It all started with Balmain's spring collection, which featured a broad-shouldered, military-style, stonewashed denim blazer for a cool $4,000. Recession or not, the jacket sold out the week it hit Net-a-Porter's site. Other designers, such as Gucci and Givenchy, also featured them in their collections, ushering in a wave of denim jackets from a variety of both high-end and affordable lines.Most recently, they have been spotted on a number of fashion-conscious celebrities like Chloe Sevigny, Nicole Richie, and model Agyness Deyn.
How to Wear Denim Jackets
So, how does one wear a throwback piece and not look...thrown back? The key to wearing a jacket from the '90s - a decade later - is a study in mixing luxe and grit, feminine and masculine, elegant and edgy. Try pairing with a ultra-feminine maxi-dress for a new spin on boho-chic (yes, it's still around). Nicole Richie has been spotted rolling up the sleeves and popping the collar on her shrunken denim jacket for a mussed-just-so look. Consider hacking the sleeves off for an edgier look.
For a downtown chic vibe, wear with silk shorts, another trend this season, and a white tank. Or, for those cool nights at the beach, wear over your favorite jersey sundress. And, finally for the evening (yes, it can even be for a night out on the town), toughen up an otherwise sleek monochromatic dress - preferably in a luxe fabric like silk - and heels.
Denim Jacket Options
Can't find old reliable that was for-sure tucked away, gathering dust at the back of the closet? Never fear, there are options galore. For trendier jackets, try Topshop's web site (think slashed, sleeveless, and even bold color). Shopbop.com has several chic updates to the style, including Current/Elliott's Snap jacket with mild distressing throughout (limited in quantity and has already sold out on Net-a-Porter) and Mike & Chris' Gibson, which features woven detailing and a mandarin collar.
Old Navy also has updated the classic in three different washes - a dark worn wash, a medium wash and a distressed light wash. Can't miss with the budget-friendly $29.50 price tag either. Or, stick with a classic and visit J. Crew for its well-worn Nolita jacket.
One no-no with this trend that holds over from the '90s is sporting a denim-on-denim ensemble. Stay away from pairing with matching jeans or purse. Remember Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears at the 2001 American Music Awards? Shudder. Otherwise, enjoy making new a past-season staple - never know how long it's going to last.
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