After years of skinny jeans dominating my closet, I found myself completely smitten when flare jeans made their triumphant return to fashion.
There’s something incredibly freeing about the way these wide-leg beauties move and flow, bringing back that effortless 70s charm we’ve all been craving.
What I love most about flares is their incredible adaptability – I can throw on a simple tee for grocery runs or dress them up with heels for dinner dates.
The challenge many of us face, though, is figuring out exactly what to wear with flare jeans to create those perfectly balanced, flattering silhouettes.
Through countless styling experiments and fashion mishaps, I’ve learned the secrets to making these retro-inspired pieces work for modern life.
List of 11 Stylish Outfit Ideas with Flare Jeans
These versatile combinations will help you style flare jeans for any occasion, from casual weekends to polished evening events.
1. Pair with a Fitted Turtleneck for a Sleek Look
A fitted turtleneck creates the perfect balance against flare jeans’ wide silhouette.
This combination works beautifully during cooler months, offering both style and warmth.
The snug top contrasts nicely with the flowing bottom, creating a flattering shape. Complete this look with heeled boots to add height and sophistication to your overall appearance.
2. Go Boho with a Flowy Peasant Blouse
Channel retro 70s vibes by pairing flare jeans with a flowing peasant blouse.
This combination captures the bohemian spirit perfectly. Layer on chunky jewelry, stack bracelets, and add suede boots to complete the look.
This outfit works wonderfully for casual weekend activities, farmers markets, or relaxed social gatherings where comfort meets effortless style.
3. Rock a Cropped Jacket or Blazer
A cropped jacket or blazer creates a defined waistline that flatters your figure beautifully. Try denim-on-denim for a coordinated look, or choose bold colors for contrast.
This versatile combination works perfectly during transitional seasons when you need light layering.
The shorter length of the jacket highlights your waist while maintaining proportional balance.
4. Keep It Casual with a Graphic Tee
Graphic tees offer the perfect casual foundation for flare jeans. Tuck the shirt in to define your waist and create a polished silhouette.
This effortless combination works for daily errands, coffee dates, or casual hangouts. Finish with comfortable sneakers for day activities or platform sandals to add height and femininity to your look.
5. Add Edge with a Leather Jacket
Combine retro flare jeans with a modern leather jacket for an edgy contrast. Layer over a simple tank or basic tee to keep the focus on the outerwear.
This combination works for concerts, date nights, or anytime you want an attitude in your outfit. Complete with ankle boots or heels depending on your desired level of sophistication.
6. Polish Your Look with a Silk Camisole
A silk camisole instantly dresses up casual flare jeans for evening occasions.
This combination works perfectly for dinner dates, cocktail hours, or nights out. Add strappy heels to lengthen your legs and carry a clutch for sophistication.
Choose delicate jewelry pieces to maintain the refined mood without overwhelming the outfit’s clean lines.
7. Style with a Button-Down Shirt
A classic button-down shirt offers versatile styling options with flare jeans. Try tying it at the waist or tucking it in for different looks.
This combination transitions seamlessly from office settings to weekend brunches.
Pair with comfortable loafers for day wear or block heels for a more polished appearance that works in professional environments.
8. Go Cozy with an Oversized Sweater
An oversized sweater creates a cozy, relaxed vibe when paired with high-waisted flare jeans.
Use the French tuck method to define your waist while maintaining comfort.
This combination is perfect for fall and winter months when warmth is essential. Complete with ankle booties or chunky heels to add structure to the relaxed silhouette.
9. Embrace Summer with a Tank Top
Simple tank tops are ideal for warm weather styling with flare jeans. Keep the look fresh and breezy for outdoor activities.
Add a wide-brimmed straw hat for sun protection and style, then finish with comfortable sandals.
This combination works perfectly for music festivals, beach trips, vacation days, or any summer adventure requiring comfortable movement.
10. Layer with a Longline Cardigan
A flowing longline cardigan complements flare jeans’ silhouette beautifully.
The layered look creates visual interest while maintaining comfort. Choose neutral colors for maximum versatility across your wardrobe.
Layer over a fitted basic tee and add ankle boots to ground the flowing elements. This combination works well for transitional weather and casual occasions.
11. Try a Bodysuit for a Streamlined Look
Bodysuits provide a tucked-in appearance without creating bulk around the waist. This creates clean lines that work especially well with high-waisted flare jeans.
The streamlined top balances the volume of the flared bottom perfectly.
Finish with statement accessories and heels to create a polished look that works for various occasions from casual to dressy.
Flare Jeans Styling Tips (Bonus Section)
Best Shoes to Wear with Flare Jeans
- Platform shoes and heeled boots add height and create a long, lean line
- Chunky sneakers offer a trendy, casual vibe that balances the wide leg opening
- Pointed-toe heels or ankle boots with slight heels work well for dressier occasions
- Avoid flat shoes that disappear under the wide hem and make legs appear shorter
- Choose footwear that maintains proper proportions with the flare silhouette
What to Avoid
- Skip oversized, boxy tops that add unnecessary bulk to your frame
- Avoid wide belts that compete with the jeans’ natural waistline emphasis
- Steer clear of busy patterns on both top and bottom creating visual chaos
- Heavy, chunky jewelry can overpower the overall look
- Focus on fitted or semi-fitted tops that balance the wide bottom hem instead
How to Choose the Right Flare for Your Body Type
- Petite frames should choose high-waisted styles with moderate flares
- Taller women can handle dramatic, wide-leg flares beautifully
- Curvier hips work best with flares that start widening at the knee
- Straighter body types benefit from more pronounced flares for added curves
- Consider your proportions when selecting the degree of flare
Conclusion
Through my styling adventures with flare jeans, I’ve come to appreciate just how incredibly versatile these pieces truly are.
From my morning coffee runs in a simple tee to elegant dinner dates with silk camisoles, flares have become my go-to choice for almost every occasion.
I encourage you to experiment with these outfit combinations and make them your own – add your personal flair, mix textures, and most importantly, wear what makes you feel confident.
Remember, the best outfits with flare jeans are the ones that reflect your unique style and personality.
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the fun, flowing movement that only flares can provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tops work best with flare jeans?
Fitted tops like turtlenecks, bodysuits, and tucked-in blouses create the perfect balance with wide-leg bottoms. Avoid oversized or boxy tops that can make your silhouette appear unbalanced and overwhelming.
Can I wear flare jeans to work?
Yes, flare jeans ca
- n work in casual office environments when paired with polished pieces like blazers or button-down shirts. Choose darker washes and style them with loafers or block heels for a professional appearance.
What shoes should I avoid with flare jeans?
Skip completely flat shoes like ballet flats that get lost under the wide hem and can make your legs look shorter. Also avoid shoes with thin ankle straps that compete with the jeans’ flowing lines.
How do I choose the right flare size for my height?
Petite women should opt for moderate flares to avoid being overwhelmed by too much fabric. Taller women can confidently wear dramatic wide-leg flares that complement their longer proportions beautifully.
Are flare jeans suitable for all seasons?
Absolutely! Pair them with tanks and sandals for summer, add sweaters and boots for fall, or layer with jackets for winter styling. The key is choosing appropriate fabrics and layering pieces for each season’s weather conditions.
