With more flexible working, a ‘blended’ outfit makes sense. If you’re at home for part of the day, you probably wouldn’t wear a trouser suit, even if you’re going out later to the office or to meetings. A smart, comfortable (possibly with two per cent stretch) pair of jeans that you can zhuzh up with a blazer or cropped jacket on your way out feels like a clever if simple (or rather clever because it’s simple) option.
But what constitutes ‘smart’ in denim these days? Dark washes, for sure. No rips, however ‘artful’ or pricey. A wide or loose leg, because that’s what’s fashionable and therefore makes your jeans seem more like trousers – although the main caveat is buy what suits. A high waist is good, not just because glimpses of midriff or underwear in the office are not the best way to look like someone who’s in control of anything, but because it gives good shape.