Thank you Levi Strauss! The introduction of denim jeans in the late 1800s revolutionized fashion for decades to come. If you take a look at the evolution of denim, there have many trends over the years. High waist to low rise, from bell bottoms to skinny jeans this article of clothing has really transcended time. I remember when I used to work for the Gap, I was approached by a customer and asked, “Do you have dungarees?” A high school student at time I was thinking – what the heck are dungarees? It was a term widely used in the 60s and 70s and stuck around for quite some time. Challenge – ask that same question in a store now — Do you think the sales people would know they were jeans? Ok, enough history…
But why the rips? When was having holes in your jeans cool or even acceptable? I lied – a bit more history (I can’t help myself. I love to talk about where things originate.) So as part of the counterculture of the 60s and 70s, ripped denim was really a sign of rebellion, a separation from the norm. Later hard rock / metal of the 80s and the grunge movement (think Nirvana) of the 90s solidified the ‘rips’ into everyday fashion. Growing up in the 90s, I wore jeans with and without the rips constantly. As I walked by my Sicilian great-grandmother, she would just shake her head – haha. So needless to say, I love that the trend has come back around over the last couple of years.
Take a look at my FAVORITE pair of jeans. I wear them all of the time – well not when I am teaching- but as much as I can 😉 The jeans I am wearing are Joe’s and the fit is perfect. The denim is soft, stretchy, flattering and mid-rise! I am not tall so finding a pair of jeans that fit well is tough sometimes. When I do find the right ones however, I buy two! I particularly love this pair because of the color for one and the fraying of the jean is a bit more dramatic. Also, it has a released hem, which simply means unfinished, to give the jean a more vintage look!
I paired my look with a white JCrew top that can be worn for running errands or a night out. I love the details on this top – ruffles and a bow! To complete the outfit, I threw on my go-to summer Carrson sandal, a tan JCrew crossbody bag, and JCrew tiered beaded drop earrings. Unfortunately the bag was so popular it has sold out – bummer! However, I linked an equally adorable bag. (Also shown – JCrew Hinge Bracelet and Michele Deco watch)
