The 12 Best Flare Jeans of 2023 for That Retro Feel
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We're styling everything with flares from Spanx, Madewell, and Veronica Beard.
InStyle / Marcus Millan
Flare jeans come in all sorts of shapes — from skinnier bootcut styles for an elegant day-to-day look to statement bell bottoms for making a bit of an entrance. Depending on the style you go for, they can be an amazing basic or make a show-stopping outfit, but they’re always a very versatile piece. I mean, they are jeans, after all. To find the best ones, we scoured the internet, consulted experts, and tried a bunch ourselves to search for the jeans that flatter the body without being too tight, hit the perfect length so they neither drag on the floor or look cropped unintentionally, and come in a range of washes and sizes. (Yes, we had a lot of criteria.) Read on for our favorites to shop now.
Spanx Flare Jeans
Best Overall
What We Love: They offer shaping technology and a comfy stretch fit.
What We Don’t Love: The dye bleeds if you don’t wash them before wear.
We were captivated by how sleek these Spanx jeans looked, despite basically being jeggings. You get all the performance you expect from a Spanx product here, too: “From hidden core-shaping technology to premium stretch denim, they’ll make you look and feel your best,” Weiss Brady says. After trying them myself, thanks to the brand kindly sending a pair, I can attest that they complement my curves beautifully, hugging just the right places without being too constricting. They’re designed to be worn with heels, so they’re long; however, Spanx does offer a petite length, which you might want to opt for if the length intimidates you. And on that note, we should also point out that they come in plus sizes as well as tall lengths, so they can fit a wide variety of body types.
Model Allison Weiss Brady also loves the jeans, telling us that she appreciates the wash on these Spanx jeans the most. She thinks the slightly faded medium color gives them a “worn-in, well-loved vibe,” she says. (But they come in four others, too, including midnight, light wash, white, and black.) They don’t come pre-washed, though, and the blue dye bled onto my skin the first time I wore these, so make sure to throw them in the laundry alone before wear.
Price at time of publish: $148
Size: XS-3X in Regular, Petite and Tall | Washes: 5 | Material: Cotton, polyester, lycra elastane | Closure: Pull-On
Old Navy High-Waisted Wow Flare Jeans for Women
Best Budget
What We Love: They’re comfy and flattering.
What We Don’t Love: They consider the environment, but could be doing more.
This may not be cool to admit, but I’m obsessed with Old Navy. You can always count on them to carry tons of different styles in a great range of sizes and three lengths, while keeping prices down and considering the planet — in this case, these flare jeans are made from partly recycled materials. Obviously, they could be doing more, but it’s great that it’s at least a consideration. Fit-wise, these flares are as classic as they come, tight on top and gradually flaring out starting above the knee, with just a touch of stretch for added comfort. Bottom line: They feel and look great, and you can’t really go wrong.
Price at time of publish: $37
Size: 0-30 in Regular, 4-18 in Tall, 2-18 in Petite l | Washes: 4 | Material: Cotton, recycled polyester, recycled cotton, spandex | Closure: Zipper
Gucci Logo-Patch High-Rise Flared Jeans
Best Splurge
What We Love: They’re ideal for channeling ‘70s Italian glamour.
What We Don’t Love: They only come in one length.
If you claimed 2023 as your year of self-care, may I suggest some very conspicuous and equally cool designer jeans? “Gucci Appliquéd High-Rise Flared Jeans combine everything you'd want to create the chicest Instagram pic: a waist-hugging high-rise fit, a perfect hue of blue wash, and an ‘obviously there’ logomania addition,” says style expert Katya Bychkova. “Just a perfect flared jeans option over here.” If wide flares like these are a throwback to the ‘70s in themselves, this quintessentially Italian design is giving long-ago strolls through Rome or Capri — think White Lotus glamour with fewer murders. Like many flare designs, these are definitely long pants, and there’s no petite option available, so if you’re not planning to wear them with heels, there’s a good chance you’ll need to get them altered.
Price at time of publish: $1,100
Size: 22-33 l | Washes: 2 | Material: Cotton, elastane | Closure: Zipper
Halara High Waisted Crossover Casual Flare Pants
Best Plus Size
What We Love: They’re as comfy as sweats, but as cute as jeans.
What We Don’t Love: There are no back pockets.
