The Trend That Will Make Denim Look Very 2026 Instead of 2025

You hear this saying a lot when you become a parent: Two things can be true at once. The same can be said for fashion. Currently, we're seeing a revival of dark-wash denim, but come 2026, washed-out jeans are set to reign supreme, as evidenced by what came down the runway at the S/S 26 Margiela and Dior shows. When I think "washed out," I think relaxed, sun-drenched, and whiskered just the right amount—how I generally hope to find myself in the new year. Low- to mid-rise straight-leg and bootcut styles are what we saw during fashion week. Some were fitted, and others continued to honor varying degrees of Y2K slouch.

There are a few interpretations of washed-out jeans to choose from. The first has an easeful, lived-in feel. Think Chloé in its bohemian early aughts heyday or a beloved vintage pair you'd never part with. The second boasts a more deliberate and playful fade. Both have a place.

Below, shop 25 of our favorite pairs of washed-out jeans.

Shop Washed-Out Jeans

Reformation

Greer Mid Rise Straight Jeans

I love the darker indigo spots on the waistband here.

For an ultra-laid-back look, opt for a pair of washed-out denim with a drawstring waist.

ZARA

Z.09 Straight High Waist Crossed Waist Jeans

A crisscross waistband is a great way to add interest to your basic jeans-and-a-tee outfits.

AGOLDE

Harper Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans

These make me feel all fuzzy inside.

Favorite Daughter

The Valentina Super High Waist Ankle Straight Leg Jeans

ZARA

Trf Mid-Rise Ripped Baggy Folded Jeans

These jeans are convincing me to go all in with the whiskering.

Madewell

The Longline Straight Jeans

Levi's

Wedgie Bootcut Jeans

ZW Collection

High Rise Bootcut Jeans

I'm having "middle school denim" flashbacks, but in a good way.

LEVI'S

Barrel Saddle Back Jeans

MANGO

Low-Rise Flared Jeans

Subtle fades need friends too.

H&M

Wide-Leg Ultra High Jeans

Gray for the area I usually occupy.

Reformation

Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans

Okay, Reformation. I see you!

ZARA

Z1975 Low Rise Straight Jeans

I'm all about the slouchy fit here.

We the Free

Risk Taker Mid-Rise Jeans

I've never met a raw hem I didn't like.

GRLFRND

Jade Low Rise Relaxed Flare Jeans

For the person who can't commit to solid black or gray jeans.

Fear of God ESSENTIALS

High Waisted Fitted Leg Jeans

ZW Collection

Hi-Rise Straight Leg Jeans

A great dupe for the Margiela jeans.

H&M

Bleecker High Rise Wide Leg Jeans

We the Free

West Coast Relaxed Flare Jeans

The best fading looks like you left your jeans out in the sun a little too long.

PISTOLA

Lexi Mid Rise Relaxed Straight Jeans

Lean into the drama with a pair of faded jeans in a darker wash.

Another pair of Levi's I can't get enough of.

Looks just like your favorite vintage pair.

We the Free

Good Luck Mid Rise Barrel Jeans