As a long-term jeans devotee, it's hard to imagine turning my back on my beloved denim. But, as much as I love them, I want some alternatives to jeans that I can sprinkle into my rotation. I'm after something fresh. The conditions are as follows: they must be as easy, versatile and flattering as my favourite straight-legs, and work with the staple tops I already have in my summer capsule wardrobe. And given the change of season, I wouldn't mind going for something a bit different to my classic denim.
It turns out there's plenty to choose from. The easiest alternative for jeans is undoubtedly trousers, whether in tailored, satin, linen or wide-leg form. But there are also anti-denim trend skirts and long shorts, too. And just like jeans, these effortless alternatives can be styled in numerous ways. Dress up tailored trousers or a voluminous cotton maxi with a slinky top and strappy heels, or dress them down for daytime wear with summer trainers and a white T-shirt.
Whether you're working with a high-street budget or looking to invest in a designer staple, I've found this season's best styles that will convince you to part ways with your jeans—if only for a day.
Here Are 9 Chic Jean Alternatives to Embrace This Summer:
1. Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: Arguably, the easiest swap is exchanging your jeans for a pair of tailored trousers. These subtly pleated gems are a polished alternative to denim, but thanks to modern styling tricks, can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion—making them potentially even more versatile than our beloved jeans. Copy Alexis's look and add a matching linen blazer.
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These relaxed trousers from Reformation still look smart, and there are three neutral colours to choose from.
Such a beautiful shade of blue if you want a pop of colour.
I'm going to copy this entire outfit next week.
A black pair will serve you well.
2. A-Line Skirt
Style Notes: This sleek style feels breezy and cool for summer wear, but still gives you coverage, especially if you like a longer trouser. For casual wear, pair with a simple T-shirt and ballet flats, or for something more formal, take inspiration from Basma and add a blouse with pointed-toe kitten heels.
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Another style that's made a comeback this year is the pleated skirt.
Shirring and gathered details slot perfectly into summer outfits.
The crinkle cut gives this serious movement and volume.
This features a slightly different silhouette, but the cinching down the front makes this such a good fit for holiday attire.
3. Knee-Length Shorts
Style Notes: Long shorts are everywhere this season, and I love how the tailoring and added length instantly turn casual summer trousers into something more sophisticated. Abisola's pairing with a cropped jacket shows how to perfectly work with proportions when you have longer shorts.
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Wear with kitten heels, trainers, fisherman sandals...the styling possibilities are endless.
Perfectly acceptable for slightly dressier occasions in warm weather.
If you prefer a slightly shorter cut, these are a perfect summer alternative to jeans.
Remember skorts? I've found the perfect elevated, grown-up version.
4. Slip Skirt
Style Notes: Have you still not invested in a slip skirt? Trust me, this is the easiest, most versatile skirt you'll ever own. This summer, I'll be copying Sylvie and styling mine with a simple white vest and low heels—such a chic look.
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If you haven't already heard, butter yellow is this season's replacement for beige. It's such a happy and vibrant hue for summer.
Proof that black midi skirts work in summer too. However, this staple will, of course, work into autumn and winter too.
This also comes in a light blue and a light pink—gorgeous for spring and summer.
I love this colour option.
5. Silk Trousers
Style Notes: Classic blue jeans are notoriously difficult to take from day to night, but we've found a much comfier alternative that can do just that. Silk trousers can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Wear with a T-shirt and trainers for casual days and swap these out for kitten heels and a satin top for nights out.
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Shorter legs? Don't fret. This petite pair won't drag on the ground.
A flowy, relaxed fit are easy to style with nearly any summer top in your closet.
The all-black ensemble looks super sleek for summer nights.
Our editors love the Mason pant, and they're also available in a satin version.
6. Mini Skirt
Style Notes: On the opposite end of the fashion spectrum is this season's other top trending skirt style—the elevated mini. Inspired by looks like the infamous Miu Miu pleated skirt, the mini skirt for summer 2025 is a far cry from your old school uniform. Keep it fashionable by opting for interesting features like pleats, asymmetric cuts or textured finishes, like Marina's pretty butter yellow version.
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I love this mole hue.
The black-and-white pattern stands out from plain skirts, but it's still so elegant for styling.
Cotton is comfortable and cool during summer.
Dress it up or down, the choice is yours!
7. Capri Leggings
Style Notes: Yes, really. Capri leggings are back in fashion, but not in the way they were back in the 2010s. This season, opt for shorter counterparts that won't feel as stuffy as full-length leggings. I'm a huge fan of Dominique's cool take. Add a relaxed T-shirt and a bright pop of colour through shoes and a bag.
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The black feels super retro, and they also come in white, which is another great choice for warm weather.
For something a little more tailored. These have great summer workwear outfit potential.
If you want something more relaxed than leggings, opt for Bermuda shorts or culottes for a similar look.
These have a kick-flare, which might feel more comfortable on hot days than skin-tight leggings.
8. Maxi Skirt
Style Notes: Confession. Aside from slip skirts, I'm not personally a huge fan of midi skirts. I just don't think they particularly suit me. Which is why I'm thrilled that maxi skirts are trending this year. Typically thought of as either a beachy or super formal style, it's possible to really wear this type of skirt for every occasion in between.
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If you're tired of neutrals, this light sage green will light up your summer wardrobe.
Reminiscent of a denim maxi, but in a more breathable cotton poplin material. Plus, it's from Khaite—you can't go wrong.
Chocoloate brown looks so chic with white and raffia.
Wear this with trainers, sandals or heels. It offers maximum versatility.
9. Cotton Trousers
Style Notes: With summer nearly in full swing, cotton trousers are becoming increasingly more appealing. Light, easy and wonderfully versatile, these comfy trousers are a far cry from the rigid fit of jeans. Opt for a tailored look, a gorgeous wide-leg style like Monikh's or a relaxed, tie-waist pair.
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I wear no pair of trousers more than this one. They're cool, easy to dress up and feel so comfortable with the drawstring waist.
Perfect for the office thanks to the tailored silhouette.
Cargo trousers have made a comeback too and they're close second to my most-worn bottoms.
These are a mix of silk and cotton, so they have a little shine but still feel breathable.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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