Welcome to the most important battle in the world of jeans, bootcut vs flared, darlings of the denim industry and fashion enthusiasts!
This discussion over denim is a fight between the ’90s and the ’70s! Prepare to enter the fun denim discussion, where we’ll analyse the differences between these two classic looks, provide some amazing styling advice, and perhaps even provide an answer to the age-old query: which silhouette is better?
Understanding the Basic Differences Between Bootcut Jeans & Flared Jeans
The variety of cuts and styles of jeans available – from straight leg to boot cut to high-waisted to flare—can easily overwhelm a person shopping for denim.
What are Flared Jeans?
Flare jeans stand out from the others because of their dramatic width from the knee to the hem. While bootcut jeans obtain a flame-like form, the flare jeans are the most pronounced, making them look like a bell.
Women’s flared jeans are a denim style that is instantly recognised and has endured over time, giving off a distinctive look. The classic flared silhouette, a distinctive denim cut that keeps loyal to its origins, embraces free-flowing movement and bohemian elegance for the perfect vintage fit.
Sometimes referred to as bell bottoms or flares, flared jeans have a distinctive cut that clings to the thigh and widens from the knee downwards. They are usually high-rise. This retro denim fit had nothing on its entrance to the fashion world in the 1960s and 1970s. Originally worn by sailors for comfort and utility, it has risen in popularity.
Before significantly tapering outward from the knee, flared jeans should fit tightly to the thigh and sit pleasantly over the hips. The famous “flare” is formed by the extra broad fit that flares out in a bell-like shape from the knee down, giving the silhouette a roomier fit.
What are Bootcut Jeans?
For decades bootcut jeans have stayed popular as a timeless and versatile style of denim characterized by their unique cut getting tight to hips and thighs giving it an appealing shape like no other pair would do so to give one’s body true form. The leg lengthens outward from the knee, which results in a slight flare that distinguishes it from other designs like straight-leg or skinny jeans making it aesthetical and purposeful at the same time since it allows them to loosely fit onto boots hence dubbed as bootcut.
Bootcut jeans have existed as icons in the fashion industry since the 1960s and 1970s when they were first worn as trending outfits during the era. This meant that many people identified themselves with these pants especially those who needed something that showed freedom and followed of bohemian style of dressing. Therefore from time to time, these types of pants have been worn by different individuals including both men and women alike despite their small changes making them appear in new forms but maintaining their status quo in people’s closets because they could still be mixed up with other simple clothes.
Bootcut jeans are popular for being versatile. This means that they can be easily transformed according to the occasion. For instance, bootcut jeans can be combined with sneakers and a simple T-shirt if the desired outcome is casualness. If you are aiming at a smarter appearance, then you can wear them with high heels or a blouse which makes them posh; adding in their capacity to match different shoes like sandals, and boots among others that fit even stilettos.
Boot-cut jeans create a flattering appearance because of how they can balance out different sections of one’s body type. This minor flare at its nether part could give a person a feeling that his/her legs are longer than they were; at the same time allowing them to appear more evenly proportioned-making them especially good if one wants chic dressing in their day-to-day outfits.
Fit Type Differences
Bootcut and flare jeans have the same trouser leg line, but they are different in the whole fit and silhouette of clothes. Here are the main distinctions between bootcut and flare jeans:
Bootcut Jeans
- Fit:
Hips and Thighs: These areas are snug with bootcut jeans by fitting them through the hips and thighs, which gives a nice and neat appearance.
Knee Down: The leg starts to slightly flare out from the knee down to the hem, but the flare is subtle and not overly dramatic.
- Leg Opening:
The leg opening of bootcut jeans is wider than that of straight-leg jeans but not as wide as flare jeans; this minor flair is meant to provide sufficient allowance for a boot, which is why they are named so!
- Silhouette:
Boots-cut jeans are wider-legged than straight-leg jeans but they are not as wide as flare jeans. They give an elongated leg appearance. This is to allow space for a boot, hence the name.
Flare Jeans
- Fit:
Hips and Thighs: Flare jeans likewise hug the hips and thighs to accentuate the natural curves of the body.
Knee Down: The leg of the flare jeans broadens dramatically from the knee through to the hem, to draw more attention to a bigger and exaggerated flare than is the case with bootcut jeans.
- Leg Opening: Flare jeans have a significantly larger leg opening compared to bootcut jeans – most times they take on a design similar to a bell. It is this wide flare that sets flare jeans apart.
- Silhouette: The open-leggedness makes them look bold and stunning hence becoming associated with 60s/70s dressing style trends. They have an old-fashioned touch evoked by their flares and remain trendy.
