Bootcut jeans are back (and better than ever)

Bella Hadid is one of those beguines who entered the bootcut jean era, leaning into her own equestrian obsession and stepping out in a variety of Western-inspired ensembles: think bootcut jeans worn with boots cowboy, leather belts and fitted shirts.

For my part, I am convinced that I will never find the strength to return to the leanness of the year 2000, and I do not think that I could get away with dragging myself through the Vogue offices in the torn jeans and crushed heels that defined my Avril Lavigne years. But, for some reason, I feel drawn back into the bootcut jean orbit. The question is: how will I wear them the second time around?

Footwear-wise, bootcut jeans look great with a low-heeled pointed boot, but if you want a looser finish, a retro sneaker will do the trick. Meanwhile, when it comes to fit, I lean towards a more subtle flare, which skims – not clings to – the thigh and tapers at the hem. While those braver than me might experiment with a hip-hugging belt, I’ll stick to a high-waisted cut and a cinched belt, which together look great when worn with a shirt back to school – to the Hadid – or a white T-shirt and an oversized blazer.

Of course, I have no doubt that the Gen-Z fashion plates will be filled with Marissa Cooper in a layered top and bohemian bag, but I think I’ll leave that combo to my past which is immortalized forever in a world of disposable cameras and dial-up Internet connections.