Denim & Jeans Trends For 2026: Barrel To Bootcut

Fashion is starting to undergo a major shift. In 2026, as with beauty moving away from the pared-down “clean girl” makeup trend, fashion is moving away from the mainstream minimalism of recent years. In its place is a moodier and maximal sensibility. What does this mean for jeans? Denim trends are going to inspire you to have way more fun as you get dressed in the months ahead.

One theme in particular is ruling over all popular 2026 denim: exaggeration. Prepare to take up space in baggy, inflated silhouettes with playful proportions. “Comfort is a huge factor, but there’s also something about the relaxed look that just feels more modern right now,” Pistola Denim founder Grace Na tells Refinery29.

Skinny jeans aren’t completely out of the picture — don’t let us stop you if they’re your favorites — but tight, figure-hugging styles certainly won’t be dominating the conversation this year. Ultimately: “Jeans should flex with how you feel, where you’re going, and who you want to be that day or even that moment of your day,” L’Agence fashion director Tara Rudes Dann says. 

Ahead, meet the top 2026 denim trends to welcome into your wardrobe, as well as some useful shopping picks. But this isn’t an experiment you have to test alone: We spoke to the forces behind some of our favorite brands to break down the looks, why they’re popular, and how to style them.