
Mom jeans are much more than just jeans. Over time, the evvel essential ’80s item lost some of its appeal and became associated with outdated trends. In recent years, however, it’s become a favorite denim style for many women evvel again thanks to its loose fit and high-waisted silhouette.
The ’80s mom jeans we know and love were typically a light blue denim with a tapered leg, named after the women who wore them. Anyone who grew up during that time will probably remember their moms pairing them with a white tee, a blazer with shoulder pads, and thick socks.
But in summer 2026, mom jeans can include a number of different washes and hemlines. As nostalgic trends dominate the season’s must-haves, the best mom jeans prioritize comfort, making them the perfect pairing with a host of other summer trends: from platform sandals and bohemian blouses to white sneakers.
Whether you’re looking to revamp your collection or just get inspiration for new looks, here’s how to pull off mom jeans in summer 2026.
We start with this office outfit, in which casual denim meets all-American elegance with a pair of slingback shoes, a simple T-shirt, and a crisp blazer. The true star are the classic mom jeans, which add a relaxed air to this understated ensemble. These pants, an essential in the contemporary woman’s wardrobe, help quietly reaffirm their power of the elegantly pointed slingback shoes and allow room to freely play with the rest of your accessories.
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Abercrombie & Fitch High-Rise ’90s Relaxed Frayed-Hem Jeans
Abercrombie & Fitch

Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Heels
Amazon

Hanes Perfect-T T-Shirt
Amazon
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Quince Freshwater Cultured Pearl Toggle Necklace
Quince
Since their introduction to everyday wear, the best thing about ’80s mom jeans is their ability to transform and adapt to the different trends that mark the passage of time. This summer, they pair exceptionally well with the print of the season: polka dots. Together, the two find the right balance of casualness and class that only true fashion pros seem to understand.
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Abercrombie & Fitch Mid-Rise ’90s Straight Jeans
Abercrombie & Fitch

Anne Klein Dot Print Short-Sleeve Blouse
Nordstrom

Open Edit Charlie Sandals
Nordstrom

Coach Plaza 18 Shoulder Bag
Coach
As this street style star demonstrates above, the combination of mid-rise blue jeans, a white shirt, and heels can be surprisingly interesting. It’s about elevating this classic approach with clever details like a silk scarf or cuffed hem. Because this formula is so simple and timeless, it’s easy to adapt to your own personal style and the aesthetics of the day.
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Bayeas High-Waist Relaxed Straight Jeans
Nordstrom

J.Crew Étienne Cropped Button-Up Shirt
J.Crew

Minidora Satin Scarf
Amazon
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Mosanana Retro Oval Sunglasses
Amazon
This time around, mom jeans have a more relaxed drape than the original tapered design. But the priorities remain: comfort without constricting or skewing too baggy. With ballet flats, a summer top, and a useful tote bag, this street style outfit couldn’t be more idyllic to wear any day of the week, whether at the office with a blazer or out for coffee with friends.

Bayeas High-Waist Wide-Leg Slit-Hem Jeans
Nordstrom

Cole Haan Jaya Travel Ballet Flats
Zappos

Madewell Linen Shell Top
Madewell

Quince Triple-Compartment Leather Shopper Tote
Quince
If you still don’t think mom jeans can be chic, may we direct your attention to Emily in Paris star Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu above. This white denim look, which includes white sneakers and a classic button-down shirt, is a fail-safe uniform that brings all your most comfortable staples together in a fresh and inviting way.

We the Free Libre Wide-Leg Jeans
Free People

Vivaia Yancy Sneakers
Amazon
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H&M Oxford Shirt
Nordstrom

Miansai Elani Hoop Earrings
Miansai
Mom jeans can absolutely be adapted to fit a romantic aesthetic and still have a contemporary feel. The loose fit and mid-length silhouette of the jeans are elevated with a layered lace blouse and decorative accents. It’s a casual look with an air of formality that works perfectly for a date night.

Joe’s Jeans Mia Jeans
Amazon
Nordstrom

Madewell Blaire Top
Madewell
Nordstrom
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Quince Open Contour Cuff Bracelet
Quince
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Mint & Lily Double-Band Pavé Ring
Mint & Lily
This article was originally published by Vogue Mexico and Latin America.




