The Return of the Flare
If you donated your bootcut jeans a decade ago thinking they were gone forever, you might be regretting that decision. Both bootcut and flared silhouettes have made a strong return to mainstream fashion, championed by a new generation who discovered their body-balancing magic. But there's a difference between the two — and knowing which one suits your style is half the battle.
Bootcut vs. Flare: What's the Difference?
Bootcut Jeans
Bootcut jeans are fitted through the hip and thigh, then open slightly from the knee down — just enough to accommodate a boot heel. The flare is subtle. The overall silhouette is close to the body with a gentle, understated opening at the hem. Think of them as the grown-up, understated cousin of the dramatic flare.
Flared Jeans (Bell Bottoms)
Flared jeans, often called bell-bottoms in their most dramatic form, begin flaring from mid-thigh or the knee and widen significantly by the ankle. The hem is wide, the silhouette is bold, and the 70s reference is unmistakable. Modern flares tend to be more moderate than their vintage counterparts — still impactful, but more wearable day-to-day.
Why These Silhouettes Are More Flattering Than You Remember
Both bootcut and flared styles work with the body in a very specific way: they add visual width at the bottom of the leg, which counterbalances wider hips, thighs, or seat areas. This is why so many people find these cuts unexpectedly flattering — they create symmetry in the silhouette.
They're also particularly effective at:
- Elongating the leg when paired with a heel or platform shoe tucked under the hem.
- Balancing a top-heavy or broader-shouldered frame.
- Creating a streamlined look from hip to floor without clinging.
How to Style Bootcut Jeans
Bootcut jeans are incredibly versatile and easy to wear. Because the flare is subtle, they work with a wide range of tops and shoes.
- For work: Pair dark bootcut jeans with a tailored blouse and block-heel ankle boots.
- For casual wear: A simple tee, belt, and western-inspired boots make for a classic look.
- For a night out: High-heeled boots worn under the hem and a fitted blazer elevate the silhouette beautifully.
How to Style Flared Jeans
The flare is a statement piece — so the rest of the outfit should stay relatively clean and simple.
- Top rule: Always go fitted or tucked. An oversized top with wide-leg flares creates too much volume.
- Shoe rule: Platforms, wedges, or high heels under the hem create the most elongating effect. Avoid flat shoes that let the hem drag.
- Prints and details: Flares look great in solid colors, interesting washes, or subtle prints. Let the silhouette do the talking.
What to Look For When Shopping
- Rise: High-rise options are most popular right now and create a clean, defined waist.
- Hem length: For flares especially, you want the hem to graze the floor (when wearing your intended shoes). Too short and the flare loses its drama.
- Fabric weight: A heavier denim holds the flare shape better than a lightweight stretch fabric, which can collapse.
- Fit through the hip: These should fit comfortably through the hip and thigh without pulling — the flare does its job from the knee down.
Are They Here to Stay?
Fashion cycles are inevitable, but bootcut and flared silhouettes have proven their longevity across multiple decades. Whether they're trending or not, their body-balancing qualities make them a genuinely useful addition to a denim wardrobe — not just a nostalgia piece. If you haven't tried them in years, now is a great time to give them another look.