You Heard Right: This '70s Denim Style Is Officially Back
We've hardly tried to hide that we're obsessed with '70s-inspired style. There's a reason this decade outdid all the others in terms of its sartorial staying power, and it has a lot to do with bohemian-inflected styles like luxurious suede and neutral earth tones. What does this mean in terms of denim? That, yes, retro flare jeans are making a decided comeback, making the '70s more relevant than ever. And we're taking cues from the likes of Cher and Farrah Fawcett when it comes to styling them.
For a while there, we were certain the wide-legged denim would never again see the light of day. But lately we've been seeing a handful of celebrities in bell-bottom jeans that have us reconsidering the denim. So whether you're emotionally attached to your skinny jeans or have thought that the flare style never left, prepare to get on board with the retro revival. The key to making the '70s style feel current? A high-waisted fit and a great heel. Wearing heels with full-length flare jeans is particularly essential, as the added height will balance out the jeans' volume. If you're still feeling flats, opt for a pair of cropped flare jeans instead. Think you're ready to try out the trend, or maybe you need a little more motivation to be convinced? Let the following outfits get you inspired, and then shop our favorite flare jeans to get you started.
Keep reading to shop the best bell-bottom and flared jeans right now.
Do you agree with us that bell-bottom jeans are coming back in style?
Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.
-
Coniglio Palm Beach Just Launched At Shopbop— Consider These Vacation-Ready Pieces For Your Next GetawayYour wardrobe for your next tropical stay is here.
-
Yes, Cyber Month Is Over, But Nordstrom Just Dropped Some Sneaky New Markdowns—These 16 Are BestShop these surprise deep discounts ahead of the holidays.
-
Winter's Just Around the Corner—13 Standout Zara Finds I Predict Will Sell Out Before the End of the MonthAffordable funnel-neck jackets, argyle knits, and rich-looking flats inside.
-
My Stylish 56-Year-Old Mom Is a Picky Shopper—31 Chic Under-$100 Nordstrom Finds She Approves OfFunnel-neck coats, Fair Isle knits, and Levi's jeans inside.
-
I'm a Gen Zer Who Loves Parisian Fashion—33 Affordable Finds That Give French Cool GirlExpensive-looking cardigans and elegant winter coats ahead.
-
I Just Introduced My 56-Year-Old Mom to Revolve—37 Cyber Monday Deals She and I Agree OnExpensive-looking winter finds ahead.
-
I Just Saved $767 on an Elevated Winter Wardrobe (Thank You, Amazon)Can't get over these Cyber Monday deals.
-
If Chic Jeans-and-Boots Outfits Are the Goal, Don't Miss These Standout Picks From Zara, Madewell, and NordstromBring on a stylish fall-and-winter closet.
-
Every Celeb From J.Lo to Kate Middleton Knows to Put on This Classic Outfit When They're Unsure of What to WearDon't worry. This look will save you every time.
-
It's Almost Ridiculous to Believe These 27 Anthropologie Black Friday 2025 Finds Won't Sell OutScore 30% off French-girl trench coats, cashmere sweaters, and more.