How Each Style Fits Different Body Types And Occasions
Bootcut Fit for Different Body Types:
- Hourglass Figures: Bootcut jeans make an hourglass-shaped body with their natural curves being the middle. The waist is outlined by the hips and thighs slanting inwards towards it, while at the same time expanding outwards to create an equilibrium that spans front to back.
- Pear-Shaped Bodies: For pear-shaped bodies, fitting around the hip and thigh areas, bootcut jeans create a snug look with a neat finish. This completes everything that is being put on.
- Athletic Builds: The reason why bootcut jeans look lovely on athletic individuals is that they also elongate and add weight to such a formless shape.
- Petite Figures: Bootcut jeans can elongate the legs, making them a good choice for petite individuals. Pairing them with heels can further enhance this effect.
Occasions:
- Casual Wear: Bootcut jeans are perfect for everyday casual outfits. Match it with a plain t-shirt or sweater as well as sneakers or flats if you want the outfit to be less formal.
- Workwear: Your office’s dress code allows you to smart-casually dress in dark blue bootcut jeans, a blouse, and a blazer.
- Evening Out: If you are going out for the night, wear bootcut jeans fashionably and pair them with a leather jacket, stylish top or sandals/heel boots.
- Outdoor Activities: Bootcut jeans are ideal for outdoor activities when they are loose-fitting and allow enough coverage.
Flared Fit for Different Body Types:
- Hourglass Figures: Flare jeans enhance the curves of an hourglass figure, highlighting the waist and adding drama to the overall look. The dramatic flare can create a balanced and feminine silhouette.
- Pear-Shaped Bodies: Flare jeans are ideal for pear-shaped bodies as the wide leg opening balances out wider hips, creating a more proportionate appearance. They draw attention away from the hips and thighs.
- Tall and Lean Figures: Tall and lean individuals can carry off flare jeans exceptionally well, as the dramatic flare accentuates long legs. The fit through the hips and thighs adds curves.
- Petite Figures: Petite individuals can also wear flare jeans, especially when paired with high heels or platform shoes to elongate the legs. The high-waist versions can further enhance height.
Occasions:
- Retro or Themed Events: Flare jeans are perfect for retro or themed events where a 70s-inspired look is desired. Pair them with a flowy blouse and platform shoes for a complete vintage ensemble.
- Casual Day Out: For a casual day out, flare jeans can be styled with a tucked-in t-shirt or tank top and flat sandals or wedges. Add a wide-brimmed hat for a bohemian touch.
- Music Festivals: Flare jeans are a staple at music festivals, offering comfort and style. Pair them with a crop top, fringe vest, and chunky accessories for a festival-ready outfit.
- Date Night: For a date night, flare jeans can be dressed up with a fitted blouse, a statement belt, and high heels. The dramatic silhouette adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Tips On How To Style Bootcut Jeans For Different Occasions
Styling bootcut jeans can be both fun and versatile, as they can be dressed up or down for various occasions. Here are some tips on how to style bootcut jeans effectively:
Casual Look
- T-Shirts and Tank Tops: Pair your bootcut jeans with a simple t-shirt or tank top for a relaxed, casual look. Tuck in the shirt slightly at the front for a more polished appearance. Choose fitted tops to balance the slight flare of the jeans.
- Layer with Jackets: Add a denim jacket, leather jacket, or a casual blazer to elevate your casual outfit. For cooler weather, a cosy cardigan or chunky knit sweater works well.
Smart-Casual Look
- Blouses and Button-Down Shirts: Opt for a crisp white blouse or a tailored button-down shirt. Tuck it in to highlight your waist and create a streamlined look. Choose blouses with interesting details like ruffles, lace, or patterns for a more stylish touch.
- Layer with Blazers: A fitted blazer can instantly make your bootcut jeans look more polished and professional. For a chic touch, choose a blazer in a bold colour or pattern.
Night Out Look
- Stylish Tops: Pair your bootcut jeans with a stylish top, such as a silky blouse, an off-the-shoulder top, or a sequined camisole. Tucking in the top can create a more sophisticated silhouette.
- Layer with Statement Outerwear: Add a statement coat, a faux fur jacket, or a tailored blazer for a night out. Choose outerwear with interesting textures or embellishments to stand out.
Bohemian Look
- Flowy Tops: Choose flowy, bohemian-style tops, such as peasant blouses or tunics. Look for tops with embroidery, lace details, or bell sleeves for a true boho vibe.
- Layer with Accessories: Add boho-inspired accessories like long necklaces, layered bracelets, and wide-brimmed hats. A fringed bag or a crochet vest can also enhance the bohemian feel.
Tips On Styling Flare Jeans
Styling flare jeans can create a chic, retro-inspired look that can be both casual and sophisticated. Here are some tips on how to style flare jeans for various occasions:
Casual Look
- Basic T-Shirts: Pair your flare jeans with a simple, fitted t-shirt or tank top. Tuck it in to define your waist and create a clean silhouette. Opt for neutral colours or classic stripes for a timeless look.
