If you’ve been here for any length of time, you already know I’m a jeans-every-day kind of girl. Denim is what I feel best in, and it works perfectly for my lifestyle. But I also know some of you like having a few casual alternatives in your wardrobe, whether you want a change of pace or you’re headed somewhere jeans feel a little too casual. So today I’m rounding up some easy, everyday alternatives to jeans for fall and winter.
Sanctuary Marine Wide Leg Crop Pants (29) // AllSaints Anna V-Neck (M) // cloth & stone Zipper Shacket (S) // Schutz Arissa Flats (8)
1. Colored Denim
Colored denim is still denim, of course, but visually it gives your outfit a completely different vibe. I’ve been wearing this rust pair a lot this fall, and it’s been a fun way to change up my look without stepping too far outside my comfort zone.
KUT from the Kloth Kelsey in Paprika (8) // similar brown sweater vest here and here // leopard flats (8.5) (option) // bag
Seasonal colors like rust, chocolate brown, raisin, olive, and winter white all pair beautifully with the sweaters already in your closet.
How to style:
- Rust or brown → with ivory, camel, grey, or black
- Olive → with stripes or creamy neutrals
- Winter white → with tans, greys, or soft pastels
- Works with sneakers, ankle boots, or loafers
If you want something different that still behaves like denim, this is the easiest place to start.
2. Coated Denim (and Faux Leather Equivalents)
Coated denim is my personal favorite non-blue-jean option because it’s still denim, but it delivers that slightly dressier faux-leather look. If you like an elevated vibe in winter, or you have evening plans, coated denim is an easy swap that still feels casual and comfortable.
KUT from the Kloth Ana (8) // similar green cardigan // similar suede booties // crystal frame clutch
Think of this category as everything from coated jeans to faux-leather jeans… all the same idea, just different finishes.
Style with:
- Chunky sweaters → for a cozy contrast to the sleek finish
- Fitted turtlenecks → for a streamlined, polished look
- Moto jackets or blazers → for an elevated edge
- Chelsea boots or heeled booties → for a dressier feel
- Sleek sneakers → for a more casual, everyday vibe
It’s a great way to mix things up without leaving the familiar denim world behind—and you might be surprised how often you reach for them once you have a pair you love.
3. Twill & Utility Pants
Twill pants and simple utility styles offer that same “throw on and go” feel as jeans, but the texture and finish give your outfit a slightly different look. They’re great for those days when you want to stay casual but not necessarily reach for denim.
KUT from the Kloth Ashton Utility Barrel Pants (6) // similar sweater // suede mules // suede bag
I do have one pair of twill pants, and while they aren’t my everyday go-to, they’re a nice alternative when I want something a little different from denim.
How to style:
- Striped tee and denim jacket → for a classic casual combo
- Half-zip or quarter-zip sweater → for a sporty, modern feel
- Crewneck sweater and Chelsea boots → for an easy fall look
- Sneakers and a quilted jacket → for weekend errands or travel
This is one of the easiest non-denim categories to incorporate into your wardrobe, especially if you already love neutrals and casual layers.
4. Ponte Knit Pants
Ponte is stretchy, polished, warm, and comfortable—almost like leggings but thicker and much more structured. If you want something that feels as comfy as athleisure but looks more put-together, ponte is a great option for fall and winter.
Quince Ponte Bootcut Pants (size M, 32″ inseam)
How to style:
- Sweaters and sneakers → for everyday wear
- Long cardigans → for a relaxed yet polished look
- Loafers or Chelsea boots → for a chic, casual vibe
- Tunic-style tops (if the rise is fitted) → for added coverage and balance
Ponte pants are ideal for work-from-home days, travel, or anytime you want easy comfort that still looks clean and intentional.
5. Soft Pants & Flowy Trousers
This is a broad category, but the common thread is softness, drape, and comfort. These styles are usually a bit dressier than athleisure but more relaxed than traditional trousers.
Sanctuary Eloise Trouser (29) // Michael Stars Nara (M) // Sam Edelman Bianka (8.5)
Think Tencel joggers, drapey pull-on trousers, wide-leg or flowy pants, and easy weekend pants that aren’t sweats. They can be hit-or-miss for me personally, but when the fit is right, they’re incredibly versatile—and very on trend right now.
How to style:
- Sweaters (front-tucked) → to define your shape and add structure
- Simple tees and a denim jacket → for a casual, everyday look
- Flats or low-profile sneakers → to keep the vibe effortless
- Blazer → for a relaxed office or dinner outfit
They move beautifully, they’re comfortable, and they can look surprisingly chic with very little effort.
While I’m not breaking up with my jeans anytime soon, it’s always nice to have a few other options in the closet, especially in fall and winter when texture and fabric can really elevate simple looks. Whether you prefer coated denim, ponte pants, soft trousers, or something as easy as olive utility pants, even small swaps can make your everyday outfits feel fresh again.
If you’ve found a non-jean style you’ve been loving lately, I’d love to hear about it!
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