Are they yoga pants? Are they jeans? Does it matter? Just asking the hard questions over here. In the meantime, fashion writer Emerald Elitou can’t get enough of these stretchy flares. “I wish I had more of these flare jeans since they are the softest and most comfortable,” she says. “These high-waist lovelies are not only stylish, but they are also definitely the ones you wear to the market or when you are out having fun with friends while skating, dancing, or bowling. All you need to complete the look is a fitted tee and a pair of nice sneakers.”
We know these aren’t technically jeans because they’re not made from cotton denim and don’t have any back pockets to add to the optical illusion, but they imitate the look of denim while offering all the comfort of yoga pants. Because changing out of your sweats feels like mission impossible these days, these will definitely help you do it. And better yet, they’re affordable and come in up to a size 4X in two lengths.
Price at time of publish: $40
Size: XS-4X in Regular and Petite l | Washes: 6 | Material: Viscose, polyester, elastane | Closure: Pull-On
Related:The 10 Best Curve-Loving Jeans for Round Tummies
Madewell Petite Skinny Flare Jeans in Elevere Wash
Best Petite
What We Love: They’re short enough to style with flats if you prefer.
What We Don’t Love: They’re more of a bootcut than a flare.
If you’re under five-foot-three (or your legs are on the shorter side), finding flares that don’t pool on the floor under your feet can be tricky. But Madewell created these with you in mind. They’re more of a bootcut than a full-on flare, so they won’t overwhelm your smaller frame. And while the flare will elongate your figure, the high waist adds a little extra length as well, allowing you to appear much taller than you maybe are.
With over 20 percent polyester mixed in, the jeans have a lot of stretch to them, making them comfortable off the bat. But the blend also prevents the jeans from sagging with time — you’ll still get a tight fit no matter how old they are. The jeans also feature Madewell’s “magic pockets” technology, which reinforces the front of the jeans, allowing the pockets to lay flat and providing enough tension to hold you in for a smoothing effect.
Price at time of publish: $98
Size: 23-33 in petite, standard and tall l | Washes: 1 | Material: Cotton, polyester, Repreve polyester | Closure: Zipper
Related:The 16 Best Petite Jeans For Shorter Frames of 2023
Veronica Beard Beverly High Rise Skinny Flare
Best Tall
What We Love: The long inseam will be sure to cover your long legs.
What We Don’t Love: While this comes in multiple washes, they’re not listed all in one spot.
Flare jeans tend to work well for tall women. Not only do they typically come longer than other jeans — these have a 34-inch inseam — but the jeans highlight your height, especially if you wear heels. This pair from Veronica Beard will complement your long shape by hugging your curves and flaring out gradually just below the knee. These have a bit of stretch to them, so even though they do fit snugly, they will mold to your body and be comfortable from the start.
We love that these jeans come in multiple versatile washes — including white, black, medium wash, another dark wash, and multiple light washes — and in extended sizes, you can’t find everything in one place. You’ll have to click around a bunch, but once you do find what you’re most interested in, adding to the cart is the easiest part.
Price at time of publish: $298
Size: 23-34 l | Washes: 9 | Material: Cotton, elastomultiester, elastane | Closure: Zipper
Related:The 11 Best Jeans of 2023 for Tall Women Fit As Good As They Feel
Hudson Jeans Holly High Rise Flare
Best High Rise
What We Love: The scooped waistline and perfectly pronounced flare is a winning combo.
What We Don’t Love: You may need to take them in if you have shorter legs.
“I've been obsessed with oversized jeans by Hudson Jeans lately, and their flare denim styles don't disappoint, either,” Bychkova says. “Holly High Rise Flare Jeans are calling my name, as it's the ultimate J. Lo flares moment I've been waiting for.” I love the high-rise yet scooped waistline that will enhance your hips, as well as the pronounced flare that’s not over the top — and so do reviewers, who say these pants last for years and still look amazing. These are a perfect length for the long-legged, but the shorter fashion girls among us will probably need to take them in. It’s worth it, though.
Price at time of publish: $215
Size: 23-34 l | Washes: 12 | Material: Cotton, polyester, elastane | Closure: Zipper
Gap Mid Rise Baby Boot Jeans with Washwell
Best Mid Rise
What We Love: They work just as well with flats as with heels.
What We Don’t Love: Some people find them a bit short.
