Though I’ve never been one to jump at every social media trend I see, I can admit Alix Earle is making an influential statement in bringing back skinny jeans. She’s given the reputation of the pants a complete makeover, often styling them with a pair of heels and a chic top. But skinny jeans haven’t always been sported in such sleek fashion.

Image Credit: Maude Frédérique Lavoie

The Rise

From the early 2000s, we've seen celebrities such as Paris Hilton styling her ultra low-rise skinny jeans with a statement belt and some sort of printed top. A total staple of the time period—the style was loud, fun, and spontaneous. During this era, the emphasis on ultra-thin body types meant that skinny jeans were often associated with the 'heroin chic' aesthetic, a look of emaciated figures and accentuated facial features.

As years passed and we entered the 2010s, we saw the skinny jean evolve into a wardrobe basic, powering the women's pant market. Almost every girl had a pair of these in her closet.

Throughout the 2010s, skinny jeans became a versatile fashion staple, worn by celebrities and in everyday life. Kate Middleton often styled her skinny jeans with blazers and riding boots, creating a polished and preppy look. Models like Kendall Jenner wore the pants with crop tops and sneakers for a casual look. The skinny jean's popularity even extended to menswear, with stars like David Beckham and Justin Timberlake showing off the slim silhouette.

The skinny jean's versatility was a key factor in its dominance. It could be dressed up or down, paired with heels for a night out or sneakers for a casual day look. This adaptability made it a go-to choice for many, regardless of personal style or occasion.

The form-fitting silhouette was also praised for its ability to elongate the legs and create a sleek appearance. Retail powerhouses like American Eagle capitalized on the demand, offering skinny jeans in endless colors, washes, and styles. But as with any great trend, its rise was inevitably followed by a fall.

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The Fall of Skinny Jeans

By the early 2020s, skinny jeans had fallen out of style with younger generations, as many deemed them "cheugy." I think the shift was partly driven by the rise of looser, more relaxed silhouettes like mom jeans, wide-leg pants, and straight-leg styles. Billie Eilish is definitely one to credit for her influence on baggier clothing in the modern age.

In my opinion, the fall of skinny jeans is attributed to Gen Z's fixation on the body positivity movement. Often showcasing the midriff and clinging skin-tight to the thigh, skinny jeans are very capable of exposing one's curves. On top of that, they lack the stretch and support factor of leggings, making them uncomfortable for many. The pandemic era also played a significant role in the downfall of skinny jeans, as comfort became a top priority in fashion, leading to the rise of sweatpants, loungewear, and oversized silhouettes.

The shift away from skinny jeans ultimately coincided with a broader change in fashion aesthetics. The 2020s saw a revival of baggier, more relaxed fits. This trend contrasted the sleek, form-fitting look of skinny jeans.

The Return

The return of skinny jeans has been a long time coming, as we’ve seen reflections of the style in other types of jeans, such as bootcut—featuring a thigh-hugging seam until below the knee. Alix Earle is bringing back the jeans in full force, promoting them on her social media by making “get ready with me” videos, showing viewers how she styles them.

Image Credit: Jason Leung from Pexels

Earle's collaboration with FRAME Denim to create "The Alix" skinny jeans is significant in the revival of the pants. The jeans, available in two colors, are designed to be comfortable and flattering, addressing some of the critiques that led to their initial decline. This strategic reintroduction has certainly made its mark on the reputation of skinny jeans. Additionally, brands like Levi’s and Abercrombie & Fitch have began reintroducing modernized versions of skinny jeans with updated fits to align with today’s demand for body inclusivity.

The resurgence of skinny jeans isn't just about fashion trends. It's also a reflection of the fashion industry's move towards inclusivity and diversity. Modern skinny jeans are being designed with a range of body types in mind, offering more inclusive sizing and improved comfort. The industry is developing every day to show what was once outdated can return with modifications to fit today's values.

The Verdict

Fashion is a powerful art, and skinny jeans are proof that no trend stays dead forever. While Gen Z contributed to the rise of looser fitting, more comfortable styles, influencers like Alix Earle are redefining this era's style. Whether their resurgence is fleeting or here to stay, one thing is clear—skinny jeans are having their moment again.