- Layer with Jackets: Add a denim jacket, leather jacket, or a casual bomber jacket to complete the outfit. In cooler weather, a cosy cardigan or an oversized sweater works well.
Smart-Casual Look
Blouses and Button-Down Shirts: Choose a fitted blouse or a tailored button-down shirt. Tuck it in to highlight your waist and complement the flare of the jeans. Look for shirts with interesting details like ruffles, lace, or bold patterns.
Night Out Look
Stylish Tops: Pair your flare jeans with a stylish top, such as a silky blouse, an off-the-shoulder top, or a sequined camisole. Tuck in the top or opt for a cropped style to show off the high-waisted flare jeans.
Footwear Pairings
Shoes For Flare Jeans
Choosing the right footwear to pair with flare jeans can significantly enhance your overall look, ensuring a stylish and cohesive outfit for various occasions. For a casual look, classic white sneakers or low-profile sneakers work well, offering a relaxed vibe while ensuring the hem of the jeans just grazes the top of the sneakers to avoid dragging. Simple flat sandals or flip-flops are perfect for a laid-back summer style, with minimal detailing to keep the focus on the jeans. Casual loafers or slip-on shoes can add a touch of sophistication to a casual outfit, with neutral colours keeping the look understated and stylish.
Shoes For Bootcut Jeans
Combining boot-cut jeans with shoes can help you look good and comfortable on any occasion. Pairing footwear with bootcut jeans offers versatility and style for various occasions, making it simple to create polished or relaxed looks with the correct pair of shoes. For a casual ensemble, sneakers or flat sandals complement bootcut jeans well, providing comfort and a relaxed vibe. Sneakers, whether they are classic and white or the low-profile cool, go great with boot-cut denim jeans whose hems just barely touch the highest points of the sneakers thus giving a neat appearance. Flat sandals are a more relaxed choice and come in handy during summertime; they do not have much on them so all attention is directed to your jeans.
Conclusion
To sum it up, bootcut jeans bring out a subtle flare that fits various body types which gives out a balanced silhouette while worn in either informal or formal situations flare jeans on the other hand have a more pronounced flare, especially from the knee down which is perfect for creating strong retro-inspired appearances that affirm a point. Whether you choose bootcut jeans for the basic and introductions as they are often referred to or flare jeans for an overdramatic touch; they both bring in a different aura and appeal in someone’s dressing wardrobe with the difference in fashion taste and personal styles.
Related Jeans Blogs You May Read :
How to style straight fit jeans | How to style wide leg jeans | Blue jeans with matching shirts | How to wear style blue jeans | Light green shirt with jeans | How to pair shoes with jeans | How to pair denim jacket with jeans | How to style bell bottom jeans | How to style flared jeans | How to style baggy jeans | Cargo vs baggy jeans | Difference between baggy jeans and wide leg Jeans | How to style boyfriend jeans | Joggers vs jeans | How to wear Jeans With Sneakers | How make style skinny jeans baggy | Women shoes to wear with jeans | Style baggy jeans and oversized t- shirt | Baggy jeans vs regular jeans | Trendy ideas to reuse old jeans | Best tops to wear with jeans | 10 types of women’s Jeans | Types of men’s Jeans | Jeans and tops combination | How to style high waist jeans in different Ways | How to style high waist jeans | Black jeans outfits for men | How to style boyfriend jeans | Types of jeans for girls | Sweaters with jeans outfit | How to style white jeans for men | Black skinny jeans outfits | Trendy kurtis to wear with jeans | Jeans and shirt combinations | White shirt blue jeans style guide | Crop top outfits with high waisted jeans | Different types of jeans | Waist coat with jeans outfit ideas | How to style blazers with jeans for men | Casual wear with jeans for men | Ripped jeans outfit ideas
Related Product For Women’s Jeans:
Women’s Relaxed Fit Jeans | Cargo Jeans for Women | Women Cotton Jeans | Mom Jeans for Women | Women’s Loose Jeans | Bell Bottom Jeans | Stretchable Jeans | Women Straight Leg Jeans | Plus Size Jeans for Women | Coloured Jeans | Black Jeans for Women | Green Jeans | Baggy Jeans for Women | Women’s Blue Jeans | Grey Jeans for Women | White Jeans for Women | Women’s Bootcut Jeans | Regular Fit Jeans for Women | Women Slim Fit Jeans | Distressed Jeans for Women | Women’s Cropped Jeans | Balloon Jeans for Women | Vintage Jeans for Women | Comfortable Jeans | Women’s Carpenter Jeans