For those who prefer a mid-rise fit, these bootcut jeans from Gap are as good as it gets. The waist hits right below the belly button, giving you that perfect in-between rise. As with many Gap pieces, these are available in regular, tall, and petite versions, which is lucky because some reviewers find the regular option a bit short for their taste. That does mean these will be great with sneakers and other flats, though, which isn’t the case with some of the other picks on this list.
They're partially made from recycled materials using water-saving methods. But that doesn't prevent the brand from creating these jeans in multiple washes. We love the medium wash, which would look just as good with a white button-down as it would with your fave bright-colored statement top, but you can also find them in a classic dark wash and black, too. Regardless of which shade you pick, they’re super easy to wear thanks to the smaller flare and classic jean details.
Price at time of publish: $80
Size: 24-35 in Regular, Tall and Petite l | Washes: 3 | Material: Cotton, recycled cotton, elasterrell, elastane | Closure: Zipper
Ksubi Soho Muse Jeans
Best Bootcut
What We Love: They come in a cool-girl stonewashed light blue.
What We Don’t Love: The size range isn’t great.
Somewhere between flares and boyfriend jeans lays the Soho Muse by Ksubi, which comes in a cool stonewashed light gray-blue. “This slim flare is great for a low-key cool-girl look,” stylist and creative director Lauren Coppen says. “I love the light fade of the denim — great for pairing with a matching denim jacket.” It’s a shame that these only go up to a jeans size 32 with only one length offered, but they’re designed with a little stretch for comfort and feature the five pockets you’d expect from classic jeans: a high-quality, no-frills basic.
Price at time of publish: $220
Size: 23-32 l | Washes: 1 | Material: Cotton, elastane | Closure: Zipper
Free People Just Float On Flare Jeans
Best Bell Bottoms
What We Love: They’re a fabulous statement piece.
What We Don’t Love: You may need to try a couple sizes to find the right fit.
Free People is basically synonymous with hippie-chic, retro fashion updated for the 21st century, so of course this is the first place we looked when we started researching the best flare jeans. These bell bottoms make a statement. Pair them with a simple crop top to keep the focus on the flares and minimize the risk of looking too costumey. These come in classic blue jean shades as well as gray, white, and a few reds if you’re looking for something a little different.
However, the sizing is a little all over the place. Some discuss needing to size down, while more curvy figures flet they had to size up. It might take one or two purchases before you find the correct fit. We suggest trying them on in your nearest store if you can before purchasing.
Price at time of publish: $78
Size: 24-35 l | Washes: 12 | Material: Cotton, polyester, viscose, spandex | Closure: Zipper
Good American Good Legs Cropped Mini Boot Jeans
Best Cropped
What We Love: They’re body-shaping and super stretchy.
What We Don’t Love: They tend to sell out.
While flared jeans add the illusion that your legs are much longer than they may actually be, people consistently grumble about how long they are, especially if you are, which means you’re forced to either wear heels or get the pants taken in. The catch-all solution? A cropped version like this one from Good American, a brand that prides itself on its, well, Good Jeans. These ones feature super comfy stretch fabric and are body-shaping to enhance your curves, plus they come in an amazing range of sizes. The one problem is that they tend to sell out, but that’s kind of a good sign, no?
Price at time of publish: $150
Size: 00-26 l | Washes: 3 | Material: Cotton, recycled cotton, elasterell-P, elastane | Closure: Zipper
Frame The Jetset Flare Jeans
Best Stretch
What We Love: They’re comfy enough to wear on a flight — and they’re jeans.
What We Don’t Love: The elastic waistband can loosen a little over time.
Frame’s Jetset Flare may only come in three sizes, but it promises to fit jean sizes 22 to 34 thanks to legging-like stretch material. And while they do have some details that make these seem more like jeggings, Coppen notes that the jeans are “designed for comfort” and the elastic waist “can easily be hidden with a sweater layered over.” Reviewers who bought these to wear on a flight were very happy with their purchase, which, for a pair of jeans, is really saying something. Some people have noted that the waistband can get twisted and loosen slightly over time, but they don’t make it sound like it’s a deal breaker. Coopen says, “Try styling with a ballet pump.”
Price at time of publish: $198
Size: 22-34 l | Washes: 2 | Material: Cotton, lycra, polyester | Closure: Pull-On
Revice Venus Flares
Best Color Range
What We Love: They’re such a fun piece.
