Jeans. Everyone has them in their wardrobe but finding the perfect pair is the Holy Grail of shopping.
The task is even trickier with the deluge of brand new denims on the block. The full spectrum of traditional blue isn’t going away anytime soon but a rainbow of new hues has widened the search.
“Have fun with your denim. The traditional five pocket jeans now come in a myriad of colours, patterns and fabrics. Just wear them with a simple white tee,” advises queen of denim Donna Ida Thornton (www.donnaida.com).
Shipwrecked chic
Don’t panic if you’ve worn your favourite jeans to death - you’re already one step ahead of the trend for lived-in, distressed denim.
“Cropped boyfriend styles have worn vintage abrasions, oversized rips and turn-ups for a relaxed and casual feel,” Thornton says. “If you look like you’ve worn them forever, you’ve nailed the trend.”
Linear elegance
Skinny jeans have received a welcome update with the added feature of flattering lines. Hallelujah!
The contrast side panelled look is all about drawing the eye down the leg to create the illusion of supermodel pins.
“Add edge to your outfit with strong and confident lines that frame skinny jeans,” suggests Thornton.
Sugary sweet
Inspired by the gastronomic feasts on The Great British Bake Off, pastels have taken pretty and pale to a whole new level.
Candy-coloured cupcake shades of lemon, strawberry and peach are decorated with delicious sprinkles and marble patterns,” explains Thornton.
Avoid flared, bootcut or baggy jeans and keep things prim ‘n’ proper with skinny or straight-legged jeans.
Abstract expressionism
Prints are no longer confined to dresses, tops and skirts. Colour-soaked creations have found their way onto denim too.
“Enter the studio, make like Jackson Pollock and get creative,” Thornton enthuses. “Experiment with jeans featuring bright paint splatters, ink blots and vibrant multi-colour stripes.”
True blue
So you’re a traditionalist when it comes to denim? That’s nothing to be ashamed about - just lighten the tone for the spring/summer months and go easy on the grungy black and dark grey denim.
Thornton says: “There’s a return to traditional blue denim, from distressed light washes to the perfect mid-way blue all the way to delicious deep sea shades.
“Waves of watercolour range from turquoise to ocean-surf blue, deepened by hints of marine navy and accentuated by fresh pastel hues.”
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