Flare jeans are making a major comeback in women’s fashion. While some see them as a retro nod to the 70s, flare jeans can actually work for a modern, stylish look when styled correctly. The key is finding tops, shoes, and accessories that balance out the volume of the flared leg. Take a break from your skinny jeans and give your wardrobe a fresh update with some cool flare jean outfits. Whether dressing them up or keeping it casual, there are lots of possibilities. Read on for tips to help you style your flare jeans with confidence.
Choosing a Flare Jean Silhouette
Before getting into outfit combinations, let’s cover the different fits of flare jeans available. The specific flare silhouette you select will impact how you style it.
The Subtle Flare
This style only subtly widens from the knee down. It creates a leg-lengthening effect while still fitting closely at the hip and thigh. Subtle flare jeans offer a bit more room but aren’t as dramatic as a full bell bottom shape.
The Dramatic Flare
Think 1970s style flares. This style fits slimmer at the hips and thighs before dramatically widening into a bell bottom shape. The full volume draws attention to your footwear.
The Long Flare
In addition to a wide, bell-like flare, this style has an extra long inseam. This creates pooling at the bottom for a bohemian vibe.
Flattering Tops for Flare Jeans
The right top creates balance and proportion with a flared leg. Avoid boxy tops or anything too oversized on top, as flare jeans already have volume. Here are flattering top options:
Form-Fitting Knits
A fitted turtleneck, mock neck, or long sleeve knit top offsets a flared leg beautifully. Tuck it in or leave it out. Form-fitting knits in ponte, thermal, ribbed, and sweater knit fabrics work well.
Wrap Tops and Blouses
Feminine wrap style tops made of flowy fabrics contrast nicely with structured flare jeans. Wrap blouses and tops in chiffon, silk, or crepe are ideal. Tie wraps at the waistline over flare jeans for a slimming effect.
Cropped Sweaters and Jackets
Cropped cardigans, knit sweaters, denim jackets, and blazers balance flare jeans proportions. Pair your flares with a cropped sweater and some booties for an effortlessly chic look.
Bodysuits
Bodysuits neatly tuck into flare jeans and won’t come untucked. A mock neck or sleeveless bodysuit looks chic. Bold colors and prints make for an eye-catching combo.
Footwear for Styling Flare Jeans
It’s all about balancing proportions with flare jeans outfits. Make sure your footwear suits the volume and length of the specific jean.
Heels
Heels create a leggy, polished vibe with flares. For subtle flares, try block heels, strappy sandals, or platform heels. Dramatic flares call for wedge heels. Go for espadrilles or cork wedges.
Ankle Boots
Ankle boots keep you grounded in subtle flares. Try a classic Chelsea boot, lug sole boot, or a low cowboy boot with a walkable heel. Save over-the-knee boots for dramatic flares to balance the proportions.
Flats or Low Top Sneakers
Ease into wearing flare jeans with flats or low profile sneakers, especially if you’re new to the silhouette. Try pointed toe flats, ballet flats, or white sneakers to start.
Sandals
Flat sandals, barely-there sandals, or chunky sandals work for a casual flare look. The extra length and pooling of the jeans helps you pull off sandals year-round.
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Styling Flare Jeans for Different Occasions
Wondering how to incorporate flare jeans into your regular wardrobe? These outfit ideas show how to style flares for casual days, date nights, travel days, and beyond.
Casual Daytime Flare Outfits
Flare jeans easily transition for running errands, meeting friends for coffee, or other casual daytime activities.
- White sneakers, a graphic tee or tank, denim jacket, and dramatic flare jeans
- Ankle boots, thermal long sleeve top, and subtle flare jeans
- Ballet flats, mock neck bodysuit, and long flares for brunch
Date Night Flare Styles
Dress up your flare jeans for a night out. Heels and a silky cami transform subtle flares into date night material.
- Strappy sandal heels, a wrap top, and a shoulder bag with dark flare jeans
- Wedge espadrilles, an off-the-shoulder blouse, and light flare jeans
Traveling in Flares
Flare jeans work for comfortable travel days too. Choose footwear you can walk in and a cozy top.
- White platform sneakers, cropped hoodie, and flare jeans
- Slip-on loafers, turtleneck bodysuit, and flare jeans
Workwear Flare Looks
Yes, you can wear flare jeans to the office! Just add polished pieces like a blazer, heels, and smart handbag.
- Pointed toe flats, cropped blazer, button-down, and flare jeans
- Block heel ankle boots, silk cami, and a subtle flare
Accessorizing Your Flare Jeans
Accessories like belts, jewelry, handbags, and outerwear add those finishing touches to pull flare outfits together.
Cinch With a Belt
Define your waistline over it with a belt. Try a skinny leather belt, chain belt, or fabric obi belt. Tuck in your top or leave it out.
Layer on a Kimono
Flowy kimono-style jackets and cardigans complement flare jeans. Opt for lightweight fabrics like chiffon, crepe, or lace. Keep things minimal underneath.
Shoulder Bags and Totes
Carry a stylish shoulder bag, leather tote, or small crossbody purse with flare outfits. Match leathers and textures for an elevated look.
Statement Necklaces and Earrings
Long, dangling statement earrings draw attention upwards, balancing their volume. Likewise, long necklaces complement the proportions.
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As you can see, flare jeans offer so many styling possibilities beyond just a retro throwback jean. By choosing a flattering silhouette and experimenting with feminine blouses, heels, jackets, and accessories, you’re sure to find a flare look that suits your personal style. It let you switch up your usual skinnies for a modern slim-on-top, wide-leg look. Have fun playing with new outfit combos! Whether you’re running errands or headed out on the town, they keep your look fresh and current.
