These Are the Trendy Fall Denim Styles That Made Me Finally Ditch My Millennial Skinny Jeans

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With fall just around the corner, it’s time to swap those boiling, hot summer nights for crisp, cozy sweater weather. And, of course, fall means it's time to bring denim back into your wardrobe rotation. After years of clinging to my trusty millennial skinny jeans, I never thought I’d say this, but I've finally made the switch. You know the ones I’m talking about—those skinny jeans that paired perfectly with heeled boots and a black crop top? Yeah, those. It turns out, gen z (and the fashion industry) knew what they were doing when they nudged me toward other denim styles year after year, leading me to finally ditch the skinnies and explore the world of wide-leg jeans.

But let’s be real—finding the perfect wide-leg jeans wasn’t easy. Every pair I tried just didn’t feel or look right. Was it my millennial mindset clinging to those snug fits? Probably. But once I discovered the right brand and the curve-hugging jeans that did wonders for my figure, it was a game-changer. That’s why I’m here to help you embrace the “It Girl” look and ease out of those skinny jeans (trust me, I know it’s hard). The perfect jeans are out there, and guess what? They’re no longer skinny. From Madewell’s denim expertise to Abercrombie and American Eagle’s affordable and trendy picks, keep scrolling to shop the best wide-leg styles that have been worn, tested, and approved by a millennial shopping pro.

Editor Picks:

• Overall Best: Madewell Superwide-Leg Jeans in Fannin Wash, $138
• Most Affordable: Levi's 725 High Rise Bootcut Jeans, $30.77
• Best for Curves: Madewell The Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Crop Jean, $128

Ready to ditch your old jeans? From wide-leg to straight-leg jeans, these are the best denim styles even millennials will love.

Shop the Best Fall Denim Styles

Available in eight denim washes, these ripped wide-leg jeans are made from a dreamy, drapey stretch fabric for a comfortable feel, and feature a super high-rise fit. They're also lightweight, and don't have the rough denim feel.

• Why E! Loves It: Affordable price, highly rated by shoppers, and adds an edgy look thanks to the knee rips.
• Shoppers Say: "Absolutely love the fit and style. Bought my normal size but probably could have sized down 1 and still have that baggy feel. I'll be keeping these!"

If the perfect jeans exist, it's definitely this vintage wide-leg cropped one from Madewell. I audibly gasped the moment I tried these on and turned around. Let's just say it does wonders if you're lacking in the bottom department, and hugs you in all the right places. 

• Why E! Loves It: Available in five lengths, and feels phenomenal on.
• Shoppers Say: "I am 5’6”, pear-shaped (bigger thighs, slightly smaller hips, small waist) 157lbs with a booty. These are perfection for me. The length, the fit, so good! I want to gatekeep these so they don’t keep selling out but here I am."

I never thought I'd find jeans so comfy that I'd actually want to wear them at home, but here we are! As much as I want to gatekeep these gems, they're just too good—unbelievably soft, and somehow even better with each wash. They're totally worth the splurge and will last you decades (I promise).

• Why E! Loves It: Made from 100% denim cotton and molds to your body after a few wears.
• Shoppers Say: "Madewell jeans are a great purchase every time. I can count on sizing and not worry about variations from each style. I’ve worn these jeans all summer."

The cuffed look is making a major comeback with these stretch high-waisted stovepipe cuffed jeans, combining high rise with a chic, wider leg. Crafted from mid-weight structured denim with just the right amount of stretch, they stay in shape and never bag out.

• Why E! Loves It: On sale for 30% off right now, and highly rated by shoppers.
• Shoppers Say: "I LOVE these jeans. I was hesitant because am curvy and didn't want these to fit weird but they're amazing. I’m a size 8 and got a 10 short since I knew there would not be too much stretch. They fit so nice and comfy and have enough stretch to where they are good to wear all day without bagging out. There was a little bit of gapping in the back since I'm curvy but nothing too bad."

If you’re looking to add some serious leg length, grab a pair of Levi’s 725 bootcut jeans for just $30. This throwback style, adored by many celebrities, is a chic and flattering choice for fall, especially when paired with heeled booties. It's also a great style if you're not a fan of the wide-length look.

• Why E! Loves It: Has over 3.6K five-star ratings and comes in 24 denim washes.
• Shoppers Say: "I’ve been on the hunt for a pair of light wash jeans that aren’t skinny jeans. I’ve had a hard time finding some that didn’t emphasize my hips (widest part of me) but these fit the bill! They are stretchier and softer than anticipated, flattering and a perfect length."

These superwide-leg jeans, crafted from 100% cotton denim, offer a chic, structured look with minimal stretch. After a few washes, they mold perfectly to your body, hugging your curves and avoiding that dreaded flattening effect. You can thank me later!

• Why E! Loves It: Worth the splurge, and has a trendy cuffed design.
• Shoppers Say: "Coolest jeans!!! These are such a vibe. I purchased my usual size and these fit me fine in the waist but were a tad tight on the butt. Not to the point where I can't wear them but I'd prefer complete comfort. Trying the next size up. Also, the denim feels really nice to touch."

You either love or loathe the barrel design, but it’s this standout feature that sets these jeans apart. With a mid-rise fit and heavyweight rigid denim, they’re all about making a bold statement.

• Why E! Loves It: Comes in three washes and has a unique design.
• Shoppers Say: "Love these pants. I think anyone can pull them off with the right confidence. This was a perfect fit and I can’t wait to style them."

For the typical Gen Z baggy look, these low-slung jeans from Madewell will become your go-to. You can dress them up or down (I've done both) and are made from 100% denim cotton.

• Why E! Loves It: Easy to slip into and can be paired with anything.
• Shoppers Say: "Just wanted to leave a review for the ladies out there.. that no matter their age ...sometimes enjoy dressing comfy on trend. 64 here and love the latest styles! I purchased these jeans in the black wash today ...in store.. along with a beautiful white blouse...and I'm in love so much that I'm going back for the light wash blue color tomorrow."

Featuring a curve-hugging design that eliminates the waist gap and vintage stretch fabric for ultimate comfort, these jeans are made to showcase your figure flawlessly. As a curvy girl, I can’t get enough of how stunning this '70s-inspired style looks on me.

• Why E! Loves It: Currently on sale for 30% off and offers five lengths to choose from.

IMO, statement jeans are a must—and this leopard print will turn heads immediately thanks to the demure leopard design. These are perfect if you're ready to go big and bold after leaving behind your skinny jeans.

• Why E! Loves It: Has a vibrant design and is currently on sale for 15% off.
• Shoppers Say: "I just bought these jeans and they’ve already become my favorite. They’re comfy and you can dress them up or down. I’ve gotten so many compliments. They do stretch after a while, but I don’t think I’d size down since I love the loose feel & look."

Fall is almost here, so make sure to stock up on these Target home essentials.