Once upon a time, denim was primarily known as a type of pants. However, in the ever-evolving world of fashion and technological advancements, denim has undergone a remarkable transformation, far surpassing its humble origins. So, the question arises: What exactly is denim in 2023? At first glance, it seems like a simple query, but lately, the answer remains elusive.
Somewhere along the timeline of the internet, amidst debates over skinny versus bootcut styles and the frenzy caused by low-rise jeans, denim transcended its traditional role. What used to be a go-to choice for weekends or casual Fridays has been deconstructed, reimagined, and reintroduced so many times that it has become almost unrecognizable.
In recent fashion seasons, designers have presented reconstructed jeans with inventive silhouettes and unconventional washes. Blumarine's Spring 2023 collection showcased reimagined denim, including a top in the shape of a cross, a studded belt, and a bralette with cargo-style pockets. Diesel consistently proves that denim knows no bounds, featuring tube tops, purses, and pointed-toe heels. Even luxury brands have embraced this ethos, with Chanel introducing light-wash quilted denim bags and Victoria Beckham showcasing backward maxi skirts.
Celebrities have also played a significant role in pushing the boundaries of denim fashion. Julia Fox has become an icon for unexpected denim outfits, such as a dress made from multiple waistbands or a bandeau made from a single waistband. The fusion of jeans and boots, known as “joots,” inexplicably became a micro-trend favored by celebrities in 2022 , thanks to Kim Kardashian. At Copenhagen Fashion Week, influencer Nina Sandbech took denim creativity to a new level by transforming her high-waisted jeans into a loosely-fitted turtleneck jacket. Just recently, singer Leigh-Anne Pinnock was seen wearing oversized paint-stained jeans fashioned into an asymmetrical tube dress.
It's no coincidence that as new forms of jeans emerge, alternative options to traditional bottoms have gained traction. For instance, the trend of wearing tights as pants emerged as a bold rejection of jeans. Nevertheless, as fashion trends come and go, our expectations of pants change, but jeans remains constant. Why confine this versatile fabric to just jeans when it can be transformed into a tote, a top, a choker, and much more? Jacquemus showcased denim going-out bags, while Alaïa offers medium-wash mules. Some brands have even ventured into repurposed denim looks, like Berlin-based Bless, which offers denim ponchos, mittens, and wedges, complete with rivets and belt loops.
What does all this signify? Firstly, it reflects the fashion industry's growing acceptance of “anything goes” attitudes. jeans, in any form, is a symbol of modernity. However, given the rapidly changing and unpredictable nature of fashion trends, it becomes increasingly challenging to define this symbol. For example, skinny jeans, once deemed unfashionable, are making a comeback on runways alongside avant-garde jeans designs.
It is becoming more difficult to discern what is considered cool, uncool, ironic, or genuine, even when it comes to one of the most universally-worn garments. jeans is now ubiquitous, appearing in every rise, cut, and form imaginable. It's hard to predict where jeans will go next. As we navigate the unconventional world of jeans in the future, the question should not be what jeans can do for us, but rather what we can do for jeans.