Boho Must-Have: Chic Boyfriend Jeans for Women

The arrival of warmer weather has us shedding our layers and reaching for effortless pieces that emphasize elevated style and versatility. Those qualities are at the core of Johnny Was denim styles, which include flare, wide-leg, straight-leg, and women’s cropped jeans in various weathered washes. Our fresh-cut denim also includes several takes on the essential boyfriend jean, a fashion must for any chic California boho wardrobe. From classic to vintage-inspired to classic white jeans, our signature denim clothing line offers several variations of the iconic boyfriend jean style. Learn about this beloved style and how to incorporate it into your wardrobe.

PALERMO SLIM BOYFRIEND JEAN    I    BARCELONA BOYFRIEND JEAN
PALERMO SLIM BOYFRIEND JEAN    I    BARCELONA BOYFRIEND JEAN

What Are Boyfriend Jeans for Women?

As their moniker implies, boyfriend jeans are a silhouette of jean inspired by menswear. They are defined by their relaxed and oversized fit, mimicking the style of jeans you might borrow from your boyfriend’s closet. Boyfriend jeans are characteristically roomier through the hips and thighs, with a straight or slightly tapered leg that’s cropped above the ankle. This silhouette offers a perfect blend of comfort and laid-back style. The looser fit not only enhances comfort but also promotes better air circulation around the legs, making them ideal for warmer spring weather.

Cropped boyfriend jeans trace their influence to a long sartorial tradition of women’s fashion playing with menswear looks. Apex moments in this history include Marilyn Monroe’s denim-on-denim cowgirl look in The Misfits, Kate Moss’s androgynous ads for Calvin Klein jeans in the ’90s, and Katie Holmes’s baggy, low-rise boyfriend jeans street style circa 2008.

One of the key appeals of cropped boyfriend jeans is their versatility in flattering various body types. Their cut can complement plus-sized figures by balancing proportions, while also offering a comfortable option for petite frames without overwhelming them. This adaptability makes boyfriend jeans a favored choice for women seeking both ease and style in their everyday wear.

BARCELONA BOYFRIEND JEAN    I    THE BRAIDED WIDE LEG JEAN
BARCELONA BOYFRIEND JEAN    I    THE BRAIDED WIDE LEG JEAN

The Elegance of Women's White Jeans for Spring

Incorporating white denim into your fashion repertoire is another chic way to lighten up your spring wardrobe. Fresh and versatile, women’s white jeans go with everything from casual tees to blouses. You might try pairing your white denim with a floral chiffon blouse or embroidered tunic for the perfect spring boho vibe. Complete the look with a leather sandal or espadrilles, and you’re ready for any casual-chic occasion, from wine-tasking to garden parties to brunch.

For those who might be afraid to wear white, caring for white denim really doesn’t have to be intimidating. Some simple steps are all you need to keep them looking fresh and bright. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure to wash your white jeans separately from your colored clothes. Secondly, get in the habit of keeping a stain stick in your purse. Treating stains promptly will do wonders for keeping your white jeans looking new. And finally, if at any time your white denim does start to look a little dingy, it’s nothing a little baking soda can’t fix. Mix it with warm water and give your jeans a good soak to get them back to looking their best.

Making a Statement with Ripped Boyfriend Jeans

Yet another take on boyfriend jeans, ripped boyfriend jeans offer an edgier, more casual option. Deliberately distressed with holes, tears, and fraying, ripped boyfriend jeans are more rock-and-roll than garden party, and are best suited for day-to-day looks and more casual events like laid-back social gatherings or a music festival.

What Tops to Wear with Ripped Boyfriend Jeans?

Because ripped boyfriend jeans make such a strong statement all on their own, a simple, chic tee or tank top makes an ideal match for them, allowing the jeans to stand out. If you want a more elevated look, try an embroidered tunic top or blouse. Finally, statement belts and boho jewelry are perfect accents for a finished ensemble.

MELBOURNE WIDE LEG JEAN
MELBOURNE WIDE LEG JEAN

Investing in Comfortable Relaxed Fit Women's Jeans

Between their easy comfort and versatile style, the benefits of relaxed-fit denim are abundant. Their loose fit makes them an ideal choice for easy movement and all-day comfort even in the warmest of seasons. And their versatility makes them a wardrobe workhorse, able to go from a farmer’s market jaunt to a garden party fete with just the change of your top.

Indeed, whether flared, wide-leg, mom jean, or boyfriend jean, quality denim can really serve as a closet staple, so investing in a well-made product will pay off for seasons to come. You’ll want to look for factors like sturdy stitching that stands up to stress, elevated design details (think copper buttons and rivets), and high-quality materials that feel luxurious. Our signature Johnny Was denim line, for example, is made from ultra-soft indigo Tencel, comfort stretch denim, and organic cotton fibers. This all adds up to a beautiful product that will stand the test of time. All Johnny Was denim is designed and produced with the environment in mind, as well, with washes that use less water, organic fibers, and factories with rigorous social and compliance standards. So you can feel good in every way about wearing our boho jeans.