim black jeans with a fitted knit or pairing skinnies with a favourite tee, don't forget to use Holé jean button covers.