Mom jean outfits: How to give this retro style a fresh, modern look
We’ve got all the mom jean outfits inspiration you need

By Charlie Bell
Mom jeans are one of the most flattering types of jeans around, but if you’re struggling to put together your mom jean outfits, we’re here to lend a helping hand with some style inspo.
Trends may come and go, but there’s no greater wardrobe staple than a decent pair of jeans. Mom jeans have been top of the denim game for a while now and are a fierce contender for one of the best jeans around, thanks to their super flattering fit and cool retro aesthetic.
Popular in the eighties and early nineties, mom jeans fell out of favor in the early noughties for styles such as the bootcut and the best skinny jeans. But thanks to our love of all things 90s and retro, mom jeans came back with a bang, and we’re pretty confident this clothing trend is going to stick around for a lot longer this time.
One of the best styles of high waisted jeans around, mom jeans are loose on the leg and tapered at the ankle for a seriously flattering finish that shows off your waist and skims over thighs for a relaxed and comfy fit. They tend to suit all body types.
And the best part? Mom jean outfits are effortless to put together and can work for any occasion. From smart blazers to laid-back tees, they’re easy to dress up and down, and thanks to their retro aesthetic, they instantly add an effortlessly cool edge to your look.
Mom jean outfits to try
The smart blazer
A blazer is a key piece in everyone’s capsule wardrobe, and they have the magical ability to smarten up any low-key look. They add a sleek touch to otherwise casual mom jean outfits, taking your outfit from daytime to drinks. Keep it classic in camel, or go for a pop of color to lift your look.
Where to shop for blazers - quick links
Get the look
Mango Lyocell Oversize Blazer
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Zara Linen Blend Limited Edition Straight Cut Blazer
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& Other Stories Belted Tailored Blazer Jacket
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The pastel knit
Offset the relaxed fit of the mom jean with a delicate knit. From pastel cardigans to full-blown sweaters, always keep your knitwear fitted and feminine. Try tucking in your jumper to your jeans to show off your waist. If the knit is a bit chunkier, a French tuck - where you just half tuck in the front - will look super chic and earn your mom jean outfits some serious fashion points.
Where to shop for knits - quick links
- & Other Stories - from $49
- Gap - from $15
- Monki - from $15
Get the look
Whistles Full Sleeve Knitted Cardigan
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Mint Velvet Pink Crew Neck Button Jumper
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& Other Stories Alpaca Blend Heart Knit Cardigan
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The statement top
It’s time to roll out the ‘nice top and jeans’ combo. Despite their laid-back look, mom jeans are great for dressing up for the evening. In fact, you can go all out in a colorful sequinned top, and the jeans will simply help to balance out a more daring top half. Embrace the retro aesthetic and go for bold prints and puff sleeves. Darker washes will smarten up the look, while white jeans add a summery feel.
Where to shop for statement tops - quick links
- ASOS - from $4.45
- Zara - from $17.90
- Selfridges - from $12
Get the look
Whistles Green Seema Sequin Top
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Next Square Neck Top
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Mango Puff Sleeve Blouse
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The classic white shirt
Another hard-working wardrobe piece, if you want to keep things classic and cool, a white shirt makes a great companion to your mom jeans. If you go oversized, make sure you tuck it in to streamline your shape or layer the shirt over a cute cami to avoid swamping your figure. For a modern refresh, try a deconstructed style or look for details such as wrap closures, pleat details, and voluminous sleeves.
Where to shop for white shirts - quick links
Get the look
Cos Wrap Shirt
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Toast Cotton Oxford Easy Shirt
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H&M Cotton Shirt
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The Fancy shoe
From ankle boots to heels to trainers, you can pretty much wear any shoe with mom jeans except a knee-high due to the looser style. As these jeans tend to finish just at the ankle, it’s the perfect opportunity to show off some fancy footwear. Whether that’s a chic colourful mule or a smart loafer or a 90s inspired sneaker, put your best foot forward with some statement shoes.
Where to shop for fancy shoes - quick links
- Dune - from $25
- Zara - from $29.90
- Stuart Weitzman - from $95
Get the look
Dune Grange Snaffle Trim Loafers
Specifications
Zara Block Heel Sandals
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Nike Air Force 1 Low By You
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Mom jeans
Where to shop for mom jeans - quick links
The best mom jeans as picked by the fashion team
If your mom jeans need updating or you fancy trying the trend, we've edited our favourite picks you can shop now. From loose relaxed styles for your weekend getup, to smart and slim dark-wash pairs you can dress up for dinner, you're bound to find one to suit you and your style.
H&M Mom Loose-fit Ultra High Jeans
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Calvin Klein Mom Jeans
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Zara Mom Jeans
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Levi’s High-Waisted Taper Mom Jeans
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Gap Sky High Rise Mom Jeans with Washwell
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New Look Curves Blue Elasticated High Waist Tori Mom Jeans
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