Yes, you read that right. Low-rise skinny jeans—the once-dominant force of every mid-2000s indie band’s wardrobe—are back in the fashion spotlight. After a long reign of high-waisted trousers, wide-leg silhouettes, and baggy cargos, fashion is swinging its pendulum back toward something tighter, sleeker, and frankly, a little nostalgic. And this time, they’re coming back with a twist: cuffed selvedge denim is tagging along for the ride.
So why now? Well, fashion has always worked in cycles, and what was once passé eventually becomes subversively cool again. And low-rise skinny jeans, particularly those crafted from rigid, high-quality selvedge denim, are no exception. Where spray-on skinny jeans of the past sometimes felt too elasticated and trend-driven, this new wave is leaning into craftsmanship, heritage, and intention. Cuffed selvedge skinny jeans tap into something deeper than just a retro trend—they’re a genuine piece of menswear history. Originally prized for their durability and the signature self-finished edge (that “selvage” line you see when you roll them up), selvedge denim harks back to a time when jeans were made on old-school shuttle looms. These weren’t just fashion items; they were tools for work, with longevity built in. Fast forward to 2025, and pairing that kind of authenticity with a modern, low-slung cut feels both fresh and familiar.
You’ve probably noticed this shift bubbling up already, streetwear influencers, vintage-loving TikTokers, and fashion-forward indie guys are all reviving the silhouette—often pairing their low-rise skinnies with beat-up Converse, mesh tanks, or cropped leather jackets. It’s got that post-Y2K edge with a touch of rebellion. It says, “I care, but not too much.” It’s the kind of denim look that wouldn’t be out of place in a 2011 Arctic Monkeys music video—only now it’s styled with grown-up precision and a knowing wink. There’s also a countercultural energy to it. In an age of oversized everything, opting for something fitted and cuffed feels daring. And let’s face it, if guys are starting to tire of the ultra-wide leg phase, low-rise skinny jeans—especially in crisp selvedge—offer definition, shape, and structure. They’re a great way to show off your footwear, highlight your waistline (even if it sits a little lower), and break away from the crowd of slouchy silhouettes.

Of course, it’s not for everyone. Skinny jeans always generate strong opinions. But if you’re feeling bold and want to recapture that rockstar edge with a sophisticated upgrade, look for a pair in raw selvedge denim. Cuff them just above the ankle to show off your loafers or vintage trainers, and throw on a boxy tee or a tailored blazer for balance. One thing’s for sure: low-rise skinny jeans are back at the party—and this time, they brought history and heritage with them.