6 Summer Denim Trends That Will Last the Test of Time

Jeans are pretty much a seasonless staple, but there are a few particular denim trends that just hit harder in the summertime. As the temperatures rise and we all do a little seasonal wardrobe swapping, there are a handful of summer denim trends that you should keep in mind, and today, I'm here to walk you through each of them.
Now, there are certainly some trendy styles that are current but that didn't make the cut. That's not to say those trends aren't valuable in and of their own, but this particular roundup is honing in on the styles that will be trendy for years to come—meaning purchasing one of the many pairs below will ensure you have a solid pair of summer jeans that will last the test of time.
Keeping in mind the warmer weather, current summer 2020 style, and more, the denim staples ahead are going to incorporate themselves seamlessly into the rest of your summertime wardrobe. From long denim shorts to baggy '90s-inspired styles, the six summer denim trends ahead will have you well prepared for anything the next few months might throw at you.
Ecru
White jeans in the summer just make sense, but if the stark hue feels a tad intimidating, slip into an ecru pair instead. The softer and creamier color is easy to style and will certainly be around for the long haul.
Shop the trend:
Long Shorts
This year, denim shorts are reaching new lengths and the original ultra-short cutoffs are feeling more and more obsolete. Thanks to these more polished great lengths, the styling possibilities are endless when it comes to this particular summer denim trend.
Shop the trend:
Loose
The easiest way to stay feeling (and looking) cool this summer is via loose-fitting jeans. Not only is this baggy style a major trend right now, but it also just makes sense. I mean, who wants to be wearing skintight jeans when it's 85 degrees out? No one.
Shop the trend:
Lightwash
Summer dressing is all about feeling new and fresh, and if you ask me, nothing says seasonal dressing more than a pair of light-wash jeans. Whether you're pairing yours with a white tank or a floral statement top, this denim trend will fit the bill time and time again.
Shop the trend:
Distressed
Distressed denim is another trend that just makes the most sense in the summer. Since jeans aren't necessarily the most warm weather–friendly pants, slipping into a pair that has some ventilation will make you 10 times more comfortable for ten times as long. Plus, they look cool.
Shop the trend:
Pleated
Another iteration of the baggy jeans trend is pleated jeans. This summer, the denim trend looks like trousers but feels like your favorite pair of jeans. There's definitely an '80s inspiration here, which makes us love the style that much more.
Shop the trend:

Lauren Eggertsen is currently the editorial director of Who What Wear and has worked at the company for over nine years, where she started as an associate editor and has since worked her way up. Lauren has worked in the Los Angeles and New York Who What Wear offices but currently calls L.A. home. Here, she leads and manages Who What Wear's editorial team and oversees all editorial content. Lauren's role also includes helping to set the fashion direction for all original photo shoots and often styles many celebrity cover shoots, including big names like Kaia Gerber, Normani, and Sabrina Carpenter. She has also attended multiple fashion weeks, including New York, London, Milan, and Paris, where her style has been featured on sites such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, and Elle.
-
Ava Phillippe on Her "Fantasy" Brunette Era and the $12 Lip Stain She Bought After Billie Eilish
Read our Unfiltered chat.
By Jamie Schneider
-
I'm an NYC-Based Shopping Editor, and I Always Shop My Favorite Emerging Brands at This One Cool Retailer—See My Picks
"It's pronounced essence."
By Audry Hiaoui
-
If The Row, Khaite, and Toteme Feel Too Expensive, Here Are 33 Pieces to Try Instead
Bring on the luxe-looking outfits.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
9 Top, Jeans, and Shoe Outfit Combos That Fashion People Will Be Wearing This Spring
I plan to re-create these ASAP.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
My Friend Gave Me a $550 Budget to Update Her Spring Wardrobe—Here's What I Ordered
I narrowed it down to eight key pieces.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
10 Spring Outfit Ideas That Will Make Anyone Look Like a Fashion Person
Bring on the compliments.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
The Anti-Skinny-Jeans Summer Outfit Everyone Is Already Wearing
Easy, stylish, and editor approved.
By Michelle Scanga
-
I Live in My Basic Jeans, But I'm Eyeing These 6 Controversial Denim Trends for My Wardrobe
Skip the straight-legs.
By Ana Escalante
-
This Summery Denim Trend Is What Everyone Will Order to Wear With Flats
Including this editor.
By Allyson Payer
-
Don't Trust Everything You Hear About the Return of Skinny Jeans—in L.A., This Non-Fitted Denim Trend Still Reigns
Spotted on Hailey Bieber.
By Eliza Huber