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If the return of skinny jeans has you quaking in your boots, allow me to reassure you: stovepipe jeans are the fashion compromise you've been waiting for.
Granted, denim silhouettes have been gradually getting slimmer and slimmer since wide-leg jeans reached their ultimate peak post-pandemic (though that's not to say they don't still have their place, mind you) – but that doesn't mean wrestling yourself into those skin-hugging styles you thought you left firmly in 2010, should that not fit the fantasy for 2026.
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As far as I'm concerned, stovepipe jeans are the perfect alternative. Offering a slimmer shape that still gives that chic, refined look, they allow a little more room than the skinny jean – a.k.a. enough to give your ankles some much-appreciated breathing room.
What are stovepipe jeans?
Stovepipe jeans sit somewhere in the middle of a straight-leg jean and a skinny jean – generally, they sit slightly closer to the leg than a straight-leg jean would, without clinging. Like a straight silhouette, they leave space at the ankle rather than tapering in to fit the leg, meaning they give a flattering, refined fit while still offering a bit of room. Most styles are mid to high-rise, to give that longer leg look.
Recently, these slimmer-fit style jeans have returned to favour – both on the runways at the likes of Khaite and Jil Sander, and via Alexa Chung and basically every off-duty model going.
Stovepipe jeans work really well as a balancing act to more statement pieces on top (such as Alexa's caped look above), but are just as easily paired with simple shirts, tees and blazers for a relaxed look. Basically, they're a great all-rounder. They team up perfectly with this season's slim-line boots and loafers, too.
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How to wear stovepipe jeans
Because of their straight silhouette, stovepipe jeans can be worn with more voluminous pieces for easy contrast, or fitted shapes to give a sleek look. After some styling inspiration? Here's five easy ways to wear stovepipe jeans, according to the fashion set…
Off-duty jacket + loafers
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Is there a better way to dress down than with denim? I'm manifesting my dream model-off-duty look with a pair of stovepipe jeans, luxe suede loafers and a contrast-collar Sacai jacket.
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Statement coat + wedge heels
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Take it from Netherlands-based content creator and stovepipe jean enthusiast Anouk Yve – a talking-point coat can make any outfit. Layer up with a fine knit and add a fashion wedge, and you're good to go.
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Denim gets a spring update.
Neutral trench coat + slingback heels
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Stovepipe jeans and classic trench coats were practically made for each other. Go for a trench with a little volume to contrast the slimmer jean, and elevate the look with sling-back heel – though you can of course swap them out for loafers or trainers should you wish. Consider this your go-to outfit formula for 2026.
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Classic blazer + Western boots
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Boxy blazers also look great with stovepipe jeans, because their straight edges mimic the shape of the jeans, while also adding a little more volume on top. The addition of a lived-in Western ankle boot is slightly unexpected here, which stops the outfit from looking too ‘done’.
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Leather jacket + ballet flats
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I hate to sound like a broken record, but once again, the slightly oversized silhouette of this jacket is the perfect accompaniment to these dark wash slimline jeans. Ballet flats also look great with stovepipe jeans because they continue the simplistic line of the denim, and allow the shape of the jacket to do most of the talking.
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Pair this shoe of the season with these jeans, skirts and dresses for an updated springtime look.
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