Over time, jeans have woven in and out of the fabric of pop culture. In the 1930s and ’40s, jeans were part of a cowboy culture as young and middle-aged men embraced the jean style to imitate a casual yet rugged cowboy look. In the 1950s, they stood as a symbol of the rebellion. Country music stars declared tapered jeans as the next big trend while Elvis Presley birthed rock ‘n’ roll in a more slim-fit style. Jeans were then modified to fit the fashion of the decade through the hippie movement of the ’60s. Bell-bottom and stone-washed styles became popular, many of which were enhanced with psychedelic colors, embroidered patterns and cut-off trends.
To modern day, jean styles have frequently changed. From cuffed skinny jeans to embroidered flare styles, jeans have proven that they can be worn for many occasions. Specifically within the past decade, boyfriend cuts and destroyed styles have become exceedingly more common. Although they are often seen as a DIY project, destroyed and patchwork jeans have embraced the fashion industry. For the spring 2016 runway, many designers like Pam & Gela, Rodebjer and Assembly New York all took a stab at this recycled trend. While it appears that many of their designs are randomly ripped and patched back together, contrasting panels or patches are frequently placed along the outline of back pockets, right above the knee or down the thigh to give a laid back, yet funky look.
This Fashionista demonstrates the diversity of patchwork denim. She paired destroyed boyfriend jeans with a simple crop tank top and embroidered sandals to keep comfortable while also allowing the pants to make a statement. Whether you prefer a wide-leg cut, an asymmetrical hem or a denim shirt dress, working the dual-toned look is the next level alternative to single-wash true blues.
What is your STYLE ADVICE OF THE WEEK? “Patchwork pants are the best way to keep an outfit simple but add a little something extra.”
