Denim Trends; The Past, the Present and Future*

Without a doubt, denim is a wardrobe staple and nearly everyone has something denim in their wardrobe be it a dress, shirt, jacket or those iconic blue jeans. From bell bottoms in the ‘60s to ripped jeans in 2018 that barely even pass for trousers anymore, a lot has changed since it first appeared on the market 145 years ago. Lets look back at the denim trends that really took off, and at what direction it could be heading in the future, Trilogy stores, retailers of Citizens of Humanity Flare Jeans tell us more.

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Turn Back Time
Did you know that in the beginning the original blue jean was designed as work wear for labourers in the US in 1873? So how did it become so popular from the middle of last century and onwards?

In the 1950s denim jeans exploded onto the fashion scene and it was seen as a rebellious statement, think James Dean in his jeans and white t-shirt. The straight-legged jean was predominantly worn by males; actors and singers were the ones leading the rugged-look trend.

Then in the 1960s, when the age of Aquarius kicked in, the denim jean also entered its hippie phase. Women were now embracing the versatile trouser with bell bottom flares and low-rise fits. The relaxed fits represented the culture at the time and jeans became a staple wardrobe item for everyone. The 60s also saw denim jackets arrive on the scene, and double denim was more than acceptable. DIY denim was encouraged with embroidery and personalisation of jean pockets and jackets.

As the sales of denim jackets and jeans soared, the use of the fabric in styles such denim skirts and vest tops became big in the 1970s with celebrities endorsing them.

Up until this point, denim jeans weren’t very fitted, even in styles specifically created for women. In 1980, interest in designer denim started to increase and premium brands began to emerge. Leg cuts became skinnier and more fitted. It was also around the ‘80s when ripped jeans came into fashion and acid wash became popular and customisation continued especially in the rock and heavy metal sectors with patches and even safety pins adorning their denim.

New denim trends were still emerging in the ’90s. With the rise of hip hop, men and women were inspired to wear baggy jeans, often revealing their underwear beneath. Thankfully this trend didn’t stay mainstream for long although extreme sports enthusiasts do still embrace this as a skater look.

The early 2000s brought in the ultra low-rise jeans and flared trousers also made a comeback. Innovations such as denim stretch technology meant that skinny jeans were now skinnier than ever and sales from premium brands such as Citizens of Humanity soared. Skinny jeans have been most popular and are available in a range of washes and fits, they can be dressed up or down for men and women which has probably added to their popularity.

What’s Currently in Fashion
So what’s big this season?

Denim in every colour of the rainbow, well pastel rainbow. Summer brings out the pale yellow overalls, the sky blue pinafore, the lilac denim mini skirt and the light wash dress. Denim has certainly transformed from it’s classic indigo blue.

When it comes to cuts and fits, it’s all about denim culottes and cropped legs. Paired with classic summer sandals and a cross-body bag, this look is all about smart casual with a hint of flare inspired by the 1960s. And for the male fashionistas among us it’s all about straight legs and turn up hems. Styled with the on-trend checked patterns, it’s a contemporary twist on a classic look.

Future Denim Trends
And what does the future hold when it comes to denim trends?

When it comes to fashion, it’s actually really hard to predict what will be next. Will it be a new style of denim? There is currently a large focus on sustainable denim and manufacturers try recyclable materials. Or will it be a revival? Maybe the 60s and the bell bottom flares or the 80s acid wash? We can only wait and see.