The Return of Jeggings: Is the 2000s Fashion Trend Making a Comeback?
The fashion world is an ever-changing landscape, where trends rise and fall with the seasons. However, some styles have a way of weaving their way back into our hearts — and our closets. One such revival making waves is the controversial jegging, a beloved millennial favorite that, for better or worse, is stepping back into the spotlight. Could it be that we’re reliving 2017 all over again?
The Jegging Resurrection
Uniqlo has taken the lead in this unexpected revival, unveiling a new line of EZY Ultra Stretch Jeans. Priced at a modest $50, this unisex offering promises the “feel of sweats” while boasting the appearance of classic denim. Available in five versatile colors, these jeggings have ignited a social media frenzy, with users openly expressing their disbelief and nostalgic sentiments about the style making a comeback.
Comments from the Frontlines
“So jeggings are back, cool,” one Instagram user lamented, while another quipped, “Is it 2017 again?” The playful banter among followers hints at a collective eyebrow raise, as fashion enthusiasts grapple with this unexpected return.
Moreover, the combination of baggy silhouettes and comfort-driven designs aligns closely with current trends, leading to the rebranding of jeggings that look less like second-skin denims and more like nostalgic loungewear pieces.
Image Credit: Joanne Dale – stock.adobe.com
The Broader Context: Skinny Jeans and Nostalgia
Interestingly, the resurgence of jeggings dovetails perfectly with the skeletal revival of skinny jeans. Only a short while ago, these figures-hugging bottoms were canceled by the Gen Z cohort. Flash forward, and influencers and celebrities alike, including the likes of Alix Earle and Bella Hadid, have rekindled their love affair with the skinny cut.
What Experts Are Saying
“Fashion trends are cyclical, and what’s old often becomes new again,” says Luke Raymond, Farfetch’s senior menswear editor. He emphasizes that the rarity of seeing skinny jeans in everyday settings only fuels their desirability. With the rising popularity of the #indiesleaze aesthetic, the return of the jegging seems undeniably poised for a perfect storm of fashion reenactment.
Image Credit: Uniqlo
The Evolution of the Jegging
Originally, jeggings were synonymous with comfort, merging the snugness of leggings with the aesthetic allure of skinny jeans. Today’s version reflects a noticeable shift, emphasizing a more relaxed fit that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing style. Brands like Rag & Bone have pioneered this transition, introducing wide-leg hybrids that create a casual yet chic alternative.
On platforms like TikTok, fashionistas are hailing these modern jeggings as a “game changer,” celebrating their soft, cozy construction as a solution to the struggles of stiff, unforgiving denim.
The Office Trendsetter
The demand for jeggings — particularly those that masquerade as traditional denim — has seen a spike in recent years. Just this year, Gap released their own version, dubbed “jean adjacent,” which saw instant sell-outs thanks to their office-friendly appeal. Comfort has become a priority in workplace attire, and stylish yet relaxed fits have become the new norm.
Stylist Liz Teich notes, “The office landscape has become increasingly casual since the pandemic, allowing for a broader interpretation of acceptable workwear.”
Image Credit: Uniqlo
Conclusion: Embracing the Nostalgia
As we observe the reappearance of jeggings in our wardrobes, it’s clear that this fashion trend is more than just a quirky throwback. It’s a testament to our ability to embrace comfort, nostalgia, and even a little bit of fun. Whether you choose to don the sleek fit of skinny jeans or opt for the relaxed vibe of modern jeggings, one thing’s for sure: fashion in 2024 is all about blending style with ease.
So, are you ready to welcome back the jegging into your wardrobe? Let us know your thoughts — is it a fashion faux pas or the ultimate in comfy-cool?
For more on evolving trends in fashion, check out GQ and The Post.
