2 min readJeans are a foundational component of most wardrobes, but between classic silhouettes—like straight-legs and flares—and more controversial ones (skinny jeans, anyone?), it can be hard to decide what variation is worth the investment. Well, we have one more style to add to the furor: drawstring jeans. Among mixed reviews, we’d like to make a case in their favor.
Characterized simply by a cord tied around the waist for an adjustable fit, this style pulls from loungewear signatures and has a more casual feel to it, making it a bit of a polarizing figure. Drawstring jeans started making the rounds in 2024, but after appearing on spring/summer 2025 runways at Rachel Comey and Gabriela Hearst, it looks like this particular trend has—sorry in advance—legs.
Rachel Comey ss25
Gabriela Hearst ss25
Comfort in denim as a broader trend has been on the uptick—the buzziest silhouette of the year is the roomy barrel leg, after all. (In a more questionable take on denim that some, this writer included, are steadfastly ignoring, sweatpant jeans also exist.) But in reality, the best drawstring styles are something of a hybrid. Yes, the silhouettes are looser, but their non-stretch denim fabric gives them a bit more structure. You get the rigid feel of a traditional jean, with the decorative flair of a ribbon tie. Win-win.
What’s more, they can be styled in a variety of ways. Go the classic route with a pair of high-waisted blue jeans, courtesy of Citizens of Humanity or La Ligne. Try your hand at a fun silhouette, like Gap’s take on the horseshoe jean. Rag & Bone’s comfy pair is the perfect pairing for a ribbed tank top and leather sandals come summer. Or, use the trend as an excuse to test out an unexpected color or wash. New York brand Still Here’s signature piece is its drawstring-toggle trousers, available in a range of shades from brick red to stone gray.
Convinced yet? Inject a bit of playfulness into your denim collection with the best drawstring jeans, below.
Rag & Bone Miramar Drawstring Wide-Leg Pants
Banana Republic Loose Drawstring Jean
Citizens of Humanity Brynn Drawstring Trouser
Levi’s Xl Baggy Straight Jeans
Etro Wide-Leg Drawstring Jeans
Madewell Low-Slung Baggy Jean
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