High-Rise Jeans are Trending Again—Here’s How to Wear Them in 2026

Yes, low-rise jeans may be relaxed and cool and retro in all-the-right ways, but comfort and versatility have never been their strong suit. Frankly, I’ve found that that feels at odds with the very nature of denim itself—a wardrobe staple you should be able to throw on with confidence. Instead, I’ve always found high-rise pairs significantly more wearable, which is why I was genuinely disappointed to see their once-prolific popularity eclipsed by hip-grazing styles over the past few seasons.

Thankfully, 2026 marks their comeback. Slouchy low-rise silhouettes are being edged out in favour of sleeker, high-rise, slim-fit styles—and this week, Laura Harrier has signalled the shift. Skirting last year’s dominant denim trends, Harrier tucked a crisp white T-shirt into a leg-skimming pair of high-rise jeans in a classic mid-wash finish.

Laura Harrier walks outside wearing high-waisted straight-leg jeans with heeled boots, a white tee and a black trench coat.

She elevated the look with a sweeping trench coat in an inky shade of black, adding depth with oversized Prada sunglasses. Making her outfit feel distinctly 2026, Laura then added a touch of height and a whole lot of refinement, courtesy of pointed-toe boots finished with a sleek kitten heel.