10 Jeans and Ankle Boot Outfits That Always Work

Barrel Jeans

We The Free Kingston Baggy Barrel Jeans

Born from the laid-back baggy jeans trend, barrel jeans are a bit controversial. Defined by a rounded shape that hits peak wideness around the knees and gently tapers off at the ankles, barrel jeans can often have a more quirked-up feel, hence the controversy. They're certainly a departure from bootcut or mom jeans, but I think that's what makes 'em all the more trendy!

I don't have a single bone to pick with barrel jeans – they simply ooze cool girl vibes, and the fact that this jeans trend is approved by style queens from the likes of Gigi Hadid, Blake Lively, Sarah Michelle Gellar, and Camila Morrone instantly proves their "It" factor... even if you're hesitant to give the trend a go.

If you're searching for a nice gateway piece to really get into the barrel jeans trend, I recommend you opt for a no-frills pair like this one from Free People. These flaunt a mid-rise waistline, which lays the groundwork for a stylish (and not to mention, comfy) fit. You don't want barrel jeans to hug your figure too tight, or else their signature convex shape may get lost. Consider sizing up if you're a fiend for loose-fitting pants!

The Kingston Baggy Barrel Jeans come in sizes 24-32 for $148.

Everlane The Way-High Curve Jean

These curvy jeans from Everlane offer a more subtle take on the barrel jeans trend. The bow-legged shape is still evident, but it's not as severe as other styles on the market. The ankles on these jeans are far less noticeably tapered, but you still get that barrel effect from the wide legs. This pair boasts a high-waisted silhouette, which is fairly uncharacteristic of the classic jean shape – but can be great for those seeking some support along the waistline.

The Way-High Curve Jean is shoppable in four other color washes in sizes 23-33 for $128.

MOTHER The Half Pipe Flood Barrel Jeans

The sleek front seaming that runs down each leg of these barrel jeans lend them to a more formal feel – reminiscent of work slacks – making them an excellent contender for wearing to the office. The lighter wash and classic 5-pocket styling make way for effortless pairing with practically any piece in your closet. The hem hits right above the ankle so you can easily show off your latest pair of sandals or ballet flats.

The Half Pipe Flood Barrel Jeans come in sizes 25-34 for $268.

Denim Dresses + Jumpsuits

Abercrombie & Fitch Denim Column Midi Dress

We truly owe a lot to Beyoncé, but the resurgence of denim – denim dresses and jumpsuit especially – requires extra recognition. We're hot off her new album, Cowboy Carter, which really amped up the country vibes. But instead of stepping out heavily clad in cowboy-approved Wrangler jeans and denim jackets as the genre suggests, people seem to be taking the trend into their own hands with more femme dresses and one-pieces. I am here for it!

And though Queen B's influence on the denim trend is evident, your look doesn't exactly have to be country-esque to stun. Take a denim dress like this one from Abercrombie & Fitch – everything from kitten heels to platform clogs is compatible with this piece. What you wear with it all depends on your personal style!

The Denim Column Midi Dress is shoppable in two other color washes in sizes XXS-XL for $66 (was $110).

Reformation Evita Denim Midi Dress

The halter neckline on this dress is everything! The darker denim wash also gives this style an all-season feel, as opposed to a lighter color that may jive more with the summer months. What I love about the denim dresses they're makin' these days is that they're usually crafted from a stretchy, flexible denim, rather than more rigid materials that are a pain to wear. This Reformation midi is no exception – it boasts a super-stretch fabrication. All you need is a bold belt and some statement earrings to complete the look!

The Evita Denim Midi Dress comes in sizes 0-12 for $218.

Lioness Honey Denim Corset Mini Dress

This chic strapless mini melds so many different fashion trends into one: denim, corsets, and drop-waists. The fitted bodice hugs your shape in the most flattering way before expanding down to a micro-pleated skirt that's absolutely giving Y2K. The zip closure at the front infuses your look with thoughtful detail, while the belt-looped waistline provides boundless styling opportunities.

