A Denim Specialist Told Me the 4 Must-Have Jean Styles for Fall — and How to Dress Them Up with Basics from $16

As the autumn season approaches, many find themselves seeking the perfect additions to their wardrobes, particularly in the denim department. Each year, new styles flood the market with the promise of becoming your favourite go-to jeans. Yet, the overwhelming variety often leaves shoppers at a loss for how to style them. To alleviate this confusion, stylist Sahra Brandt has curated a selection of essential denim pieces that can form the foundation of an ideal capsule wardrobe for the autumn months.

Brandt, a certified denim expert, advocates for selecting four key styles of jeans that can elevate any outfit. According to her, every fashion-conscious individual should own barrel, straight-leg, wide-leg, and flare jeans. This selection not only keeps options manageable but ensures there is a perfect pair for any occasion, from casual outings to more polished events.

One standout style is the Bella Stretch Barrel Jeans, which retail for £50. These jeans, exemplified by celebrities such as Cindy Crawford and Reese Witherspoon, offer a relaxed aesthetic that prides itself on comfort and style. Brandt refers to barrel jeans as the “new skinny jeans.” Their voluminous shape allows for a forgiving fit, making them an appealing choice for those who appreciate a casual yet fashionable vibe. To complement these jeans, she suggests pairing them with a fitted top and low-profile footwear, such as ballet flats or sleek sneakers, along with a structured handbag to complete the look.

Next in Brandt’s recommended lineup are Bella Stretch Relaxed Straight Jeans, also priced at £50. These jeans echo the renowned styles from the ’90s and possess a timeless quality that appeals to a range of fashion tastes. While they allow for a looser fit, Brandt advises on how to avoid mismatched proportions. Opting for a cropped cardigan and a top-handle bag can create a chic ensemble that remains grounded in classic style. Adding a patterned silk scarf can offer a playful touch, enhancing the outfit without overwhelming it.

Wide-leg jeans are another must-have for the season, and the Bella Stretch Wide-Leg Jeans fit the bill perfectly at £50. These trousers offer a flattering silhouette, accentuating the figure while providing a relaxed fit that is particularly trendy this fall. Brandt characterises these jeans as the ‘it’ style to invest in, noting their versatility and enduring popularity. For an effortlessly stylish outfit, she recommends teaming these jeans with a silk blouse, ankle boots, and a woven tote, ideal for both day and evening engagements.

Lastly, the Luna Stretch Flare Jeans, also available for £50, pay homage to the vibrant fashion of the 1970s. Brandt suggests these jeans as excellent “going-out pants,” lending a fun yet sophisticated touch to evening wear. To enhance this look, she encourages pairing the flare jeans with a blouse that features bell sleeves, a statement belt, and heeled boots, creating a nostalgic yet contemporary appearance. The jeans’ blend of comfort and style is praised by wearers, noting their ideal stretch that balances style with ease.

As the trend for autumn fashion shifts towards comfortable, stylish clothing, these four styles of jeans form a versatile wardrobe foundation. Incorporating a selection of complementary pieces ensures that individuals can easily personalise these looks to fit both their lifestyles and aesthetics, eliminating any stress during the outfitting process.

The recommendations provided by Brandt not only simplify the shopping experience but also serve as a guide to refining one’s personal style for the season ahead. Investing in these essential jeans will equip any wardrobe with the flexibility to adapt to various occasions, making them valuable assets as the weather cools.

This autumn, it’s time to rethink your denim game; with the right styles in your closet, you can effortlessly navigate the changing season while maintaining comfort and chicness.