6 Ways to Style Kick-Flare Jeans That Feel Anything But Dated
3 min readLet’s be honest: “Kick-flare jeans” might feel like a phrase plucked from the depths of your memory. After peaking in popularity in the late ’90s and mid-2010s, the denim style took a backseat to adjacent silhouettes like capacious flares and ankle-skimming straight-legs—not to mention its buzzy ponte-knit sister. But slowly and surely, the denim kick flare is once again having its moment.
Just look to the fashion set, which includes stars like Bella Hadid, who’ve made a case for the silhouette in recent seasons. And of course, we’d be remiss not to reference the late Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, given the renewed fanfare over her minimalist-chic style following the debut of Love Story earlier this year. The category, admittedly, isn’t entirely black and white—and the way more and more brands are marketing their silhouettes is a testament to that. Some full-length styles feature a subtle “kick-out” flare that could technically tip them into the category, though—traditionally speaking—the kick flare is cropped. And while, like bootcut silhouette, a kick flare is fitted through the hips and thighs, the flare tends to begin a little lower down rather than opening gradually from the knee, giving the silhouette its characteristic fanned-out look.
With that in mind, we found six refreshing kick-flare jeans outfits worth copying and pasting ASAP. If you’re curious about the trend and don’t know where to start, consider this your crash course.
Crisp Whites
Bella Hadid certainly nailed the French-girl aesthetic in Cannes last May, wearing sleek white kick flares with a matching bustier top, vintage Saint Laurent heels, and a caramel-colored top-handle bag from the house. Weather permitting, it’s a look we’d endorse recreating even in the early days of fall, perhaps with a streamlined collarless jacket draped over the shoulders.
Minimalist Ease
Some of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s most iconic looks centered on a kick flare or Levi’s 517 bootcut (FYI, the brand no longer makes that exact model, but the modern Wedgie style is a close replica). Said kick flares featured an easy mid-rise, worn-in fit, and subtly faded wash for a lived-in feel. Her simple formula for styling the pair reads just as timeless: a black mock-neck top, low-heeled strappy sandals, and a delicate Cartier tank watch (no other accessories needed).
Vibrant Stripes
One pant trend that arguably deserved more hype this summer? Colorful striped pairs, frequented by stylish Parisians. Instead of choosing a breezy wide-leg or linen style, Kut From The Kloth’s denim kick flare—also done in a slightly deeper palette—feels just right as we head into the cooler months. Colorblock it with an olive green tank top and brown ankle-wrap sandals for a welcome change from all your neutral-toned ensembles.
Back to Black
Of course, all-black is never the wrong move, though. Kendall Jenner proved as much back in 2022, pairing a black tee with micro kick flares that provided the perfect backdrop for sleek buckled leather mules.
A Bright Red Moment
For those who typically live in baggy jeans, look for a kick flare with a little extra give (i.e., a touch of spandex and a slightly more relaxed silhouette). While somewhat harder to find in a sea of figure-hugging kick flares, Wrangler’s high-waisted version and Gap’s Long & Lean Crops fit the bill nicely. When you’re feeling fancy, dress them up with a red cropped blazer or structured jacket, embellished flats, and a sleek bucket bag.
With a Duster Coat and Loafers
A light-wash kick-flare jean already adds a little extra something to a quintessential white tee and leather loafers, but throw on a deep gray or chocolate brown duster (black feels a little more basic here), and your off-duty outfit instantly becomes that much cooler. A small woven bag also adds some nice texture and just enough nostalgic warm-weather flair without feeling out of place.
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