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How to style baggy jeans

Baggy jeans have gone from statement to mainstream. The style needs more balancing than skinny jeans did — when the bottom is voluminous, the rest of the outfit has to compensate.

  1. Step 1

    Balance with a fitted top

    Volume at both ends makes the whole outfit shapeless. A tailored shirt, a knit that sits close to the body or a well-tucked t-shirt creates visual counterweight. An oversized top plus baggy jeans only works if one is drastically shorter.

  2. Step 2

    Handle the waist deliberately

    Baggy jeans often sit low or mid-rise. Tuck the top in and the waist shows — that narrows the whole silhouette. A belt in a contrasting colour draws the eye and defines the point where the proportions shift.

  3. Step 3

    Choose a shoe with the right profile

    The shoe should take up space without being swallowed by the jeans. Sneakers with a thicker sole, loafers, or chunky boots work best. Thin low sneakers or pointed dress shoes look wrong — they disappear under the fabric.

  4. Step 4

    Adjust the length

    Baggy jeans should either stop just above the shoe or fold up once on top. Stacked (too long, pooling at the foot) gives a specific '90s look. Decide in advance — the in-between lengths look untidy.

  5. Step 5

    Add a jacket that follows the volume

    A bomber jacket, a short leather jacket or a cropped trench. Long straight coats also work if the coat has its own volume. Slim tailored coats clash with the jeans' silhouette.

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