Let’s be real: the return of 90s low-rise jeans has sparked both nostalgia and a little bit of panic in many of us who swore we’d never go back. But if Carla Rockmore can find joy (and style) in low-riders—even when they’re not her “flattering” pair—so can you. I’ve styled more than a few pairs in my time (from thrift store treasures to modern designer takes), and I’m here to help you welcome this trend with confidence, personality, and a healthy dose of fun.

Why Low-Rise Jeans Are Having Their Moment Again

Thanks to Gen Z, the 90s low-rise jean is officially back—and it’s more adaptable than you might remember. This time around, there’s less pressure for exposed midriffs or “perfect” proportions; the modern approach is about making low-rise jeans work for you, not the other way around. The real secret? Finding balance, comfort, and a little playful contrast in your overall look.

If you’re craving even more retro inspiration and practical tips, take a trip down memory lane with our Nostalgia & Retro fashion archives.

My Honest Experience With Low-Rise Jeans

I’m not going to pretend styling low-rise is always easy—especially if, like me (and Carla), you’re more used to high-waisted styles. I remember slipping into my first pair of vintage 90s low-rise jeans, feeling gloriously rebellious… then immediately fussing over which tops wouldn’t make me look “all torso.”

With a bit of trial and error, I discovered that these jeans shine when you lean into their effortless, casual energy. Some of the chicest looks I’ve built pair the slouch of low-rise with tailored or textural pieces above the belt. The trick? Play with proportions, embrace layering, and don’t be afraid to bend the “rules” to match your unique style.

How to Style Low-Rise Jeans for 90s Cool—No Matter Your Shape

Here’s how to pull off this revived trend, with wisdom from Carla, my own lived-in favorites, and a few styling lessons learned along the way.

1. Find Your Favorite Cut and Fabric

Low-rise, wide-legged, or boyfriend styles are classic for that true 90s/early 2000s vibe. Carla’s picks from Rag & Bone and Frankie Shop are wonderful, but you’ll find similar cuts at thrift shops or even in men’s denim aisles.
Fit tip: Don’t stress if they’re less “waist-enhancing.” The charm of low-rise is that slouchy, relaxed drape. Jeans with a bit of structure (rather than super-skinny) hold their shape and don’t ride down as you move.

2. Play With Proportions Up Top

Funnel neck or turtleneck tops (like Carla’s own) balance out the lower waist beautifully, especially in darker shades. They elongate your frame and allow the jeans to sit just right.
If you’re nervous about showing your midriff, simply tuck in a slim top or add a slightly cropped jacket; both will keep your look modern and polished.
Cropped jackets, blazers, or shrunken knits should hit at or just above the jean’s waistband. Carla’s cropped houndstooth jacket? Chef’s kiss. It finishes the silhouette, making the look intentional and put-together.

3. Elevate With Accessories

Belt it up: If you love a designer or statement belt, low-rise jeans are their best runway. Try a wide, vintage-inspired belt to break up the line.
Shoes: Patent leather high-heeled brogues (Carla’s Angela Scotts are divine) or even chunky block heels add polish—and importantly, keep your hems off the ground!
Structured bags and scarves: A statement purse (think Chanel or Prada) and a bold scarf layer on personality and pay homage to timeless 90s styling.

4. Mix Prints and Textures

Carla’s polka dot scarf with houndstooth isn’t just “allowed”—it’s encouraged! The low-rise silhouette is a canvas for play: experiment with patterns, colors, and textures until you find your “wow” combination.

5. Confidence Over Convention

Low-rise jeans are famously considered “less flattering” for certain body types, especially if (like Carla and me!) you’re long-waisted. But here’s what I know: confidence begets style. The fun of the 90s comeback is in wearing what feels bold, carefree, and a little unexpected. Some of my best looks have started with a supposed “fashion no-no” and ended with genuine compliments thanks to having fun with my clothes.

Styling Tips for Low-Rise Jeans: My Real-Life Go-Tos

For curves: Look for denim that’s cut generously in the hips and thighs, and avoid anything rigid or ultra-tight. I love slouchy, slightly distressed fits from vintage Levi’s or Rag & Bone.
For petite frames: A tapered leg or cropped length creates balance—no puddling!
Worried about coverage? Layer with a longline tank or bodysuit tucked under, so you feel secure and never exposed when you move.
Washing and care: Wash inside out, in cold water, and air dry to maintain that perfect 90s “broken-in” feel.
Returns/exchanges: If you’re shopping online, check brands with flexible return policies, as low-rise sizing can be tricky on the first try.

Conclusion: Loving Low-Rise, Your Way

Whether you’re reaching for thrift-store classics or splurging on a designer take, how to style low-rise jeans is all about embracing proportions, remixing accessories, and—most importantly—having fun with your fashion. I’ve found that the less pressure I put on myself to achieve the “perfect silhouette,” the more authentic (and stylish) my outfits feel.

Ready to expand your 90s repertoire? Explore our Nostalgia & Retro section or laugh with us in the Humor & Meme corner. Here’s to low-rise jeans, revived for everyone—long legs, short torsos, curves, confidence, and all.

More 90s and styling resources:

Style always loves a comeback—so make the 90s, and low-rise jeans, your own.

@carlarockmore Gen Z revived our ’90s low-rise jeans, and I’m absolutely here for it! Now, the question is… how to style it? I put these @The Office of Angela Scott yummy patent leather high-heeled brogues on for the first time, and I can run a mile in them! Jeans 1: @ragandbone Jeans 2: Frankie Shop Turtleneck: @QVC, Inc Carla Rockmore Collection Fashion Funnel Neck Knit Top Belt: Balenciaga Bracelet: @ChanelOfficial Shoes: Angela Scott Jacket: Akris Scarf: Carla Rockmore Collection Reversible Travel Shawl Bags: Chanel, @Prada #jeans #scarf #carlarockmore #fashion #grwm ♬ original sound – Carla Rockmore

“Help me. Which jeans do I keep?
These high waisted ones are the ones that I should be keeping
because I am long waisted.
They cut my waist and make my legs look like a mile long.
Super soft, super comfortable,
and I’m not feeling them. Maybe it’s the wash.
I’m not ready for this wash yet.
Whereas these oversized
low waisted babies are much less flattering for my body type.
But I love them.
Gen Z has brought back the 90s low rise with a vengeance,
and I’m gonna make it work if it kills me.
The only reason I’m able to pull off the low waist right now
is because I’m wearing a very dark funnel neck,
and there’s hardly any delineation between the torso and the dark down.
I love a good funnel neck.
It’s like friends with benefits.
The same enjoyment of a turtleneck without the commitment.
How about we do this delicious patent leather high heeled brogue?
Yes. Perfect.
Just high enough not to step on the low riders.
So there are two things I adore about this little cropped
hounds tooth jacket. One being the short proportion of the crop
finishes exactly where it should with a low waisted waistband.
Yes. And the second is that there is never a coat check in Dallas,
so I can just throw her on the back of my chair.
Okay, this is stunning.
I very much approve of the polka dots and the houndstooth.
Vintage Chanel or A little bit of architecture.
Yes, definitely.
This baby,
she completely mimics the triangle of depth based on the low rider.
Okay. Alright,
we’re done. Loving this look. Have a good night.”

Blog

How to Style Low-Rise Jeans: Embracing 90s Vibes for Every Body

Why Low-Rise Jeans Are Having Their Moment Again

My Honest Experience With Low-Rise Jeans