Few items of clothing are considered as Marmite as skinny jeans. For some, they're viewed as representing a particular era in history — that of indie sleaze, where the tighter the trousers, the cooler you were — with many believing they should be left in the early noughties. For others, they're as essential to a wardrobe as a lightweight trench coat, mom jean or classic white tee.

Regardless of which side of the debate you fall on, everyone seems to have an opinion on skinny jeans, and for that reason alone, I'd say that makes them an iconic piece of fashion history and pop culture. The big question is, though, whether they can still be considered stylish in 2026.

Some seem to think so. While considered firmly out of vogue over the past few years, the slim silhouette is making a controversial comeback and featured heavily in last year's runways, with the likes of Isabel Marant, Sportmax, and Celine all showcasing skinny jean designs. And anyone with a TikTok account will know that early 2000s fever has taken over our algorithms, with fashion icons like Alexa Chung and Kate Moss (the latter of whom wears skinny jeans even to this day) heralded for their indie styling.

If one thing's true about style trends, it's that they're cyclical, and with barrel, wide-leg and slouchy styles reigning supreme lately, thanks to streetwear trends influenced by the likes of Hailey Bieber and Tyla, it's only natural that fashion's gaze would again turn to focus on the opposite of large and in charge styles.

That's not to say that the modern iterations of skinny jeans are as constricting as their former selves (who amongst us hasn't writhed around on the floor trying to stuff themselves into a pair of Topshop Joni jeans?). No, the skinny jeans of 2026 also incorporate cigarette and slim silhouettes, which flatter leg length while retaining some degree of comfort and practicality. These aren't your early 2000s drainpipe jeggings. They're often straight-leg jeans that hug tighter to the leg, but with a bit more breathing space through the hips and bum — much more size-inclusive and considerate than their noughties counterparts (and thank god for that).

Looking for inspiration for your next pair of skinny jeans? Dive into our shopping guide below to suit all budgets.

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Skinny jeans – or jeans in general, in fact – are such a wardrobe staple that they're often not the most exciting part of an outfit. Rather, think of them as the reliable structure with which to have a little fun. The easiest way inject a little personality into a look is via colour, and a punch of something bright is a sure-fire way to combat the mood as we move towards short days and long, dark evenings. It doesn't need to be red, but would it be a 2026 style guide without a little pop of the hottest shade?

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We might love a pop of colour, but is there truly anything chicer than an all-black ensemble? A faultless styling trick whatever the occasion, all-black looks work just as well in the office as they do on a night out or for a Sunday morning coffee run with friends. To offset the proportion of the skinny jean it's a great idea to go for an oversized leather jacket, and opting for a more contemporary, chunky heeled pump is the perfect way to ensure your skinny jeans feel less 2006 and more 2026.

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While skinny jeans may still, to some, feel a little dated (trust us, and trust the process, they're coming back!) it seems that double denim is a trend that truly stands the test of time. Never ‘out’ of fashion, it's one of those looks that some of the world's best dressed revisit time after time and it rarely feels anything but effortlessly cool. Opting for two slightly different tones of denim is a great way to ensure it keeps that relaxed edge and doesn't look too try hard.

Raimonda Kulikauskiene

We figured that if we're revisiting skinny jeans we may as well revisit the go-to ‘out out’ ensemble of ‘jeans and a nice top’. Black jeans are a great way to elevate proceedings, and a split hem adds a real contemporary twist. Pairing them with a lace or strapless top (or one that hits both, of course) will give you that perfect night-with-the girls look that's impossibly cool without looking as though you've overthought things.

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A real benefit of skinny jeans is, well, their skinny-ness. The lack of gathered fabric around your ankles make them a knee-high boot's dream, and while they work with a heeled boot there's no doubt that a heavier, flatter iteration feels a lot cooler and more contemporary. If you want to look like an off-duty model pair the look with a bold, cropped jacket and simple t-shirt or sheer knit beneath to really let the boots pull focus.

READ MORE: How to style knee-high boots in a plethora of other ways.

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If you're not one for a chunky, flat boot, there's an alternative. Dressing up your jeans with a pointed, heeled pump is unmatched with it comes to flattering silhouettes. We love a patent black style because it works so well both day and night, but a pop of colour here never hurts either. Pair it with a fun top and an unexpected bag choice to ensure the look feels contemporary and doesn't slip into late 00s territory.

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If jeans are a your wardrobe's bread and butter, then think of a statement coat as your jam. Bringing flavour and excitement to proceedings, there are very few pairs of jeans that aren't instantly elevated when paired with a bold, somewhat punchy outerwear option. We love a bold colour being introduced here, but equally appreciate an unexpected print, an unusual shape or a fun texture. Have fun with this look, and remember that nothing clashes with classic denim.