by KAHLA PRESTON
In the history of fashion, has there been any trend with longevity to rival the skinny jean? This leg-hugging style – favoured by off-duty models, rock stars, hipsters, you name it – has simply refused to die.
But I think it’s time skinny jeans stepped down from the podium for a while.
The modern incarnation of the skinny jean began its World Domination Tour in 2004/2005 – yes, THAT long ago. In the ensuing years countless trends have come and gone and yet this design has retained its stranglehold (quite literally) on legs worldwide. Even more incredibly, men and women have both embraced it with equal fervour.
So how is it that one style of pant, which seems to have as many detractors as it does supporters, could stick around for almost a decade – especially considering the notoriously fickle nature of fashion?
Let’s examine the evidence in favour of skinnies:
1. Celebrity status. Kate Moss, Alexa Chung, Russell Brand … the list of celebrities known to regularly rock the skinny jean – and look gorgeous – is endless.
2. They can look really, really, really cool. Skinny jeans look great teamed with a lot of the current fashions – peplums, buttoned shirts, ankle boots. And I don’t know about you but I love skinny jeans and Converse sneakers on men.
3. They’re surprisingly versatile. A nice pair of dark skinnies can pass as office wear. The same can’t be said for many other styles.
Top Comments
May we hail the return not just of straight leg jeans, but also of non-denim trousers, and even -- gasp -- dresses for everyday wear.
All ladies look 500% better in a nice dress.
Not that my opinion represents a sea change. I've never donned a pair of skinny jeans.
You cannot even buy Levis 505's anymore. I am feeling alienated because I cannot find a pair of jeans that fit correctly.