Jeans will never go out of style, but let’s be honest, wearing the same cut, wash, and silhouette day in and day out can get a little… well, predictable. Turn-up jeans could be the change you need this winter season. Whether you purchase a pair with a folded cuff or add a roll to a floor-sweeping style that’s already hanging in your wardrobe, a simple turn-up has the power to instantly transform your denim game.
Cropped just right, they show off statement shoes, from party-ready styles to edgy fashion trainers, not to mention the practical considerations – no more soggy hems trailing through puddles. The best part about this style of denim is that you’re not limited to one leg shape. A turn-up adds interest to a classic straight-leg fit, while lending a sense of structure to wide-leg denim.
When it comes to cold-weather styling, winter is a great time to embrace darker washes, from indigo hues to grey and black rinses. But that’s not to say your true blues shouldn’t get a look in, too. Pair them with chunky knits and oversized outerwear for a seasonally appropriate ‘fit.
Think of this as your ultimate denim refresh. Scroll down to discover all the ways to wear turn-up jeans, and see how this small tweak can make your denim feel completely new.
Light-wash turn-up jeans and a wool coat
This is what we’re talking about – light wash denim works well in winter when paired with light, neutral tones in seasonally appropriate silhouettes and finishes. The turn-up jeans make this sophisticated beige wool coat feel cool and current.
High-waist turn-up jeans and lots of layers
We love this layered look that works to elongate legs, thanks to the high-rise waist and tucked-in knitwear. A shorter coat over the top is the perfect finishing touch; anything longer than the hips would have felt too heavy.
Ankle-grazing turn-up jeans and ballet flats
Miley Cyrus shows how well ballet flats work with ankle-grazing turn-up jeans. The hem hits just right, putting the shoe front and centre without feeling overdone. A trench coat adds further polish, ideal for those winter days when it’s actually not unbearably cold out.
Baggy turn-up jeans and a faux fur coat
Faux fur coats are a go-to at this time of year. While you’re likely layering yours over your party dress, try dressing it down for daytime with turn-up jeans and boots. The result? Subtle sophistication, even when paired with your baggiest turn-up jeans.
Blue turn-up jeans and cosy knitwear
Paired with classic long-sleeve polo shirts, rugby tops, or cable-knit sweaters, turn-up jeans keep the look crisp and polished while remaining casual. Give the regular preppy aesthetic a new-age denim update for an outfit that exudes effortless collegiate charm.
Dark wash turn-up jeans and a bomber jacket
A bomber jacket and jeans is a winning combo as the two items are perfectly balanced in terms of proportion, with the jacket’s fitted waist mirroring the defined cuff at the bottom of the denim. Plus, it creates an overall cool and casual vibe.
Turn-up jeans and animal print boots
Consider Anne Hathaway on the set of The Devil Wears Prada 2 as your ultimate turn-up jeans style inspiration. A statement shoe, like a pair of animal print boots, highlights the cuff design detail in the *best* way. Given the highly-anticipated sequel is set for release in 2026, this proves the look is set to stick around.
Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
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