Cinch-Waist Denim Jackets Are A Big Fashion Trend for Spring

I know they have all the makings of a closet staple that I should, in theory, be really into, but denim jackets haven’t really had a home in my wardrobe for a minute. Back when I lived in Sydney and 90% of what I owned was purchased from Surry Hills markets, I had this oversize, faded men’s denim jacket that I loved—but my vibe shifted when I moved back to New York. That jacket was sold on to another beach-bum 20-something to throw on over her vintage sundresses, and I started gravitating toward fashion that was a bit more polished and (at least from where I was standing, as I tried to figure myself out) more at home in NYC.

The thing is, denim jackets are never out. Every season, there are a slew of styles that are easily shoppable, from classic fits to boxy crops to oversize styles (not unlike my old vintage jacket). Each time a new season rolled around, I’d think about it, sometimes I’d even come close, but I’d ultimately shrug off a purchase that seemed to make sense but didn’t quite feel right.

This season, however, things have taken a trendy swing in a more elegant direction. A minute ago, Hailey Bieber made us pay attention to cinch-waist outerwear—and now that buzzy fashion trend has hopped on over from leather jackets to denim. From nipped waists with chic gathered detailing to versatile belted styles, the denim jacket trend is making for a rich-looking take on this classic spring basic. From Zara to Reformation to Alaïa (sigh), here are some of the best denim jackets to shop this spring.

Shop cinch-waist denim jackets: