What to Wear If You Don’t Like Wide-Leg Pants | Jo-Lynne Shane

Flattering Alternatives to Wide Leg Pants That Still Feel Modern

I feel best in styles that are more fitted through the hips and thighs, even though more volume on the bottom is definitely having a moment right now. So I try to find silhouettes that offer a little of both—something that feels current but still works for my shape and styling preferences. That said, there are plenty of other options that aren’t quite as voluminous as a wide leg but still offer a relaxed fit. These silhouettes are worth exploring if you’re looking for something modern and comfortable without going full wide-leg.

Flares: The Perfect Balance Between Structure and Flow

Pistola Kinsley Flare (29) // EVEREVE Rocky Two Pocket Utility (M) // FRAME Le Mid Rise V-Neck (XS) (budget option) // Paul Green Hadley (8) (budget option) // straw tote

If you want a little volume without going full wide-leg, a relaxed flare is a great compromise. It still offers some flow and movement, but with more shape through the hips and thighs, which many find more flattering.

You can go with a traditional flare like the pair I’m wearing above, which is fitted through the hips and thighs and flares out from the knee to the hem. Or try a relaxed flare, which has a looser fit up top and a softer flare through the leg. It’s a slightly more modern silhouette and a nice way to balance out fuller sleeves, structured jackets, or broader shoulders—without diving all-in on the wide-leg trend.

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Cropped Bootcut: A Playful, Modern Take on Classic Denim

Pistola Lennon Ankle Bootcut Jeans (29) // Nation Ltd Marina Muscle Tee (M) // leopard flats (8.5)

Also known as a kick flare, this is a fun, modern silhouette that looks great with sneakers, clogs, or sandals. It adds a little personality to your outfit and works especially well in spring and summer.

You can find kick flares with a clean, finished hem like the pair I’m wearing above, or there’s also the step frayed hem, which is fun and leans more casual.

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Slim Straight Leg Jeans: Polished, Versatile, and Universally Flattering

AG Mari; on sale at Bloomingdale’s (30) // navy sweater (S) // Dolce Vita t-strap sandals (7.5) // woven bag

This is a classic cut that always feels polished. I tend to gravitate toward ankle-length styles with a slim (but not skinny) fit. They’re easy to dress up or down and flattering on most body types.

I usually wear mine with sneakers or sandals in warmer weather, but they also work well with loafers and clogs. Because the leg opening isn’t too wide or too narrow, these jeans can handle a slightly bulkier shoe—like a lug sole loafer or platform sneaker—without throwing off the proportions. They’re also a great base if you want to play with bolder footwear or a more statement-making top.

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Relaxed Straight: A Subtle Nod to the Wide-Leg Trend

Gap Factory 90s original straight (30) // GF shrunken tee (M) // Veronica Beard Via (8)

These have a slightly looser fit than a traditional slim straight-leg silhouette. Some styles feature a subtle bowing through the leg, offering a nod to the wide-leg trend without fully committing to it.

Relaxed straight leg silhouettes are often full-length, which can make shoe pairings a bit tricky. A low-profile sneaker (like a Samba) or a sleek ballet flat usually works best—anything too bulky can throw off the proportions.

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Barrel Leg Pants: Curved and Tapered for a Fresh Silhouette

Gap Factory soft barrel jeans (29) // grey tee // Gola sneakers (7.5)

They aren’t for everyone, but barrel leg styles are definitely having a moment this season. The curved silhouette is roomy through the leg and tapers at the ankle, which makes them more wearable than you might think.

The key is to show a bit of ankle—if they’re too long, they can look heavy or awkward. (The ones I’m wearing above would look better if they were about an inch shorter.)

And once again, a low-profile sneaker (like a Samba), a sleek ballet flat, or a minimal slide sandal usually works best with this style of pant.

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In Closing

Always remember, you don’t have to follow every trend to look stylish. If wide-leg pants don’t feel like you, there are plenty of other options that still look current and put-together. If your favorite silhouette isn’t the trendiest right now, go ahead and wear it—just remember, how you style it makes all the difference.

Pairing more classic cuts with modern shoes, fresh proportions, or a new color palette can go a long way in making your look feel up to date. I hope this gave you a few ideas to try! Let me know your favorite go-to style in the comments—I’d love to hear what works for you.