Whether to wear boots over or under jeans is an age-old fashion debate. Both styles have their merits, and it often comes down to personal preference. However, there are some guidelines that can help determine when each look is most appropriate. This article will examine the history of tucking jeans into boots, the different styles of boots and jeans, and when to wear each for the best effect. Read on to finally resolve this fashion dilemma!
The History of Tucking Jeans into Boots
The practice of tucking slim jeans into boots became popular in the 1960s and 70s. During this era, tight bell-bottom or flare jeans were the style, and tall boots with a slight heel were in fashion. Tucking the jeans into the boots allowed the slim cut of the pants to be shown off.
Cowboy boots and Western wear also played into this trend. Cowboys would tuck their bootcut jeans into boots, which served the functional purpose of keeping the pants from catching on things when riding horses. So the Western aesthetic migrated to mainstream fashion.
In the 1980s and 90s, the over-the-boot style became popular. Bootcut jeans that flared out slightly over boots were combined with rugged workman boots like Doc Martens. Grunge and punk bands like Nirvana brought this style into popularity.
Today, both looks are common depending on the outfit. Next, we’ll break down the most common types of boots and jeans to pair.
Types of Boots to Wear with Jeans
Chelsea Boots
Chelsea boots are ankle-height boots with elastic side panels instead of laces. They have a clean, streamlined look. For tucking jeans into Chelsea boots, a slim leg jean with no flare works best. Tucking straight leg or skinny jeans into the sleek Chelsea boot makes for a polished, put-together outfit. Chelsea boots also pair well with leggings tucked in.
Western Boots
Western boots, also known as cowboy boots, look great with bootcut jeans tucked in. The flared jeans complement the rugged cowboy aesthetic. Classic Western boots come up mid-calf, while a modern take is the short cowboy boot that hits above the ankle. Both styles suit tucking flared jeans into.
Hiking Boots
Rugged hiking boots complement jeans with a bootcut or straight leg. Their casual, outdoorsy vibe matches best with non-distressed denim tucked into the boot shaft. For severe weather, tucking jeans into hiking boots also keeps snow and rain out.
Combat Boots
Combat boots have an edgy, grungy look that pairs well with jeans over top. Bootcut or straight leg jeans that drape slightly over the combat boots complete the laidback 90s inspired style. Distressed jeans also complement the rugged combat boot very well.
Ugg Boots
Uggs rocketed to popularity in the early 2000s as a comfortable cold weather boot. Their soft sheepskin shaft lends itself well to tucking skinny jeans into. Leggings tucked into Uggs is also popular for a casual, relaxed outfit. Keep the rest of the look simple and casual when tucking pants into Uggs.
Knee-High Boots
Knee-high boots come to the knee or just below, making them too tall for tucking pants into. Pair them with jeans and leggings worn over top instead. Knee-high boots elongate the leg when complemented with straight or skinny jeans.
Jean Styles to Wear with Boots
Skinny Jeans
Skinny jeans naturally tuck well into boots, especially sleek boots like Chelsea style. The elastic sides of Chelsea boots and the tight cut of skinny jeans make them ideal for tucking in. For knee-high boots, skinny jeans can be tucked in or worn overtop, depending on the look you want.
Straight Leg Jeans
Straight leg jeans have an overall smooth, tailored look. Tucking them into boots gives a tidier, more put-together appearance than tucking in baggy jeans. Straight leg jeans pair well with Chelsea boots, cowboy boots, combat boots, or hiking boots when tucked in.
Bootcut Jeans
Bootcut jeans are made to sit over boots. Their slightly flared cut is designed to complement the shaft of cowboy, hiking, and other outdoor boots. Let bootcut jeans drape naturally over the boot for the most flattering fit. Choosing a longer bootcut jean length helps it stack nicely over the boot as well.
Flare Jeans
For a retro 70s look, flare jeans are ideal for tucking into boots. Their dramatic flared leg slims down to neatly tuck into tall boots with heels, such as fringed suede boots. Flares and cowboy boots tucked in also channels 70s Western style. Go for a high-waisted flare cut to accentuate the vintage vibe.
Mom Jeans
Mom jeans have a high waist, relaxed leg, and vintage wash. They can work tucked into boots or worn over, depending on the style. For Ugg boots, tuck in a pair of high-waisted light wash mom jeans. But for combat boots, let slouchy vintage mom jeans rest on top for a grungier vibe.
Distressed Jeans
Artfully ripped and faded distressed jeans look best paired with boots like Doc Martens and combat boots worn on top. The distressed denim matches well with the edgy vibe of chunky, rugged boots. Letting the jeans drape over the boots creates a relaxed, carefree look. Distressed skinny jeans can also be tucked into short cowboy boots for a model-off-duty style.
When to Tuck Jeans Into Boots
Here are some guidelines on when to tuck jeans into boots versus wearing them over boots:
Tuck Jeans Into Boots When:
- You want a polished, put-together look. Tucking in jeans looks tidier and sharper.
- You are wearing fitted jeans and sleek, slim boots like Chelseas. The slim lines complement each other.
- You want to show off the shaft of the boot. Tucking jeans in highlights tall cowboy or heeled boots.
- You need to protect jeans from weather and dirt. Tucking jeans into hiking or winter boots keeps them clean and dry.
- You want a vintage Western or 70s inspired look. Tucking flares into cowboy and heeled boots channels retro style.
Wear Jeans Over Boots When:
- You want to highlight the drape and flare of bootcut or flared jeans. Let them sit smoothly over the boot shaft.
- You are wearing rugged boots like combat boots or Doc Martens. Drape jeans overtop for a relaxed vibe.
- You want to show off distressed denim fading. Display whiskering and damage by letting jeans rest over the boots.
- You have knee-high boots that are too tall to tuck jeans into. Let skinny or straight jeans lay nicely over the knee-high shaft instead.
- You want an off-duty, model-inspired look. Effortlessly draped jeans over chunky boots embodies a carefree chic style.
How to Cuff Jeans Over or Under Boots
Cuffing or rolling up jeans is another option when wearing boots. Here are tips for cuffing over or under boots stylishly:
Cuff Under Boots When:
- You want to highlight the boot. Cuffing jeans under the shaft exposes more of the boot.
- You are wearing a taller style like cowboy or riding boots. Cuffing jeans above the boot top allows you to still see the shaft.
- You want a neater, put-together appearance. Cuffing jeans under looks polished.
Cuff Over Boots When:
- You have shorter ankle boots on. Cuff jeans over the ankle boots to make your legs look longer.
- You want to display distressed jeans details. Cuffing over shows off fading and whiskering.
- You want a casual, relaxed vibe. Jeans casually cuffed over boots embodies laidback chic.
To get the ideal cuff:
- Roll jeans up one to two inches for a subtly cropped look.
- Cuff jeans higher, around the calf, for a dramatic layered effect.
- Avoid overly thick cuffs. Keep the roll slim and fitted to stay chic.
Conclusion
So should you tuck jeans into boots or wear them over? Ultimately, it comes down to your personal style and the look you want to achieve. For a smart, polished effect, tuck slim jeans into sleek ankle or tall boots. To highlight flared and faded denim, let jeans drape over chunky boots for attitude.
Whichever way you wear them, boots and jeans complement each other perfectly for an effortless fall and winter staple look. Knowing the guidelines around boot and jean silhouettes, height, and attitude helps ensure your outfit looks pulled-together and stylish, whether you tuck or drape. Use these tips to decide whether your boots and jeans look best over or under!