While my loyalty to straight-leg jeans runs deep, and my devotion to baggy pairs is unwavering, when I want my denim to take centre stage rather than play a supporting role, I find myself reaching for one silhouette in particular: the cropped flare.
With its distinctly retro energy and effortless spring-ready feel, this shape skims the leg before subtly kicking out at the knee and finishing just above the ankle—a flattering cut that delivers equal parts polish and nostalgia. A staple of the ’70s, the cropped flare has drifted in and out of fashion ever since, but my trend radar tells me it’s gearing up for a major resurgence.
Aligning perfectly with the wider flare revival that’s been gaining traction—thanks in part to the return of boho influences—this chic iteration feels tailor-made for spring. Lighter, breezier and easier to style as temperatures rise, cropped flares slot seamlessly into transitional wardrobes. Pair them with chunky clogs or Mary Janes for a playful, vintage-inspired look, or opt for a pointed-toe heel or streamlined boot to instantly elevate the silhouette.
A long-standing favourite among the French—who, let’s be honest, know a thing or two about great denim—this timeless style is poised to hit the mainstream in a big way. If you’re ready to get ahead of the curve, scroll on to shop the best cropped flared jeans of the season.
SHOP CROPPED FLARED JEANS:
H&M
Wide High Cropped Jeans
These come in UK sizes 4—30.
Mango
Sienna Flared Cropped Jeans
Style with ballet flats or pair with a sleek leather loafer.
Sézane
Laurence Trousers
These are cut to a mid-rise finish for a comfortable fit.
Mother
The Hustler Ankle Fray
In my opinion, Mother’s denim is some of the best out there.
Maeve
The Colette Denim Cropped Wide-Leg Jeans
The front pockets give these a chic, ’70s inspired energy.
Jigsaw
Ines Kick Flare Jean
This inky shade of denim is so easy to slip into a capsule wardrobe.
Veronica Beard
Carolina Skinny Kick-Flare Jean
Style with heeled ballet flats for a French-inspired finish.