The 5 Chic Ways to Style Ripped Jeans in 2026

Denim is a very interesting topic right now. Unlike previous seasons, there aren’t one or two silhouettes that are definitively “in,” and there aren’t many styles that are truly “out.” Perhaps the exception is extremely skinny jeans that cover the ankles. too much Closely. This means today’s denim lovers have the freedom to embrace everything from stovepipe styles to frayed hems and even ripped jeans. Yes, as the headline of this article says, ripped jeans teeth It’s becoming a trend.

From Oslo and Paris to New York and Portland, fashion insiders are rocking distressed denim to look very 2026. The key is to choose a loose, relaxed style with tasteful rips, mainly at the knees. The common feature of all styles is ease of use. No outfit is too sophisticated or too casual. It’s a well-balanced mix of structured and relaxed, fitted and oversized, and a little nostalgic. Keep scrolling to find out exactly what fashion insiders are pairing with ripped jeans.

polo knit + ripped jeans

Polo knit is anywhere Right now. We’ve seen it styled with elegant separates like pencil skirts and tailored pants, while we’ve also seen it paired with denim like ripped jeans. The best part is that there are countless polo knits available, offering a wide range of styles for every type of dresser.

Shop the look:

Open toe kitten heels + ripped jeans

Content creator and accessory designer based in Oslo Annabelle Rosendahl He is a fashion expert who always knows which shoes go best with which jeans. Ripped jeans are best paired with open-toed kitten-heel sandals, especially high thong sandals or minimalist styles with a single strap at the top of the foot, she asserts.

Shop the look:

Graphic T-shirt + ripped jeans

The combination of ripped jeans and a graphic T-shirt may seem outdated, but it can be if styled incorrectly. Instead of pairing skinny ripped jeans with a super oversized t-shirt, try pairing relaxed jeans with a fitted graphic t-shirt. suede jacket Add a touch of sophistication to your car coat by adding loafers or kitten heels.

Shop the look:

Collarless jacket + ripped jeans

(Image source: Getty Images)

At Who What Wear, our favorite way to style ripped jeans is to combine denim with unexpected elements: sophisticated and elegant. a Collarless jackets are a great example of this, as seen on Parisian fashion figures. At first glance, this combination may seem conflicting. One is distressed and casual, the other is clean and structured. But the contrast is exactly what makes it look functional and chic.

Shop the look:

Retro sneakers + ripped jeans

In many European cities, the most common way to style ripped jeans is now Sneakers with a retro feel. This is because the sneakers soften the denim with sporty elements, keeping it from leaning too far into grunge territory. In places like Copenhagen and London, which favor comfort, clean lines, and subtle nods to nostalgia, this combination feels natural.

Shop the look:

Buy ripped jeans: