Designers presented their spring summer 2021 collections last September with the fashion press not expecting any great innovations or surprises. In the middle of a pandemic it was unlikely designers could conjure any one-season wonders (now the stuff of fashion fantasy). But no one foresaw how the humble jean trend would dominate, playing a starring role across most runway collections, pegged as a covetable staple worthy of investment.

From exaggerated wide-leg, trouser-style jeans with enormous turn-ups at Victoria Beckham (above) to looser-fitting straight-leg jeans at Valentino, and extra-long bootcut jeans at Balmain, there were multiple shapes – and washes. If, like us, you’ve avoided skinny silhouettes for a while now, favouring cuts with a cigarette or straight leg, these runway updates feel right.

Once you have committed to a new pair, the best way to know what suits you is to try on different styles and sizes to see how you look. An instore try-on session is best but if online is the only option, enlist the help of an online stylist or quiz the boutique owner over phone or email. In the main, mid or high-rise straight legs in darker washes are the most flattering. One hundred per cent cotton, zero-stretch versions are more fashion forward but can be difficult for a curvy figure which needs hold-in-ability. Wide-leg and bootcut jeans look great on pear and hourglass shapes as they balance out curvy hips and are super leg-elongating when worn with heels.

What to wear with new denims

FOOTWEAR

It’s no easy feat picking out which shoes to wear with different jeans. Wide-leg jeans have an exaggerated voluminous silhouette and typically start to flare from mid-thigh, whereas bootcut jeans gain volume from under-the-knee downwards and straight-leg jeans usually have a similar circumference from lower thigh to ankle. This season’s straight-leg jeans call for pretty ballet flats, butter-soft leather loafers and glamorous going-out boots. With wide-leg and bootcut jeans, shoes will be almost entirely concealed by the jeans with just the very front peeking through when walking. You’ll need a pair of pointed or round-toe heeled ankle boots (to add height). Thicker-heeled platform shoes (with socks until Easter) will also look great, or, a pair of chunky sneakers. If the wide or bootcut-leg is cropped, you can wear almost anything.

ACCESSORISING

Want to up the ante without feeling overdressed? Denim and blazers are a winning combination. For an understated yet polished look, pair your new denims with a frilled blouse and tailored blazer. Accessorise with a luxe belt to highlight your waist and a smart bag for a classic look that will take you from weekday to weekend. Smart accessories give your everyday denim looks a sense of refinement.