DL1961 Hepburn High-rise Wide Leg
Despite the super destroyed hem, all you can notice about these jeans is how flattering they are. I’ve styled them with a button-down and blazer to dress them up and also paired them with my favorite t-shirt, but I always prefer wearing them with heels because of the wider leg.
Rag & Bone/JEAN Dre Capri Jean
If you’re wanting to ease into the destroyed denim trend, then look no further than this pair. The light wash is fresh for spring and I love the step hem and distressed (but not completely bare) knees. Plus, Rag & Bone just knows what they’re doing when it comes to denim.
AG The Phoebe 17 Years Time Lapse Mended
The high rise, unusual wash, lightly frayed step hem, and varied distressing on these straight-leg jeans are an altogether amazing combination. Obsessed.
Rivet & Thread for Madewell Retro Straight Jeans
If you’ve been looking for a pair of go-to weekend jeans, this pair is for you. They look great styled with sneakers, sandals, and perforated booties and basically any range of tops. Pair them with a girly statement sleeve and strappy sandals or tassel loafers and you’ve got a perfect street-style look.
Paige Miki Ankle Straight Jeans w Distressed Hem
These are an easy take on destroyed denim. The uneven hem and ripped knees are understated details and the dark wash keeps them sophisticated. There’s basically nothing you can’t wear with this cersatile pair.
6 Tips for Wearing Destroyed Denim
- Look at denim as more of an investment piece… fit and fabric is everything here. In the case of denim, be wary of the fit and quality from fast fashion brands.
- Back pocket placement is a make or break situation. Don’t settle for a pair with bad pocket placement (i.e. pockets that are too far apart).
- Mom jeans with little to no stretch are back. Embrace it.
- Let your lifestyle guide your destroyed denim purchase. Ask yourself when and where are you wearing jeans, and which style would fill a gap in your denim repertoire?
- If you’re looking at a rise higher than 8”, I recommend ordering one size down. Know your waist and hip measurements and let that be your guide.
- STOP over washing your denim. You’re ruining them. Extend the time in between washes as long as possible. And, if you have a pair that has to be washed after every wear because they’ve stretched out, you need a new go-to brand like DL1961, stat.
Hannah Benak is a public relations executive in Birmingham and the curator of Looks & Merit, which provides sensible style advice for women everywhere. Hannah’s experience in the fashion industry includes work with ELLE Magazine, designer Billy Reid and fashion blogs. She is fiercely passionate about empowering women to feel great about their outfits and their accomplishments, because #looksandmerit are not mutually exclusive. Follow along on Instagram @looksandmerit.
