Finding the perfect pair of jeans is like the holy grail of the fashion world, and once you find a fit that works, it can be hard to stray. That’s how I feel about my beloved barrel leg jeans, but then I saw one of Naomi Watts’ latest looks, and everything has changed – I suddenly have the urge to try flares.
The 1970s-inspired jean shape features a fitted top and a kicked-out, wider flare from below the knee, which manages to stay relevant when it comes to the latest denim trends. It’s not a style of jean that I had considered before as I tend to stick to slimmer-fit silhouettes, but Naomi showed off a seriously chic pair by Alice + Olivia last week, and now it’s all I can think about. The star looked incredible in her lighter blue, wide leg pair, and styled them up with a fitted red suede shacket, heels and a soft mink-toned bag.
Naomi wore them so well, that I’m keen to give the leg-lengthening style a go for the coming months and if you love the denim look as much as I do, you can find the very same pair as well as some similar high street styles below.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Shop the Look
Alice +Olivia
Brian Low-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans
It looks like Naomi was wearing these blue jeans that feature a lower-rise waist and a subtle pressed crease front. There are only a couple of sizes left in stock, though, so be quick.
Free People
Carmen Suede Jacket
Naomi’s exact Alice + Olivia shacket isn’t available right now, but this similar button down will recreate her look nicely. The soft suede and studded details will tick off this season’s western trend too.
Mint Velvet
Matilda Tan Suede Shoulder Bag
The minimal design and sleek shape of this stylish, suede shoulder bag has a very designer feel and will work with pretty much any outfit.
Shop More Flared Jeans
Boden
Patch Pocket Flare Jeans
This pair look just like Naomi’s denim but features patch pockets at the front for a little more style points. They are available in regular and long leg lengths to help you find your fit too.
M&S
High Waisted Patch Pocket Flared Jeans
A very high cut waist and a swishy flare shape will balance out curvier frames for a streamlined, flattering silhouette, and this pair is available in three wearable washes.
River Island
High Waisted Front Pocket Palazzo Jeans
These bright blue jeans come in short, regular and long lengths and the denim contains a hint of elastane to provide plenty of stretch and comfort.
If you are unsure which jeans are best for your body type, a classic flare is a great choice for most shapes. If you’re worried about the wide hem, don’t be. The fitted top half of your jeans and wider bottom work well to balance out curvier hips and thighs, and will accentuate pear-shaped and hourglass frames beautifully.
Just make sure the length is right for you – anything too long will swamp you and could make you appear shorter, so stick to styles that sit just below the ankles and try wearing with your favourite court shoes or heeled boots.
To balance out the width of the wider hem, keep your top half more fitted or tailored, so your figure isn’t lost. If you want to wear something a little looser, try tucking it in at the waist, either fully or using a half-tuck to highlight your shape.
