* One of denim’s biggest trends for 2017
* Easy look to pull off whether you’re a parent or not
* Here is a guide of how to wear the look, without looking frumpy
Denim is always a good idea, especially during the summer, when dress codes are more relaxed. To help you get a start on your denim days, we decided to take a closer look at one of the most surprising trends borrowed from the 90s, that’s made a major comeback this year for both men and women.
“Mom jeans” and “dad jeans” once had a bad rap, but they no longer reside on fashion’s “don’t” list. The classic, all-American appeal of the rigid fabrication, straight leg cuts and high rise waistlines, have all made a big return in the last year.
Fortunately, you don’t have to shop around your local thrift store for an outdated pair to get the look. In fact, we suggest that you don’t. There are plenty of modern styles that capture the essence of the look, updated with modern touches to avoid looking outdated. The goal with mom/dad denim is to re-create the look for modern day. Imitating the look with exactitude will leave you looking like an extra on Seinfeld rather than the cool parent.
While mom and dad jeans are easy to get wrong, these styles are surprisingly easy to wear, if done correctly. You may recall former president Barack Obama’s affinity for dad jeans, which quickly became a staple in his “off-duty” wardrobe. Unfortunately, his outfit choices exemplify what not to do when it comes to the dad jean, so we suggest not using him as your model. Follow our guide below instead to find three pairs of jeans for men and women, that will bring this retro look thoroughly into 2017.
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1. THE PROTÉGÉ – 18 YEARS-LOUNGE BY AG
This classic pair of premium denim by AG jeans features a light wash that offers an ideal amount of faux fading and whisker details,to achieve the worn-in vintage look, while still looking contemporary and fresh. The relaxed fit is reminiscent of dad jeans done correctly; tailored with a semi-structured fit to keep proportions balanced, but not too skinny that you’re squeezing into them. Paired with white sneakers and a plain t-shirt, these dad jeans are the ideal outfit to wear for taking the kids to soccer practice or grabbing a beer with the guys.
2. 1954 VINTAGE DENIM BY LEVI’S
Classic dad jeans are typically associated with light or faded indigo washes, but if you aren’t ready to make the switch from dark denim, this style embodies the essence of the vintage look, but offers a dressier alternative to the traditional light blue shade. This pair, designed by trusted denim pioneer Levi’s, offer a sophisticated take on the trend, without looking too retro. Featuring the signature 501 straight leg style, complete with rigid, selvedge denim and a button fly closure, the jeans conjure the perfect blend of vintage detail and modern tailoring. The dark shade make them office-appropriate too, whether you work at an ad agency or the White House (take note, Obama).
3. THE MATCHBOX – 13 YEARS HAYWORTH BY AG
If you prefer a slightly slimmer cut with a tapered leg, you can achieve the dad denim look and still stay true to your style preferences with this versatile pair, AG’s “The Matchbox.” This style features a slim, yet relaxed cut from the waist to hem, for added comfort and flexibility. Constructed from premium Japanese denim, these vintage-inspired blue jeans give off the “cool dad” vibe, rather than the creepy neighbor look.
4. W4 DIY STRAIGHT BY 3×1
The W4 DIY straight jean by 3×1 denim really captures the authentic mom jean style, capitalizing on the light wash, high rise, and straight leg hem. The 100% cotton rigid denim feels thick and luxurious. The narrow cut helps the jeans look current and flatters the figure by emphasizing the waist and elongating the legs. The raw edge hemline gives the denim a contemporary feel, making use of one of the biggest denim trends this year. The interior of the jeans has incremental measurement marks, making it easy to cuff or trim your jean to the desired length. For an extra figure-flattering boost, opt for tucked in tops paired with a belt. This styling tip will ensure a balanced look, creating a lengthened effect to the body, with the illusion of hour glass proportions.
5. WEDGIE FIT STRAIGHT JEANS BY LEVI’S
Levi’s Wedgie fit jeans borrow design inspiration from the classic 501 style, constructed with heavy denim with just a hint of stretch and a slim cut waist. The Wedgie style was inspired by vintage Levi’s but designed to flatter your assets, giving your backside a lift and lengthening the legs with a straight cropped hem. This versatile style will fit a wide range of body types and heights, depending on your desired inseam length. The light wash features just the right amount of subtle fading on a indigo blue for a traditional look that doesn’t feel out-dated.
6. CROPPED MOM FIT BY MANGO
If you’re looking for a mom jean that allows for a little bit more wearability in terms of the option to dress up or down, Mango’s Cropped Mom Fit Denim will be just right for you. The mid to dark indigo wash pairs well, regardless of the occasion and can easily be styled classy or casual depending on the occasion. The cropped ankle hem flatters the leg and also shows off your shoes. The legs have a relaxed fit throughout, but offer enough to shape to avoid looking frumpy.
