Let us preface our suggestions by getting one notion out there: In no possible way should age really ever influence your style. If you feel passionate about a certain look or trend, you should embrace it no matter how old you are. That being said, there are clearly certain items that tend to be more favorable among specific age groups. Think about it—women probably aren't wearing the exact same things at 50 as they were when they were 30. Furthermore, someone at 25 is most likely not testing out the same look as someone who's 15.
When it comes to jeans, specifically, there are actually certain styles we think you should invest in based on your age. Think of these suggestions as the foundation of your denim offering, with the idea that you'll continue to build upon them as you get older.
Curious about the top three denim styles we think every 20-year-old should have in her arsenal? Keep scrolling to learn more—and shop each trend, too. And by all means, if you're not 20 and love what you see—wear these styles proudly as well.
Skinny Jeans
Despite what many say, skinny jeans are certainly not dead. In fact, as many celebs from Kendall Jenner to Gigi Hadid showcase, the style is still incredibly popular among the 20-something set. We totally get why—the style really is a classic at this point and can be dressed up (for an internship or school presentation) or down (for the weekends) for any occasion.
While subtle, the frayed hem here gives these jeans an unexpected, cool twist.
The slightly cropped hem makes these ideal to wear with heels.
You can wear these to work, on the weekends, and everywhere in-between.
We love the idea of pairing this classic pair with festive flats like you see here.
You can't go wrong with a pair of dark-wash skinnies.
Straight-Leg Jeans
While you could totally dress up your skinny jeans with a blouse and heels for a more sophisticated environment, a pair of chic straight-leg jeans is your best bet—especially if you need to come across polished yet casual for an internship at a creative work environment. Seriously—think about how much more elevated you'll come across in a pair of dark-wash straight-leg jeans, paired with sleek ankle boots, a blouse, and a jacket.
A high-waisted rise will elongate your overall silhouette.
Try these with sneakers or heels for the office.
Our editors love this specific pair.
We'd pair this lighter-wash pair with a moto jacket and ankle boots for the weekend.
Try these if you're looking for a polished denim vibe.
Cropped Flares
Every 20-year-old needs a pair of fun jeans she can wear for a night out or hanging with her friends. This season it's all about the cropped flares. They're youthful yet cool—and look great with a range of different shoe silhouettes from booties to heels to even sneakers.
These honestly look way more expensive than $40.
Try these instead of standard trousers for casual Friday.
Don't love the exaggerated flared look? These have a slightly more straight-leg fit.
All the fashion girls love this particular style.
You'll literally live in these.
What denim styles do you think 20-year-olds should own? Let us know in the comments below!
Opening Image: Style du Monde
-
So Many Celeb-Loved Jeans Are On Major Sale RN—These 29 Are the StandoutsLevi's 501s: a Hollywood go-to.
-
Meghan Markle Just Revealed Her Go-To Skinny Jeans, so They're *Gonna* Sell OutThey're still in stock (for now).
-
J.Lo! Hailey! Sienna! Sorry, Skinny Jeans, But Celebrities Are Keen to Thwart Your ReturnNo spandex, no problem.
-
I Live in My Basic Jeans, But I'm Eyeing These 6 Controversial Denim Trends for My WardrobeSkip the straight-legs.
-
It's Here: The 2025 Version of Skinny JeansSpotted on Emily Ratajkowski in NYC.
-
I Thought I Hated Skinny Jeans, But Kate Moss Just Made Them Feel Cool With This Shoe TrendSuddenly I need a pair.
-
So You've Heard Skinny Jeans Are Back—Here Are 6 Elevated Ways to Wear a Pair in 2025Bring on the compliments.
-
7 Extremely 2025 Trends I'll Pair With Skinny Jeans and Leggings to Make Their Return Less ScaryWho's with me?