The Lioness Honey Denim Corset Mini Dress comes in sizes XXS-XL for $79.

Madewell Long Sleeve Wide Leg Denim Coverall Jumpsuit

Jumpsuits, like dresses, are an easy one-and-done piece you definitely need in your style arsenal. Drawing direct inspiration from 70's fashion (think disco dance floors and roller skating rinks), they come in tons of different shapes, lengths, and materials that can amplify your personal style preferences.

I think long-sleeved denim jumpsuits like this one from Madewell are 100% the way to go if you're gonna make an investment in the trend. This one's crafted mostly from cotton, so it's more breathable than it looks (and it's still very structured). It features the classics – a point collar, 5-pocket styling, chest pockets, and belt loops – but it departs from the norm with extra-wide legs that flatter pretty much any body type. There's no doubt that this jumpsuit can earn some wear throughout every season!

This Madewell Wide Leg Coverall Jumpsuit is shoppable in sizes 00-16 for $168.

Pistola Aria Jumpsuit

This denim jumpsuit surely hints at those aforementioned retro vibes, but hosts a more modern fit. The buttoned v-neck vest bodice is flirty, but still retains enough coverage for everyday wear. While the top is snug, the bottoms explode into breezy wide legs for added comfort. The fabrication has a favorable amount of stretch, so you can sit, lounge, dance, and walk around without feeling totally restricted by your denim get-up! Pair it with your fave pair of cowgirl boots to take advantage of its Western details, or rock some colorful Adidas sneakers like the fashion "It" girls do.

The Aria Jumpsuit is shoppable in sizes XXS-XXL for $228. You can shop it on sale for 20% off now with code 'EARLYFF20' during Pistola's Friends & Family Sale!

We The Free Jayde Flare Jumpsuit

Kelly Clarkson pulled off this denim jumpsuit on her show earlier this year, and it's all I've been thinking about since. She just looked so good! This Free People piece is drenched in a bounty of becoming details, from the exaggerated seaming along the bodice to the elongated front zipper that has a proper retro feel. It comes in a stretchy, curve-hugging shape – an instant confidence-booster!

The Jayde Flare Jumpsuit also comes in 6 other colors if the darker denim isn't quite your vibe. It's shoppable in sizes XS-XL for $158.

Denim Maxi Skirts

Levi’s Denim Ankle Column Maxi Skirt

In accordance with barrel jeans and denim dresses trending upward, denim maxi skirts are unsurprisingly making a comeback. I can't help but think of Britney Spears' kitschy denim get-upwhen I reach for my denim maxi skirt, but there are so many ways to style the trend that don't channel those wacky Y2K ensembles.

You have a few options with this denim trend: big skirt, big shirt (like an oversized button-up or pullover sweater), or big skirt, tiny shirt (think cropped tanks and baby tees). Either way, denim skirts are easy to dress up by adding belts, jewelry, and of course, fun shoes to your 'fit.

This light-wash pick from Levi's features a low-rise waistline for easy pairing with longline tops. The skirt itself has a slit down the middle that breaks up the blue denim monotony and allows room for your stride.

The Levi's Denim Ankle Column Maxi Skirt comes in sizes 24-33 for $98.

Gap Denim Midi Skirt

Ever so subtly done in an 80's-esque acid wash, this denim midi skirt from Gap is perfect for spring and summer. The exceptionally-light color wash lends it to pairing with pastels and other bright colors, though it'd look just as chic with a simple black top! This style is easily translatable for all sorts of occasions, from the office to happy hour, and park days to shopping sprees. This skirt is made from a low-stretch denim that's intended to hold you in, but forms to your shape over time.

The Gap Denim Midi Skirt is shoppable in regular, petite, and tall sizes 24-35 for $34 (was $70).

