THE BOOTCUT REVIVAL
The bootcut jean is having a renaissance moment, and if you need proof, look no further than Pharrell Williams and Kendrick Lamar. Both icons recently made waves by reviving the flared silhouette—a bold nod to the early 2000s—and injecting their unique style into a denim trend that had been on fashion’s back burner for years.
Pharrell's Western-Inspired Take
Pharrell, the newly appointed creative director of Louis Vuitton menswear, is no stranger to setting trends. His recent appearances in bootcut and flared jeans have cemented their return to the mainstream. At the Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2024 show in Paris, Pharrell rocked an ultra-wide-leg bootcut jean paired with a signature LV monogram bomber, cowboy hat, and oversized aviator shades. The look was a masterclass in blending luxury with streetwear—bridging the gap between classic Western influences and high-fashion swagger.
Pharrell has long been an advocate for unconventional silhouettes, but his embrace of bootcut jeans feels particularly timely as men’s fashion continues to lean into relaxed, oversized proportions. He effortlessly pairs his jeans with Western-style footwear, proving that the bootcut silhouette isn’t just for cowboys—it’s for anyone looking to add some vintage cool to their wardrobe.
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Statement
During his highly anticipated Super Bowl appearance, Kendrick Lamar sported bootcut jeans with his signature effortless aesthetic. Unlike Pharrell’s polished luxury take, Kendrick embraced a raw, throwback energy—channeling early 2000s hip-hop nostalgia with baggy, flared denim that sat perfectly over his sneakers. His look served as a reminder that fashion always comes full circle, and the bootcut silhouette is once again having its moment among style innovators.
Kendrick’s interpretation of the trend speaks to the wider movement in menswear toward looser, more comfortable silhouettes. Skinny jeans dominated for over a decade, but as Gen Z and Millennials alike embrace retro influences, flared denim has found its way back into the mainstream.
How to Style Bootcut Jeans Now
If Pharrell and Kendrick have convinced you to give bootcut jeans a try, here’s how to wear them without looking like you just stepped out of a 2003 time capsule:
Balance Proportions: Since bootcut jeans widen at the bottom, opt for fitted or structured tops to keep your outfit from looking too baggy. Think tailored blazers, fitted sweaters, or cropped jackets.
Footwear Matters: The beauty of bootcut jeans is how they frame your shoes. Lean into the aesthetic with cowboy boots (a la Pharrell) or keep it streetwear-cool with chunky sneakers (like Kendrick).
Denim Washes Count: Dark washes add a sleek, polished feel, while lighter washes and distressed denim bring a laid-back, Y2K energy.
Accessorize Thoughtfully: A bold belt, vintage sunglasses, or a statement bag can elevate your fit and make the retro silhouette feel modern.
The Verdict: Are Bootcut Jeans Here to Stay?
With major style icons like Pharrell and Kendrick leading the charge, it’s safe to say that bootcut jeans are making a strong comeback. While the trend may still be polarizing for some, its presence on high-fashion runways and in hip-hop culture proves that the flared silhouette is no longer just a relic of the past. Whether you’re going full Western or keeping it classic with a 2000s-inspired fit, bootcut jeans are officially back—and they’re here to stay.
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