How To Decide Between Bootcut, Straight Leg, and Skinny Jeans (Once and for All)

Jeans are arguably the most classic clothing garment of all time: Pair them with a plain white tee, and you have a combo that never goes out of style. Still, to feel confident in a relaxed denim ensemble, it’s important to find silhouettes that suit you. If you’re looking for a pair of jeans that fits closely to your figure, three styles reign supreme: straight leg, bootcut, and skinny jeans. While straight leg silhouettes are often considered the ultimate denim staple, in 2025, we’re witnessing the return of the early aughts bootcut jeans (thanks, Kendrick Lamar) and 2010s skinny styles.

But what differentiates the three staple silhouettes, and which is right for you? To help you determine just that, we chatted with denim expert Vivian Rivetti, the Global VP of Design at Wrangler & Lee. Ahead, learn the differences between straight leg, bootcut, and skinny jeans, complete with tips on how to work each into your wardrobe. 

What Are Straight Leg Jeans?

Straight leg jeans are true to their name, in that the style showcases a straight, non-contoured silhouette. “Straight leg jeans maintain the same width from thigh to ankle, creating a clean, classic column,” Rivetti explains. Considered a heritage fit true to authentic Western wear, straight leg jeans have long been popular for their fuss-free, boot-friendly design.

Best for: Anyone and everyone. “This is what I consider a truly universal silhouette; it works across all body types,” Rivetti says. “Curvier figures appreciate how straight legs balance the hips and create beautiful proportions. Athletic builds find they complement naturally straight lines. Taller frames can honor their height without feeling overwhelmed by excess fabric.” Ultimately, if you’re going for a timeless denim ensemble, Rivetti recommends a pair of straight leg jeans.

Pro Tip: For a modern and refined take, Rivetti says to opt for a longer inseam. Not only will longer straight leg jeans pair better with boots (especially those with heels), but they’ll also accentuate your leg length.

What Are Bootcut Jeans?

Over the years, form-fitting silhouettes have become more ubiquitous, and bootcut jeans are just one of the outcomes. “Bootcut jeans are fitted through the hip and thigh, then gently flare from the knee down,” Rivetti shares. “They were originally designed to accommodate cowboy boots, hence the name.” 

Keep in mind, though: Many modern bootcut jeans are more relaxed, as oversized denim trends are also in full swing. Even in drapier designs, the bootcut taper is visible.

Best for: Anyone who likes to wear boots, as well as those looking to accentuate the length and shape of their legs. “Bootcuts offer tremendous versatility, especially for anyone wanting to create the visual effect of longer legs,” Rivetti explains. “And naturally, if someone regularly wears boots, these are specifically engineered for that purpose.”

Pro Tip: While you can pair bootcut jeans with any footwear, Rivetti says they look best with boots. “Work and own the look: It’s very cowboy/girl cool,” she says.

What Are Skinny Jeans?

On the most fitted end of the spectrum, we have skinny jeans—a 2010s staple that’s back in a big way for fall 2025. “Skinny jeans are fitted through the entire leg from hip to ankle, creating a streamlined silhouette that hugs your natural shape,” Rivetti says. “They typically sit at mid-rise or high-rise and are tapered at the ankle.”

Best for: Don’t be fooled by the name—skinny jeans aren’t reserved for a single body type. It’s all about finding a pair that works for you: “Skinny jeans are actually incredibly versatile,” Rivetti says. “They’re particularly effective at creating a long, lean line on petite frames, which elongates the silhouette. For those with straighter or more balanced proportions from hip to ankle, skinny jeans add visual shape and definition.” If you have a curvier silhouette, skinny jeans show it off by hugging every contour. “They’re also wonderful for anyone who wants a sleek, streamlined look that pairs easily with everything from boots to sneakers,” Rivetti adds.

Pro Tip: Not sure you can pull them off? Rivetti has some hacks. “First, I always recommend choosing stretch denim: It makes a significant difference in both comfort and fit, creating a forgiving silhouette that actually moves with you throughout the day,” she reveals. “I also suggest opting for a dark wash, which creates a streamlined effect.” From there, consider what will make you feel most comfortable. According to Rivetti, high-rise styles tend to be the most satisfying to wear, as they smooth and support the midsection without gaping. “If someone feels they’re too fitted, pairing skinny jeans with longer tops, tunics, or oversized sweaters that hit at the hip or mid-thigh creates a more wearable proportion,” she adds. 

How to Choose

The best pair of jeans is subjective. Rivetti says the key to determining which silhouette is most ideal for you boils down to occasion, personal style, comfort, body type, and shoe choice.

Occasion

Where you plan to wear your jeans can quickly narrow down your options. “Lifestyle and occasion are more significant than many people realize; jeans for ranch work require different considerations than office wear or weekend activities,” Rivetti says. “Whether someone will be sitting, standing for extended periods, or moving around actively should influence their silhouette choice.”

Personal Style

What’s your personal style? Are you laid-back or more refined? “Some gravitate toward classic, timeless aesthetics, while others enjoy contemporary trends,” Rivetti says. “I encourage people to consider what’s already in their wardrobe and whether they lean toward Western heritage looks or modern casual styling.”

Comfort

Are you cool with standing jeans (as many folks seem to be on socials) or do you want to be able to comfortably sit in them, too? “Some prefer the structure of rigid denim while others want the flexibility of stretch, and the rise that feels comfortable varies considerably from person to person,” Rivetti says. 

Body Type

Your body shouldn’t keep you from wearing silhouettes you find intriguing. “Body proportions come into play, though not in the prescriptive way many expect,” Rivetti says. “It’s less about following strict rules and more about identifying which silhouette makes someone feel most authentically themselves.” Her top tip? Be generous with your inseam, no matter which style you choose. “Inseam length is particularly crucial because it dramatically affects how a silhouette appears,” she explains.

Shoe Choice

You’ll also want to consider which shoes you want to wear with your jeans, such as sneakers, flats, sandals, heels, or boots. “Footwear is another practical consideration, as the shoes someone wears most frequently should inform their choice of hem length and leg opening,” Rivetti says. Again, there’s no set rule here—it’s about what looks and feels most comfortable for you. For example, do you want your whole shoe on display, or just the toe? Skinny jeans will show off your shoes the most, while straight leg and bootcut jeans are more about drawing the eye to your legs. 

Wash

Lastly, narrow down your preferred denim wash. “Darker washes are more versatile and create a slimming effect, while lighter washes and distressing read as more casual, lived-in, and loved,” Rivetti shares.

The Final Takeaway

Straight leg, bootcut, and skinny jeans are three of the most iconic denim silhouettes, and they all work on a myriad of body shapes. It’s all about finding a pair that checks all your boxes: Generally speaking, stretchy denim tends to be most comfortable, while rigid denim tends to look most classic. Meanwhile, bootcut jeans often offer the best of both worlds, with stretchy, form-fitting hips and thighs, and relaxed calves and ankles that lend to a classic boot pairing. Each style is versatile and has a time and a place, so rock whichever one (or multiple!) best complements your taste with confidence.