While it’s no surprise that baggy jeans have become the go-to silhouette in recent years, there’s also been a resurgence of bootcut jeans – but what exactly are they? The 90s and noughties-inspired denim look is making a comeback, alongside many other retro-inspired cuts. While some individuals who long for nostalgia will eagerly embrace the trend, there will undoubtedly be others who are hesitant to slip into their old pairs.

For those who are excited to rock the throwback denim style, bootcut jeans can be a great way to channel the era’s fashion while also staying on-trend. I’m pretty picky about my jeans – the cut, length, and colour all have to be just right. Even though bootcut jeans have been back in style for a while now, I still haven’t been sure if they’re for me.

Kendall Jenner has been wearing the divisive jeans like nobody’s business, and since then I’ve slowly started to come around. I like to keep things interesting by pairing my bootcut jeans with some cowboy boots and a white top. Simple, but effective.

Keep reading, as below I’m sharing everything you need to know about bootcut jeans including what they are and the best styles money can buy right now. Next, read more about the jeans trends for 2024 and check out the best jeans at Zara and ASOS too.

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What are bootcut jeans?

Bootcut jeans are characterised by their slim fit through the thigh, widening at the knee to create a subtle flare. As the name suggests, these were designed to be worn over boots comfortably and were hugely popular in the noughties. As so much Y2K-inspired fashion is having a renaissance, bootleg jeans are returning to the forefront of denim in 2024 too.

Why are they called bootcut jeans?

Bootcut jeans are called so because of the unique design that allows them to fit over boots comfortably. The cut of the jeans is slim through the thigh and knee but flares out slightly from the knee down, creating a subtle bell-bottom shape that can accommodate the tops of boots. As I’m sure you already know, many other jeans styles taper in at the ankle or fit tightly throughout the leg, so boots are usually worn over the top of such styles.

READ MORE: How to Stretch Out Jeans

What’s the difference between bootcut and regular jeans?

Bootcut jeans are one type of jean, but there are so many others like skinny, boyfriend, girlfriend and straight fit jeans. Each of these are characterised by their unique shape. Bootcut jeans have a slim fit at the thigh, which widens at the knee into a flare. Straight fit jeans have a similar slim width straight down the leg, whilst skinny jeans are tight-fitting all over.

What body shape is best for bootcut jeans?

Whatever your body shape, you should wear whatever you like! But if you’re interested, bootcut jeans work really well on pear shapes and hourglass figures.

Are bootcut jeans comfortable?

The level of comfort of bootcut jeans can depend on factors such as the fit, fabric, and personal preference of the wearer. It’s important to try on different sizes and brands to find the most comfortable pair for your body type and style preferences.

The flared leg of bootcut jeans allows for greater freedom of movement, making them a comfortable option for many. If jeans aren’t for you but you still love the look of denim, why not try denim maxi skirts?

Bootleg jeans: Our favourites

Bright Blue Waist Enhance Quinn Bootcut Jeans, £24.99, New Look – buy now

Bootcut Jeans in Camellia, £85, Wrangler – buy now

725™ High Rise Bootcut Jeans, £100, Levi’s – buy now

Lorna Bootcut Jeans, £89, Hush – buy now

Mid Rise Bootcut Washwell Jeans, £45, GAP – buy now

Supersoft Bootcut Jeans, £26, Next – buy now