How to recognise it
The rise is high, at or above the navel, the hips and thighs roomier, and the hem narrower and often ankle length. Usually in rigid cotton denim without elastane.
Where it comes from
The cut was normal in the 1980s and 1990s. The name was made famous in 2003 by a Saturday Night Live sketch, Mom Jeans, and they came back in the mid-2010s.
Who and when it suits
Comfortable every day, they go with T-shirts, tucked-in shirts, knits and trainers. The high rise marks the waist.
Variations and look-alikes
They come in light or dark washes, ripped or clean, full or cropped, with a zip or button fly. Some have a little stretch for comfort. They differ from straight jeans in the high rise and tapered hem, and from barrel jeans in not having curved legs.
How to style it
- Tuck in a T-shirt or shirt.
- Roll the hem above the ankle.
- With trainers or loafers.
- With a leather belt and blazer, mom jeans work in a relaxed office.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01How are mom jeans different from boyfriend jeans?
Mom jeans are high-waisted and taper; boyfriend jeans sit lower and are loose all the way.
02Where does the name mom jeans come from?
It was made famous by a 2003 Saturday Night Live sketch.