Skinny jeans 2.0

High-waist skinnies go well with oversized sweaters, says Salisha Talwar; (right) Finish your look with contemporary accessories and boots

A viral social media trend popularised by GenZ is denouncing skinny jeans in favour of looser styles and vintage fits. While skinny jeans have been a staple in millennial wardrobes for more than a decade now, fans of the style believe that that's no reason for you to discard it as dated or boring. In fact, as 24-year-old fashion blogger Salisha Talwar explains, skinny jeans are surprisingly versatile and span a whole range of aesthetics, from edgy to classic. She shares a few ways to continue sporting the trend in 2021.

Switch to a button fly

A visible button fly adds a vintage charm to even a basic pair of skinny jeans. Pair this with a soft sweater or turtleneck top and tuck it in, to show off your jeans. A slightly cropped pair of jeans works well with sneakers and boots.

A structured top can make your look more elegant, as demonstrated by Janhvi Kapoor. Pics/Instagram

Add an interesting detail

A tie waist, patchwork and other embellishments can update the aesthetic of even a plain blue pair of skinny jeans. If you don't have a quirky belt at hand, Talwar suggests using a colourful scarf in the loops. Alternatively, throw in a long string of beads. You could also add a set of DIY patches or have them sewn over your existing jeans.

Introduce structure

A structured blouse and high-heeled boots can make your look more edgy. Pick a high waist style in classic colours, such as black or blue and experiment with accessories. A bum bag or a statement clutch or wristlet can tie the look together. A bodysuit can eliminate unflattering folds around the stomach, while throwing on a cool blazer takes the look into the smart-casual territory, Talwar explains.

Deepika Padukone's black high-waist skinny jeans never go out of style

Throw in some flair

While wide boot-cut jeans are outdated and can feel a little costume-y, narrow jeans that fit snugly at the waist and thighs and then flare out near your feet look chic and elegant, while also being more comfortable. Pair these with ankle boots and a smart bomber jacket for an eye-catching street-wear look.

When it comes to skinnies, avoid excessively distressed styles; these work better with baggier fits such as mom or boyfriend jeans, Talwar suggests. If you aren't comfortable with a flared bottom, try a more classic slim style that combines skinny jeans with a narrow straight fit. "Whatever you do, avoid investing in pleated jeans in 2021. Although these were trendy last year, they are definitely on their way out," she signs off.