What jean shapes are on trend now? “We’ve seen an increase in demand for 1970s-inspired low-rise and wide-leg jeans lately,” says Sean Barron, co founder of cult LA denim brand RE/DONE , who tips exaggerated mega bell bottoms by Levi’s as the jeans of the season. 

An antidote to lockdown’s XL shapes, slim-fit cigarette styles are also making a comeback. It’s a timeless, tailored silhouette that can be worn for any occasion. The new way to wear it? Waistlines are low and the mood is distinctly 1970s: especially when worn with a louche gilet and pair of leather clogs. 

How do you find a pair that flatters? Dublin-based stylist Corina Gaffey recommends going classic. “A high-waisted pair of jeans will enhance your waist if you’ve a pear or hourglass shape. It will also give some tummy control and the illusion of longer legs. Equally, a wide leg will give balance to your shape if you’re blessed in the chest and want to embrace it.”

Main image, Instagram @thecarolinelin.

The hero style of the last few seasons has been the straight-leg jean – and it’s going nowhere, judging by the autumn winter catwalks. Meanwhile, at ‘It’ brands like Khaite, Celine and Totême, models wear straight styles which puddle around the heel with a boxy blazer. Some labels are leaning into the Y2K era with baggy shapes and low-slung waistbands, which aren’t just for the brave, but don’t have the same versatility as the classic straight cut.  

Not only is the straight jean stylish, it suits all body shapes, too. “A straight cut is the most versatile and stylish pair of jeans. It’s still slim enough for skinny jean devotees, but the straight silhouette will balance curves and contours. Opt for a pair with a little stretch for maximum comfort too,” Gaffey says. 

Look to brands like Own, the denim range by Next that runs to a size 20. Good American, whose jeans are known for their sculpting abilities (the Good Curve straight leg jeans, €155, run up to a size 22; get them at Arnotts), we’ve heard good things about the newish Magic Shaping range from M&S; the Magic Shaping Straight Leg Jeans, €65, run up to a size 24. Meanwhile, petite frames will gravitate towards Grlfrnd, the denim label loved by Pernille Teisbaek and Gigi Hadid specialises in straight-leg jeans that won’t swamp smaller shapes. 

What about fit? “If you’re buying jeans online, always look at the material, if they are 100 per cent cotton, they usually will be more rigid and won’t stretch so they could be a slimmer fit, and you might have to size up. Adding spandex, elastane and lycra to a pair of jeans will ensure a bit of stretch,” Gaffey says.

“Just like fitting a bra, you can do the finger test when trying on a pair of jeans. If you can slot two fingers between your stomach and front waistband, they are a good fit; anymore they’ll be too big and run the risk of stretching,” Gaffey notes. 

Is denim au courant for after dark? Jeans for a night out are back in a big way – hold the fancy top, according to Barron. “On a night out, you have to wear what’s going to make you feel like your best, confident, self. It’s about wearing the perfect fitting jeans, a simple white tee, and a cool vintage belt – it never fails,” Barron says.

Vintage blue straight high-waisted jeans, €29.99, at H&M. 

Black Good Curve straight leg jeans, Good American, €155, at Arnotts. 

Black Shore low relaxed jeans, €89; www.arket.com.