The genius of jeans is their versatility. With hundreds of brands, styles and finishes to choose from, jeans are always in style, and an essential element of the day-to-evening wardrobe. Today’s designers and retailers are stitching sturdy denim into a range of iconic items, from dresses to handbags to shoes.

History Lesson
Levi’s jeans are the workhorse of the American wardrobe--and for good reason! Back in the late 1800’s, German immigrant Levi Strauss created the first prototype of durable pants for miners in the gold rush. A few modifications later--pocket stitching, rivets for strength--and the blue jean was officially born on May 20, 1873. Today, Levi’s with its trademark “Red Tab” remains one of the most recognizable jean brands in the industry!

What’s in a name?
The word "jeans" comes from the French phrase bleu de Genes, literally the blue of Genoa. Jeans fabric, or denim, originated independently in two places: the French town of Nimes, hence the name 'denim'; and in India, where trousers made of denim were worn by the sailors of Dhunga, ergo dungarees.

Into the fray
Time to choose your style weapon: classic, skinny, boot cut, boyfriend, flared, high-waisted or low-waisted? There are also dozens of finish options, including ripped and rebellious, shredded and slashed, and dark and dressy! Whether you opt for a vintage wash or distressed detailing, remember it’s all about the attitude. Dress jeans up with tailored pieces like a blazer, blouse and pumps, or make like a rocker chick with leather pieces and spiky heels.

Elementary
Get ready to brave the elements at Diesel. This Italian house is known for denim that is intentionally frayed, slashed and cut as if it has withstood extreme conditions. The label’s Rain collection is rain washed, sodden and soaked and features irregular water drop patterns. Before heading outside, put on a t-neck, an all-weather trench and wellies. Storm the season! This deep indigo fabric is dashed with lightning-strike effects. Team up these jeans with BB Dakota’s military-inspired Battalion jean jacket and gold studded ankle boots from shoemaker Rocio Ildemaro (which she calls Happy Birthday Elaine!)

Let Her Rip
Ripped and acid-washed jeans are hot again, especially Hot Sauce from the LA-design duo (and twin brothers!) Chip and Pepper. One of the best ways to incorporate this seriously shredded style into your off-duty wardrobe is to mix with your favorite concert or university T-shirt, and a denim boat shoe or old-school sneakers. Diesel’s Destroyed denim is compellingly lived-in, with overstated cuts and slashes. A tie-dyed tank, motorcycle jacket and suede, studded sling-backs complete the concept.

 

Color Me Cool
From pink to grey to red, color creates new denim classics. Chip and Pepper spice up the season with Red Rover, featuring a zip at the ankle. It’s a cool alternative to blue. Contrast the sweetness with a cropped leather biker jacket, killer heels and a sassy attitude! Feeling more low-key but still want to be on trend? Go gray! Agave’s Mariposa classic fit, straight leg in Gunmetal Flex offers a more tailored approach. This menswear-inspired becomes women power when matched with a blazer, blouse and ankle boots.

Blackout
When opting for black denim, you can go lower maintenance (never grungy!) or lacy. Agave’s Paloma is an overdyed mid-rise skinny leg jean in Supima flex. Depending on your mood, why not accessorize with an oversized sweater or graphic tee? Vintage boots or studded cage heels? For a lacy (not racy) attitude, BB Dakota’s Kylee, a lace denim, dip dye jean that’s feminine and fun, keeps it casual. How about adding a slouchy shirt or a vintage nylon (think Member’s Only!) jacket?

Show your jean-ous and play Roiworld’s new Designer Closet game now!