How to Style Cord Jeans
What Are Cord Jeans?
Cord jeans are a style of trouser characterised by ridged fabric that can be made from a range of different materials, for a stretchy or more rigid finish. A classic, vintage-inspired style, cords have risen in popularity again in recent years and tend to be an in-demand style during the colder months.
Traditional corduroy is plush and slightly thicker than denim, making cord jeans a popular choice for winter. However, more modern iterations of the fabric are more versatile for everyday wear and elevated styling. Like regular denim, corduroy both a stylish and durable choice for styling with your favourite shirts, knitwear and jackets throughout the year. In a range of silhouettes, leg shapes and colours, cord jeans are the perfect way to add a refined touch to your looks.
Best Cord Jeans for Women
Cord Flare Jeans
A flared corduroy jean gives a retro look and feel, imitating classic styles of the 70s. Go for a high rise and tuck in an oversized blouse for that nostalgic feel. A flared jean is universally flattering and elongates the legs whilst balancing the proportions of the body. The fit tends to be slimmer through the hips and thighs before flaring out below the knee, creating a smooth silhouette.
Cord Slim Jeans
Cord slim jeans offer the best of both worlds: the comfort of the fabric's soft texture and the sleek, fitted silhouette of slim jeans. The slim fit makes these jeans easy to style, perfect for layering up during the colder months. Pair slim cord jeans with a chunky knitted jumper, a long wool coat, and a cashmere scarf. Add ankle boots to keep things both cosy and stylish.
Bootcut Cord Jeans
Offering a slightly slimmer silhouette than the flare, a cord bootcut jean is a smart option for evening wear, particularly during the colder months. The bootcut silhouette typically flares out lower down the leg than a flare, giving a more subtle shape. Pair with a silk blouse in a tonal shade for an elevated and fuss-free look.
Stretch Cord Jeans
Many corduroy jeans will come in comfortable, stretchy fabric, making them a great option for everyday wear. Stretch fabric allows for more movement and recovery, offering a versatile trouser that can be worn season after season. Stretch corduroy jeans are often made from cotton with a percentage of elastane or a similar synthetic, stretchy material; allowing plenty of give for the wearer.
Burgundy Cords
A go-to colour for winter wear, deep red and burgundy shades combined with the textural look of corduroy make the ideal pair. Burgundy is a timeless shade that’s easy to wear and can be dressed up or down. Pair your burgundy cords with neutral, earthy shades and soft textural knits for a soft, warm palette.
Women’s Black Cords
Black cords are a true staple. This neutral colour pairs with everything and offers endless styling options in chic corduroy. Dress up your black cords with a drapey blouse and heels or wear more casually with a simple crew neck jumper and boots.
Styling Cord Jeans For Women: Outfit Ideas And Inspiration
Seasonal Styling
For winter, style cord straight legs with premium knitwear and an oversized coat. Style tonally for an instantly chic look - we love neutral shades like beige and cream or deep wintery shades of berry and navy hues.
Business Casual Outfits With Cords
Stick to darker shades for business casual dressing - style a navy bootcut cord with a co-ordinating tailored jacket or add a smart blouse and wool coat. Alternatively, slim black corduroy jeans are perfect for business casual attire paired with a crisp shirt, cashmere cardigan and loafers for a polished look that maintains optimum comfort for all day wear.
Casual Outfits With Cords
For day-to-day wear, style corduroy jeans with black boots, A cosy roll neck jumper and A puffer coat - an easy, winter-ready look that will keep you warm and stylish. Trainers will keep the outfit relaxed, while accessories like A knitted hat and crossbody bag will add A functional yet stylish touch. Cords make the perfect trouser for A busy day of shopping, lunch out or anything in-between.
What Shoes To Wear With Corduroy Jeans
Cords can be styled with a range of different shoes, especially as they come in a myriad of leg shapes and colours. For a dressier look, a wide leg or bootcut corduroy jean looks sleek and stylish with a heel or heeled boot. Go for leather or suede to add sophistication and choose a pair with a pointed toe for an extra polished look.
For more casual wear, pair straight leg cord jeans with a sweatshirt and your favourite trainers – the perfect look for running errands.
How to Care for Corduroy Jeans
As with all denim, we would recommend you avoid over-washing your corduroy jeans to preserve the fibres for as long as possible. When you do, wash them inside out on a cool, gentle cycle, and don't wring them out or use any excess heat when drying. Do not tumble dry, dry over the radiator or iron. They can be stored folded, and when storing away for the season be sure to use a garment bag to protect them from moths. Between washes, spot-clean any small marks or stains with a gentle detergent and water to avoid over-washing.
FAQS
What's The Difference Between Corduroy and Denim Jeans?
The main differences between corduroy and denim jeans is the textural look and feel of the cords. Corduroy also tends to be slightly on the thicker side, and more closely resembles a velvet jean than traditional denim.
How Do I Stop My Cords From Fading?
Your cord jeans should only fade with excess washing. Avoid over-washing your corduroy jeans to preserve their colour for as long as possible. When you do wash, do so on a cool and gentle wash, inside out.
Are Cord Jeans Appropriate for Formal Occasions?
A corduroy jean can be an elevated, dressy option for the season's occasions. Choose a dark-coloured wide leg, flare or bootcut style, and pair with a heel and silk blouse for instant elegance.
Are Cord Jeans Suitable for All Body Types?
Yes. As with jeans, you should choose a leg shape, inseam and rise that suits your individual style and preferences, but corduroy jeans are a popular choice for many body types as the texture adds a stylish touch to classic outfits.
Can I Wear Cords in the Summer?
You can wear corduroy year-round if you want, though most prefer them as an autumn/winter style as they tend to be slightly thicker. Styling wise, the textured appearance of a corduroy jean tends to be a more popular choice during the colder months. You may choose to wear a wider, more relaxed or cropped cord jean during the warmer months to allow an airier feel and more ease of movement.
Shop our range of women’s designer corduroy jeans here.
