Fashion: The Jean Genie

With the ’80s trend showing no sign of waning, the humble boyfriend-fit denim jacket is still in style, and will become your go-to outerwear piece this year. But it’s been given an updated twist; while old school denim jackets can feel bulky and stiff, new and improved material makes the modern incarnation feel anything but.
And while we all know that once you “borrow” a boyfriend’s jacket, he’s probably never getting it back, the boyfriend silhouette has been given an injection of some girl power, thanks to femme embroidery and painting. Go for badges and studs for some grunge-rock vibes, stick with flowered embroidery and feminist painting for political hippiness, or go all-out disco with some major sequins. Shine on, you denim diamond!
This focus on embellishment and breaking convention also applies to your jeans. No longer are plain skinny jeans going to cut it; you need something a bit more eye-catching. Again, embroidery, patterns and badges are all the rage, but sometimes less is more – literally. This spring, ripped jeans are set to be more rips than jean, as the distressed trend is taking holes and tears to new extremes. Or give the illusion of more coverage with some tulle overlays for another unique evocation of the ’80s. You know Madonna would be so proud.
But the update of the denim trend isn’t just about embellishment, it’s also about silhouette, and for this, designers are looking to the past. Vintage shapes and designs are dominating the catwalks, from the slouchy Mom jean to off-the-shoulder Bardot neckline dresses. The denim shirt dress is also making a comeback, which can be kept oh so cool and casual with a simple satchel and Oxfords, or dressed up with killer gladiator heels and statement jewellery.
Designers are also bringing back some youthful whimsy, looking back to our childhood favourites for some inspiration. So expect to see more denim dungarees and dungaree-strap mini-dresses. These can be made into My So Called Life ’90s perfection with a white tee and choker, or can be made a bit sexier when worn with only a crop top or bralette. Go on, the sun is out – you can rock it!