Kendrick Lamar is no stranger to making a statement, both musically and stylistically. But at the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans, the Grammy-winning rapper sparked an unexpected frenzy—not just for his electrifying performance but for his choice of attire, particularly a pair of blue-washed, flared Celine jeans.
A Performance to Remember
The halftime spectacle, featuring special guest appearances from SZA, Samuel L. Jackson, Mustard, and even Serena Williams as a background dancer, was a masterclass in both music and visual storytelling. With the dancers clad in red, white, and blue—forming a striking American flag formation—Lamar’s performance was hailed as both historic and politically charged. He also took the opportunity to deliver his scathing Drake diss track, Not Like Us, adding another layer of intensity to the event.
Yet, while the audience was captivated by the music, a different kind of debate was raging online: the return of bootcut jeans.
The Jean Controversy: Bootcut, Flare, or Bell Bottoms?
Lamar’s jeans, pooling around a pair of Nike Air Max 96s, quickly became the center of a viral fashion discourse. Social media exploded with reactions, ranging from admiration to confusion.
“Kendrick wearing bootcut jeans was so special,” quipped writer and comedian Sophia Benoit. Another user humorously added, “I could not take my eyes off his hems.”
Fashion enthusiasts and casual viewers alike began dissecting the denim choice, debating whether they were bootcut, flared, or even full-blown bell bottoms. Actress and fashion icon Julia Fox weighed in, insisting, “Those are bell bottoms 100%.” Meanwhile, others compared them to early 2000s staples, with one X (formerly Twitter) user joking, “Can’t believe Kendrick did all that in the most Hannah Montana-lookin’ bootcut jeans I’ve seen in years.”
The Revival of Bootcut Jeans?
Lamar’s fashion statement came at a time when early 2000s trends were already creeping back into mainstream fashion. Searches for bootcut jeans on menswear site Mr. Porter had increased by 346% in the past six months, while secondhand resale platforms like Depop reported a 47% surge in interest since December.
While some fashion critics argue that the current trend cycle favors “indie sleaze” skinny jeans, Lamar’s high-profile endorsement of flared denim could shift the tides once again. Vogue has already sounded the alarm on bootcut jeans making a strong return in womenswear, and Gap has reported growing sales in the style, particularly among younger shoppers.
Dylan Kelly, editor at Hypebeast, summed it up: “Whether or not you’re a fan of his look, I think we should all be thankful that Kendrick turned the tides toward a bootcut instead.”
More Than Just Fashion
Beyond the fashion conversation, Lamar’s halftime performance was a cultural moment. His custom Martine Rose jacket emblazoned with “Gloria,” referencing his hit song from GNX, added another layer of personal storytelling to his ensemble. The backward cap, diamond-studded Rahaminov brooch, and massive “A” chain completed his look—each element carrying its own significance.
Ultimately, whether you loved or loathed Lamar’s denim choice, it’s undeniable that he once again proved his ability to dominate the conversation. From music to fashion, Kendrick Lamar knows how to set the stage—and the internet—on fire.
