There are those who love jeans with every fiber of their being, and those who wear them simply out of convenience. Consider me one of the latter. Yes, they’re timeless and one of the rare staples that never go out of style, but jeans also don’t thrill me exactly. Couple that with the trauma of denim shopping IRL (when you have a pear shape, it’s not so pleasant), and there are solid reasons why it’s one of my least favorite things to slip on.
But when it comes to fashion, my opinions can sway like the wind, so I’m always open to reconsidering my stance. I’ve done that with low-rise pants (they’re now one of my favorite styles) and it seems like denim is up for reevaluation. What’s helped turn the tide is the influx of unconventional jeans that are both exciting and edgy. They turn the blue-washed straight-leg classic on its head with unexpected quirks (like a built-in kilt and color-blocked patchwork as you’ll see below). The whole trend amps up basic jeans into a moment versus a piece that’s just in the background. And everyone from Loewe to H&M is getting in on it too.
Keep reading to see 29 pairs of unconventional denim jeans that get a little spicy with the staple, along with where to buy them.
Gigi Hadid recently wore similar jeans, which basically says it all.
These have been sold out for a while, but good news—they’re back in stock.
Can we just take a moment to revel in how wonderfully wacky this is? And yep, I’m buying them.
With fall coming up, it’s only right that cords are on the agenda.
To make things extra interesting, try wearing some fishnet tights underneath.
Very painterly (and cool).
A well-placed cutout brings me enormous joy.
If you know me, you know I’m head over heels for the cargo trend.
A signature of the brand, the shape on these jeans are so fun without being too much.
They details are more subtle here, but they’re far from basic.
I love how these look like chaps.
Agolde just keeps coming with the hits.
Cropped-length jeans aren’t for everyone, but if they’re too intimidating, try pairing them with tall boots.
Of course these are Margiela.
R13 has perfected modern-day grunge.
Quite obsessed with this color.
A little fringe feels appropriate for the season.
I need this entire outfit.
Yes, we’re still wearing white in September.
Style these with a gray oversize blazer for an on-point look.
Probably one of the most famous pairs of jeans right now.
The edgy minimalism of Peter Do has made me a huge fan.
These basically style themselves, which makes this pair totally worth it in my book.
I live for a bohemian patchwork.
The Y2K influence doesn’t stop.
From the front buckle to the rich shade of brown, there’s so many eye-catching details here.
A fancy take on the denim cargo trend.
If Loewe’s making it, then I’m buying it.
Once $3000 magically hits my bank account, I’ll know exactly what to do with it. Next Up: Bold Statement: Fashion People Are Bored With This Wildly Popular Sneaker Style
