The Best Jeans to Wear with Ballet Flats in 2026

I’ve noticed an uptick in jeans-and-ballet-flat outfits, whether it’s IRL riding the subway or just scrolling IG. Maybe it has something to do with fall inching closer and closer, or we’ve grown tired of the same old summer ‘fits and are once again returning to a classic. Truthfully, there’s nothing more chic than a pair of good jeans and a comfortable flat. But just because it’s a classic doesn’t mean it has to be boring.

Taking notes from London and Stockholm’s style set, three denim styles stand out the most. Hint: it’s not skinny jeans (though they are on the comeback), and it’s not bootcut (sorry, my fellow Gen Zers, I know you love a little flare). What I will say is that each one has the makings of a closet staple: versatile, timeless, and reliable. I call on editor-loved brands like Agolde, Levi’s, Kahite, and so much more.