From Baggy to Balanced: Is the Skinny Jean Resurfacing?

Fashion is cyclical, and while we’ve spent the last few years in a love affair with oversized denim, a shift is quietly brewing. Could it be time for the skinny jean to make its grand return? While Gen Z continues to embrace baggy, low-rise silhouettes, there’s a growing conversation around the evolution of the skinny jean—one that feels fresh, modern, and redefined for today’s wearer.

Valentino Spring/Summer 2025

The Timeless Appeal of Skinny Jeans

Say what you will about them, but skinny jeans have always had an undeniable appeal. Their streamlined fit offers an effortlessly put-together look, balancing both casual and elevated styles. The best versions feature stretch for comfort, moving with the body rather than restricting it. For years, they were the go-to silhouette for their versatility, working seamlessly with heels, boots, and sneakers alike.

The New Skinny: A Softer, More Relaxed Approach

One reason the skinny jean could be poised for a comeback? Comfort. While baggier fits have dominated, they often come in rigid, non-stretch denim—great for structure but not always ideal for all-day wear. In contrast, the new wave of slim denim offers stretch-infused fabrics that provide both ease and movement, making them a more wearable option for long hours.

This isn’t the painted-on, ankle-suffocating skinny jean of the past. The new evolution takes a more subtle approach, with slightly more ease in the fit and softer ankle openings that skim rather than squeeze. Think tailored rather than tight—jeans that still provide shape but with a more relaxed, modern sensibility. Brands are playing with proportions, offering slim-straight and tapered silhouettes that feel like an easy transition from the baggier cuts dominating the market.

Are We Actually Ready for a Comeback?

The younger generation has made it clear: low-rise, baggy fits are here to stay—for now. But fashion thrives on contrast, and with the pendulum always swinging, a return to fitted denim feels inevitable. Recent observations suggest that while baggy denim continues to dominate, slimmer-fit styles are re-emerging. For instance, Alessandro Michele's debut at Valentino introduced straight jeans cut close to the leg, signaling a shift towards more fitted silhouettes.

The Future of Denim: A Balancing Act

While the ultra-skinny jean may not be reclaiming dominance overnight, the slim-fit evolution signals that change is on the horizon. As fashion continues to embrace a mix of proportions, expect to see a gradual shift—where both baggy and tapered fits can coexist. After ll, personal style is about choice, and whether we’re ready or not, the skinny jean is quietly making its way back into the conversation.

Article written by Jennifer DeClark, Founding Member of Moda Guild.