My Favorite Ways to Style Low Rise Jeans in 2025

Low rise jeans are back, but not in the way you remember from the early 2000s. The trend has evolved beyond ultra-tight, Britney Spears-era cuts into something more wearable, versatile, and dare I say, chic. The modern take on low rise jeans isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about comfort, ease, and a more relaxed approach to dressing. If you’ve been eyeing a pair but aren’t sure how to style them without feeling like you’ve stepped out of a Y2K time capsule, consider this your comprehensive guide.

Make Sure the Fit is Perfect

Not all low rise jeans are created equal, and that’s a good thing. The version of low rise that works for one person may be completely different for another so it’s important to get the fit right.

	Relaxed Straight-Leg The easiest and most wearable version. These sit naturally on the hips without feeling constricting, making them ideal for those with an athletic or rectangle body shape who want a relaxed fit without extra volume.
	Baggy, Slouchy Fit A favorite among those who love a streetwear-inspired look. Best paired with cropped or fitted tops, these work well for taller individuals or those with a long torso, as they add volume and balance proportions.
	Bootcut or Flared A nod to early 2000s nostalgia but with a modern twist. Works well with heeled boots or platform sandals and is especially flattering for hourglass or pear-shaped figures, as the flare helps balance out curvier hips.
	Distressed and Ripped Styles Adds a grunge-inspired edge to any outfit. These styles work best for those who prefer a more relaxed, undone aesthetic, regardless of body type, though they can add visual interest to petite frames when paired with sleek footwear.

My Favorite Way To Style Low Rise Jeans

Tops

Styling low rise jeans is all about proportion. Since they sit lower on the body, your top choices should create balance rather than overwhelm your frame. If you’re feeling hesitant, start with cropped but not too cropped tops. A fitted baby tee, ribbed tank, or slim waistcoat that just grazes the waistband is an easy way to test the waters.

For those who love layering, a slouchy sweater tucked just at the front or a fitted turtleneck under a structured blazer creates an effortless contrast. Oversized silhouettes also work well, but consider tucking in just a bit of fabric at the waist to avoid looking completely swallowed by fabric.

If you’re leaning into the Y2K aesthetic, a shrunken cardigan or asymmetrical top works well—but it’s not the only option. A classic white tank with gold jewelry can feel just as fresh and relevant without leaning too far into the throwback vibe.

Outerwear

A well-chosen jacket can make a huge difference when styling low rise jeans. Since these jeans already have a laid-back, effortless vibe, your outerwear should complement rather than compete with that. Structured blazers, cropped leather jackets, or oversized trench coats all pair beautifully with this silhouette.

If you want to lean into a more relaxed look, an oversized hoodie or bomber jacket gives off an effortless, “borrowed from my boyfriend” aesthetic. Just make sure the proportions work—if your jeans are baggy, keep the jacket slightly more fitted to maintain balance. Conversely, if your jeans are on the slimmer side, a boxy or oversized coat creates an interesting contrast.

Accessories

Accessories can take low rise jeans from “thrown together” to intentional and polished. A statement belt (think leather with a chunky silver or gold buckle) is a perfect way to emphasize the waistline and break up the look. If you’re keeping your outfit simple, layering delicate jewelry—gold hoops, stacked rings, a thin chain necklace—adds a touch of sophistication.

Footwear

Your shoe choice can make or break an outfit. Since low rise jeans tend to have a relaxed, slightly undone look, footwear should match that energy.

For an effortless daytime outfit, pair them with retro sneakers or chunky dad shoes—something comfortable that feels like you didn’t overthink it. If you want something more refined, opt for sleek ballet flats, loafers, or pointed-toe boots. A heeled boot or strappy sandal instantly dresses up low rise jeans without making them feel too casual.

Avoid shoes that feel overly delicate—ultra-feminine, dainty heels can feel mismatched with the casual energy of low rise denim. Instead, go for something slightly substantial, like a block heel or stacked platform.

Bags

A structured tote or minimalist crossbody bag keeps things refined, while a slouchy shoulder bag adds to the effortless, model-off-duty aesthetic. Avoid anything too oversized or bulky; since low rise jeans already sit lower on the body, an oversized bag can make the look feel bottom-heavy.

What NOT to Do When Styling Low Rise Jeans

While there are no strict rules in fashion, there are a few things that can make low rise jeans harder to style. Overly long tops that completely cover the waistline can make the outfit look unbalanced—opting for something slightly cropped or at least tucking in part of your shirt will keep proportions in check.

Over-styling is another mistake to watch out for. Since low rise jeans already make a statement, piling on too many trends at once can make the outfit feel forced. Stick to a mix of basics and statement pieces, rather than layering on every trend at once.

Lastly, be mindful of fabric choices. Super-stretchy, jegging-style low rise jeans can feel dated, while stiff denim or rigid cotton blends tend to look more elevated and timeless.

The key to making low rise jeans work in 2025 is fit. We’re no longer dealing with the hip-hugging, ultra-low styles that sat dangerously close to wardrobe malfunction territory. Instead, today’s low rise jeans tend to sit a little higher on the hips, offering a more comfortable, wearable silhouette. Look for straight-leg or relaxed fits over ultra-skinny cuts—they feel effortless rather than forced.

A great way to ease into the trend is to size up in your favorite straight-leg or boyfriend jeans and let them naturally sit lower on your hips. This gives you the low-rise look without sacrificing comfort. If you prefer a more tailored look, brands like AGOLDE, Reformation, and Levi’s offer styles that balance structure and slouch.