We The Free Catch The Sun Denim Maxi Skirt

This pick carries hippie energy, for sure. It's flowier than most common denim maxis on the market, flaunting a series of flattering vertical seams down the entire silhouette. Its apparent vintage charm makes it a seamless match with every kind of shoe and any top that channels the 70's era. No matter what you wear it with, you'll have so much fun with this swingy skirt!

The Catch The Sun Denim Maxi Skirt also comes in a lighter denim wash and sizes 24-32 for $128.

Denim Shoes

rag & bone Astra Slingback Flat

Mary Janes and ballet flats are fiery-hot RN, and it's no surprise that denim drip has found its way to footwear! These slingback shoes from rag & bone are a prime example of the denim trend, as they're covered in the material. The silver grommets dotting the buckled straps break up the look even further.

These Astra Slingback Flats go for $328 on Nordstrom.com.

Beach By Matisse Jayde Platform Clog

Okayyy, patchwork! These larger-than-life denim clogs are uber-artsy. The contrasting yellow bottoms just work with the blue upper, plus the chunky heels give each and every look a stylish boost in height. Flaunt 'em with a basic black pant, or go double-denim and pair them with dark wash jeans or dresses.

The Jayde Platform Clogs are shoppable for $55.

Coutgo Bow Kitten Heels

Bows, denim, and a kitten heel? These adorable shoes have it all! These two-toned denim sandals secure near the back of the ankle with a tiny rounded buckle, while the toes are pointed. The heel height measures about 2 inches, so these won't be a massive pain to stomp around in.

The Coutgo Bow Kitten Heels come in three other colors and go for $45 on Amazon.

Dark Wash Denim

Levi's Japanese Selvedge Barrel Jeans

I'm more of a medium-wash girl myself, but I can totally get behind the dark-wash denim trend. The darker hue feels a tad bit more elevated, transcending the typical jeans colors we see every day and fitting into a more formal box. Aside from their utter stylishness, it's a nice bonus that dark-wash jeans typically use a lot less water in the production process than their lighter counterparts!

These Levi's jeans assume the barrel shape, but in a flattering dark indigo shade. Pair it with a matching dark denim jacket or go bold with a lighter, contrasting denim top.

The Levi's Japanese Selvedge Barrel Jeans come in sizes 23-32 for $198.

BDG Jaya Baggy Boyfriend Jean

These low-rise baggy jeans from BDG are loose-fitting throughout, the ultimate piece to slide into on lazy days. Though casual in the fit, these pants are wildly easy to dress up with shoes, accessories, and outerwear. The handfeel of the fabric is definitely more rigid, being crafted from recycled materials.

The Jaya Baggy Boyfriend Jeans come in two other color washes in sizes 24-33 for $69.

Everlane The Baggy Jean

These Everlane dark-wash jeans hit a lot higher on the hips, cinching up your figure. They look unassumingly lightweight, but their 60% organic cotton and 40% Tencel construction really speaks to just how breezy these jeans are – perfect for year-round wear!

The Everlane Baggy Jeans come in three other colors in sizes 23-33 for $128.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Coats

Alice + Olivia Jarrett Vegan Leather Maxi Coat

The first unofficial rule of this trend is to make sure your winter coats are top tier. You'll want to go for a classic silhouette — similar to this vegan leather maxi coat — that makes a subtle statement. I've found that hunter green coats serve as a great neutral for just about anything in your closet so you can't go wrong with this!

Nasty Gal Raw Denim Oversized Trench Coat

For something that's the perfect mix of casual and edgy, this denim oversized trench coat will get the job done. It's a gentle nod to the mob wife aesthetic that's sure to elevate your outfits.

Nasty Gal Premium Bonded Faux Leather Borg Maxi Aviator Jacket

Should you want something that feels more casual without skimping on style, this maxi aviator jacket is an option you'll love wearing.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Blazers

Michael Michael Kors Metallic Tweed Jacket

One of the best parts about the mob wife aesthetic are the cute blazers you get to wear. This metallic tweed jacket can be worn with a pair of tailored trousers or straight leg jeans if you're headed to brunch during the day.