What We Don’t Love: There aren’t enough sizes.
I love classic blue jeans as much as the next girl, but sometimes I crave a little variety. Revice’s fun flares come in blue denim washes as well as Barbie pink, burnt orange, and bright yellow — which is Elitou’s pick, who thinks they "provide just the right amount of wow when entering a room," adding that they also fit exceptionally well, "perfectly" hugging the waist "in just the right place." Some colors have a star stitched across the back for extra pizazz, as well. On top of a great fit, though, they’re made by hand in the U.S. using a stretchy cotton blend, and stonewashed in Downtown Los Angeles. We wish they came in more sizes, though.
Price at time of publish: $98
Size: 23-32 l | Washes: 15 | Material: Cotton, elastane | Closure: Zipper
What to Keep in Mind
Length
The length troubles most people when it comes to flares — that is unless you happen to be on the tall side, in which case please treat yourself to the Veronica Beard flares — especially when many pairs are designed to be long and worn with heels. But if you’re more of a flats type of person, check out the picks from Gap and Madewell. You can also opt for a cropped version like the one from Good American. With that in mind, there’s long and there’s long: While it’s normal for many flare jeans to touch the ground while you’re barefoot, they should definitely not cover the entire shoe when you’re wearing heels. If this is an issue, opt for the petite option where possible, or you might need to get your jeans tailored to fit you better.
Closure
While some jeans come with a button-fly closure, all the flares on this list are either a pull-on style or come with a zip-fly and button closure. A pull-on style — like the ones from Spanx and Frame — allows for a stretchy and super comfy fit, but it can also mean they’re harder to pull over your butt when you’re putting them on. They also look more casual, though you can definitely still dress them up. More traditional jeans typically come with a zipper, and these will be less stretchy and less casual, but can elevate your look a little more — see picks from Gap or Hudson Jeans for example.
Stretch
While traditional denim jeans that are made from 100 percent cotton look lovely, they can also feel pretty heavy and uncomfortable. Enter: stretch denim. If the comfort factor is especially important to you, look for a high spandex, elastane, or lycra content in your jeans’ fabric. This will ensure the pants can move nicely with your body and not make you feel constricted.
Your Questions, Answered
What are the best shoes to wear with flare jeans?
If your flares are long, you will probably need to wear them with a heel. “The shoe you choose depends on the length of your flare,” Coppen says. “I personally wear my flares with a heel (either over a knee-high boot or [with] a strappy sandal depending on the event). With a heel, I would recommend choosing your flares with a long leg so you can only see the toe sticking out the bottom. This way your legs look much longer and it is more flattering.”
Meanwhile, Bychkova recommends wearing your flares with a platform sandal, a pointy-toe boot, or a pair of flat mules. That said, you can totally wear yours with sneakers, too. You make the rules, TBH.
How do you style flare jeans?
Coppen prefers to keep it simple when styling flare jeans, opting for a white tank top, a simple leather belt, and a statement jacket. Bychkova agrees that keeping things on the down-low is a good idea: “A sweater and a shearling jacket will do. Especially if you are into light-wash denim and solid-color looks,” she says. “Nothing is chicer and more fun than a light-toned monochrome outfit on a rainy or snowy day.”
Bychkova also recommends two more winning outfit formulas with flare jeans: “Layer it to perfection,” she suggests. “Add a shirt, a vest, a blazer, a trenchcoat, and maybe a scarf on top of it all. No matter what type of jeans you prefer, layering for fall and winter will always stay in style.”
Finally, she adds, “Reconsider your outerwear: Flare jeans and an oversized coat always work, but why not try a trendy bomber jacket this season? Add a baseball hat and silver necklaces to create a cool-girl look without trying too hard.”
Why Shop With Us
Iris Goldsztajn is a Paris-born, London-based freelance writer with 10 years of experience covering fashion, beauty, wellness and lifestyle for the likes of InStyle, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, Bustle, Refinery29 and many more. As the former associate editor for Her Campus, she was responsible for all style and beauty news coverage. In order to write this article, she researched the best flare jeans out there, including trying some out for herself, and spoke to various fashion experts who shared their recommendations: model Allison Weiss Brady; style expert Katya Bychkova; fashion writer Emerald Elitou; and fashion stylist Lauren Coppen.
Related:The 19 Best Jeans for Women That Are Actually Worth Buying in 2023
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