Bootcut jeans are fitted through the hip and thigh, then open slightly from the knee to the hem. The extra width at the hem was originally there so the jeans could sit over the top of boots, which is how the style got its name. Today the cut is loved because the gentle flare balances the hips and makes the legs look longer.
How bootcut jeans fit
- Hip and thigh: close-fitting, like a slim or straight jean.
- Knee: the narrowest point below the thigh.
- Knee to hem: widens a little, so the hem is wider than the knee but much narrower than a flare or wide leg.
- Length: designed to be worn long, finishing just above the floor with your shoes on.
Bootcut vs flare vs straight leg
The difference is how much the leg widens below the knee.
| Cut | Below the knee | Noli example |
|---|---|---|
| Straight leg | Same width from knee to hem | Marilyn Straight-Leg, 18 inch opening |
| Bootcut | Opens slightly below the knee | Allegra Bootcut, 19 inch opening; Aubrey Bootcut, 18 inch opening |
| Flare | Slim at the knee, then widens | Aria Flare, slim with a slight flare |
| Wide leg | Wide from the hip down | Merideth Wide-Leg, 27 inch opening |
Leg opening is only part of the story: a flare looks wider because it is slimmer at the knee. For a full side-by-side on which suits your shape, read bootcut vs flare denim.
Who suits a bootcut?
Almost everyone, which is why it has lasted so long. It is especially flattering if you have fuller hips or thighs, because the slight width at the hem balances them. It also suits petite women in the right length, and pairs well with an apple shape because it adds a long, even line. See our guide to the best jeans for women over 50 for more on matching cut to shape.
How long should bootcut jeans be?
Bootcuts look best long. With your shoes on, the hem should just skim the top of your foot and finish about half an inch above the floor. Noli bootcuts come in two lengths so you rarely need to hem them:
- Classic: 32 inch inseam, for around 5 ft 5 to 5 ft 10.
- Petite: 29 inch inseam, for 5 ft 4 and under.
Both lengths have a 10.25 inch front rise, so they sit at the natural waist.
What to wear with bootcut jeans
Keep the top half neat and let the leg do the work: a tucked blouse, a fitted knit or a cropped jacket. Choose shoes with a little height, such as heeled ankle boots, block heels or pointed flats, so the hem does not drag. For full outfit ideas, see how to style bootcut jeans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between bootcut and flare jeans?
Both widen below the knee. A bootcut widens slightly, just enough to sit over a boot. A flare is slimmer at the knee and widens more noticeably to the hem.
Are bootcut jeans the same as straight leg jeans?
No. A straight leg keeps the same width from knee to hem. A bootcut is a little wider at the hem than at the knee.
Are bootcut jeans back in style?
Yes. High-rise bootcuts are a modern classic and work from casual weekends to the office.
Can petite women wear bootcut jeans?
Yes, in the right length. Noli bootcuts come in a 29 inch Petite inseam for women 5 ft 4 and under.
What shoes go with bootcut jeans?
Heeled ankle boots, block heels, loafers and pointed flats all work. Choose the shoes first and make sure the hem just skims them.
Shop bootcut jeans or browse all Noli denim.