Denim trends have a funny way of lingering long after their peak moment of style. The past few falls, barrel-leg jeans, ultra-baggy silhouettes, and heavily embroidered pieces were everywhere but already, heading into fall 2026, I’m noticing a shift towards denim that feels a bit more polished and directional. Instead of another season of statements and exaggerated proportions, fashion people are embracing everything timeless. From puddled flares and straight-leg fits to unexpected waistlines and statement cuffs.

If you’re denim drawer is still filled with last year’s biggest styles, don’t panic. I’m not writing off the pairs I am mentioned I’m “skipping” forever, in fact, if you love them I encourage you to wear them as much as you’d like. You don’t need to replace everything at once but as an opinionated fashion editor, of course, I’m going to give you my hot takes. Below, find the six swaps I’m making for fall that feel noticeably fresher while still being incredibly wearable.

Skipping: Overly Distressed Styles

Buying: No Waistband

I’ve officially reached my limit on jeans that look like they’ve already lived an entire life before I’ve even put them on. The overly distressed pairs that dominated recent seasons are starting to feel less fresh for me. But one of the easiest ways to make a pair of jeans feel worn in and cool this fall, waistband-free styles give classic denim a slightly undone finish. If Zoe Kravitz wearing them on a date with Harry Styles isn’t enough to convince you, I don’t know what will.

Skipping: Barrel Leg Jeans

Buying: Loose Straight Jeans

Now this is a hot debate because some people really do adore barrel-leg jeans. And if that’s you, don’t let me stop you! They had a good run but their curved shape is starting to feel more trendy than chic to me so I’m on the hunt for something that feels like more of a forever buy. Loose straight jeans would do the trick. They feel current and deserve a permanent spot in your wardrobe.

Skipping: Traditional Baggy Jeans

Buying: Puddle Flares

Let’s be honest, I’ll never get over the traditional baggy jeans. But if you’re like me, your closet is already filled with them. The next evolution of relaxed denim is getting longer yet more understated. Puddle flares skim the hips and thighs before widening toward the hem and pooling over your shoes, it’s a ’70s inspired effect that feels way more polished. As I expand my collection, this is guaranteed to be my next move.

Skipping: Patches

Buying: Kick Flare

Patchwork denim truly has had a moment but I’m craving something quieter this season that still feels young. Luckily, the kick flare is back and this time, it feels surprisingly modern. It’s one of the easiest ways to give your favorite fall shoes a moment.

Skipping: Exposed Buttons

Buying: Wide Cuff Jeans

Exposed button flies have been a go-to denim detail for years, but they’re starting to feel more decorative than directional. For fall, I’m gravitating toward jeans where the interesting detail comes from the cut. A cuff jean is getting bigger and better this season. It gives every pair of jeans a more considered feel.

Skipping: Spray-On Skinnies

Buying: Cigarette Jeans

If you’re a regular reader, you’ve heard us go on and on about cigarette jeans for quite some time at this point. I’m not ready to shut up about them. Spray-on skinnies just aren’t my most flattering style but a cigarette jean has a similar effect but way more elevated. If you haven’t bought into this style yet, now is the tim