When we think about spring wardrobe staples, white jeans are one of the first items that come to mind. Their crisp, clean design aligns with the optimistic start of the warmer season. While they remain a favorite among fashion people, a group of chic dressers is leaning toward a different denim color trend that feels a bit more relaxed and cool-girl in 2026: ecru jeans.

Not white and not khaki, ecru jeans, sometimes called vintage white, are the perfect in-between denim wash that offers a more refined and versatile look. Compared to stark white denim, these feature a softer, lived-in tone that effortlessly pairs with other neutrals and bold colors such as royal purple, cherry red, and cobalt blue. They also hide mishaps, giving you a polished yet relaxed appearance without worrying about keeping white jeans spotless. Their popularity reaches beyond denim brands like Levi’s, Madewell, and Mother to the fashion set, including celebrities like Julianne Moore, who recently wore a pair with white sneakers.

Spotted in NYC this week, Moore showcased a casual yet polished winter-to-spring transitional outfit. Specifically, it consisted of an oversize black leather jacket, a fitted black tee, raw-hemmed baggy ecru jeans, and slim white sneakers. For accessories, she chose her signature black baseball cap, oval sunglasses, and a black leather shoulder bag.