ALESSANDRA RICH Zebra-Printed Cotton Blazer

Make a statement with this zebra print blazer! You may even stop traffic because it commands attention.

Alexia Admor Olya Notch Lapel Belted Blazer

Ah, here's another gorgeous green number that lets people know that you're standing on business despite how chic you may look.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Blouses

Lulu's Black Chiffon Top

Thanks to the mob wives aesthetic, this is the year your closet will have a few more blouses added to it.

Banana Republic Crinkle Volume-Sleeve Blouse

If the thought of wearing chiffon makes you shudder, you can wear this volume-sleeve blouse.

Alice + Olivia Finely Open Back Button Blouse

I'm a huge fan of blouses that have the "business in the front, party in the back" detail like Alice + Olivia's design.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Skirts

H&M Knit A-line Mini Skirt

Keep it cute and chic with this knit A-line mini skirt.

Vince Leather Straight Skirt (Hickory)

Or, bring the drama with a midi leather skirt that has the mob wife aesthetic written all over it.

Meshki Mura Pleated Mini Skirt (Lemon)

For a playful look, pair this pleated mini skirt with a cute blazer or knit sweater.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Dresses

Hutch Asymmetrical Lace Mix Slip Dress

This lace slip dress has enough sex appeal for the both of us!

Reformation Felda Dress (Leo)

Whether you're dining at the most popular Italian restaurant in town or heading straight to a blues club, this dress falls in line with the mob wife aesthetic.

Reformation Irisa Dress (Grand Dame)

I can see it now — you wearing this dress with a cute cardigandraped over your shoulders.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Tights

Calzedonia Tulle 40 Dernier Lace Ruffle Thigh Highs

I highly recommend that you consider pairing these tights with the above Reformation Irisa dress!

Spanx Plush Tummy Shaping Tights

However, you can a touch of mystery to your mob wife aesthetic by wearing tights that aren't sheer.

Wolford Josey Tights

Your expressive outfit won't be complete without these leopard print tights from Wolford!

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Earrings

Ana Luisa Tia Medium Gold

Bring on the gold hoop earrings!

Merjuri Easy Huggie Hoops

If you have multiple ear piercings, Merjuri's gold hoops are a quaint accessory that's still on par with this fun trend.

Kendra Scott Mikki Pave Huggie Earrings in Gold

Another option is to wear a pair of small hoop earrings that are encrusted with gems.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Bracelets

Baublebar Melissa Cuff Bracelet

Let your wrist do the talking with Baublebar's gold cuff bracelet.

Abott Lynn Mini Heart Birthstone Bracelet (Gold)

Wear your heart and birthstone on your wrist!

Ross-Simons 18kt Gold Over Sterling Jewelry Set: Three Bolo Bracelets

Break out this 18kt gold bracelet set for during date night.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Boots

Dolce Vita Gyra Boots (Black Leather)

Three words — sexy knee high boots.

Jessica Simpson Brykia Boot (Malbec)

If you have a Merlot-colored coat at home, wear it with this pointed-toe boot.

Gianni Bini x Nastia Liukin Parker Crocodile Embossed Leather Tall Boots

Crocodile embossed boots are the thing to wear if you still want to turn heads in a toned down outfit.

Mob Wife Aesthetic — Heels

Christian Louboutin So Kate Patent Pointed-Toe Red Sole Pump

The mob wives aesthetic is practically begging for you to have at least one pair of significant black pumps.

Public Desire Legacy Gold Croc Barely There Pointed Toe Stiletto Heels

However, glamour is on the other line and it wants you to throw caution to the wind by wearing gold heels.

Sam Edelman Hazel Pointed Toe Pump (Brown Brahma)

If the rest of your outfit is starting to feel like quiet luxury, slip into these brown and cream patterned pumps to wake it up.

