Bella and Sydney Just Wore the “Dated” Jeans Trend French Women Have Always Been Loyal to

I don’t know about you, but my algorithm is on a mission to bring back skinny jeans. I’m not necessarily against the return of skinnies—in fact, it’s led me to appreciate just how chic they can look with the right styling—but I am growing a little tired of the continued endorsement. Craving something a little different, I was thrilled to spot some of my favourite celebrities reaching for a retro denim silhouette that I deem far more wearable. Feeling the same skinny jeans fatigue, I spotted model Bella Hadid and actor Sydney Sweeney style the ’70s-inspired flared jeans trend this week.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

The distinct silhouette, which skims the thighs before flaring out at the calf, became popular in the 1970s as the boho trend took root. So heavily associated with the platform boots and tie-dye patterns that came up at the same time, these jeans have never quite shaken their retro associations.

In 2025, however, we’re taking a fresher approach to flared jeans styling. Take Hadid’s chic outfit: nodding to the trend’s retro routes, Hadid wore her flared jeans with a coin necklaces and square-toe boots—both of which enjoyed popularity across the stylish decade. Bringing a modern energy to her outfit, Hadid skipped the skin-tight leather jacket that was popular at the time and wore a relaxed, oversized style instead.

Taking a similar approach to her flared jeans styling, Sweeny paired her jeans with a black leather jacket in a more fitted cut and completed her look with patent leather boots.

While in the UK, we often think of flared jeans as a “dated” silhouette, French women wouldn’t dream of deeming them so. A staple in their wardrobes across the decades, these flattering jeans are often styled with classic t-shirts and chic knits that populate a French woman’s wardrobe.

It’s not just this stylish group that has cottoned on to the growing trend. Up and down the high street, and across designer brands, I’ve spotted more and more flares enter the market. Available in a range of shades—I have my eye on Paige’s deep blue style—this trend is set to ripple out this season.