At the start of each new season, denim always pops up in one form or another, making it a key driver in sales for many designers and a growing way for customers to buy into luxury brands at a slightly more entry-level price point. But for spring/summer 2023, there is another level of newness about it. Now, don't panic—your classic straight-leg jeans aren't going anywhere, but there's no denying that they are by now considered a firm wardrobe staple and instead there are some new denim styles worth having on your radar for 2023.
For the past couple of years, stonewash jeans have been the focus, but this season sees way more flexibility in washes and fits, and the return of Y2K trends sees design elements such as cut-off waistbands, flared split ankles and twisted seam skirts take centre stage, too.
Thankfully for you, I've done the hard work and tried on all the denim trends worth knowing about this year. So, if it's a new pair of jeans you are after, why not consider a slouchy wide-leg, worn low-slung with a pair of pointy heels? Or why not add another layer of interest with some cargo-style denim? And if jeans aren't your bag, then hit up one of the many denim maxi skirts available for every budget.
How about a denim accessory such as a bag or a pair of boots? Denim accessories are really having a moment and will easily modernise last season's outfits. For the brave among us, there is no shortage of monogram denim out there right now—from Chanel's wide-leg jeans to Celine's bucket bag (which is at the top of my wish list). Plus, we've got throwback details reminiscent of Britney Spears' music videos as in as cowboy leather patches, embellishments and more.
So, without further ado, scroll on to see my try the best 2023 denim trends, read my honest thoughts and shop the pieces I love.
1. Denim Maxi Skirts
Style Notes: Denim midi skirts are a key trend piece for spring 2023. You would never know this Mango one was from the high street. The frayed waistband and hem give it more of a designer feel and I love it styled with a matching cropped jacket with the silver boots.
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The cropped, nipped-in waist of this jacket makes it far more flattering than traditional shapes.
If you buy one denim piece this spring, make it a denim maxi skirt.
2. Denim Cargo Jeans
Style Notes: New-season trends are exciting, but I always need to find a way for them to work in my everyday wardrobe for them to be worth it. This is another outfit from Mango and shows how Y2K trends such as cargo pants can have a grown-up spin, too.
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A denim blazer is a timeless piece that trascends seasons and trends.
I love these denim cargo trousers, especially when worn with pointy-toe flats.
3. Denim Trench Coats
Style Notes: A denim trench is an easy new-season buy and a great transitional alternative to classic colourways such as beige and khaki.
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The mid-wash denim makes it pretty versatile, and while I didn't intentionally style it over a pair of paler jeans, I quite like the clashing colours.
4. Cut-Off Waistband Jeans
Style Notes: We were doubtful it would happen, but true to form, what goes around comes around in fashion, so it was inevitable that cut-off waistbands would make a return. The shape and wash of this pair are perfect, and I love how the animal-print shoes add a bit of polish.
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As with many of the new-season denim trends, avoid very casual or chunky footwear and opt for chicer pointy shoes.
5. Denim Suiting
Style Notes: There is a lot of darker, more polished denim around for spring, and of course, my favourite high-street store wouldn't disappoint.
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I really love the stiffness of this denim, which gave this jacket a smarter feel.
Denim midi skirts can feel a little frumpy, but the split at the front of this skirt elongates the legs and makes the skirt seem less boxy.
6. Tie-Dye Jeans
Style Notes: I felt very Elle Woods circa 2001 in these tie-dye jeans and pink tank top. Just another of the many denim trends on offer for spring that are really wearable but also fun.
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The fit of these straight-leg jeans was perfect. My only bugbear is that Sandro doesn't go any bigger than a UK 14, which isn't good. Here's hoping for an inclusive size range in 2023…
7. Denim Midi Dresses
Style Notes: When this dress first appeared on the Zara website I signed up immediately for notifications of when it would be going live. This strapless bandeau can be layered with a cardi and knee-high boots right now or worn with strappy sandals in the evening.
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Minimal styling is key to this look.
8. Wide-Leg Jeans
Style Notes: Meet the Jozeys, Ganni's must-have wide-leg jeans. Now, I needed a larger size so they would be longer in the leg and a tad slouchier, however, they were unavailable. I tried on my normal size instead to give you the gist! I styled them with Ganni's signature sculpted blazer to juxtapose the casual wash. Simply add on a pair of heels and you have an easy day-to-night denim look.
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Here you can see how they should hang a little lower and slouchier. The coolest jeans shape to buy, IMO.
9. Noughties Denim
Style Notes: This will most definitely be a marmite look, but if nothing else I felt a little nostalgic in this mesh, denim-printed top with the fluted hem skirt. I once owned these exact items, and much to my joy, I can buy them again thanks to Miaou, a go-to for Y2K fashion.
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The styling in this image shows you how far you can take the denim trend for spring.
On its own, this skirt is pretty innocuous, and when worn with a pair of sandals, it is far more digestible than the look above.
SHOP MORE DENIM FAVOURITES BELOW
The denim finish gives this classic pair of sling backs a new-season update.
Love a white shirt? Then why not try this denim corset?
The high street is filled with denim accessories to switch up your existing outfits.
Forget the Agolde Pinch-Waist Jeans and say hello to the Hilla Maxi.
This bleached denim bag will make the perfect eveningwear companion.
Buy into denim now with this shearling-trimmed coat.
This bag is at the top of my new-season wish list.
If Chanel is doing it, then who are we to argue?
These ballet flats are selling out fast.
The delicate Celine logo detail to the waist is subtle but oh-so-chic.
Forget traditional evening wear—the denim strapless dress is having a moment.
This microtrend is set for the main stage this season.
If you buy a denim jacket this season, make it cropped and boxy.
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