How to Wear Cuffed Denim in a Modern Way

Date: September 15, 2024

Cuffed jeans have gone through quite the style evolution over the decades. In the ‘50s, greasers rolled up their jeans to show off their motorcycle boots. In the ‘80s, teenagers rolled their acid-wash denim and styled it with slouchy socks and white sneakers or loafers. In the early 2010s, everyone was cuffing their skinny jeans and wearing them with Toms slip-ons and espadrille wedges.

If you want to stick to your favorite denim silhouette but are feeling a little bored, there’s never been a better time than to try a cuffed jeans outfit. In the words of Beyoncé, just cuff it! OK, the singer may have been talking about romantic relationships versus denim, but the thought still stands. Cuffing your jeans is probably the easiest, fastest way to completely transform an outfit, and it takes approximately one minute. Plus, showing off a little ankle is always flattering and, most importantly, lets you show off your new fall footwear!

Ahead, we’re sharing some of our favorite cuffed jeans outfit ideas and how to find the best cuff style for your body.

What to know about the modern cuffed jean

This year’s trendy cuff takes a page from the ‘90s book of styling techniques. The trendiest cuff style of the moment is a thick, almost oversized fold. (Think about five to six inches of fabric.) This works best with a loose-fitting, slouchier style like a boyfriend or baggy jean versus something more fitted. We’re going for the ‘90s, not the 2010s.

Figure out your cuff style

A small cuff works best if you’re petite, as a wider cuff can overwhelm your lower half. Try one or two subtle rolls or folds and see how it feels. If you’re tall, you have a little more space to experiment, literally. Play around with thick cuffs and smaller ones to see what feels most aligned with your personal style, then have fun styling!

Don’t leave too much of your ankle and calf exposed; you’ll want to cuff just around the ankle bone or a tiny bit higher; too much skin and your denim will feel more like capris than jeans!

How to style cuffed jeans

Shoes play a starring role here, so have fun showing off your new fall footwear! Sandals are perfect until the weather cools down; then, swap them for ballet or Mary Jane flats, preferably in a bright color like scarlet red. Cuffed jeans look cool and relaxed with loafers, and we also love the contrast between a slouchy, easygoing cuffed jean with a more ladylike slingback.

On top, stick to simple styles and rely on your best basics, like easy knit sweaters, tees, and tanks. If your jeans are very loose or baggy, be sure that your top half is fitted with the hem hitting near or at the waistline of your pants so you’re not drowning in fabric. Now play around with a third piece! A longer length blazer feels a little Diane Keaton in the best way, as does a vest. Don’t overthink it—just let it roll! (Or is it cuff?)