The Essential Rule to Remember When Trying on Bootcut Jeans

One reason bootcut jeans are a timeless trend and haven’t been exiled by Gen Z the way skinny jeans have is because they’re more comfortable and flatter most body types. Unlike leggings, skinnies, and other clingy cuts that spotlight the belly and thighs in contrast with slimmer calves, bootcuts offer balance. They frame the hips and thighs without exaggerating proportions, and the gentle flare smooths out the silhouette instead of slicing it in half.

Women’s bootcuts are also pretty forgiving. They pair well with a wide range of tops, so you can pick a ‘fit that works with your body and the shape of the jeans. But here’s the catch: While most tops technically work, some combos can make your outfit look dated fast (think classic peplum tops with stiff fabrics and dramatic flares).

Shoes are also a major point to consider, even though most shoes that work with your flared jeans will work with bootcuts. As a rule of thumb, Liz Teich suggests going for dainty shoes for the best effects. “Today’s bootcut jeans work best with a delicate shoe. Think heels with a pointed or almond-toe silhouette,” she noted (via Wall Street Journal). Nonetheless, even sneakers can work with bootcuts, and the only hard line to avoid is clunky footwear. Heavy boots, chunky heels, or bulky sneakers can kill the freshness of your ‘fit and send you on a one-way stroll straight back to Y2K.