Denim jeans are a comfortable, trendy and ever-evolving style that never seems to go out of fashion. As spring approaches, denim is one of the few items that does not need to be shed just yet. Classic denim jeans can come in a multitude of washes, styles and lengths and can be dressed up or down, depending on how they are paired with other clothing and accessorized.
Jean refers to the cotton twill material the pants are made of, and it is usually dyed in an indigo blue colour. According to Vogue, the term “jeans” is very old. It originated in the 1800’s to describe the type of garment and has been used ever since. In 1873, Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis invented the iconic garment. Denim comes in various fits such as bell bottoms, straight leg, boot cut, skinny, high waisted, and jeggings. With so many different styles out there, this trend is flattering for everyone.
For the spring, baggy jeans are in — and, according to Vogue, are the most popular denim trend this season. While it is a looser fit, baggy jeans can add flare to an outfit because of their laid back nature, and are more comfortable than tighter fitting jeans.
For those who prefer a more tailored look, skinny jeans are still coming out this season in mainstream stores such as Abercrombie and Fitch and American Eagle. This style can be easily paired with a nice navy blazer, a white crew neck tee shirt and loafers for a more refined look, or dressed down with white sneakers and a vegan leather jacket and sunglasses.
Another popular trend is the jogger denim jean. It has drawstrings and the same relaxed fit as a pair of sweatpants, but is made from a denim material. Students can find styles like this very comfortable and easy to wear with a hoodie and sneakers. Such styles can be found in stores like American Eagle.
Furthermore, a popular trend of denim jeans is the jegging. Made to be more stretchy since it is a cross between a legging and a pair of jeans, these pants are very comfortable and they look great with a tunic and ankle boots. Jeggings can also be worn with dresses as they are more form fitting than regular jeans.
Denim can come in several different washes. The darker washes tend to look dressier, and can be paired with more formal attire such as a tailored blazer. A nice pair of denim pants with an indigo wash looks great with a white button up shirt and a cardigan or blazer. A lighter or more faded wash usually looks more casual — but it can still be dressed up with a blazer, or pared down with a comfortable oversized sweater and boots.
As always, denim jeans tend to be easily found in local stores or thrift shops. It all depends on what style and wash you prefer, and where you want to wear the jeans. As students, the more comfortable the style, the more likely the jeans will be purchased. As the semester continues to progress, having some nice pairs of denim jeans is a good investment piece to have in your closet — the stretchier the better!
Image: Maude Frédérique Lavoie / unsplash
Rachel is working towards a BA with a concentration in English and Theatre. She has been employed at The Cascade since Fall 2021 as a Staff Writer and a Jr. News Editor. Currently, she is the sectional News Editor and enjoys meeting and interviewing people as well as taking long walks in nature. Rachel also likes to stay up to date on the latest trends and informs students through her fashion column entitled Campus Fashion.