As a Power of Women honoree, Mariska was recognized in regards to her work as an advocate for sexual assault survivors. She took the stage and used her platform to discuss rape and assault conviction reversals, shining a light on the recent overturned ruling in Harvey Weinstein's landmark NYC case. Here's what she said:

Today I want to talk about reversing convictions, and more specifically I want to talk to you about how impossible it is to reverse mine. It’s impossible to reverse my conviction that survivors matter. It is impossible to reverse my conviction that what happens to us matters, and that our society must respond to survivors with a more a compassionate, holistically, deeper, and more nuanced understanding of what healing means.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that after a trauma, survivors can reclaim lives of hope, of possibility, of audacious risk, beautiful intimacy, and glorious, glorious abundant joy. And I stand before you as evidence of that statement.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that we must listen to survivors as experts on what justice means. It is extraordinary how little their voices are consulted, let alone incorporated, in the process of deciding how to repair harm. Justice is not a one-size-fits-all journey.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that patriarchal impunity has to end. Patriarchal impunity is when a male-dominated system exempts perpetrators from punishment. Studies show that only 20% of all rape cases in the U.S. are reported to the police, and that between 5 and 0% of all rapes result in a guilty plea or a conviction. So why do 80% of victims not report? Because they're met with a system that grants impunity to perpetrators; a system that blames victims; a system that accepts only those victims who are experienced as "real" rape; a system that completely misunderstands the neurobiology of trauma, which causes behavior in women that doesn't fit the picture of how a "real victim" would act.

Is that change needed that victims should just pull themselves together? Just buck up and report anyway? No. No, it's the system that receives them that needs to change

It is impossible to reverse my conviction — and the conviction of my extraordinary team, The Joyful Heart — that the backlog of untested rape kits can be brought to zero; that the testing of all new kits must be mandated; that we need a statewide kit tracking system; and that survivors have the right to access the status of their kits.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that grammar — yes, grammar — that we use when we speak about rape must change. In the sentence, "A woman is raped," there's a crime and there's a victim, but there's no perpetrator. Where's the perpetrator? Where is he? Statistically, as we know, most likely he's walking free. He's so free that he doesn't even appear in the language about the crime that he committed. Is that not extraordinary? It's extraordinary that in the very grammar, the perpetrator goes free. Reintroducing perpetrators in the language of rape will make some very unwieldy grammar, but that's the nature of change. It's unwieldy, it's messy, it's uncomfortable, but it's necessary.

Hargitay continued on in her prolific speech to describe that rape shouldn't be considered a "crime of passion" because it's "not simply the next step in the trajectory of his passion" when a man takes a consensual hookup too far and assaults a woman against her will. She stated that it's "an exercise of power," doubling down that the language we use is important.

The speech went on to address that rape is both about power and control, as a "construct" that was "built, and assembled, and reinforced over time." She noted that there are people with these positions of power — and she specifically called out those in the entertainment industry — that could make a difference and aligned themselves to victims and survivors.

After this and some other remarks, Hargitay specifically called out the Weinstein conviction reversal. She said:

I do want to say something about the Harvey Weinstein conviction, specifically about the reason that it was overturned: too many women's voices. Too many women's voices were allowed to speak. Hallelujah! Amen! I can't imagine anything more beautiful than that. The Daily podcast episode talked about how it was so risky for the prosecution to have that many women testify. Risky to let women speak? You're damn right it is!

Too many women speaking brings change. Too many women speaking shakes the establishment. Too many women means we get listened to more, and people might actually hear what we have to say. Look what happened when women started saying just two words, right? Me too — just as an example — a tidal wave of change. Me too.

And then of course, there was the response: the Me Too Movement. The backlash. The examination of whether the changes that have come are lasting, or are even positive. Of course there's a backlash! What did they expect? For women to speak repeatedly, loudly, together, with a purpose — for there to be no backlash? The backlash is evidence of how powerful those voices were, how powerful those voices ARE.

Watch Mariska Hargitay's Full Speech Here

Turns out that your TV heroes really can be your IRL heroes after all. Long live Olivia Benson! Long live Mariska Hargitay!